Hey all,

 

I've had another issue with my 2011 Skoda Superb MK2, 1.8 TSI DSG Elegance estate.

 

I was having issues around Christmas which were resolved.

 

I've had another engine error and my code reader says it is a Cyclinder 3 misfire.

 

I've gone to replace the sparkplugs again thinking it was another sparkplug issue, and it is true one of the sparkplugs was blown... but that hasn't resolved the issue.

 

Now in the process of getting the garage to replace the ignition spring on that cylinder.

 

Has anyone else come across this before?

Edited 15 July, 20241 yr by CabooseRecluse

Ignition coil, not spring.

Ignition coil solved it.

So it was a combination of spark plug and ignition coil. Single cylinder.

 

I saw the spark plug that came out and it was burnt out. These plugs were only six months old so maybe it was a dodgy plug, or maybe indicative of a larger issue. I'll know in time.

 

This is the second spark plug issue I've had in six months. I don't know if it was the same cylinder last time. So I'll keep am eye on it and see if it reoccurs, if it does it might signify a larger issue.

 

I'm writing this to help anyone else who might be searching for answers getting a similar issue. 

Do a compression check next time you have the plugs out.

How much oil does your car use?

Okay, so within a month, the error came back again.

 

Hi everyone,

 

I wanted to provide an update on my ongoing issue with the cylinder 3 misfire on my 2011 Skoda Superb Mk2, 1.8 TSI DSG Elegance estate.

 

After my last post on 15th July, I replaced all the spark plugs, and the ignition coil for cylinder 3 was also replaced. Unfortunately, the problem reoccurred around a week ago. This is now the third time the spark plug on cylinder 3 has blown since I bought the car in December last year.

To address some of the suggestions:

• Compression Check: I haven't done a compression check yet, but I agree it might be a good next step to understand if there is a deeper issue with the engine. I'll make sure to have this done during the next garage visit.
• Oil Consumption: The car does consume a bit of oil, but it hasn't been that bad over the last few months.

Given the recurring nature of the problem, I've decided to book the car in for a comprehensive diagnostic at a Skoda dealership. I'm hoping they can pinpoint the root cause and provide a long-term solution.

If anyone has experienced a similar issue or has additional suggestions on what might be causing the repeated spark plug failures, I would greatly appreciate your input.

Same error states

I fired all the information into ChatGPT and it came up with this;

 

 

"As a mechanic specializing in Skoda vehicles, I understand that recurring spark plug issues, especially in a specific cylinder, can be indicative of a few potential underlying problems. Here are some possible causes for the repeated spark plug failures in your Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI and the work required to address each issue:

1. Ignition Coil Failure:

   • Symptom: Frequent spark plug blowouts, misfires.
   • Diagnosis: The ignition coil might not be delivering consistent voltage to the spark plug, causing it to fail prematurely.
   • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil (which you've already done) and inspect the wiring and connectors for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure the new coil is properly installed.

2. Faulty Fuel Injector:

   • Symptom: Misfires, poor fuel economy, rough idling.
   • Diagnosis: A malfunctioning fuel injector could be causing improper fuel delivery to cylinder 3, leading to combustion issues and spark plug damage.
   • Solution: Test the fuel injectors for proper operation and spray pattern. Clean or replace the faulty injector if necessary.

3. Valve Issues:

   • Symptom: Misfires, loss of power, unusual engine noises.
   • Diagnosis: Leaking or damaged valves can lead to improper combustion and increased stress on the spark plug.
   • Solution: Perform a compression test to check for valve leaks. If a valve issue is detected, it may require a valve job which involves removing the cylinder head and repairing or replacing the faulty valves.

4. Engine Control Unit (ECU) Problem:

   • Symptom: Random misfires, various electrical issues.
   • Diagnosis: The ECU controls the ignition timing and fuel injection. A malfunctioning ECU can lead to incorrect timing and fuel delivery.
   • Solution: Scan the ECU for error codes and update or reprogram it if necessary. In some cases, the ECU might need replacement.

5. Carbon Buildup:

   • Symptom: Poor performance, rough idling, misfires.
   • Diagnosis: Carbon deposits on the intake valves or in the combustion chamber can affect the combustion process.
   • Solution: Perform an engine decarbonization procedure, such as a walnut blasting or chemical treatment, to remove carbon buildup.

6. Head Gasket Leak:

   • Symptom: Overheating, loss of coolant, white smoke from the exhaust.
   • Diagnosis: A head gasket leak can cause coolant or oil to enter the combustion chamber, damaging the spark plug.
   • Solution: Inspect for signs of a head gasket leak, such as coolant contamination or oil in the combustion chamber. Replacing the head gasket involves removing the cylinder head and replacing the gasket.

7. Worn Piston Rings:

   • Symptom: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, loss of power.
   • Diagnosis: Worn piston rings can lead to oil entering the combustion chamber, fouling the spark plug.
   • Solution: Perform a compression test and a leak-down test to check the condition of the piston rings. If worn, the engine may require a rebuild to replace the rings.

8. Poor Quality or Incorrect Spark Plugs:

   • Symptom: Frequent spark plug failures, misfires.
   • Diagnosis: Using spark plugs that do not meet the manufacturer's specifications can lead to premature failure.
   • Solution: Ensure that the spark plugs used are of high quality and meet the specifications for the 1.8 TSI engine. Replace with the correct plugs if necessary.

Each of these potential issues requires specific diagnostic tests to confirm the exact cause of the problem. Given the recurring nature of the issue, it would be prudent to perform a comprehensive diagnostic including compression tests, fuel system inspection, and a thorough check of the ignition system. Once the root cause is identified, the appropriate repairs can be made to ensure long-term reliability of your vehicle."


Well, I've replaced the Ignition coil and all the spark plugs with the recommended ones. I suppose all I can do now is put it in the garage and hope it isn't going to be a write-off.
 

When the sparkplug is swapped initially, the engine runs sweet as a nut, so I doubt it's a valve issue; otherwise, it would always run like a bag of spanners.

Any of the others seems likely

18 hours ago, CabooseRecluse said:

Okay, so within a month, the error came back again.

 

Hi everyone,

 

I wanted to provide an update on my ongoing issue with the cylinder 3 misfire on my 2011 Skoda Superb Mk2, 1.8 TSI DSG Elegance estate.

 

After my last post on 15th July, I replaced all the spark plugs, and the ignition coil for cylinder 3 was also replaced. Unfortunately, the problem reoccurred around a week ago. This is now the third time the spark plug on cylinder 3 has blown since I bought the car in December last year.

To address some of the suggestions:

• Compression Check: I haven't done a compression check yet, but I agree it might be a good next step to understand if there is a deeper issue with the engine. I'll make sure to have this done during the next garage visit.
• Oil Consumption: The car does consume a bit of oil, but it hasn't been that bad over the last few months.

Given the recurring nature of the problem, I've decided to book the car in for a comprehensive diagnostic at a Skoda dealership. I'm hoping they can pinpoint the root cause and provide a long-term solution.

If anyone has experienced a similar issue or has additional suggestions on what might be causing the repeated spark plug failures, I would greatly appreciate your input.

First of all: How much is "a bit of oil"? If it's over 1 liter / 2000 km, you have an oil burner.

 

About the symptoms:

I assume your 1.8 TSI hasn't been revised yet, and still has the old piston rings. Most likely these are the cause of your problem. The lower piston ring of cylinder 3 is most worn (or most clogged), and lets oil pass into the cylinder.

There this oil causes the carbon built up, which destroys your spark plugs.

 

In short: I think you need to revise your engine. I hope you are still in time. The cases I've heard of which had similar issues like yours also had damaged cylinder walls...

 

An inspection with borescope can proof this theory in minutes.

2 hours ago, andrehj said:

First of all: How much is "a bit of oil"? If it's over 1 liter / 2000 km, you have an oil burner.

 

About the symptoms:

I assume your 1.8 TSI hasn't been revised yet, and still has the old piston rings. Most likely these are the cause of your problem. The lower piston ring of cylinder 3 is most worn (or most clogged), and lets oil pass into the cylinder.

There this oil causes the carbon built up, which destroys your spark plugs.

 

In short: I think you need to revise your engine. I hope you are still in time. The cases I've heard of which had similar issues like yours also had damaged cylinder walls...

 

An inspection with borescope can proof this theory in minutes.

 

 

I'm going to confess my ignorance here, what does revise your engine mean? Does this mean rebuild your engine? No as far as I know it has never been rebuilt.

 

When I first got the car, I was putting in a bit of oil here and there, but not 1 litre per 2000 km. I've done very little miles in the car so it's difficult to say. Sorry, I appreciate that's a frustrating answer.

 

1 minute ago, CabooseRecluse said:

I'm going to confess my ignorance here, what does revise your engine mean? Does this mean rebuild your engine? No as far as I know it has never been rebuilt.

 

When I first got the car, I was putting in a bit of oil here and there, but not 1 litre per 2000 km. I've done very little miles in the car so it's difficult to say. Sorry, I appreciate that's a frustrating answer.

Sorry, I realize that "revise" is not the correct English word. I meant overhaul. So take the engine apart, and reassemble it with new pistons and piston rings (and usually also a new timing chain set, crankcase ventilation etc) to solve the oil consumption problem.

 

But again. this can very quickly be diagnosed with a borescope.

1 hour ago, andrehj said:

Sorry, I realize that "revise" is not the correct English word. I meant overhaul. So take the engine apart, and reassemble it with new pistons and piston rings (and usually also a new timing chain set, crankcase ventilation etc) to solve the oil consumption problem.

 

But again. this can very quickly be diagnosed with a borescope.

 

Yikes, that's gonna be expensive.