Do I really need a top end engine rebuild?

2012 SEAT LEON
102,000 MILES • 1.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
Avatar
ASHTON220500
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
First had trouble when EPC light came on. Car became sluggish and started misfiring on 2 cylinders and was occasionally chucking black smoke from exhaust. Took it to the garage and they said it’s probably ignition coils and spark plugs. I’ve had these replaced and it isn’t misfiring anymore however it is still overfuelling. After further investigation by the garage they now think it is a top end engine issue that is causing this however I’m more inclined to think it could be something electrical because when the light initially came on, throttle response became extremely slow/ non existent and I know this could be because of the 2 misfiring cylinders but felt more like the car was struggling to sense the throttle was being pressed. Mainly looking for advice on wether to get the top end inspected and worked on or if it could be something else entirely
Apr 9, 2025 at 11:28 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,870 POSTS
Good call, I would do a compression test before doing the work, it sounds like the engine is going into "limp mode" which can be the accelerator pedal position sensor, I also would run the codes to see if any are stored. Also, I am not sure what you mean about "overfuelling" ?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Please go over these guides and get back to us.


Apr 11, 2025 at 10:19 AM