My 2010 Golf is 'pinking' and Volkswagen is being slow at addressing the problem - what can I do?
I have a 2010 Golf Estate 1.6 TDI 105 with 26,000 miles on the clock from new. Last winter, when cold at around 1800rpm it sounded like an old type diesel when cold, yet fine when warm. In February, the Volkswagen technician described it as pinking. The noise now sounds much more aggressive when cold. I have followed up my complaint four times and three weeks ago with the Service Manager who says he is trying to resolve it with Volkswagen. I have asked for a meeting in two weeks time to resolve. What potential damage is this pre ignition causing? Should I insist on the engine being replaced? Alternatively a 100,000-mile engine warranty?
Asked on 11 March 2012 by MB, Wareham
Answered by
Honest John
I wonder if this is bits of carbon sticking to the combustion chambers and glowing, igniting the diesel before full compression. This seems to be happening quite a lot with some diesels. If the dealer will not co-operate, then pay for a written report by an independent diesel injection specialist, then confront the dealer with that evidence that the engine is faulty and must be fixed under warranty. Of course, he may counterclaim that you have been using poor quality diesel and that caused the problem.
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