Engine problems (engine light, ticking). Some advice needed.

[kyon147]

Hi All

Recently my 2005 1.2 Polo has been bringing up the engine light on and off and there has been a ticking noise coming from the engine.

I took it to a garage a couple times and the engine light error code is coming because of an intermittent misfire which they believe is caused by a bad valve on Cylinder 3. They said it is going to cost £800 - £1100 to fix because it basically means refurbishing the cylinder head; new valves, reseating, new timing chain etc.

I am just looking to see if you think this is the right course of action. Is it worth refurbishing the whole cylinder or should I just get the one valve done, or is it worth doing them all while they have the engine in bits anyway? In your opinion as well, does it sound like a reasonable price for the work? It is half the price of the cars worth.

Thanks for your help.

[RUM4MO]

Hi, I know nothing about these 1.2 3 cylinder engines, but from being on three VAG forums, the problems you outline are consistent with what I've read about these engines. If you do nothing things will only get worse and maybe get to the point that the cylinder head will not be fit for refurbishing, sorting out the valve problem and getting a new chain etc fitted should get that engine back to a reliable condition.

Cost, I do not know at all, if that worries you, maybe contact a local VAG indie and see what they would ask for that work to be done.