P178A Volkswagen Schwimmwagen Diagnostic Trouble Code

P178A Volkswagen Schwimmwagen code definition:
P178A is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Volkswagen Schwimmwagen.

P178A Volkswagen Schwimmwagen is defined as Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low. This means the CMP (camshaft position) sensor circuit on engine bank 1 sends an irregular reading. The spark should have a light tan color. If the sensor probe comes with white and chalky parts, this means it has been lagging between switching phases, and should be replaced.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P178A Volkswagen Schwimmwagen diagnostic trouble code may include:

Rich or lean exhaust
Fuel pressure too low
Engine surge
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)
Faulty IMRC actuator/sensor

Common Misdiagnoses

Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Valve 1 Problem
BBV Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Problem
Transmission Engaged At High Throttle Angle Problem
Cruise Inhibit Control Circuit Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem

Repair Processes :

Check to make sure they are not burnt or corroded. If in doubt, get some Electrical Contact cleaner at any parts store if cleaning of the terminals is needed. 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.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P178A Volkswagen Schwimmwagen 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 P178A Volkswagen Schwimmwagen.

Fortunately, P178A Volkswagen Schwimmwagen is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.