VW Taos Camshaft Sensor Issues Cause Power Loss

I had a similar issue with my 2020 VW Jetta. As someone with some hands-on experience working on VWs, the symptoms you describe match what I encountered, rough idling, power loss, and camshaft position sensor-related codes. After monitoring the performance for a week, I took it to a workshop where they diagnosed a faulty connection between the camshaft sensor and its wiring harness. The cable had slight damage causing intermittent sensor failure. The repair involved replacing the connector and securing the wiring properly, which cost 95€ including labor. The fix completely resolved the issues, no more rough idling or power loss. The engine performance returned to normal immediately after the repair. Most importantly, the check engine light hasn't returned. Before proceeding with any repairs, could you share: The specific error codes stored? Does the rough idling occur more when the engine is cold or warm? Have you noticed any unusual sounds from the timing chain area? What driving conditions make the symptoms worse? This information would help determine if your issue is identical to what I experienced with the crankshaft and camshaft position sensor system.

Last service was at 30000km and I can confirm all sensors were checked during that maintenance. The engine misfire became noticeable after highway driving. The stalling engine symptoms mainly occur during cold starts. I pulled the following codes with my scanner: P0340 and P0016. The check engine light started flashing when accelerating hard. The timing issues seem worse in stop-and-go traffic. No unusual chain noise noticed yet. After checking under the hood, the wiring looks intact with no visible damage around the camshaft sensor area. The sluggish performance and rough idle persist regardless of engine temperature now. A local parts store quoted 180€ for a new OEM sensor, but I want to be certain before replacing it.

Based on the error codes P0340 and P0016 you shared, this definitely confirms our similar camshaft sensor failure patterns. In my case, after replacing the wiring connector, I also ended up needing a new sensor since the intermittent electrical issues had damaged the sensor itself. The flashing check engine light during acceleration is particularly concerning, as this indicates serious engine misfire conditions that could cause catalytic converter damage if left unchecked. When I experienced this, I limited hard acceleration until the repair was completed. With both cold start issues and persistent timing issues, replacing the sensor is likely the right call. The 180€ quote for an OEM sensor is in line with what I paid. While aftermarket sensors are available for less, I would strongly recommend staying with OEM for this critical component, my first attempt with a cheaper sensor led to continued engine misfire problems. The repair resolved all symptoms completely: No more cold start problems, Smooth idle restored, Full power returned, Check engine light cleared and stayed off Just make sure whoever does the install clears the error codes afterward and verifies proper sensor signal output. In my case, they also checked the timing chain tensioner while they were in there, which is worth requesting since they'll be working in that area anyway.

Thanks for the detailed feedback on the sensor symptoms and repair experience. Good to hear the OEM sensor resolved it completely for you. This gives me confidence to move forward with the repair. I scheduled the work for next week at a local VW specialist. They will replace the camshaft sensor and inspect the surrounding components while they have access. The total quoted cost is 295€ including labor, diagnostic verification, and clearing the check engine codes. Based on your experience with the failed aftermarket part, I decided to stick with the OEM sensor even though it costs more. The risk of continued engine misfires and potential damage isnt worth saving a few Euro on a cheaper part. Will update once the repair is done, but feeling optimistic this will resolve the rough idle and power issues like it did in your case. Keeping the driving light until then to protect the catalytic converter. Really appreciate you sharing your similar situation, it helped confirm I am on the right track with the diagnosis.