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VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Problems: 4 Easy Fixes

VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Problems: 4 Easy Fixes

VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion problems are common but that doesn’t undermine its great build-up. You’d find the Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion in older Passat saloon cars designed to be radically fuel efficient. They are great family cars with 4 or 5 doors, depending on the model. These vehicles could achieve tremendous mileage when fuel efficiency wasn’t common. The 2.0 TDI is the successor to the older 1.9 TDI diesel engines. 

The engine may not necessarily be more reliable than its predecessor, but the BlueMotion tick can achieve higher fuel mileage with lower fuel consumption. It is fast and can achieve up to 170 HP depending on the number of valves used.

VW Passat cars with the 2.0 TDI BlueMotion tick include some VW Passat saloon cars from 2011 to 2014, etc. These cars are powerful and have recorded significant efficiencies. However, they are not left without problems. This article will show you the common VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion problems and how to fix them.

What Is BlueMotion?

VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Problems
Credits : Unsplash

The Volkswagen BlueMotion is a term coined by VW to describe a combination of technologies adopted to improve their cars’ overall fuel mileage, thereby lowering fuel consumption and making VW cars eco-friendlier. They introduced the technology first in 2006, and it has been featured in many Volkswagen cars, including the VW Passat.

The underlying technology behind the BlueMotion includes the auto engine start and stop feature, brake recuperation technology, improved aerodynamics, several engine improvements, and implementation of the turbocharger feature. 

You’d find those features in all their Passat cars with the BlueMotion Ticks. You’d only find them as second-hand cars because Volkswagen has removed the BlueMotion moniker from newer cars.

4 Common VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Problems

VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Problems
Credits : Unsplash

Fuel Injector Failure

There have been reports of problems with the fuel injectors in Passat diesel engines, notably the models featuring the 2.0 TDI BlueMotion. Gasoline fuel injectors pour fuel into engine cylinders to ignite combustion. Gasket failure might potentially lead to a faulty fuel injector.

The engine’s performance suffers due to this failure because the air-fuel ratios are not maintained at their ideal levels. That is a common issue reported in Passat TDI cars, and you must note that before buying a second-hand Passat saloon (2011-2014). You can easily evade fuel injector failure by using high-quality fuel. You can easily fix a faulty fuel injector. However, it becomes a concern if the issue stems from the factory. 

Signs and Solutions

A bad fuel injector will lead to cylinder misfires, oil leaks, poor engine performance, and engine idling issues. The best fix for a bad injector is to fix the gasket or change the fuel injector entirely. That would cost you more, but it would save you from other issues.

EGR Valve Failure

This is a common VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion problem. Failure of the EGR valve, which is responsible for exhaust gas recirculation, will most often occur in diesel engines, notably in the 1.6 and 2.0 TDI models. It performs best on the highway. EGR valves may get blocked or stuck in either open or closed positions owing to soot, carbon deposits, and diesel debris. The valve may also get busted. Either way, you have the same effect.

That reduces engine power and acceleration/deceleration. You may solve this problem by hand cleaning the EGR valve in your Passat, which will remove any carbon build-up.

Signs and Solutions

When the valve gets busted or clogged, it lowers the overall performance of your car’s engine. The engine stalls and will consume a lot of fuel. That may return error code P0401. Dealing with this issue depends on the situation at hand. If the EGR valve is busted, you should be fine going for a replacement, which could cost you over $350 to get done. Another option is to hand clean the valve yourself if it’s a dirt-clogging issue.

Oil Pump Failure

This is another common VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion problem. Some customers have reported oil pump failures after buying the VW Passat 2.0 TDI DSG. That’s probably caused by weak materials used to make the tensioner and oil pump. 

The oil pump is responsible for circulating oil in the camshaft, bearing, and other movable parts of the engine, including the piston. If the oil pump fails, your engine is at the risk of knocking. To prevent this issue, you’ll want to inspect your VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion engine seasonally.

Signs and Solutions

Most of the time, you’ll see the sign on your dashboard; the oil indicator switches on. A failed oil pump will lead to higher engine temperatures. The best solution is to replace the oil pump. That could cost you anywhere between $1400 and $1700. And the labor costs would vary from 600 to 750 dollars.

Tensor and Timing Belt Issue

Timing belts and chains have long been a problem for Volkswagen. These apply to every 2.0 TDI engine in the VW Passat Saloon (2011 model). In general, timing chains have a complete lifespan and should last a very long time, although they tend to stretch out more often because of their weak tensioners.

Some tensioners are prone to premature failure due to weak materials used to make them. A weak tensioner prevents optimum timing belt operation. To avoid problems, you should inspect and replace your VW Passat 2.0 TDI tensioner occasionally. When the engine makes a ticking noise, and the spark plugs don’t light, it might indicate a faulty timing belt tensioner.

Signs and Solutions

A bad timing chain may result in rough engine idling and engine and cylinder misfires. It can even damage your crankshaft. It can trigger your check engine light and would return fault codes like P0011, P0506, or P0341. 

The best way to tackle this is to replace the bad timing belt. It’s not an easy DIY job; hence, you want to hire a professional for the job. It may cost you $2,500 to replace a bad timing chain.

Last Words on VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Problems

VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Problems
Credits : Unsplash

The Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion is a reliable saloon car with great second-hand value. Many customers would go for it because of the featured BlueMotion technology. However, watch out for these potential issues if you wish to buy one. You can prevent these common VW Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion problems by running regular engine checks. You could prevent these issues and make your car last longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Passat 2.0 TDI Reliable?

The Passat 2.0 TDI saloon cars are reliable and are reported to return tremendous fuel efficiency ratings. They serve as great used cars with great second-hand value once you get the right car.

How Long Will A 2.0 TDI Engine Last?

The 2.0 TDI engines are very solid and powerful. They can last over 250,000 miles. That’s why many people hunting for second-hand cars would go for it. If you want to enjoy it longer, go for 2.0 TDI cars that have only run for around 130,000 miles. 

What Are Common Problems with VW Passat?

The common problems in the VW Passat include ignition coil failure, bad mass air flow sensors, timing belt issues, fuel injection failure, and so on. You can prevent these problems by conducting regular engine checks and servicing.