FAQ
TL;DR: For many Audi A3 1.6 MPI no-starts with DTC 01314, a PLN 50–70 fix solves it: “this error most often means a damaged crankshaft position sensor (G28).” [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Audi A3 8L owners quickly pinpoint 01314 causes, choose the right tools, and avoid unnecessary ECU purchases.
Quick Facts
- Vehicle and ECU mentioned: 2000 Audi A3 1.6 gasoline, ECU 06A 906 033 A (Siemens 5WP43287 06). [Elektroda, janusz20, post #16804728]
- DTC 01314 = Engine Control Module “No Communication,” often mirrored in ESP/other modules. [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
- Likely root cause on 1.6 MPI: failed crankshaft position sensor G28 behind the oil filter. [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
- Typical replacement cost for G28: approx. PLN 50–70. [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
- Proper diagnostics require a VAG-specific cable (e.g., VCDS); generic ELM often won’t read the engine ECU. [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
What does fault code 01314 mean on an Audi A3 8L?
It indicates “Engine Control Module – No Communication.” On 1.6 MPI, owners often trace it to a failed crankshaft position sensor (G28), which also triggers communication complaints in other modules. "This error most often means a damaged crankshaft position sensor (G28)." [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
How do I diagnose 01314 if I can’t connect to the engine ECU?
Scan the whole car with a proper VAG tool and share the full autoscan. Identify which module reports 01314, then proceed to ECU power/ground checks and sensor inputs. Generic cable attempts give incomplete data and waste time. [Elektroda, spinacz, post #16804734]
Where is the crankshaft position sensor (G28) on the 1.6 MPI, and how much is it?
It sits behind the oil filter. Typical aftermarket replacements cost PLN 50–70. Many owners restore starting and drivability after replacing this sensor on 1.6 MPI engines. [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
Can 01314 show up in ABS/ESP or the instrument cluster too?
Yes. Owners report 01314 in ABS/ESP and the cluster (“counter”) when the engine ECU stops communicating, even if the root cause is engine-side like G28. [Elektroda, szumpat, post #20813523]
Do I need a specific cable to read the engine ECU on this car?
Use a VAG-capable interface (e.g., VCDS/VAG-COM). ELM-type readers often fail to connect to the engine ECU or miss key faults like G28. [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
What symptoms point to a failed G28 sensor on the 1.6 MPI?
Jerking, stalling, weak power, and hard starting are typical. Some owners see the traction light, while the Check Engine light stays off. Replacing G28 restores normal running. [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
Quick check: How can I confirm G28 failure in three steps?
- Perform a full autoscan with a VAG tool and note 01314 and engine RPM while cranking.
- If RPM reads 0 while cranking, inspect/replace G28 behind the oil filter.
- Clear codes and retest starting and drivability. [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
Will clearing codes remove 01314 for good?
No. Clearing may temporarily hide it, but 01314 returns until the root cause is fixed. Owners reported clearing several errors and 01314 remained. [Elektroda, janusz20, post #16804728]
My engine ECU won’t communicate at all—could wiring or the ECU be bad?
Yes. A damaged harness (loom) or a failed control unit can also block communication. Treat this as an edge case after checking the G28 and basic powers/grounds. [Elektroda, spinacz, post #16804792]
Can I replace ECU 06A 906 033 A with another letter variant?
Don’t buy an ECU yet. The thread provides no confirmed cross-compatibility. First, get a proper full scan and root-cause diagnosis, then match part and coding. [Elektroda, spinacz, post #16804784]
Which warning lights might I see with this issue?
You may see the traction/ESP light. The Check Engine light can stay off even with a failed G28 causing 01314 reports elsewhere. [Elektroda, thomassonss, post #21035293]
Is a neighbor’s generic laptop-and-cable setup good enough?
No. Poor tooling leads to confusion and no actionable data. Seek someone experienced with VAG diagnostics to save time and money. [Elektroda, spinacz, post #16804784]