Hi,

I recently had my 1.4Sport Tdi serviced by an independent VW specialist. They changed the fuel filter found some sludge inside, which they said probably means my tandem pump is on its way out

I find this a little hard to believe, as the car has only done 65K and has been regularly serviced. The last fuel filter it had was at 40K, so its done 20K on the filter they said had sludge on. It also had a service at 60K by VW, and they didn't put anything on the service note about the pump (although they didn't change the fuel filter).

They explained that the pump is connected to the head, and uses engine oil as a lubricant. They said that when the seals start to go in the pump, oil can get into the fuel, resulting in a sludgy fuel filter, and ultimately, if the problem gets worse, could damage other engine components such as the injectors.

They have suggested to me that the pump is replaced after Christmas, 'end of January at the latest', at a cost of £360+VAT.

Has anyone had any experience of this engine, or had the same or similar problem?

I don't want to get ripped off, but I also don't want to mess up my car, so I'm a little unsure of what to do about it.

Cherers in advance.

just to say.............

its a 2002, sport tdi, 75bhp mapped to make 110bhp if that makes any difference.

In my 5 years of working as a VW technician i've only seen one tandem pump fail- at 130 000miles...

If the fuel was contaminated however, ie that "sludge" it could cause the pump to wear excessively as the diesel itself provides lubrication for the pump.

You may have to trust the garages judgment on this one or get a second opinion.

If the oil seals are leaking you will need to replace the pump,this is very rare however.

Edited 19 December, 200718 yr by phillgx125

cheers for the advise.

I'm guessing the best thing I could do would be to keep an eye on the fuel filter and monitor the build up of sludge myself.

If it is contaminated fuel, surely it wouldn't get to the pump because of the filter?

I'm just slightly worried that I could do more damage if I leave it, but £350+ right after chrsitmas isn't ideal!

The car seems to eprform fine, and fuel consumption etc is all good.

Are there any warning signs I should look out for with regard to a failing pump?

Cheers again.

Do that,keep a close eye on it, you be suprised what gets past the fuel filter!!

If the tandem pump oil seals are leaking, your injectors will fail long before the tandem pump does,engine oil tends to block them up.The engine will misfire badly.

cheers,

i'll keep a regular eye on the filter.

personally, i think it'll be fine, but you can't be too careful I guess.