VW Golf 3 TDI: Engine Failure? Causes & Fixes

Hello everyone!

I'm having a problem with my Volkswagen Golf 3 TDI (90 hp), manufactured in 1994, engine code 1Z.

During the drive, the car simply dies. The lights and everything else suddenly go out, and when you restart it, it starts right up again.

I've already replaced the power supply relay and also the fuel shut-off valve.

Please help me.

Hello Andi,

Which relay was replaced, the 109?
If not, that would be a possible approach. After how long does the vehicle stop working?
Other potential candidates include the fuel tank vent.

Yes, I replaced the 109 part. It's a new one now.

What could be the problem with the fuel tank ventilation system?

The problem is that it doesn't happen regularly, so I can't say when it will occur. I also can't tell if it depends on the weather or any other circumstances.

Due to a blocked fuel tank vent, a strong vacuum could build up inside the tank over time, making it impossible for the ESP (Electronic Stability Program) to pump enough diesel. However, this is less likely because you mentioned that all the lights also go out (which I just noticed). In case of a fault, does the car completely stop working? If so, please check all the ground connections.

At the very least, the parking lights should remain on.

If not, then it must be something really serious like a power cable or a terminal connector.

Just turn on the engine and start fiddling with everything in the engine compartment (EXCEPT the timing belt – if that one moves, it'll move you or pull you along!).

Okay, please provide the German text you would like me to translate into English. I will only provide the translation.

Yes, absolutely everything is gone.

By the way, I've already read the error codes, but it didn't reveal anything. I've also tried checking the ground connection of the negative cable on the engine.

"Absolutely everything being gone can't have anything to do with electronic components, since the parking light is switched on using a simple mechanical mechanism!"

Okay, please provide the German text you would like me to translate into English. I will only provide the translation.

Unfortunately, I can't tell you about the parking light issue because if it's a problem, it likely stops working while the car is being driven, and I can't confirm whether that specific function would also be affected.

Andi23 wrote:

While driving, the car simply dies. The lights and everything else suddenly go out, and when you restart it, it immediately starts again.

Hi Andi,

In the Volkswagen Golf 3, various components such as the engine and the (low beam) light are connected to the ignition switch (terminal 15).

So, if both suddenly stop working, it's likely caused by a voltage drop at terminal 15. Check the ignition switch and the cable between the battery and the switch.