2012 GTI Drama: Starts Fine, Dies on Throttle—First VW Needs Help!

[GTIGrlNextDoor]

Hey y’all—
I just picked up a 2012 VW GTI and I’m running into some issues all of a sudden! The car turns on just fine, but when I press the gas pedal, it shuts off immediately. I ran a code reader and got a couple codes (I will post those at the end).

This is my first VW—I’ve done some light work on Hondas before, so I’m not totally new to tools, but I definitely need a little guidance when it comes to the VW world.

I’m located in California, near the Palm Springs area, and I’d love to connect with someone local (or even just experienced) who could point me in the right direction—whether that’s a new parts plug or someone willing to walk me through a few things.

Trying to fix her up without wrecking my bank account or my sanity. Appreciate any advice, links, or help you can send my way. ?

Codes :
P0299
P0420
P0491

 

[aspro_gti]

P0299: https://www.reddit.com/r/GolfGTI/comments/xhx0y6 P0491 is related to the SAI system, check the the SAI hose on the intake for any cracks

It seems like your car has vacuum leaks. I bought an automotive leak testing smoke machine off of amazon and it has been wonderful at helping me discover vacuum leaks.

 

[vdubnick]

^ ditto, smoke machines are cheap now, less than 60 bucks and will save you tons of time troubleshooting.
based on it dying fast, seems like a major leak that could be something like IC hose popped off, either way, smoke would show it if you cant find it just visually inspecting.

 

[This is Ryans face]

This sounds like someone's shitty tune. Turbo and air codes as well as the usual cat code I'd see on a stage 2 car with stock dp

Do you hear a dental drill sound by chance? Jack the car up and take a peak at the turbo and manifold and look for oil.