C3478 Volkswagen 1600 Diagnostic Trouble Code

C3478 Volkswagen 1600 code definition:
C3478 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Volkswagen 1600.

C3478 Volkswagen 1600 is defined as Knock Sensor Circuit Range Performance (Bank 1 or Single Sensor). This refers to camshaft timing, which in this case is over-retarded. So if the problem persists despite of your diagnosis, then you should never hesitate to take your vehicle to your dealer or to a qualified mechanic.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C3478 Volkswagen 1600 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Faulty O2 Sensor
Lack of power
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.

Possible Causes :

An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code
Rusty exhaust systems, cracked exhaust manifolds or damaged or missing gaskets or donuts will cause air leaks.
Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem

Repair Processes :

It should be pretty close to battery voltage (12 volts). If not, then this is the circuit that has the problem. Look for missing ground strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check for damage to the wiring harness connector. Replace the oxygen sensor that is downstream from the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1. Also, if a oxygen sensor code stating "heater circuit malfunction" the sensor has most probably failed.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C3478 Volkswagen 1600 is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before C3478 Volkswagen 1600.

Fortunately, C3478 Volkswagen 1600 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.