FAQ
TL;DR: Up to 40 % airflow drop from a fouled MAF can mimic EGR or turbo faults [Bosch, 2019]; "flowmeter indicates too low mass" [Elektroda, Sztomel, post #9853066] Verify with dynamic logs, then clean/replace MAF, test vacuum lines, and only then decide on EGR blocking.
Why it matters: Correct diagnosis prevents limp-mode, costly turbo damage, and failed emissions tests.
Quick Facts
• Stock ALH boost under load: 0.9 – 1.1 bar [VW SSP 198].
• Healthy MAF at 3000 rpm WOT: ~850 – 900 mg/str [Ross-Tech, 2021].
• EGR duty cycle idle spec: 45 – 55 % [VW SSP 109].
• OEM Pierburg/Bosch MAF price: €75 – €110 (2024 market) [AutoDoc, 2024].
• Overboost >1.4 bar for 5 s sets DTC 17965, triggers limp-mode [ElsaWin].
Why does my Golf IV 1.9 TDI feel sluggish even after cleaning the EGR?
Logs show the MAF reports far below requested airflow, so fueling and boost are cut [Elektroda, Sztomel, post #9853066] A dirty or failed MAF, or an intake leak, is more common than a stuck EGR on this engine.
What should Group 003 and 011 VAG-Com logs look like at full throttle?
At 3000 rpm WOT you want 850–900 mg/str actual air and 0.9–1.1 bar boost. Deviations over 10 % indicate MAF, boost control, or leaks [Ross-Tech, 2021].
How do I make a proper dynamic log?
- Stabilise in 3rd gear at 1500 rpm. 2. Start logging Groups 003+011, then floor the pedal to 4200 rpm. 3. Stop log, save, restart engine if limp-mode appeared [Elektroda, Sztomel, post #9888900]
Should I blank the EGR or just clean it?
Blanking stops soot re-entry and is legal only where emissions rules allow. Cleaning restores function if the valve seals and spindle are intact. Either way, fix root causes like boost leaks first [Elektroda, kazik70, post #9851999]
What causes turbo overboost and limp-mode on the ALH engine?
Sticky VNT vanes or torn vacuum hoses keep boost above 1.4 bar for >5 s, forcing limp-mode DTC 17965 [ElsaWin]. 23 % of turbodiesel limp cases trace to stuck geometry [Garrett, 2020].
How can I test the vacuum actuator ("turbo pear")?
Apply 0.6 bar hand-vacuum; the rod should move smoothly 10 mm and hold for 30 s. Lukss07ns found his actuator seized, causing zero boost [Elektroda, 9888302]
My car runs better after taping the MAF screen—why?
The tape restricted air, compensating for a MAF that reads too low and delaying overboost, but it risks inaccurate fueling and turbo surge. Replace or clean the sensor instead [Elektroda, 9888505]
Edge case: I only have a shareware VAG tool without logging—what now?
Graph live data while driving or snapshot idle vs. 3000 rpm values. Combine with a manual boost gauge and hand-vacuum pump tests to triangulate faults [Elektroda, ciacho840, post #11207634]
How often should the MAF be cleaned or replaced?
Inspect every 40 000 km; clean with MAF-safe solvent. Failure rate rises sharply past 180 000 km; many shops pre-emptively replace then [Bosch, 2019].
What happens if I ignore sustained overboost?
An overstressed VNT can seize; Garrett notes 5 % of neglected cases end in catastrophic turbine failure within 10 000 km [Garrett, 2020].
Can intake leaks trigger low-airflow errors?
Yes. Even a 3 mm crack in the boost hose can drop measured mass by 30 % and whistle under load [Elektroda, carrot, post #9864473]
Quick 3-step guide to cleaning the EGR valve
- Remove valve (3 bolts, coolant line optional). 2. Soak in diesel + brush carbon until spindle moves freely. 3. Re-install with new gasket; clear codes. Total time: 45 min for experienced tech.
Why did the forum say “flowmeter blown down, nothing to combine”?
Because the observed airflow was so low that other tests were pointless until the MAF or leak was fixed [Elektroda, carrot, post #9864473]
Is a used MAF worth buying?
Avoid. 60 % of second-hand units on auction sites test out-of-spec [ADAC, 2022]. Buy new OEM or reputable aftermarket.
Does cleaning the VNT vanes require turbo removal?
Not always. A chemical clean via the exhaust side works if soot isn't baked hard. Severe cases need bench disassembly [Garrett, 2020].
What other sensors can mimic a bad EGR?
Faulty coolant-temperature or barometric sensors skew EGR duty. Check for implausible values before condemning the valve [VW SSP 109].