2011 VW 2.0 TSI VW Scirocco fuel issue - pressure sensor? Cranking and no start

[Oswaldius]

Hi all – I’m having an issue on my 2011 2.0 TSI VW Scirocco, in which the engine runs great and drives when the fuel pressure sensor isn’t plugged in (although putting my foot down doesn’t seem to put much power in, presumably it’s running in a conservative/failsafe mode due to lack of feedback from the pressure sensor). However, when it’s plugged in, the engine will not start (just cranks and turns over – will occasionally shudder to life for a split second but then return to just turning over), and if plugged in while the engine is running, it will immediately stall, in much the same way as if you turned the key. I’ve replaced the fuel rail pressure sensor and it had no effect on either the engine starting, nor the fuel pressure readings using a diagnostic tool. The engine runs fine on Easy Start (even with the sensor in), so I’m reasonably certain that the issue is not air or spark related, and is surely an issue with the fuel delivery?

See video of cranking and no start below:

https://youtube.com/shorts/u1vTRey_GmE? ... v6KD8WlCgq

I’m getting good fuel rail pressure according to both the old and the new pressure sensor (~100 bar during cranking), and I’ve checked that the low pressure fuel feed is delivering fuel when cranking. I’ve also checked the resistance over the fuel regulator solenoid (10Ω), and I’m getting no engine codes at all (other than a code for the pressure sensor not being in). Very confused!

The only thing I can maybe think is that there potentially is some short or electrical issue in the harness from the ECU to the fuel pressure sensor that is either stopping the fuel regulator working or perhaps causing the injectors to not open? But the fact I’m getting increased pressure in the fuel rail on cranking makes me think it’s not the regulator (otherwise I would assume the pressure wouldn’t rise). There’s also no continuity between the signal and ground pins on the harness connector.

If anyone can help or offer any suggestions (similar experiences or things to try, avenues to exhaust etc) I would be eternally grateful, I’m completely at my wit’s end with this car and I’ve run out of ideas! If there’s any more information required I’d be glad to provide. Thank you very much.

[1.4_tsi]

I'm guessing you have tried a generic "VW 2.0 TSI cranks won't start" Google search? How did you get the 100 Bar fuel rail pressure reading?