VW T-Cross Temperature Sensor Woes Impact Performance

I had a similar situation with my 2021 VW T-Roc. Initially had low experience with sensor issues, but learned quite a bit through this repair process. The symptoms matched yours exactly, check engine light, reduced power, and higher fuel consumption. The engine management system was indeed receiving incorrect temperature readings, creating these issues. My trusted workshop performed a complete diagnostic scan which revealed a leak in the exhaust system near the temperature sensor. The exhaust sensor was getting false readings due to escaped gases, causing temperature fluctuation problems. They had to replace both the sensor and repair the leak. The total repair cost was 265€, which included the diagnostic work, parts, and labor. After the fix, fuel consumption returned to normal and the engine performance was fully restored. To provide more specific advice for your case, could you share: Current mileage on your T-Cross, When did these symptoms first appear, Any recent maintenance or repairs, Whether you notice any unusual exhaust sounds, If the check engine light is steady or flashing This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with the emission control system.

After 119556km of driving I can confirm these exact symptoms. My latest service was just last month, and they didnt spot any issues then. The check engine light started appearing intermittently about a week ago, before staying on permanently. The engine management system is definitely acting strange, power delivery is inconsistent and the temperature fluctuation is quite noticeable, especially during longer drives. No unusual exhaust sounds so far, which makes me think the issue might be isolated to the sensor itself rather than a larger exhaust system problem. The dealer wants 390€ just for the diagnostic process and potential sensor replacement, which seems quite steep. Based on your experience with temperature sensor issues, would you recommend going ahead with the dealer diagnosis, or should I try an independent workshop first?

Thanks for those details. Like you, I waited until service couldn't spot issues, but the symptoms got worse. On my T-Roc, trying the independent workshop first saved me money and time. At similar mileage (around 115000km), I initially faced intermittent check engine warnings before they became permanent. The lack of exhaust noise in your case matches my experience, my sensor failed without any exhaust leaks. Given your symptoms mirror mine, focusing on the temperature sensor makes sense. My independent workshop charged 180€ for both diagnosis and sensor replacement. The exhaust sensor itself was the main culprit, and fixing it resolved the temperature fluctuation issues completely. Be aware that engine management systems can be sensitive to temperature sensor failures. In my case, the longer I waited, the more erratic the power delivery became. Once replaced, fuel consumption dropped back to normal within two tank fills. Since dealer costs are running high, consider getting a quote from a workshop specializing in VW sensor replacement. They often have the right diagnostic tools and expertise, but charge considerably less than dealers. Based on your mileage and symptoms, this sounds like a straightforward temperature sensor issue rather than a complex exhaust system problem. Getting it addressed sooner will prevent any potential damage to other emission control components.

Thank you for the workshop recommendation. After calling around, I found a VW specialist who quoted 195€ for diagnosis and sensor replacement, much more reasonable than the dealer price. The inconsistent power delivery and temperature fluctuation symptoms match exactly what you described with your T-Roc. Good to know the exhaust system itself might not need work since I'm not hearing any unusual sounds. I will book it in next week to avoid any potential damage to other emission control components. The fuel consumption increase is hitting my wallet hard, so fixing the temperature sensor sooner rather than later makes sense. Your experience with similar mileage and symptoms has been really helpful in confirming my suspicions about the heat sensor being the likely culprit. Will update once the repair is done, but feeling more confident now about not needing extensive exhaust system work. Thanks for sharing your repair costs and timeline, helps set realistic expectations for getting this sorted.