DTC Code 04691 – What does this code mean for Volkswagen?

<ul> <li><b>Increased Fuel Consumption</b>: The vehicle may exhibit higher than normal fuel consumption due to inaccurate fuel consumption data being sent to the ECU. This can be caused by a short circuit in the fuel consumption signal wiring.</li> <li><b>Check Engine Light</b>: The Check Engine Light (CEL) may illuminate on the dashboard, indicating an issue with the fuel consumption signal. This is often triggered by the ECU detecting a short circuit to ground.</li> <li><b>Erratic Fuel Gauge Readings</b>: The fuel gauge may display erratic or incorrect readings, as the short circuit affects the accuracy of the fuel consumption signal.</li> <li><b>Poor Engine Performance</b>: The engine may perform poorly due to incorrect fuel consumption data, leading to improper fuel-air mixture adjustments by the ECU.</li> </ul>

<ul><li>The fuel consumption signal wire may be damaged or frayed, causing a short circuit to ground.</li><li>A faulty fuel consumption sensor could be sending incorrect signals to the ECU.</li><li>Corrosion or poor connections at the sensor or ECU could lead to signal interference.</li><li>Issues with the vehicle's wiring harness, such as pinched or exposed wires, may cause a short circuit.</li><li>A malfunctioning ECU might misinterpret the fuel consumption signal, leading to this error code.</li></ul>

<ul> <li><b>Initial Scan</b>: Perform a comprehensive scan of the vehicle's ECU to confirm the presence of DTC 04691 and check for any other related codes.</li> <li><b>Visual Inspection</b>: Inspect the wiring and connectors related to the fuel consumption signal for any signs of damage, corrosion, or disconnection.</li> <li><b>Check Ground Connections</b>: Verify the integrity of the ground connections for the fuel consumption signal circuit. Ensure there are no loose or corroded connections.</li> <li><b>Measure Resistance</b>: Use a multimeter to measure the resistance in the fuel consumption signal circuit. A short circuit to ground will show very low resistance.</li> <li><b>Inspect Fuel Consumption Sensor</b>: Check the fuel consumption sensor for any signs of damage or malfunction. Replace if necessary.</li> <li><b>Test ECU</b>: If all other components are functioning correctly, test the ECU for faults. This may require specialized equipment.</li> <li><b>Clear Codes and Test Drive</b>: After repairs, clear the DTC codes and perform a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved and the code does not reappear.</li></ul>

<p>The DTC code 04691 indicates a fuel consumption signal short circuit to ground in Volkswagen vehicles.</p><ul><li><b>Potential Risks:</b> This issue can lead to inaccurate fuel consumption readings, affecting fuel efficiency monitoring and potentially causing engine performance issues.</li><li><b>Immediate Actions:</b> Inspect the wiring and connectors related to the fuel consumption signal for any signs of damage or wear. Repair or replace any faulty components to restore proper signal function.</li></ul>