So, you’ve just picked up your shiny new (to you) Golf R – congratulations! The thrill of owning a performance hatchback is hard to beat. But what happens when that excitement is quickly followed by the dreaded check engine light? This is exactly what happened to one Golf R owner who, despite careful pre-purchase checks, found themselves facing some unexpected issues shortly after delivery. Like many modern car owners, they turned to an OBD2 scanner for answers. Let’s delve into their experience and learn more about using OBD2 diagnostics for your Golf R.
After purchasing a Golf R from a distance, sight unseen, our owner was initially pleased with their new vehicle. Equipped with desirable features like DCC, leather seats, a rear camera, and Dynaudio, and showing a reasonable 61,000 miles on the clock, it seemed like a solid buy. However, the honeymoon period was short-lived. Just before fitting new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires – a sensible upgrade for any performance car – the engine management light illuminated, signaling trouble.
Frustrated but proactive, the owner invested in an OBD2 scanner from EuroCarParts to get to the bottom of the issue themselves. This is a common and smart move for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. OBD2 scanners are invaluable tools for understanding what’s going on under the hood without immediately resorting to expensive garage visits.
The OBD2 scan revealed a couple of active fault codes and some inactive ones, painting a picture of the Golf R’s current and recent condition. Let’s break down these codes:
Active Fault Codes:
-
P00B700: Engine Coolant Flow Low/Performance
This is a very common code in Volkswagen Golf models, and indeed many modern vehicles. The owner correctly guessed this could be related to the water pump. Often, this code points to issues with the coolant pump’s efficiency or outright failure. In Golf Rs, like other VW models using similar engines, the water pump and thermostat housing are known weak points. They can fail prematurely, leading to insufficient coolant flow and potential overheating if not addressed.
-
B109B15: Position Sensor for Fresh air, recirculation, air flow flap, Open circuit/short circuit to B
This code indicates a problem within the air conditioning system, specifically with the recirculation flap motor. This flap controls whether the car recirculates cabin air or draws in fresh air from outside. A fault here could mean the motor is failing, the sensor is faulty, or there’s a wiring issue. While not directly impacting engine performance, a malfunctioning recirculation flap can affect cabin comfort, especially with demisting and air conditioning efficiency.
Inactive Fault Codes:
-
C110BF0: Adaptive cruise control sensor, Restricted view
The owner’s assumption that this code was due to a dirty sensor and cleared itself is plausible. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) sensors, usually located in the front grille or bumper, can be sensitive to dirt, snow, or obstructions. Once cleaned, the system likely recalibrated, and the code became inactive.
-
B147918: Remote key 1, Voltage too low & B147918: Remote key 2, Voltage too low
These codes are straightforward. Low voltage warnings for both remote keys suggest weak or depleted key fob batteries. Replacing the batteries, as the owner did for key 1, is the simple solution. It’s good practice to replace both key fob batteries preventatively.
Moving Forward: Diagnosis and Repair
Armed with the OBD2 scan results, the Golf R owner is now in a much better position to tackle these issues. The immediate concerns are the active fault codes: P00B700 and B109B15.
For the P00B700 (Coolant Flow) code, addressing the water pump is crucial. Given it’s a known issue on these vehicles, it’s highly likely the culprit. The owner is considering whether to use a local VW dealer or a trusted independent garage. The decision often hinges on warranty coverage. If the suspected 3-month warranty is valid, the dealer might be the preferred route for cost reasons. However, a trusted independent garage specializing in VW or German cars can also offer expert service, potentially at a more competitive price if the warranty is not applicable. It’s wise to get quotes from both to compare.
Regarding the B109B15 (Air Recirculation Flap) code, the owner is contemplating a DIY repair. While potentially achievable, accessing the recirculation flap motor can be fiddly and require some dismantling of interior trim. Researching online forums and repair manuals specific to the Golf R will be essential to assess the difficulty level and required tools. Parts like the control blending flap are readily available, but quality can vary, so opting for reputable brands is advisable.
Warranty and Buyer Protection
The owner’s concern about the validity of the 3-month warranty is understandable. If the warranty turns out to be nonexistent, they might explore options based on consumer rights, especially if the car was misrepresented during the sale. However, this can be a complex process, and focusing on getting the car repaired is the immediate priority.
Identifying Stock Exhaust
The question about identifying the stock exhaust is a minor point but shows the owner’s attention to detail. Golf R stock exhausts typically have a silver finish. Black exhaust tips could indicate aftermarket modifications or simply accumulated dirt and soot. Cleaning the exhaust tips thoroughly might reveal the original finish. Comparing images of stock Golf R exhausts online can also help in identification.
Conclusion
This real-world scenario highlights the value of owning an OBD2 scanner. For a relatively small investment, it provides crucial insights into your car’s health, empowering you to understand issues, communicate effectively with mechanics, and potentially tackle some repairs yourself. For our Golf R owner, the OBD2 scanner has been instrumental in moving from a frustrating check engine light to a clear understanding of the necessary next steps in getting their new car running perfectly. Whether it’s a common water pump issue or a minor air conditioning glitch, early diagnosis is key to preventing bigger problems down the road and enjoying the full potential of your vehicle.
