2023 Seat Tarraco Experiencing Black Smoke, Poor Fuel Economy, and Unstable Engine Performance

Hey, I got what you're feeling here. Had a similar experience with my 2020 Seat Ateca not so long ago. It acted the same way - shaky, stalling, black smoke, the whole lot. Check engine light was my constant companion. Figured it had something to do with the mass air flow sensor too. Took it to my regular garage, and yep, it was indeed the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. The defect was causing the engine to receive inaccurate airflow readings, leading to all the disruption and power loss. Moreover, the poor fuel economy makes sense now, as the air-fuel mixture wasn't rightly balanced due to the faulty MAF sensor readings. It's definitely a substantial issue, not something to ignore. Had to replace the MAF sensor. The job wasn't overnight I’d tell you that, needed a few tweaks here and there after the change but in the end, it did solve the problems. My Ateca's been running smooth ever since. Hope this helps you out!

Hey there, Thanks for the insight! That sounds pretty bang on to what I'm seeing with my Tarraco. It's odd how these models can be so susceptible to the same MAF sensor fault. I'm really glad your Ateca is doing better now. I'm curious about what the replacement cost you, if you don't mind sharing. I'd like to have a ballpark figure to be prepared. Also, has anything else cropped up since you had your MAF sensor replaced? Just curious if it's a one-off kind of issue, or if this beast keeps giving. Thanks again!

Hey, No problem at all, happy to help a fellow Seat driver. My previous trip to the mechanic shop sorted things out for me, diagnosis confirmed that the air mass flow sensor was the culprit. It essentially cost 415€ to rectify this bug. It didn't come cheap, I'll tell you that, but it was worth every cent. Since the fix, my ride's been purring like a kitten, no more coughing up black smoke or acting rebellious at idle. So far, touch wood, it's been a one-off issue. My Ateca hasn't given me any more grief since the MAF sensor was dealt with. I reckon it should go the same way for your Tarraco. Anyway, it's always good to be prepared, but here's hoping you won't have to deal with any more gremlins after this. Feel free to drop a line if you need more info. Cheers!

Hey, Massive help, really appreciate it! That price point is a bit steep, but if it means a peaceful ride, I'm all for it. Your experience gives me a good deal of optimism about getting my Tarraco fixed up too. I'll be sure to follow up if anything else pops up after I've had the MAF sensor replaced - fingers crossed it's a one-time fix just like it was for your Ateca. Your information has been a great help in easing my garage-related anxieties, I now feel much more prepared for my impending visit to the mechanic. Thanks a bunch and safe travels!