I have just bought a top of the range Octavia SLX TDi 110 bhp 2000W from an auction and its performance is very poor, it runs very smoothly and gives excellent mpg and is fine on a light throttle but pushing the pedal down makes no difference and I timed the 0-60 at 28 seconds. If the turbo was defunct wouldn't it smoke and be rough running?

You really need to check to see if it has any fault codes registered.

A DIY check of the MAF sensor would be a start.Unplug it and see if it runs any better.Also check the air filter too as it maybe clogged.

These are the ones that can suffer badly from clogged up turbos - a clean may shift the soot , or it may be new turbo time

Agree also as above.You should be able to hear the Turbo begin to spool up at about 1500rpm.

I drove one like that the other day, from the traffic lights foot to the floor on the accelerator with an OAP in an old Nissan Micra getting past me on the inside lane.

Replaced the MAF and it was a different car.

Had exactly the same with my 110 tdi, seemed really flat above 2500rpm.

Changed the MAF (air flow meter) and all is good again! It actually pulls really well now for a 110bhp model!!

Agreed on all points, except that it is possible to clean the VVT, rather than replace it.

If you're checking for fault codes, look for anything indicating overboost to implicate the turbo.

Read the fault codes.

If it isn't showing overboost then new MAF, clean out the EGR and intercooler and then take it out for an italian tune up to move the VNT mechanism about a bit and give the turbo a work out.

Should hopefully free up any bits that are thinking about sticking.

Read the fault codes.

If it isn't showing overboost then new MAF, clean out the EGR and intercooler and then take it out for an italian tune up to move the VNT mechanism about a bit and give the turbo a work out.

Should hopefully free up any bits that are thinking about sticking.

Are the EGR's easily cleanable then? Whats required? Would aerosol brake cleaner do the job? (off the car obviously)

Are the EGR's easily cleanable then? Whats required? Would aerosol brake cleaner do the job? (off the car obviously)

I think you just need new gaskets, and I'd also do the Intercooler at the same time.

Just scraping the sludge off with a tooth brush and giving the rest of it a good clean up should do fine. You could even put some metal polish on it to make it really clean

There is a guide somewhere on the VW vortex forums and probably on here too.

Agree i think you just need the EGR sealing ring when fitting back on and Carburettor cleaner and a scraper/toothbrush.Very dirty job apparently so will need old clothes on when doing it.