FAQ
TL;DR: 2,000 PLN later, "The solution to my problem is INJECTION." On a VW Polo 1.2 12V, mis-matched injectors caused jerking, stalling, and throttle loss; correct ECU-matched injectors fixed it. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17280445]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps VW Polo 9N 1.2 12V owners quickly pinpoint jerking/stalling causes and avoid wasted parts swaps.
Quick Facts
- You can scan faults at home: an OBD2 interface costs approx. 40 PLN; use VAG-compatible software to read codes. [Elektroda, Adam5502, post #17128309]
- This 1.2 uses coil-on-plug ignition; expect no HV leads between coils and plugs. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #17128098]
- Very dirty throttle bodies are common; cleaning restored stable idle. This engine uses an electronic throttle module, not a stepper motor. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17136194]
- Lean-mixture faults often trace to low fuel pressure: target ~3 bar and ~300 mbar manifold pressure. Filter or pump can be culprits. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17250181]
- Early 1.2 chains can jump without ECU detection; verify cam alignment mechanically or with locking tools. [Elektroda, sokarsg-1, post #17250214]
What actually fixed the jerking in this VW Polo 1.2 12V case?
Installing correct, ECU-matched fuel injectors fixed it. The car had new injectors, but with different hole count and color code. After matching injectors to the engine control unit, the Polo drove like new. The owner’s spend was about 2,000 PLN. "The solution to my problem is INJECTION." [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17280445]
How do I confirm my injectors match the ECU on a 9N 1.2 12V?
Check via VIN-based parts lookup, then compare nozzle hole count and color markings to ECU expectations. In this case, new injectors didn’t match those parameters and caused severe drivability issues. Fit the exact injectors specified for your ECU. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17280445]
How do I quickly diagnose jerking/stalling with VAG/OBD at home?
Buy a low-cost OBD2 interface (~40 PLN), connect a laptop, and run VAG-compatible software. Read stored faults, record freeze frames, clear codes, then road-test and rescan. This avoids guesswork and saves money on random parts. [Elektroda, Adam5502, post #17128309]
Why does the engine cut fuel to a misfiring cylinder?
"The integration of the ignition system with the injection system allows cutting off the injection" when misfire is detected. This limits catalyst damage and raw-fuel washdown. A bad coil can trigger this cut, causing jerks. [Elektroda, Adam5502, post #17142801]
Does this Polo engine use HV ignition leads?
No. It uses coil-on-plug, with each coil mounted directly on its spark plug. There are no separate high-voltage cables. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #17128098]
Is there an idle stepper motor on the Polo 1.2 12V?
No. It uses an electronic throttle module. A very dirty throttle body caused stalling at idle; after cleaning, idle stabilized. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17136194]
MAP sensor faults and throttle non-response—are they linked here?
Yes. The ECU logged MAP sensor issues and cylinder misfires. The car then stalled at low speed and sometimes ignored the accelerator pedal. Clear codes, drive, and rescan to confirm root cause. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17142502]
What fuel pressure and manifold values should I expect?
A competent mechanic targeted ~3 bar fuel pressure and ~300 mbar intake manifold pressure. Low pressure or a clogged filter can cause lean running and suffocation on throttle. Address the pump and filter first if readings are off. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17250181]
How can a shop verify a weak fuel pump without pulling it?
They can analyze the pump’s electrical waveform with an oscilloscope. In this case, scope readings indicated pump and filter issues, guiding replacement decisions efficiently. Ask for a scope-based assessment under load. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17250181]
Can the timing chain cause jerking without setting fault codes?
Yes. On early 1.2 engines, the chain can jump on a gear without a Hall sensor, so the ECU may miss it. "In this engine often jumps the timing chain." Verify alignment mechanically if symptoms persist. [Elektroda, sokarsg-1, post #17250214]
How do I check timing chain alignment on the 1.2 6V/12V quickly?
- Remove the two end caps on the battery-side head.
- Set the engine at TDC and check both cam rollers are horizontal.
- Install the specified locking tools to confirm alignment before further work. [Elektroda, sokarsg-1, post #17250214]
Could contaminated fuel or water in fuel be the cause?
Yes. Contaminated fuel, including water, can cause jerking, stalling, and poor response. Drain suspect fuel, replace the filter, and refill with fresh fuel. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17127532]
Should I clean the throttle body if my Polo jerks or stalls at idle?
Yes, if inspection shows heavy deposits. A very dirty throttle body was cleaned, and idle stalling stopped. Remember, this car uses an electronic throttle module, not an idle stepper motor. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17136194]
How can I check coils and spark without special equipment?
Remove spark plugs, connect coils to them, and crank the engine while observing spark. Here, the ECU also logged ignition loss on cylinder two. Replace the faulty coil or swap positions to confirm. [Elektroda, GROSS AVOS, #17158930]