VW Touran Diesel Power Loss & Idle Issues Need Help

Had similar issues with a 2018 VW Tiguan diesel at 52000km. The symptoms match exactly what you describe, power loss, rough idle, and increased fuel consumption. The fuel filter heater malfunction is actually a common problem that causes these exact symptoms. When my engine was stalling during acceleration, the diagnostic revealed a faulty connection between the fuel filter heater and its control module. The fuel line and filter system in diesel engines requires proper heating to prevent fuel gelling, especially with modern diesel formulations. The repair involved replacing the entire fuel filter assembly since the heating element is integrated. The mechanic also had to clean the fuel lines due to some contamination that occurred while the heater wasnt working properly. This was classified as a serious issue since continued driving could have led to complete fuel system failure. After the filter replacement and system cleaning, fuel efficiency returned to normal and the engine performance issues disappeared completely. Would strongly recommend getting this checked soon, as delayed repairs can lead to more extensive fuel system damage. Your symptoms align perfectly with what diesel technicians often see with faulty fuel filter heaters. The check engine light in these cases is a clear indicator of the fuel system problem.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My VW Touran had exactly those fuel system issues last winter. Got it fixed and no problems since then with engine stalling or power loss. I am curious how much you paid for the repair? And did you have any related issues pop up afterwards? My diesel engine has been running smoothly since the fix but always good to know what to watch out for.

Since getting the fuel filter heater fixed at the shop, my diesel engine has been running perfectly. The total repair cost was 95€ for fixing the faulty cable connection to the heating element. No additional parts were needed in my case, just the electrical repair. The rough idle and cold start problems completely disappeared after the fix. The fuel efficiency returned to normal levels, and I havent experienced any related issues in the months since. The mechanic did recommend regular fuel filter changes as preventive maintenance to avoid future fuel system complications. Its good to hear your Touran is also running well after the repair. These modern diesel engines are quite sensitive to fuel system issues, but they run great when everything is properly maintained.

Really appreciate your feedback. Finally got the repair done last week. The fuel filter heater and electrical connections cost me 180€ total. My experience was a bit different though, had to leave the car at the shop for 2 days because they needed to flush the entire fuel system to remove some debris that built up from the malfunctioning heater. The power loss issues are completely gone now and fuel consumption is back to normal. The engine runs much smoother, especially during cold starts. The mechanic showed me the old filter which was pretty clogged up. He suggested checking the fuel filter every 15000km instead of waiting for the regular service interval. Glad I got it fixed before any major fuel system damage occurred. The engine is performing like new again, and the check engine light hasnt come back on.