If you’re the owner of a Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT, or Skoda with a 2.0 TDI diesel engine, you might already know how temperamental these engines can be. From DPF issues, AdBlue faults to turbo failure, the problems aren’t just annoying—they can be expensive.
You might be wondering:
“Should I repair it, or should I just sell my broken diesel car?”
Here’s everything you need to know about common 2.0 TDI faults in the UK.
Which Engine Are We Talking About?
We’re talking about the EA288 2.0 TDI engine, used across the Volkswagen Group from 2012 onwards. It replaced the older EA189 engine (yep, the one caught up in the Dieselgate scandal) and was designed to meet tighter emissions regulations.
These engines were fitted in popular UK cars like:
- Volkswagen Golf, Passat, Tiguan, Amarok
- Audi A3, A4, Q5, Q3, A5, A6, A7
- Skoda Octavia, Superb, Karoq, Yeti, Kodiaq
- SEAT Leon, Altea, Ateca
Common 2.0 TDI Engine Problems (UK)
Here are the most common issues we see from drivers all over the UK bringing us cars with the EA288 engine:
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Blockages
The most reported issue—especially for drivers doing short trips or city driving. A blocked DPF can trigger warning lights, reduce performance, and eventually send the car into limp mode.
Turbo Failure
If you’re hearing whistling noises, seeing smoke from the exhaust, or noticing sluggish performance, your turbo could be on its way out.
EGR Valve Problems
The EGR valve can clog over time—especially with UK stop-start traffic. Expect rough running, low MPG, and that annoying check engine light.
AdBlue System Faults
Some of these engines use AdBlue to cut emissions, but the system itself can fail. This can include the AdBlue pump. When it does, you could face warning lights, non-start issues, and MOT failures if ignored.
Coolant Leaks & Water Pump Failures
If your coolant keeps disappearing with no obvious leak, it could be a faulty plastic flange or failing water pump—both are common on this engine.
Timing Belt Wear
The timing belt is meant to last, but premature wear isn’t unusual. If it snaps, you could be staring down the barrel of a full engine rebuild.
If you’re facing a DPF replacement, turbo rebuild, or multiple fault codes, repair costs can quickly exceed your car’s value.
That’s why many UK drivers are deciding to sell their broken TDI instead of throwing more money at repairs.
Can I Sell My Broken TDI?
Yes, that’s exactly what we do.
At sellyourproblemcar.com, we buy diesel cars with engine problems—including DPF blockages, AdBlue faults, turbo failures, timing belt issues, and more.
We’re not put off by:
- Warning lights
- Fault codes
- Failed MOTs
- Non-starters stuck at the garage
What Can You Do?
At sellyourproblemcar.com, we buy cars with issues—including TDI faults—from anywhere in the UK. Whether your VW, Audi, Seat or Skoda is still driving or stuck at the garage, we’ll give you a fast, fair quote with no hassle.
- Free, no-obligation quote (valid for 28 days)
- Free collection, whether from your home, garage or dealership
- Payment before collection
- No inspections, appointments, or stress
- Excellent Customer Service
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Get a free quote today and see what your TDI is still worth