P0636 Volkswagen Type 4 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0636 Volkswagen Type 4 code definition:
P0636 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Volkswagen Type 4.

P0636 Volkswagen Type 4 is described as Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Circuit Malfunction. It's actually a general trouble code for a problem on IAT electrical circuit sensor, as it sends incorrect voltage input signals to the PCM. This is because the barometric pressure sensor is part of the MAF sensor. Sometimes, the MAF's sensing wire can accumulate and get covered with dirt, dust and/or oil residue, which can also lead to the error code.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0636 Volkswagen Type 4 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Blown fuse (if applicable)
Engine surge
Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected

Possible Causes :

A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.
Faulty IMRC actuator relay (if equipped)
Dirty air cleaner element Damaged DPF

Common Misdiagnoses

Vehicle Speed Output Circuit Problem
Cruise Control Servo Indicates Low Problem
A/C System High Pressure High Temperature Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem
Transmission Control Module Reprogrammable Memory Problem

Repair Processes :

Look for rubbing, scraping, bare wires, worn spots or melted plastic connectors. Pull the connectors apart and carefully look at the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. With the valve disconnected, the red voltmeter lead should be attached to the IMRC valve power wire and the black voltmeter lead connected to ground. Oxygen sensors signal the engine management computer the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust, which is used in determining and controlling the fuel ratio.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0636 Volkswagen Type 4 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 P0636 Volkswagen Type 4.

Fortunately, P0636 Volkswagen Type 4 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.