When Volkswagen introduced their solution for European vehicles impacted by the Dieselgate scandal, they assured customers that it would not compromise fuel efficiency or engine functionality. However, numerous owners are reporting otherwise.
For about a year, VW has been updating cars in Europe, specifically addressing the 1.6- and 2.0-liter diesel engines with software adjustments. Additionally, every 1.6-liter engine is receiving a new component called a “flow transformer”—a plastic tube that helps the mass airflow sensor get a more accurate measurement, which is supposed to resolve the emissions issue alongside the software fix.
These actions were designed with customer convenience in mind, as VW estimated that the repair for a 2.0-liter engine would take approximately half an hour, while the 1.6-liter version would take about an hour. Given the high number of affected cars, these patches aim to facilitate prompt fixes.
Despite these efforts, the Volkswagen Diesel Customer Forum, boasting over 1,000 members, has voiced dissatisfaction with the updates. They recently issued an extensive document criticizing Volkswagen AG, detailing issues related to performance, efficiency, and various mechanical failures in patched engines. Complaints about mechanical problems range from turbo failures to injection issues and excessive noise.
Perhaps even more damaging than the mechanical grievances are the personal accusations found in this critical document. It claims that Volkswagen routinely dismisses Dieselgate-related complaints by responding with, “we have heard of no other issues from other customers who have had the update applied.” This generic reply has been perceived as fundamentally dishonest by many.
In response, Volkswagen maintains a positive stance regarding the effectiveness of their fix and appears untroubled by the critics. In fact, VW is prepared to address any serious complaints through legal action. Are those opposing the updates mistaken, or is another scandal brewing for Volkswagen?
.
