Showing posts with label Audi A1 Audi A2 Audi A3 Audi A4 Audi A5 Audi A6 Audi A7 Audi A8 Audi Q3 Audi Q5 Audi Q7 Audi RS4 Audi RS6 Audi RS8 Audi R8 Audi S4 Audi S6 Audi S8 Audi TT EPC light problems. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Audi A1 Audi A2 Audi A3 Audi A4 Audi A5 Audi A6 Audi A7 Audi A8 Audi Q3 Audi Q5 Audi Q7 Audi RS4 Audi RS6 Audi RS8 Audi R8 Audi S4 Audi S6 Audi S8 Audi TT EPC light problems. Show all posts

Sunday, November 8, 2015

FOOL ME ONCE SHAME ON YOU; FOOL ME TWICE SHAME ON ME

VW SHAMED  TWICE SHAME FOR EMISSION CHEATING

Thus far Volkswagen AG, Audi AG and Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen (VW) as a whole has gone through the mill for the EPA emissions scandal that broke on the 18 September 2015. They have suffered massive third-quarter financial losses. Legal injunctions have compelled them to recall 11 million vehicles fitted with the now notorious 2.0L TDI engine. They are obliged to repair them entirely at their own cost which could take at least two years. They had to set aside some 7 billion Euros as restitution and compensation to VAG vehicles owners whose vehicles will, as a result of the "cheat device", have  diminished performance and poorer fuel economy. They fired their heads of Research and Development and launched an internal investigation into the “rogue software engineers” responsible for fitment of "cheat device". They have even instated a new CEO, Matthias Mueller, the former  boss of Porsche to the helm, to steer them out of the arse mousse  that Volkswagen find themselves sinking into deeper day by day.


The largest Automobile manufacturer in the World.
As if this isn't enough,  US’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) just notified Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft of a second breach of clean air legislation. On the 2nd  November 2015, the EPA issued them with a second notice of violation (NOV) of the Clean Air Act. This NOV alleges that VW developed and installed defeat mechanisms in model years 2014 through 2016 VW, Audi and Porsche light duty diesel vehicles equipped with 3.0 liter V6 TDI engines. The harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions produced by diesel engines fitted in the 2014 VW Touareg, the 2015 Porsche Cayenne, and the 2016 Audi A6 Quattro, A7 Quattro, A8, A8L, and Q5, appear to exceed the EPA’s standard by at least nine times. 

3.0 Liter V6 TDI Engine
In their own defence VW emphatically denied the charges of fitting the “cheat device” into its luxury brand of vehicles. However the following day  VW admitted that certain “unexplained inconsistencies” had been found during the testing process for CO2 emissions. VW added that approximately 800,000 vehicles are currently thought to be involved, most of them sold in Europe.  But some of the vehicles now involved have petrol engines, implying that the scale of the second  installment of the emission scandal could be much greater than initially assumed. 

Suddenly the credibility of the “rogue software engineersargument just fades into obscurity. It is just to outlandish, flimsy and too incredulous now that Porsche and other luxury brand of vehicles are also involved. This boils down to down-right systematic manipulation and rigging of emissions test data by VW in order to gain themselves and unfair and an illegal  competitive advantage over its competitors. These latest developments just tarnished Volkswagen’s reputation and future sales even further, perhaps irreparably.  But to regain any sort of confidence and trust from both customers and investors, Volkswagen would have to make some radical changes to its management  and come clean. 

Considering that for the first time Toyota sales has overtaken that of VW.  And that Volkswagen  will forfeit all its CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy)  carbon credits, and have to pay the taxation difference between the lower vehicle tax that  VW’s customers have unwittingly paid and what was actually due. Besides  getting grilled at COP 21 on the 7- 8 December 2015 for fooling the rest of the world twice.  And to add insult to injury, VW sales across all models, including petrol engines sales dropped by almost 10% since October 2015. Credit ratings agencies Moody’s and S&P have downgraded VW and three other major ratings agencies have VW on negative watch considering further downgrades. What a  deal breaker!

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

DIAGNOSING EPC LIGHT PROBLEMS

DIAGNOSING EPC LIGHT PROBLEMS

VW Polo EPC light goes on and the car won't rev. Audi MIL and EPC light turn on and car goes into lip mode. SEAT suddenly has no acceleration yet has maximum of 1200 RPM. SKODA accelerator problem, won't rev. Audi EPC light on and transmission is locked in park.
Audi and VW crankshaft position sensors.

Question?

Hello mate...
My car was running really sweet when suddenly I'm having throttle issues! I was going to my girls house when all of a sudden, smack bang in the middle of the road, I have no acceleration. The car just cut the revs into idle and causing the EPC light on the dashboard to light up. I managed to get it off the road out of the traffic. Several attempts later to get her to rev up but  nope, absolutely nothing. So I phoned the towing service and the dude  checked under the bonnet to make sure everything was in place so he disconnected the battery for a while so it would reset the computer. It still wouldn't rev, so he hauled it onto the truck and brought it to my house. My neighbour Freddy has a VCDS which he plugged in and these fault codes showed up. I'm desperately in need of help because I have no idea how  to  solve this problem?

Chassis Type: 6K - Seat Ibiza/Cordoba
Scan: 01 02 03 08 15 17 25 45 56
Mileage: 97850km/60801miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 01: Engine

Part No: 6K0 906 032
Component: 1.8L R4/20VT SEA 0002
Coding: 11500
Shop #: WSC 78904

5 Faults Found:

18047 - Accelerator Position Sensor 1/2 (G79/G185): Implausible Signal
P1639 - 35-00 - -
18039 - Accelerator Position Sensor (G79): Signal too High
P1631 - 35-00 - -
18042 - Accelerator Position Sensor 2 (G185): Signal too High
P1634 - 35-00 - -
17950 - Angle Sensor 1 for Throttle Actuator (G187): Implausible Signal
P1542 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent
17581 - Angle Sensor 2 for Throttle Actuator (G188) Signal too High
P1173 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent

Answer!

Hay George.This is quite interesting that both your accelerator potentiometers and both your throttle body potentiometers are acting up at the same time. Normally I would say that your accelerator pedal needs to be replaced if only G79/G185 flags repeated DTCs. Alternatively say that your throttle body needs  cleaning and adaptation if G187/G188 flags repeated DTCs. But this is certainly not the case though both these circuits are notorious for "No Throttle Response", limp mode and turning on the EPC light.  However to me it looks more like the voltage supply line to both devices is acting up, that it's intermittent.  Since the throttle and the accelerator are each connected directly to the same control module (ECU) I'm tempted to say that the ECU plug is probably loose or corroded or the fuse holder that supplies the ECU with terminal 30 (12V unswitched) and the relay that supplies terminal  15 (12V switched) needs to be checked for proper contact and corrosion. What I am willing to say is that you have a wiring harness problem, so check continuity between the ECU and the accelerator pedal 6 pin plug and the ECU and the Throttle body 6 pin plug. Make certain to do adaptation afterwards and check throttle valve control in group  060“ (G187/G188),  and especially 62 (G187/G188 & G79/G185), and 63 (Kick-down) and if you have a cruise control group 66 as well.


Question?

I'm Renshaw and I have an Audi A4 1.8T. When I started my car from cold, the EPC light came on and the engine just stalled. Made a couple more attempts to start but engine just cranks and  wouldn't start. After a while I tried  again and it started just fine and it drove fine. The following day  I couldn't start the engine again. So like before I waited a while and it started fine and I drove all week without any EPC problems, until this morning while standing in peak hour traffic my car just died.  After a few tries the car finally started but while I was driving both the EPC and the MIL (check engine light) came on, the engine lost power and was idling at 1200 RPM. This happened a few time over the past month and I'm really loosing my patient with my Audi A4.  So when it happened again I limped to the service agents  who got the 2 DTC errors:  P0321 Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Range/Performance and P0322 Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit No Signal, but they could get the car to switch off like it did with me. Something like the toothache goes away when you get to the dentist. Anyway, I've search the Internet forums for a  EPC problem similar to mine but found nothing. I still don't have any idea what's going on. Can you please help me and I would be very appreciative and thank you.


Answer!

Hi Renshaw, thanks for your question. The problem you describing is fairly common on Audi which normally flags any or all of the following DTCs - P0320, P0321, P0322 and  P0323  at the same time. This is undoubtedly or rather more often than not caused by your Engine Speed (RPM) sensor signal (crankshaft sensor) that is out of phase. Bear in mind that your car has a DIS and not a mechanical distributor which is normally driven by a gear on the camshaft. This implies that your camshaft / crankshaft have embedded  magnets that energizes  a hall sensor (crankshaft sensor) or an inductive sensor mounted on the cylinder block which  measures crankshaft speed (interval), that provides the engine speed signal to the ECU. It also doubles-up as the signal that determines the time and duration of the ignition (spark) as well as injector timing. Depending on the model, the crankshaft sensor is next to the oil filter. Crankshaft position sensor (G28) failure is also common on the new VW Polo the new Jetta. 

NB!
If you need help with your EPC problem or an explanation of your diagnostic scan and willing to share the findings with fellow Vag owners, feel free to link to this post and upload  your question and a scan of your car. Not every problem can be dealt since there are a fair amount of overlap / common problems, but I will try my very best to answer as many as possible.

Saturday, July 25, 2015

INTERNAL CONTROL MODULE MEMORY ERROR

INTERNAL CONTROL MODULE MEMORY ERROR

DTC error 65535 (Internal Control Module Memory Error) suggests a problem was caused  within the said module. However, Electronic Control Modules are generally fairly robust and are designed with a MTBF of 1 million hours. My experience with electronic repairs over the past 30 years does not confirm this since I have had tons of electronic components failing during this time that was'nt expected to fail for at least another 10 years. Be that as it may, an Internal Control Module Memory Error may not even be caused by the module, so it should be the last component to suspect and replace because they are normally not cheap. Firstly check the battery Supply Voltage  and verify that it is constantly about 12V or higher. Also make sure that the alternator is charging, since a faulty alternator can lead to a slowly discharging battery not able to supply the minimum voltage required by the module that is flagging the  65535. Next check to wiring harness to and from the "faulty" Control Module. Make certain that the module has a ground connection (earth). If  VCDS displays an unexpected result or displays that the controller refused the command, it is most likely due to the wiring. Under intermittent wiring conditions it is generally difficult ifnot possible  to clear a  65535 (00-10) or (35-00) or (35-10) or (37-10). Wiring harness and its connectors are prone to corrosion due to condensation especially in cold weather. If needs be, unplug the connector and clean them and if possible check the physical contact with an ohm meter (but disconnect the battery first). Any Internal Control Module Memory Error associated with the Power steering  and ABS are critical and should be attended to immediately. Internal Control Module Memory Error associated with Airbags should be treated with caution since interrogation of the airbag with a scan tool could inadvertently trigger the airbag or turn on the airbag light which can only be switched off by replacing the airbag module. As can be seen below, virtually every electronic module can be a victim of 65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error and as far as I am concerned, it most unlikely electronic design and quality control  will permit such modules to be installed in production units. The lateral acceleration sensor tend to cause an 65535 airbag error, the vacuum hose inside the ECU taking pressure to the barometric sensor tends to cause a 65535 error in Jetta's, barometric sensor itself tends to cause 65535 in Skodas.  As a last resort try replacing the module concerned.


Address 01: Engine
Chassis Type: 17 - VW Golf Citi
Part No: 6KS 906 258 k
Component: 1.4 MP9.0 26ZA0003
Shop #: 2227355880
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 02: Auto Trans
Chassis Type: 9M - VW Jetta IV
Control Module Part Number: 01M 927 733 KT
Component: AG4 Getriebe 01M 4891
Software Coding: 00000
Work Shop Code: WSC 00000
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 03: ABS Brakes
Chassis Type: 6Y - Skoda Fabia I
Part No: 6Q0 907 379 D
Component: ABS/ASR 5.7 FRONT V00
Coding: 00124
Shop #: WSC 13765
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error 

Address 03: ABS Brakes
Chassis Type: 1J - VW G/J/B Mk4
Part No: 1J0 907 379 AB
Component: ESP 20 CAN V005
Coding: 00214
Shop #: WSC 31414
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 03: ABS Brakes
Part No: 1C0 907 379
Component: ESP 20 CAN V005
Coding: 18945
Shop #: WSC 01317
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 03: ABS Brakes
Chassis Type: 6Y - Skoda Fabia
Controller: 6Q0 907 379 G
Component: ABS 5.7 FRONT V20
Coding: 00044
Shop #: WSC 13765
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 08:
Chassis Type: 6Y - Skoda Fabia
Controller: 6Y0 820 045
Component: Klimaanlage X0740
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 08:    
Chassis Type: 6Y - Skoda Fabia
Controller: 5J0 820 045
Component: Klimaanlage  X0850
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 08: Auto HVAC
Chassis Type: 6L - Seat Ibiza/Cordoba
Part No: 6L0 820 045 C
Component: Klimaanlage X00.8
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 08: Auto HVAC
Part No: 5J0 820 045
Chassis Type: Skoda Fabia 2
Component: Klimaanlage X0850
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 15: Airbags
Chassis Type: 9N - VW Polo
Part No: 1C0 909 605 K
Component: 18 AIRBAG VW51 0P 0010
Coding: 12600
Shop #: WSC 00788
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 15: Airbags
Chassis Type: 9N - VW Polo
Part No: 6Q0 909 601 F
Component: 05 AIRBAG VW5 0010
Coding: 12341
Shop #: WSC 31414
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 15: Airbags
Chassis Type: 6L - Seat Ibiza/Cordoba
Part No: 6Q0 909 601 F
Component: 01 AIRBAG VW5 0010
Coding: 12337
Shop #: WSC 06441
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 17: Instruments
Chassis Type: 8E - Audi A4 B6/B7
Part No: 8E0 920 900 HX
Component: KOMBI+WEGFAHRS. RB4 D27
Coding: 00142
Shop #: WSC 19411
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 37: Navigation
Part No: 3B0 919 887 D
Component: Navigation  BNO 0201
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 45: Inter. Monitor
Chassis Type: 6N -  VW Polo
Part No: 6N0 951 171
Component: Innenraumueberw. 0002
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 56: Radio
Part No: 1C0 035 157 C
Component: Radio DE2 0004
Coding: 00401
Shop #: WSC 00066
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Address 56: Radio
Part No: 1J0 035 180 B
Component: Radio DE2 0004
Coding: 01031
65535 - Internal Control Module Memory Error

Monday, April 27, 2015

LIMP MODE


LIMP MODE HOME / VW LIMP MODE

What is "limp mode", has been "The Question" of  2013-2014.  Limp mode is a design feature of all drive by wire systems. Vag cars fitted with ME 7.0 or newer are all fitted with electronic drive-by-wire systems in place the fast aging and outmoded cable throttle system.  Bosch ME 7.5 ECU is a very complicated system, which is torque based and makes decision based on input and feedback from all sensors needed to perform the stoichiometric calculations for optimum engine performance and torque. Failure of any of these components triggers its built-in the safety feature "limp mode" and lights up the EPC warning light. Unlike cable systems that can fray and get  stuck at high revs or high speed which often result in accidents,  "limp mode" deactivated torque and limits the revs to 1500 rpm yet allows the car to limp home safely. Many are asking, how to fix "limp mode"? The following cases are all different yet had the same symptoms - limp mode turning on the EPC warning light. The first is a Jetta, the second a Polo, the third a Seat Ibiza and the fourth a Skoda Fabia. See also  VW Polo highline, vw volkswagen limp mode,   limp home mode and  Audi limp mode.

FIRST CASE / VW LIMP MODE

Lately I've been having some issues with my Jetta 2.0T. She just suddenly went into "limp mode" or "safe mode" and it happened thrice during this week, resulting in total loss of power. I'm at my tether end, I have no idea what to do or how to rectify the situation. The first two times she went into "limp mode" the EPC warning light did not come on, however on the third occasion it came on and now stays on and  hasn't gone off since.  Initially I thought it was because the pump jockey threw-in LRP instead of unleaded fuel  but I have since rectified the situation and its not that.  I've run Vag-com diagnostics twice, which revealed the following data. I need help to repair this problem else I would have to take it to the service agents. Just the thought of a huge repair bill kept me from going there in the first place.

(First scan)
Control Module Part Number: 1K0 907 115 B
Component Version: 2.0l R4/4V TFSI 00 0010
1 Fault Found:
000818 - Knock Sensor 2 (G66): Signal too Low
P0332 - 002 - Lower Limit Exceeded - Intermittent

Freeze Frame:
Fault Status: 00100010
Fault Priority: 0
Fault Frequency: 2
Mileage: 18745 km
Time Indication: 0
Date: 2015.01.12
Time: 14:41:21

Freeze Frame:
RPM: 2555 /min
Load: 86.1 %
Speed: 52.0 km/h
Temperature: 77.0°C
Temperature: 39.0°C
Absolute Pres.: 1001.0 mbar
Voltage: 14.323 V
Readiness: 0000 0000

(second scan)
Address 01: Engine
Part No SW: 1K0 907 115 B HW: 1K0 907 115 B
Component: 2.0l R4/4V TFSI 00 0010

1 Fault Found:
000818 - Knock Sensor 2 (G66): Signal too Low
P0332 - 002 - Lower Limit Exceeded - Intermittent

Freeze Frame:
Fault Status: 10100010
Fault Priority: 0
Fault Frequency: 2
Mileage: 18992 km
Time Indication: 0
Date: 2015.01.15
Time: 12:05:11

Freeze Frame:
RPM: 2444 /min
Load: 57.1 %
Speed: 61.0 km/h
Temperature: 89.0°C
Temperature: 45.0°C
Absolute Pres.: 989.0 mbar
Voltage: 12.066 V
Readiness: 0000 0000

EXPLANATION
Our fellow VW owner is concerned with the different results of his two scans. So first and foremost let me assure him that there is nothing to worry about because the Readiness passes with flying colour. Readiness is the operational status of  the 8 emission functions, viz  the (1st nought) Exhaust Gas Recirculation - EGR, (2nd nought) Oxygen Sensor Heater, (3rd nought) Oxygen Sensor, (4th nought) Air Conditioning, (5th nought) Secondary Air Injection System, (6th nought) Evaporative Emissions System, (7th nought) Catalyst Heating and  (8th nought) Three Way Catalyst.  However, not all vehicles are fitted with all 8 system. If the system is absent, the report default to a 0 but  a 1 signifies a fault in the respective system. The RPM, load, Speed and Temperature above, are all relative to how long the engine has been running, the gradient of the road etc. The Absolute Pres of 989.0 mbar is lower in scan two  than the Absolute Pres. of 1001.0 mbar of scan one  because the battery is lower. The optimum battery voltage is 14.4V. Anyway, to get back to the "limp mode" issue at hand.  I am almost certain the cause of "limp mode" in this case is the Knock Sensor 2 (G66) because of Signal too Low - lower than expected by the ECU.  The mere fact that the ECU reports a low signal implies that the wiring from the knock sensor to the ECU is intact and that the actual fault could be the knock sensor or the ECU itself . It is highly unlikely that the ECU is at fault because they are fairly robust, which leaves us with the knock sensor. Knock Sensors are torqued to the engine block for flush contact so that it would pick up the maximum amount of vibration. Should the bolt securing the Knock Sensor come loose, the knock sensor would send a lower signal than expected. See previous blog  Knock Sensor issue. Since the ECU cannot protect the engine in the absence of knock sensor 2 it decided to enter into "limp mode" to safeguard the engine from possible damage it a knock developed or vibrations exceeded the prescribed limit.

_______________________________________________

SECOND CASE  / VW LIMP MODE

I have a 9N - VW Polo and my car's EPC warning light comes on when I rapidly accelerate when driving at slow speeds or when accelerating rapidly while driving a steady speed. When the EPC warning light comes on, the car goes into "limp mode" at that very moment then he check engine light comes on.  I’ve scanned the ECU with VAG-COM  and after spending hours under the bonnet looking for a possible cause, I still haven't found  anything and need help or any suggestions so I can fix this problem.

Address 01: Engine
Part No: 036 906 034 FJ
Component: MARELLI 4MV 4830
3 Faults Found:

17961 - Barometric / Manifold Pressure Signals
P1553 - 35-10 - Implausible Correlation - Intermittent

17912 - Intake Air System
P1504 - 35-10 - Leak Detected - Intermittent

17550 - Load Calculation Cross Check
P1142 - 35-10 - Lower Limit Exceeded - Intermittent

Readiness: 0000 0101

EXPLANATION
The fact that the Readiness failed (see explanation above) more than explains why you are having car trouble. Since the 6th nought is a 1, it says that your  Evaporative Emissions System (EVAP) is faulty. The 8th nought is also a 1, which says that your Three Way Catalyst is at faulty. However, in your case it appears that hardware upstream of the catalytic converter is causing  the readiness to fail. The problems are associated with  Leaks Detected in the Mass Air Flow (MAF) / Intake Air System / Barometric / EVAP system . Since the incorrect amount of air needed  for stoichiometric calculations is inadequate, the fuel is not completely burnup and as a result the catalytic converter detects unburnt fuel and flags an error. The units themselves may not be faulty but rather the wiring and connectors of these units or cracks or cuts in the rubber hoses.  Repairing these should take  priority  because OBD-II is designed to shut the car down if it fails readiness and there therefore the minimum emission standards. Since the fuel is under pressure and the rubber hoses could be leaking fuel, safe mode (limp mode) is initialised.

_______________________________________________

THIRD CASE  / VW LIMP MODE

What is limp mode? My 6L-Seat Ibiza can idle but not rev, I think it has gone into limp mode, please help before I set this cas alight. Please explain what is limp mode? And how to fix limp mode. Here is the VAG-COM scan of modules with faults,

Address 01 ----------------------------------------------
Controller: 038 906 019 NF
Component: 1,9l R4 EDC 0000SG 5839

2 Faults Found:
18043 - Powertrain Data Bus: Missing Message from A/C Controller
P1635 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent

18045 - Powertrain Data Bus: Missing Message from Electronic Load Controller
P1637 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent

Readiness: N/A

Address 03 ----------------------------------------------
Controller: 6Q0 907 379 S
Component: MABS 8.0 front H03 0001
Coding: 0000008
Shop #: WSC 06441
Note: Excessive Comm Errors

Address 08 ----------------------------------------------
Controller:
Note: Excessive Comm Errors

EXPLANATION
For an explanation of what limp mode is, read the above. The two engine faults signify there could be a problem with the Data bus Wiring since neither the Electronic Load Controller nor the A/C Controller can send and receive messages. Coupled to the fact that Address 3 - ABS braking system  and Address 8 -Auto HVAC both have Excessive Comm Errors, further verifies trouble with the  Data bus. However it is more likely Fuses and /or Connector(s) from / to Central Electronics Control and the Gateway controller. The fact that the ECU cannot coordinate torque and braking it was best to shut the systems down and enter into safe mode (limp mode) since malfunction of these important systems may lead to an accident and for the very least make for a poor driving experience.

_______________________________________________

FOURTH CASE  / VW LIMP MODE

I have a Skoda Fabia and I think there is problems with the butterfly of my throttle body or perhaps it is dirty because the car goes into "limp mode" continually.  I have given up on kickdown because  it is getting dangerous because whenever I want to overtake, my car goes into limp mode.   I would appreciate your commentary and your recommendations because  "limp mode" frustrates me and I curse all the time. Do you think the sensors are causing all my problems? Here is my Vag-com scan.

Address 01: ----------------------------------------------
Engine
Part No: 036 906 034 BL
Component:  MARELLI 4LV       3699
Coding: 00071
 
No fault code found.
Readiness: 1110 0101

Address 08: ----------------------------------------------
Auto HVAC      
Part No: 6Y0 820 045
Component: Klimaanlage        X0760

1 Fault Found:
00818 - Sensor for Evaporator Outlet Temperature (G263)
30-00 - Open or Short to Plus

Address 09: ----------------------------------------------

Cent. Elect.  
Part No: 6Q1 937 049
Component: BORDNETZ-SG.1S30

3 Faults Found:
00906 - Horn (H1)
28-10 - Short to Plus - Intermittent

00778 - Steering Angle Sensor (G85)
49-00 - No Communications

01324 - Control Module for All Wheel Drive (J492)
49-00 - No Communications

Address 15: ----------------------------------------------
Airbags    
Part No: 1C0 909 601 C
Component: 02 AIRBAG VW51 01
 
1 Fault Found:
00532 - Supply Voltage B+
07-10 - Signal too Low - Intermittent

Address 19: ----------------------------------------------
CAN Gateway
Part No: 6N0 909 901
Component: Gateway K<->CAN 1S30
 
2 Faults Found:
00778 - Steering Angle Sensor (G85)
49-00 - No Communications

01324 - Control Module for All Wheel Drive (J492)
49-00 - No Communications

Address 44: ----------------------------------------------
Steering Assist  
Control Module Part Number: 6Q0 423 156 AB
Component and/or Version: LenkhilfeTRW        V270
Software Coding: 10140
1 Fault Found:

00816 - Power Steering Sensor (G250)
30-10 - Open or Short to Plus - Intermittent

EXPLANATION
This Skoda Fabia seems to have enough problems for half a dozen cars. Once again we need to look at Readiness first because it is quite evident that there more 1's than 0's. That tells us there are problems  in the (1st nought) Exhaust Gas Recirculation - EGR, (2nd nought) Oxygen Sensor Heater, (3rd nought) Oxygen Sensor,   (6th nought) Evaporative Emissions System  and  (8th nought) Three Way Catalyst. This is reason enough for the car to go into limp mode. But since it also has issues with its  Steering Angle Sensor (G85)
and the Control Module for All Wheel Drive (J492) there is even more reason to shut the important systemes down and do into safe mode (limp mode). There are also several electrical issues with open circuits and short circuits which would most likely be wiring harness related. But the most striking thing is the  Low - Intermittent  Supply Voltage B+ which implies the battery terminal is loose. Intermittent supply voltage  resets all modules all the time and can lead to spurious DTC.

Thursday, April 9, 2015

EPC


ELECTRONIC POWER CONTROL

EPC LIGHT

The EPC fault indicator lamp is very well known among the VAG community, and for those not yet familiar with the EPC light;   it's an  amber symbol in the instrument panel displaying the uppercase letters EPC, which is the abbreviation for Electronic Power Control. This EPC lamp is often referred to by automotive technicians as K132.  EPC is synonymous to Drive-by-Wire which means that the vehicle concerned is fitted with an electrically controlled throttle valve. Restated, the old mechanical throttle cable has now been replaced by an electronic throttle control system. Vag vehicles fitted with  Motronic Engine Management version 5.9 ECUs  and older, still use a cable operated throttle interfaced with  a Throttle Control Module (TCM) and appear to be less susceptible to EPC related problems but not immune. Whereas vag vehicles fitted with Motronic Engine Management version 7.5 coupled to a Drive-by-Wire system appear to be somewhat more susceptible to EPC related problems. This is because ECUs with MEM 7.5  was specifically designed to handle the new torque-oriented  EPC function.   

However, the  bright orange EPC fault indicator light has absolutely no effect on the functionality of the Throttle Control System as a whole. When the ignition is initially turned on, it is perfectly normal for the EPC light to come on briefly,  then switch off again, if and only if it detects no Throttle Control System DTCs in memory and also determines that the TCS is working OK.  This ECU self diagnostic test takes all of 3 seconds. But, should a problem exist, the EPC light will remain on, since it needs to inform you of a DTC stored in memory  and that any additional TCS faults won't make it glow any brighter. (NB! There is no other visual way of showing you that there are several EPC errors other than with a scan tool). 


DRIVE-BY-WIRE

The Drive-by-Wire system consists of  an accelerator pedal module, that houses  two accelerator position senders, a throttle control module that also housing two position sensors,  a throttle
valve drive servo motor, an EPC light,  an ECU and of course the wiring to connect them together. 


THROTTLE CONTROL

The two accelerator position senders are a fixed part of the accelerator pedal and in reality are potentiometers. They get their supply voltage from the ECU that is capable of component diagnostics and constantly monitors its inputs. When the ECU detects that one potentiometer signal failed, it sends a DTC to the memory and turns on the EPC light then switches to the second potentiometer. It uses the accelerator pedal input voltage and translates its position  into an output voltage that drives the throttle body servo motor that controls the butterfly valve. The two throttle two position sensors, sends feedback to the ECU. Once again theses sensors are potentiometers, also monitored by the ECU and as above, if one potentiometer fails it sends a DTC to memory, turns on the EPC light then switches to the other potentiometer, but not necessarily in that order.


WIRING

The CAN Bus wire pair for the Powertrain  are Orange/Black and Orange/ Brown but there is also a supply wire (Red) and an earth (Black) wire, to each of the Drive-by-Wire components. Each of these wires have a plug and each of these plugs have at least four wires. Do the math and you could have 8 plugs - 32 male contacts pluging into 32 female contacts. The accelerator pedal potentiometers fault finding procedure.  Any of these contacts could be intermittent, all of which will cause the  EPC warning light to light up and if any of the Drive-by-Wire components fail will do the same. Considering cars drive on bumpy roads, withstand extremes engine heat and freezing temperatures at night besides rainwater that could find its way into the wiring harness. All of which could contribute to intermittent electrical connections.


REPAIRING EPC FAULTS

Repairing EPC faults are easy but needs to be systematic, because everything that can cause the problem needs to be thoroughly investigates and exonerated before the next item is suspect. Before any major or expensive components are replaced, check the wiring. Check the wiring, Check the Wiring.  Suspect the potentiometers first since they suffer from wear and tear. 


POTENTIOMETERS

A potentiometer is essentially a potential divider. Restated, its a three legged device, with a fixed high potential (voltage) and a fixed low potential (voltage)  at two of its legs. The third leg outputs a variable potential (voltage) less than the higher potential and more than the lower potential.  A potentiometer is normally made of bakelite or fibreglass with a carbon track attached to it.  The variable output makes contact with slider that runs on this carbon track. This sider/carbon contact isn't very good because its a sprung loader pressure contact. Besides when the carbon track wears through which is just a matter of time because it is constantly at work when you accelerate. It is going to give you the EPC fault guaranteed.

Feel free to upload your VWSKODASEAT & AUDI scans.

Friday, March 20, 2015

AUDI EPC LIGHT

AUDI HAS LOOMINITUS

Audi TT, A4 1.8T, A4 B5 1.8 Auto, 2.5 V6 Quattro B6, 1.6L A4 SE, 1.8L R4, Audi 8T0, Audi A6 C5,

Does your Audi occasionally have a hard time starting, yet finally starts just before you give up?  So when it starts, the EPC and ESP lights are on, then the engine cuts out. You restart and she idles rough and the check engine light comes on? After a while the EPC and ESP light go out, thereafter the car drives normal until the next time this happens. 

Or, as you are driving in manual mode, you noticed the ABS and ESP lights come on and suddenly your Audi's engine loses  power and goes into limp mode. You switch off, then restart, it idles rough but won't rev over 1500 RPM and she sounds like a tractor. You switch off once again, restart and the tractor is gone. So you get the Audi home driving at a snails pace, the next morning you start her and it seems like there was never any problems because she now idles and drives normally.

Or you are VCDS savvy, encountered an EPC light problem, cleared the fault and the next day it come back on. Several days later the EPC light comes on again, stays on and refuses to switch off. Once again you do a scan and you get a ton of  implausible  and intermittent DTC errors. 

Or your start the Audi, it idles for a few seconds then dies with the EPC light and ESP lights on. You clear the faults, lights go out. You drive the car for less than 3 km and it goes into limp mode. You disconnect the battery and reconnect and it seems fine thereafter. A few days later and the same thing occurs.


The Throttle body plug thats seem to haunt Audi owners.
What you have been experiencing is just a sampling of what the future holds. You Audi is suffering from "loominitus",  its loom is having issues, better known to auto electricians and motor mechanics as wiring harness issues. The culprit in all the above case is the 6 pin plug interfacing with the throttle body. Of late, this throttle body plug has become  quite trouble, you could almost call it common. Don't use contact spray on the plug. Ideally that portion of the loom needs to be replaced but since the female part of the plug is intermittent - hence faults come and go - it's worthwhile just replacing the plug and join the wires using ferrules and double crimp them. Cover the wires with shrink sleeving and avoid insulation tape because the engine heat will melt the PVC which will go sticky within days and  its messy.  

The troublesome Throttle body plug - connect thicker wires as per old plug.
Pin 1-blue/white stripe, Pin  2-purple/white stripe, Pin  3-white, Pin  4-blue/grey stripe, Pin  5-purple/black stripe, Pin  6-white/grey stripe
Throttle body replacement plug and colour coded wiring

I am so sorry to say, 
as the looms in the newer cars age, you should expect worse issues with the wiring harnesses.  See the list of sub loom components for the VW Polo here. Pieces of the harness that makes-up the whole.

Anyway should you scan your ECU, you will most probably find the following faults and perhaps others not listed here. The image below points to the troublesome plug.

18010 - Power Supply Terminal 30: Voltage too Low
P1602 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent
01314 - Engine Control Module
013 - Check DTC Memory - Intermittent
18084 - EPC Warning Lamp (K132) Circuit
P1676 - 35-00 - Electrical Malfunction
01176 - Key
65-10 - Unauthorized - Intermittent
01177 - Engine Control Unit
64-10 - Not Currently Testable - Intermittent
01119 - Gear Recognition Signal
             35-10 - - - Intermittent
18264 - Throttle Potentiometer (G69): Error Message from ECU
             P1856 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent
00258 - Mass Air Flow Sensor (G70)
              P0102 - 002 - Signal too Low - Intermittent
18039 - Accelerator Position Sensor (G79)
P1631 - 35-00 - Signal too High
18042 - Accelerator Position Sensor 2 (G185)
P1634 - 35-00 - Signal too High
00768 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
              P0300 - 35-00 - -
16685 - Cylinder 1: Misfire Detected
             P0301 - 35-00 - -
16688 - Cylinder 4: Misfire Detected
              P0304 - 35-00 - -
16690 - Cylinder 6: Misfire Detected
              P0306 - 35-00 - -
16689 - Cylinder 5: Misfire Detected
             P0305 - 35- 00 - -
17953 - Throttle Valve Controller
P1545 - 35-10 - Malfunction - Intermittent
17981 - Left Engine Mount Solenoid Valve (N144)
              P1573 - 009 - Open Circuit
00473 - Control Module for Elect. Park/Hand Brake (J540)
              008 - Implausible Signal - Intermittent
01494 - Bulb for Parking Lamps; Left (M1)
             011 - Open Circuit
01504 - Bulb for License-Plate Light (X)
              009 - Open or Short to Ground - Intermittent
02255 - Voltage Measuring Lead from Vbat
             009 - Open or Short to Ground
16706 - Engine Speed Sensor (G28): No Signal
             P0322 - 35-00 -  -
00285 - ABS Wheel Speed Sensor; Front Right (G45)
008 - Implausible Signal - Intermittent
00283 - ABS Wheel Speed Sensor; Front Left (G47)
012 - Electrical Fault in Circuit - Intermittent
18057 - Powertrain Data Bus: Missing Message from ABS Controller
P1649 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent
16795 - Secondary Air Injection System: Incorrect Flow Detected
P0411 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent
17511 - Oxygen (Lambda) Sensor Heating; B1 S1: Performance too Low
P1103 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent
16497 - Intake Air Temp. Sensor (G42): Signal too High
P0113 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent
16955 - Brake Switch (F): Implausible Signal
P0571 - 35-00 - -



Audi on a rollback, notice the open bonnet

Audi on a rollback, number plate scratched for privacy

Audi on a rollback just before  peak hour in the afternoon.

Audi on a rollback enroute the service centre.
Audi on a rollback  

Audi TT, A4 1.8T, A4 B5 1.8 Auto, 2.5 V6 Quattro B6, 1.6L A4 SE, 1.8L R4, audi 8T0, Audi A6 C5,

Feel free to upload your VW, SKODA, SEAT & AUDI scans.

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

EPC DEMYSTIFIED CONTINUED 1


Continued from EPC DEMYSTIFIED.  


  ....But it’s not that simple. There is a lot more to it than meets the eye.....

 PART 2



But it’s not that simple. There is a lot more to it than meets the eye. Cars exclusively use embedded microcontrollers (µContollers) with embedded firmware in preference to microprocessors with loadable software. In order for a microprocessor to function properly in any device, it must contain dedicated internal circuitry and firmware specific to its function, have inputs and outputs and an oscillator circuit among other circuitry and an OS (Operating system). A DVR (Digital Video recorder), or a PVR (personal Video recorder) or a set-top-box or embedded network appliance or data router are just a few examples of such systems. µControllers  are less significant and less sophisticated than microprocessors, more dedicated to its specific need, often cheaper, faster, safer and smaller. Embedded µControllers are therefore the natural choice for car manufacturers. And there are several manufactures that produce µControllers families specifically for the motor trade.


So it should be understood that companies like Bosch, Digifant, Delco  and other engine management ECU manufacturers and electronic module manufacturers uses the same microcontroller chip families or similar microcontroller chip families, designed and manufactured for them by a selected few silicon chip manufacturers.  In the same vein, computer manufacturers like IBM, Dell, Sony, Toshiba and Lenovo, etc. all use microprocessors manufactured by Intel Corporation or AMD in their laptops and computers, whereas Apple uses microprocessors manufactured by Motorola.

Baring in mind, that much like Motorola, Intel Corporation and AMD produces different featured microprocessor chips with different instruction sets,  along with their auxiliary support chips for low-end and high-end computers; such as 4 bit, 8bit, 16bit, 8086 family of chips, 32bit Pentiums, I5, I7, 64bit, XEON, 128bit big Endian and small Endian microprocessors etc; so does Infineon, Altera, Freescale, Atmel and ARM etc, manufacture different featured microcontroller chips for both low-end cars and high-end cars which are specifically chosen for their internal features and software by the various ECU and electronic module manufacturers like  Bosch,  LUCAS, DENSO, Delco, DELPHI, FENIX, HITACHI, HELLA,  MARELLI, Siemens, etc. These microcontroller chip families can roughly be categorized into four sub sectors, those specific to Powertrain functions (P), those specific to the Body and Safety functions (B), those with specific functions for Chassis (C) and those specific to Internal Convenience & communication(U).

In a nutshell all the sub systems in your vehicle are controlled by these on-board computer chips, each at the heart of an electronic module flanked by associated components and sensors. Each of these modules are in fact a fully fledged computer in its own right, situated in various positions throughout the car and linked together by a wired networked called a network bus and all are accessible through the Databus diagnostic interface for adaptation.

When the ignition is switched on, several dashboard warning lamps light-up and stays lit for the duration of the internal test cycle (<30 seconds). Should all tests check OK, all lights goes however if all systems does not check out OK, the relevant light will stay on and a fault will be logged in memory . After the car is started, the ECU monitors all sensors  and continually takes readings from the complete range of powertrain modules and sensors. These readings are then compared with default readings stored in the operational logic of the  system. Should the sensor reading coincide and agree with the stored program value or values, the microcontroller will send the  required outputs to the relevant actuators, for example the injectors. If the sensor readings differ and are out of specification,   "not within the required limits",  it will take another and if this sensor reading continues to be ‘out of limits’ a DTC will be triggered and sent to non-volatile memory. Depending on the nature of the fault, the embedded program may or may not instruct the microcontroller to make internal changes, thus operate on different criteria until a repair is effected, or until the fault has been cleared.

So whenever a mechanical or electronic problem arises in either the Powertrain (P), the Body (B), the Chassis (C) or the internal Conveniences & Communication (U) areas, the relevant module or modules triggers the on-board self diagnostics program and generates a DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) which is then stored in the non-volatile memory of the ECU for later retrieval by mechanical technicians. At the point When a DTC code is logged in memory, the system self-diagnosis system also alerts the driver with a visible indication  of trouble by turning on a warning light on the dashboard like the "EPC light", or the "Malfunction Indicator Lamp" (MIL) which on European cars is known as the "Check Engine Light". This doesn't tell you  the nature of the problem, even though it could be something serious, or not. After the necessary repairs are completed, a diagnostic scan tool should be used to clear the DTC errors  and to turn the malfunction indicator light (MIL) or EPC light off. Thereafter the car should be taken on a short test dive to ascertain that the previous drive issue or issues are resolved. Then the car should be hooked up to the diagnostic scan tool once again in order  to confirms that the DTC or DTCs is also no longer present.

The nature of such mechanical problem may  prevent the engine from starting or it may idle erratically, switch off immediately after starting, refuse to rev higher than 1500 rpm and impede driveability (limp mode), difficult cold starting, misfire, lazy acceleration, high idling speed, fluctuating rev counter, excessive fuel consumption, difficult warm starting, excessive black smoke, poor engine response or emits blue/grey smoke,  etc ... Each of these faults and so many others each produce individualized codes.   In most cases it would be expedient to engage the services of a roll-back to get your car to a VW service center so that diagnostics can be run on the car.

With sufficient knowledge and an appropriate diagnostic apparatus (Autoboss, Pico Scope, Range, VCDS, AutoEnginuity,  ScanXLpro), code reader or scanner, plugged into the car's 16 pin diagnostic plug, mechanical minded persons can read these faults, print then or save them to an SD card or harddrive, send signals and communicate with the ECUs, read the measured values and interrogate the actuators. The DTC in memory however do not identify the part that has gone faulty but rather provides you  with a general idea to its area of origin. Often long before a DTC code is generated the fault may already have existed so when the you view the DTC it could show that the fault occurred twice of thrice or even six times before. The ECU software is designed to monitor the frequency of error and if it is an isolated occurrence the ECU clears the fault after a certain distance is traveled but that dependent on the severity of the fault. For arguement's sake lets say 300kms. If it happens once in 300kms it could automatically clears the fault but should it happen four times during the same distance a DTC will be registered, the car could go into limp mode since it may be unsafe to drive the car if it's a breaking or steering issue, or shut the engine off if the O2 sensor went faulty and can't regulate the smoke pollution, or disable starting if the knock sensor triggered the DTC as there may be no oil in sump which could amount to a very expensive engine repair. In the case of the latter, the oil light should have illuminated long before the knock sensor shuts the engine off. However I have encountered a problem with the wires that plug into the oil sensor that became brittle due to engine heat and  subsequently broke off. As a result the sender  sent the low oil condition but it never arrived at the the ECU hence did not turn-on the oil-low light. I only became aware of this when my EPC light went on due to the knock sensor. See picture in blog.   More ...



EPC DEMYSTIFIED


EPC DEMYSTIFIED IN THREE PARTS

PART 1


In a global village where defined lines between languages and nationalities, technologies and terminologies have become completely blurred, it is important to create terms of reference in discussions, so that we are all on the same page but pronunciation can at times offend the ear. To elaborate, some people say "tomarto" (tomato) some say "tomayto", some say micro computer and some say microprocessor, some say Electronic power control (EPC) some say Electronic Pedal control (EPC). But that's just semantics, the bottom line remains, that it establishes a common ground for people of different geographical spaces to discuss common topics.

In response to the hoards of queries I recently received and the abundance of confusion there is out there about EPC (Electronic Power Control); and in reply to the thousands of e-mails I received regarding EPC (Electronic Power Control) that I haven’t been able to reply to as yet nor will ever be able to, I decided to dedicate the next few episodes of my blog to explaining the EPC (Electronic Power Control) problem many VW drivers and VW owners are having with their cars as if they were two year olds. (Not that two year olds can relate the subject at hand).

I have explained EPC in previous blogs, namely EPC light revisited explained and EPC why-engine-light-comes-on, however, I am going to elaborate on the EPC (Electronic Power Control)  concept and demystify it for the benefit of all these people mentioned above and all those destined to encounter this problem at some time or the other. The question is not if you will encounter an EPC problem but rather when you going to encounter an EPC problem, its just a matter of time. Be that as it may, for the sake of simplicity, and by analogy, I'm going to compare the workings of the EPC (Electronic Power Control) in a car to that of a PC (personal Computer) which in my humble opinion will aid understanding.  So here goes....

Electronics as a whole has intrinsically influenced human life globally, especially since the advent of the silicon chip. Through the evolution of said silicon chip, Microprocessors have become so common place, that it finds itself in virtually every modern day technological advancement from computers to televisions, cell phones to cameras, medical equipment to the very cars we drive, to mention but a few. As a result virtually everyone out-there, has heard of, or are familiar with the terms microprocessor, microcomputer or just computer, and as such, it establishes a basis to discuss familiar concepts. Most people in the "Secular World" either owns a computer or uses computers and accordingly have some understanding of its hardware and its software, and how well these complement each other and seamlessly work together. I mentioned this purely in preparation to my assertion that  follows. However, all those non-technical and all-thumbs people and those  who say "you don't have to know how an engine works in order to drive a car", are totally excused.

EPC for Hands-on Dudes, Savvy Ladies and other pragmatic people.
Computers can roughly be subdivided into building blocks, each of which is responsible for a specific function or a collection of functions. As such a combination of these specific functions gives rise to the correct and proper functionality of the computer or computer based device. For instance, the computer hard drive functions as the storage unit that holds the operating system, application programs and user data. The DVD Rom, serial port, keyboard and mouse acts as input devices. Whereas and the speakers, printer & screen act as output devices, doubling-up as the interfaces of information interchange between man and machine (computer). The motherboard houses the CPU (central Processing Unit / Microprocessor chip) it ancillary / auxiliary timing chips, control and data buses, RAM and sub circuitry for  AGP, PCI, MR1, PCMCIA, USB, Ethernet, Fire wire, parallel connectivity, etc. When all these specific components play together nicely, we are guaranteed a fully functional computer and a happy computer user.

Likewise the car can be subdivided into building blocks each responsible for a specific function. In this instance, the engine is the source of propulsion which delivers it to the rest of the drive train. The instrument panel, the steering wheel, the transmission and the braking system constitute some of the input and output devices, also   doubling-up as the interfaces of information interchange between man and machine (car). The electrical system; the ECU (Motronic control unit), Control unit within the dash,  along with its auxiliary modules, oversees the overall timing, sensor, actuator, control and data bus, as well as block components like the Radio, air conditioner and central locking etc. Once again, when all these discrete components play nicely together, we have a perfectly functional car and a happy driver / owner. More...


Saturday, May 11, 2013

VW AIRBAGS


VW AIRBAGS CODING

Virtually all modern cars are fitted with airbags and VWs or VAG cars are no exception.  Airbags are specifically designed to protect the driver and  passengers in the unfortunate case of an accident.  Having airbags gives drivers and passengers a certain sense of safety and assurance should they be involved in an accident that injuries sustained could be kept at a minimum. Airbags are manufactured from a parachute-like material and they instantly inflates with a compressed gas,  when the automobile in which it is fitted to meets with a collision.


VW Polo Classic 2.0L highline facelift airbag controller
However it is becoming increasingly common for airbags to deploy unintentionally, sporadically and spontaneously, completely  without the help of an accident. Even though airbags are designed to make drivers and passengers feel safer, in several cars the presence of an airbag  has the complete opposite effect. Airbags dashboard lights are also commonly lighting-up for no reason and without explanation. If or when the airbag on the dash board  lights-up, the system detected a problem and as a consequence sets an error code or trouble code. This implies that the airbag circuit isn't working properly and will not deploy in the event of an accident. When the airbag light comes on  for no reason, you should have your VAG car checked and  diagnosed by a trained technician because the airbag system is certainly not a D.I.Y item. There is no "reset" for an airbag system so NEVER attempt to repair it yourself since serious injury can result  if not done correctly.


Every time the ignition is switch on the system does a self check and should  it detect a problem, the air bag light is will be illuminated or flash. Repeated flashing  is actually the fail code being spelled out in a two-digit code. The light will pulse the first digit,  pause, then pulse out the second digit, pause again but for longer, then start all over again. Once the problem if fixed and the error code cleared the light will stay off.

Normally car code readers, scan tools and auto diagnostic testers omit airbag testing and interrogation unless specifically selected for fear that the diagnostic equipment or user error could trigger the airbags and cause personal injury. Numerous airbag malfunctions has occur during impact, amongst which are delayed deployment, partially deployment and complete failure to deploy. Several vehicle owners including VW, Golf  and Polo owners have complained to The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration about airbag problems which could entitle them to a full or partial refunds for airbag problems experienced and in some cases even entitled to a new car replacement.

When a VW ends up in a crash, it stores the crash data which cannot be cleared with a VAG-COM. VW and the  airbag controller manufacturer intended it to be "unclearable" but rather replaced.  Normally the safety belts will have to be replaced along with the new airbags because the strain gauges and other electro-mechanical sensors inside them are unreliable once they have exceeded the G-forces limit at deployment.

VW POLO
Address 15:      Airbags
Controller ID No 6Q0 909 601 F
Component 05 AIRBAG VW5 0010
Coding         12341
Alternative:       12337 or 12338

00589               Airbag Igniter 1 - Passenger Side -N131
         Short to Ground  INTERMITTENT
00588        Airbag Igniter - Driver Side -N95
         Resistance to High  INTERMITTENT
00589               Airbag Igniter 1 - Passenger Side -N131
         Resistance to High  INTERMITTENT
00588           Airbag Igniter - Driver Side -N95
         Resistance to Low  INTERMITTENT
00588        Airbag Igniter - Driver Side -N95
         Short to Ground  INTERMITTENT
P1280        Passenger side Airbag Switched Off

Below is a list of airbag codings and some alternatives for those with airbag coding issues.

6Q0 909 601        -   12597 or 12622 or 12360 or 12358 or 12628 or 12344 or 12360
6Q0 909 601 A    -   12362
6Q0 909 601 C    -   12338
6Q0 909 601 E     -   12343 or 12359 or 12354 or 12338
6Q0 909 601 F     -   12341 or 12337 or 12338
6Q0 909 601 OM -   12365
6Q0 909 601 OB  -   12354
6Q0 909 601 0C   -   12355
6Q0 909 601 2A   -   12865

OTHER INTERESTING VOLKSWAGEN TOPICS
VW ABS diagnostics
VW Polo Diagnostics