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valentinawinkler1

VW Virtus Misfiring: Fuel Regulator Warning Signs

Recently my check engine light started flashing while the car struggles to maintain idle and feels sluggish during acceleration. I suspect a faulty fuel pressure regulator might be the culprit. Had a bad experience with my local mechanic last time, so before going back, I would like to hear if anyone dealt with similar symptoms and how they got it fixed properly. Car details: 2020 VW Virtus, gas engine, 46654km. Any insight on repair costs and time would be appreciated.

4 comment(s)

sebastianlang58

Had similar issues with my 2017 VW Jetta TSI last month. The symptoms match exactly, flashing check engine light, rough idle, and poor acceleration response. The fuel pressure sensor was reading inconsistent values after a routine fuel filter change. The diagnosis revealed two problems: Fuel pressure regulator was not properly maintaining consistent pressure, Secondary issue with the fuel pump relay causing irregular fuel delivery The main fix required: 1. Replacing the faulty fuel pressure regulator 2. Installing a new fuel pump relay 3. Recalibrating the engine management system 4. Clearing fault codes Total repair time was about 4 hours. This was a serious issue that needed immediate attention since inconsistent fuel pressure can damage engine components over time. The flashing check engine light indicates a severe problem that could cause catalytic converter damage if left unaddressed. Would strongly recommend getting it checked soon, as running the engine with these symptoms risks more expensive repairs later.

valentinawinkler1 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. My Virtus had almost identical symptoms and I was quite worried about potential engine damage. The fuel pressure regulator replacement fixed the rough idle and acceleration issues completely. The check engine light hasnt come back since the repair. When checking my fuel rail pressure sensor readings before the fix, they were all over the place, confirming the pressure drop issues you mentioned. Did you notice any other problems popping up after your repair was done? Also curious about the final cost of your fix, as I want to compare if I paid a fair price for mine.

sebastianlang58

Thanks for the update on your Virtus. Good to hear the fuel pressure regulator replacement solved your issues. After my repair, everything has been running smoothly with no additional problems, the engine misfire is completely gone and fuel delivery is now consistent. My total repair costs broke down to: Fuel pressure regulator replacement: 280€, Fuel pump relay: 95€, Labor: 320€, Diagnostic and system check: 85€ Plus that extra 45€ for clearing the error codes after the fuel filter change The fuel system has been working perfectly since the fix. The check engine light hasnt returned and fuel consumption is back to normal. One tip, I recommend checking the fuel rail pressure readings occasionally through your regular service visits, just to catch any potential issues early. Makes sense that both our VWs showed such similar symptoms since they share many fuel system components. Seems like you caught it early enough to prevent any lasting damage.

valentinawinkler1 (Author)

After reading about similar problems, I took my car to a different mechanic who specializes in VW fuel systems. The diagnostic confirmed a failing fuel pressure regulator causing the rough idle and engine performance issues. The repair took about 3 hours and included: New OEM fuel pressure regulator, Complete fuel system pressure test, Computer reset and calibration Total cost came to 495€, which seems reasonable compared to other experiences shared here. The check engine light cleared immediately and the car runs perfectly now, no more struggling at idle or sluggish acceleration. Really glad I checked here first and could explain the symptoms properly to the mechanic. They even showed me the pressure sensor readings before and after the fix, confirming the fuel delivery was the root cause. Much better experience than my previous shop visits.

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