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VW Transporter: EGR valve faults, electric windows not working, and other problems
A popular choice for commercial and private use, the Volkswagen Transporter is a well-respected van that has been a staple of the automotive industry for decades. However, like any vehicle, it's not immune to faults, malfunctions, and problems. From engine to electrical issues, these problems can cause owners considerable inconvenience and expense. Let's take a look at some of the most common ones.
EGR valve
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve has been reported to malfunction. When the VW Transporter EGR valve becomes clogged with carbon deposits, it can lead to reduced engine performance, increased emissions, and poor fuel economy. You may also notice rough idling, engine misfiring, an illuminated check engine light, and sometimes the engine may even stall or fail to start at all. Make sure to check and regularly clean your EGR valve. It is also important to note that turbo failure can be caused by a faulty EGR.
Auto gearbox and transmission
A commonly reported problem is a lack of response or delayed engagement when changing gears, which can lead to jerky acceleration or deceleration. Another is VW Transporter transmission fluid leaking, which can cause a burning smell and leave puddles of fluid under the vehicle. In some cases, the transmission can also slip out of gear, making it difficult to accelerate or maintain speed. These issues can be caused by several factors, including worn clutch plates, faulty solenoids, or damaged torque converters.
Central locking system and rear door lock
The VW Transporter often has problems with the rear door latch, which can cause a variety of issues. These include the rear door not locking or unlocking properly due to the broken latch or faulty locking mechanism. In addition, the rear door handle can become loose or difficult to operate, making it problematic to open or close the door. In some cases, the locking mechanism may fail completely, leaving the tailgate unlocked and posing a safety risk.
Transporter owners have reported that the central locking system is not working correctly, which can be caused by a faulty control module, damaged wiring, or a dead battery in the remote control key fob. Another fault is unpredictable central locking unlocking or locking, often caused by a malfunctioning actuator or door sensor. In addition, unusual clicking or buzzing noises from the central locking system may indicate an underlying problem with the locking mechanism.
If the electric windows do not work, there are several possible causes. A typical fault is a blown fuse, which can happen if there is a power surge or if the window motor draws too much current. A further potential cause is a faulty window switch, which can prevent the windows from moving up or down and you may need VW Transporter accessories and parts to replace the switch. Additionally, the window motor or regulator may be damaged or worn out, which can lead to the windows to stop working altogether. To diagnose the problem with your VW Transporter's electric windows you need to use a multimeter to test the power supply to the window motor and switch.
Other common problems
Many van owners have reported issues with their vehicles not starting in the morning. When they have had their car checked by a mechanic, the problem has often been with the tandem fuel pump or injection seals. An unusual trick is to park the car on a slope (downhill), which seems to solve the problem – at least temporarily.
The drive shaft and power steering have also caused transporter owners a few headaches. Therefore it is essential that you keep to the recommended maintenance intervals and have your vehicle checked out to see what needs replacing – or in the case of fluids – what needs to be topped up, for example, with VW Transporter engine oil.
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