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TDI Engine Problems: Emergency Mode Explained

 
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marcel.d



Joined: 02/16/2007
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1997 Volkswagen Golf
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Post18-03-2008, 0:36    Subject: TDI Engine Problems: Emergency Mode Explained Quote

This weekend, it happened again: I was shifting from one gear to another, accelerating in fourth and then fifth gear. The road was going uphill. Suddenly, there was a brief jolt, and the car went into limp mode.

The strange thing is that this always happens at the same locations on the highway!

The error that consistently appears is "Intake manifold pressure control difference - intermittent."

What else can I do besides avoiding the potholes in the road? My dealer, who I bought the car from, is also running out of ideas.

The mass airflow sensor and the pressure transducer (boost control valve) have already been replaced. Or could it be related to the turbocharger?

The funny thing is, after I turn the car off and on again, the emergency mode is gone, and theoretically, I could immediately drive at full speed again.


Translated on 18-09-2026, 7:29.
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winschi



Joined: 03/15/2008
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Location: Vöcklabruck

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Post18-03-2008, 0:57    Subject: TDI Engine Problems: Emergency Mode Explained Quote

Hello.

"It was exactly the same with my Touran. When I drove over a slightly larger bump on the highway, it only went into emergency mode. I stopped the car on the side of the road, turned off the engine, and restarted it, and then it was working as if nothing had happened."
My authorized repair shop initially replaced the entire tube set, but it didn't solve the problem; it happened again on the next train journey.
Until they replaced the turbo. It's running perfectly again now. (This is the 3rd turbo already!!! icon_eek.gif)
mfg
winschi


Translated on 18-09-2026, 7:30.
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Simusas



Joined: 10/18/2007
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Free account, no CAN development support

Post18-03-2008, 9:21    Subject: TDI Engine Problems: Emergency Mode Explained Quote

I've been dealing with this problem for a while now. First, you should check the following.

Vacuum hose check: OK (no detached hoses, holes, or soft spots).

Are all the hoses connected correctly? (See the detailed article for an illustration).

Check if the turbo's VTG (Variable Turbine Geometry) is functioning correctly. (Instructions can be found in the technical articles.)

If possible, create a log file using VAG-COM. (Instructions are also available in the technical articles.)

If you create a log, you can post it here. However, it seems that a problem with the VTG (Variable Turbine Geometry) is quite common, and it could be the cause of your issue if the control limit has been exceeded (meaning too much boost pressure).
You can check if there is too much or too little LD using the LOG.


Best regards,


Translated on 18-09-2026, 7:32.
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marcel.d



Joined: 02/16/2007
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1997 Volkswagen Golf
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Post18-03-2008, 10:31    Subject: TDI Engine Problems: Emergency Mode Explained Quote

On Saturday, I will be taking a test drive with the mechanic from the dealership where I bought the car, even though they are on vacation. They are actually very nice and helpful.

Let's see what happens. Maybe he can also get the VTG (Variable Transmission Gear) working. Does the shaft need to be able to move/rotate when it's at rest, or how should I understand that?


Translated on 18-09-2026, 7:34.
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dieselmartin
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2007 Volkswagen Passat
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Post18-03-2008, 10:57    Subject: TDI Engine Problems: Emergency Mode Explained Quote

Test drive = pointless speeding?

You can skip that, it won't be helpful for the analysis here in the forum.
If we see values, we can say something.

You can move the VTG __CAREFULLY__ (otherwise, you might get burned) with your fingers.
Simply insert the rod into the pressure can - it requires some force, but it should provide a consistent resistance.

m;
Transparency, Teamwork
... there was another T.

I don't know what the f*ck it was.


Translated on 18-09-2026, 7:34.
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marcel.d



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1997 Volkswagen Golf
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Post18-03-2008, 11:55    Subject: TDI Engine Problems: Emergency Mode Explained Quote

I actually meant a measurement run, where data is read out while the vehicle is in motion.


Translated on 18-09-2026, 7:35.
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