Seeking Advice for 2023 Seat Tarraco Gasoline Engine Issues: Flashing Check Engine Light, Reduced Power, Inconsistent Performance, and Unusual Sounds

Hey there! So, I have a car very similar to yours, a 2021 Seat Ateca and have faced an issue much like the one you've described. I'd rank my car expertise as some experience, not a full-fledged mechanic, but I do know my way around most common problems. What you're dealing with sounds exactly like what I faced: an intake hose leak. I noticed the same warning signs, the flashing check engine light, fluctuating engine performance, and that nasty hissing sound. I took my Ateca to my trusted workshop, had them check it out and eventually, they found out the hose was indeed leaking. To fix it, they replaced the tricky hose and sealed it properly. This set me back around 100.00 Euro but it was money well-spent as the symptoms disappeared and the car has run smoothly ever since. By the way, it might be helpful if you could share some more detailed info about your Tarraco – like, what's the exact engine make and model? Any recent repairs or modifications? Maybe that could give us more clues into your issue. Hope this helps!

Hi! Thanks for your message – I'd say my car knowledge is similar to yours, not a mechanic, but I've dealt with a fair amount of car issues over the years. I see that your 2021 Ateca had a similar issue and it was the intake hose all along, huh? That's a handy pointer. I'm going to thoroughly check that myself before I head to the garage. I would hate to be left surprised with a huge bill for an easy fix like that. About your question, my Tarraco's exact engine model and make is the 1.5 TSI EVO 150 DSG7, and it's not been modified or repaired aside from regular, scheduled maintenance. Last service was done at around 187K kilometers. Thanks again for taking the time to reply and share your car issue story. It's given me a direction to follow. Will definitely update once it's sorted!

Hey, no worries! Always glad to help out a fellow car enthusiast! The 1.5 TSI EVO engines are typically reliable, but like any machine, they can have their moments, right? Since your Tarraco is pretty much running on its original parts and you're diligent with your scheduled maintenance, my strong-hunch is still with the intake system, particularly that intake hose. It's really something that caught me off guard with my Ateca, never expected such a small part could cause all that trouble! When you check it yourself, do pay close attention. It might be a small crack or hole that's practically invisible, but can cause all sorts of havoc. And absolutely, it's always better to avoid any unexpected expenses if we can just fix it ourselves or with minimal cost! Good luck, and don't hesitate to drop another question or update. We're all here, eager to hear how you fare. Hoping you'll be cruising without troubles again soon!

Hey, thanks so much for the advice! I surely didn't think it would be something as small as the intake hose either, but it's certainly given me some food for thought. Going to check that thing from top to bottom looking for any unseen cracks. Trust me, I've always been about fixing whatever I can myself before going to the garage. You've been a great help! I appreciate the well-wishes and I'll definitely be keeping everyone updated. I'm also hoping I get back to smooth sailing on the road soon. Super eager to get this sorted out now. Fingers crossed the problem isn't any worse than this. Catch you all later, folks!