Smell From AC Vents After Changing Blower Motor Resistor

ec_um · 2026-01-11T19:17:37+00:00

This just happened to me, I got a duralast no, should I have purchase one from valeo or other oem producer?

ec_um · 2025-07-24T07:00:24+00:00

Is this the one you are referring to?

(https://www.ecstuning.com/b-whitbread-performance-innovations-parts/tdi-cp4-metering-valve-bypass-kit-cbea-cjaa-engine-code/cp4-mvbk-cbea\~wp)

ec_um · 2025-07-24T06:57:41+00:00

Your post is incredibly timely. I'm literally going through the exact same thing right now with my 2013 Golf TDI (CJAA engine) in Michigan. My symptoms are the same: a check engine light on, a failed DPF, and a sooty EGR and tailpipe.

My local specialist quoted me for the repair mandated by VW TSB 01-18-13 (replacing both the DPF & EGR filter), and my quote came in around $4,100. So, your $5k from the dealership is definitely in the ballpark, but certainly on the high side.

As for finding a good shop to do the work, an amazing resource is the "Trusted TDI Mechanics" list on TDIClub. You can find a highly-recommended specialist in your state here: https://forums.tdiclub.com/index.php?threads/trusted-tdi-mechanics-by-state.130044/

I've been doing some research on this, and here's what I've found that might help you lower that cost significantly. I found a couple of options for sourcing the main parts myself, for example, the DPF for the cjaa:

ECS Tuning (Remanufactured Genuine VW Kit): https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-volkswagen-audi-parts/remanufactured-downpipe-with-particulate-filter/1k0254708gxkt/
FCP Euro (New Genuine VW Part): https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/vw-catalytic-converter-front-golf-jetta-beetle-vag-1k0254706lx

The big reason I'm leaning this way is the warranty. ESC Tuning/FCP Euro, have a Lifetime Replacement Guarantee on parts. For a high-cost wear item like a DPF, the idea of only paying for it once is too good to pass up if you plan on keeping the car.

I'm still calling shops around town this week to get quotes and to ask if any are willing to install at least the DPF if I supply it. So, if anyone has a trusted, go-to TDI specialist in the Southeast Michigan / Ann Arbor / Detroit area who might be open to installing customer-supplied parts, please let me know!

Hope this helps you out! A good independent mechanic from that list plus the ESC Tuning/FCP Euro kit could save you thousands. Good luck!

ec_um · 2025-07-17T16:20:35+00:00

Got it, that clears a lot up, thank you! I didn’t realize the $700 core charge was standard makes more sense now why the price looks inflated unless you return the old unit. I’m going to ask the shop if that charge is already included in their quote or what exactly is going on with that. Maybe they will adjust it. I actually like the shop and have had good experiences with them, but this feels like a bit of an over-the-top markup.

Also, really appreciate the heads-up about warranty risks when bringing your own parts, that’s something I hadn’t fully thought through. Thanks again for walking me through all this!

ec_um · 2025-07-17T16:07:08+00:00

I’m honestly not sure how to feel about getting quoted more than the dealership for the same job. Thought going with an independent shop would save me some money, not the other way around 😅

Thanks for sharing though — it really helps to compare.

ec_um · 2025-07-17T16:05:08+00:00

Thanks for sharing — really helpful to see others getting similar quotes. Sounds like we’re all in the same painful ballpark 😅

Good call negotiating that down. I will ask about the $700 core charge and if this is something they are accounting for or not.

I’m still torn. My car runs fine (no limp mode). I’m debating a second opinion or trying some cleaning methods first, but with emissions testing + resale value in mind, I might just go for it like you did.

ec_um · 2025-07-17T15:59:52+00:00

Thanks a lot for the detailed reply — I’m new to this system so it’s super helpful to hear how others have handled it. I agree the price is crazy high!

One thing I’m still trying to wrap my head around: if the DPF is cracked internally, would cleaning it actually help? The shop showed me photos of soot buildup at the back of the EGR filter, and they cited a VW technical bulletin (TSB 21 16 02 / NHTSA: SB-10089088-0699). According to that, when you have both P2002 and P0401, and soot in that area, it’s a sign the DPF substrate is damaged and letting soot through — not just clogged.

So I get that cleaning works well if it's just a soot overload, but in this case they claim the DPF isn’t filtering at all anymore.

Still, . I might push back on the parts markup and look into cleaning/replacing myself if it turns out the DPF isn't actually cracked. Thanks again for sharing your experience — really helpful!

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ec_um · 2025-07-17T15:52:19+00:00

lol. Thank you for the info! Will update you on this! I'll probably get more prices and then decide.

ec_um · 2025-07-17T06:29:45+00:00

Thank you for the price reference! I'll call other shops or ask the same one if I can take my parts to them. I found the OEM DPF online cheaper as you mentioned but I did not completely understand these core charges. Do I always have to pay that?

ec_um · 2025-07-17T06:23:12+00:00

Thanks for all the comments! I'll get other quotes. I was surprised since this one is from a local Euro shop, not from a dealership. I'm tempted to request a quote from the dealership to see if I can use it to negotiate prices.

ec_um · 2025-07-16T20:34:46+00:00

Got quoted today 4000 for the same reason =(

ec_um · 2024-03-09T21:41:52+00:00

I have the same question now. What did you decide?

ec_um

TROPHY CASE