VW Up Engine Stalls: Fuel System Warning Signs

Had similar symptoms with my VW Polo 2014 gasoline. The flashing check engine light combined with stalling pointed to fuel contamination in my case. The fuel quality was compromised, leading to engine knock and irregular combustion chamber operation. After diagnostic testing, it turned out the fuel filter was completely clogged and the fuel pressure sensor connector had corroded. The mixture was running too lean, causing the stalling. Required a full fuel system cleaning, new fuel filter installation, and replacement of the wiring harness connector to the sensor. This is not something fuel additives alone can fix. The flashing light indicates a serious issue that could damage the catalytic converter if ignored. When dealing with fuel system problems and engine misfires, professional diagnosis is crucial to prevent permanent engine damage. The repair was quite involved since they had to drop the fuel tank to access all components. Would strongly advise going to a certified mechanic instead of attempting temporary fixes, as fuel system issues tend to worsen quickly when left unaddressed.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I had nearly identical symptoms on my VW Up last winter. My fuel system also needed a complete overhaul due to contamination. The stalling and irregular combustion really had me worried at first. Did you keep track of the total repair cost? Would be helpful to know what to expect if others face similar issues. Also curious if you have had any related problems since the fix or if it sorted everything out completely?

After getting the issue fixed by a certified mechanic, all problems cleared up completely. The main culprit was indeed the wrong fuel composition affecting the engine performance. The repair bill came to 95€ for fixing a faulty connector to the fuel pressure sensor. The mechanic discovered that poor electrical contact was causing incorrect fuel mixture readings, leading to the stalling and combustion chamber issues. Unlike my initial concerns about needing a complete fuel system overhaul, it turned out to be a much simpler fix than expected. Since the repair six months ago, the car runs perfectly with no check engine lights or stalling. Fuel economy has actually improved slightly, likely because the engine is now getting the correct fuel mixture. Would definitely recommend getting these symptoms checked promptly by a professional rather than waiting, as incorrect fuel readings can lead to more serious engine problems if left unchecked.

Thanks for the advice. I went to a certified mechanic yesterday and the diagnosis confirmed it was related to the fuel system, but thankfully not as bad as I feared. The fuel filter was partially clogged and they found a loose connection in the fuel pressure sensor wiring. Total repair came to 280€ including parts and labor. They also did a basic fuel system cleaning while everything was apart. The engine runs much smoother now, no more stalling at idle, and the check engine light is gone. Fuel economy seems better too. Really glad I took it in right away instead of trying fuel additives first like I was considering. Definitely learned my lesson about finding a trustworthy mechanic. This shop took time to explain everything and even showed me the dirty fuel filter. Much better experience than my previous repair nightmares.