Category Archives: Audi/VW/Porsche

VW Audi Haldex Service is Important

Haldex Filter DisassembledRecently while performing a Haldex service I discovered that the local Las Vegas Volkswagen and Audi dealers do not stock the filters or fluids needed to perform this service on your Quattro.

First, I should explain what Haldex is. Per VW’s innovation website:

The Haldex coupling is an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. On the 4MOTION permanent four-wheel drive system, it enables the propulsive power to be distributed variably between the front and rear wheels. Its continuous adjustment is performed by a control unit that takes slip, handling conditions and drive torque into account.

The Haldex coupling’s action is permanently integrated into the electronic stabilization program ESP and therefore improves the vehicle’s safety.

Second, I would like to explain why it is very important to replace the fluid and filter every 30-40,000 miles. The Haldex system, although impressively functional, has required service intervals due to the amount of friction material that introduced to the fluid during normal use. The filter, a tiny fleece filter will only perform well when it is not clogged with this friction “dust”.  After the filter in no longer efficiently cleaning out the foreign materials then the likelihood of the Haldex Control unit becoming stuck or damaged increases greatly.

So the question is, would you rather perform a $170 service every 30-40,000 miles or replace the Haldex Control unit for nearly $2000? Get the correct service completed at the Las Vegas Car Fixer. We have your fluid and filter in stock and the right tools and knowledge for the job, unlike our local dealers.Haldex Control Unit


Lean Codes P0171 P0174

BMW Crankcase Ventilation oil separatorIn the Las Vegas Valley we see a lot of lean codes causing check engine lights. What does this mean? Simply put it your vehicle is requiring more fuel from the fuel injectors than is normal. The why is a little more complicated. It can be from many reasons.

Fuel pressure could be low, requiring a fuel pump or fuel pressure regulator, or even a plugged fuel filter. More common in our hot climate is vacuum leaks. On the majority of cars we service here, there is a metering device for the air that enters into the engine, called an air flow meter. If any air enters the engine un-metered (through vacuum leaks) then this will cause more air than is needed to correctly combust the fuel that your vehicle is programmed to give. Thus the check engine light will illuminate.

There are many other failures that can cause these codes also: valve timing, oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, MAF Sensors, bad gas, etc. This is why getting it checked professionally will always be cheaper than guessing as to the problem. So don’t just get your car worked on, get it fixed. Call 702-608-4227.