Workshops are driving me to despair: LLK is leaking

Our car (a Passat TDI PD with 115 horsepower, engine code: ATJ, and a 6-speed gearbox) was taken to the workshop today for repairs, where we had purchased it two months ago. There were several issues involved, but I don't want to go into detail about them right now.

I reported, among other things, a (nearly) defective mass airflow sensor (MAF), which, according to the workshop master, was also replaced, and a leaky intercooler (there was oil everywhere on the intercooler and the pipes). Okay, the MAF sensor was replaced, but the intercooler was only cleaned, and now it's whistling air (the oil residue in that area seems to have sealed it quite well). Also, the car doesn't accelerate as well as before, and it's missing a few horsepower on the highway (the tachometer only reaches 3,750 RPM in sixth gear on a straight road). My mother also revved the engine a bit while it was stationary, and I could feel air escaping. Unfortunately, I couldn't pinpoint exactly where it was coming from. It was on top, and I couldn't feel the bottom yet. Now, the obligatory question: Where are these things most likely to leak (at the connection between the hoses and the heat exchanger, or at the connection between the plastic part and the aluminum)? I don't really want to argue with the foreman anymore, as he was already being a bit difficult with me today, and I'd prefer to handle this myself.

Best regards, WarLord.

Plastic - Aluminum!

I still have a broken one lying around in the basement!

Is there a known issue with VW models from the 2000s? They probably had a bad supplier.

Regards,

Manuel.

So, I'll have a new one installed. What's going on?

Best regards, WarLord.

The connection between plastic and aluminum!

I even tried squeezing it in a vise, but it still comes loose again!

I'm surprised your friend didn't have anyone there. Because this is a known issue, I've always received a response immediately so far!

I was also surprised the first time! Now I know why!

I've driven four Golfs and one Passat. All models from the years 2000 and 2001!

Regards,

Manuel.

hi WarLord!
Just try mixing some water with dish soap and spraying it onto the engine while it's running, with a little bit of throttle. Then the leak should actually become visible...

Sure, here is the translation of the text from German to English:

"Dirk"

Well, since it's apparently a known issue, the solution is quite simple: I'll have a new part installed at the dealer's expense. To be honest, I don't really care; I might just complain a little bit about it. It can't be right if my loader is just throwing air around.

Best regards, WarLord.