Intake manifold runner position sensor / flap motor — the famous 2.0 TDI CR P2015 fault on Audi/VW/Skoda.
Audi P2015 — Intake manifold runner position sensor / flap motor — the famous 2.0 TDI CR P2015 fault on Audi/VW/Skoda. Typical UK independent garage cost: £320–£750.
What actually causes P2015 on a Audi
The plastic intake manifold has a swirl flap mechanism driven by a motor on the side. The plastic lever inside the manifold snaps — once it breaks the position sensor can't see the flap and P2015 stores. It's a manifold replacement (the parts inside the manifold aren't sold separately). VW eventually issued an updated metal-reinforced manifold (part number ending …N or later).
Audi engines that log P2015
- 2.0 TDI CR (A4 B8, A6 C7, A3 8P/8V, Q5, Q3)
- 1.6 TDI CR (A1, A3 8P)
How we diagnose P2015 on a Audi
- Confirm P2015 stored — and check no related boost/EGR codes that point elsewhere
- Inspect motor operation with VCDS output test before condemning the manifold
- Source the updated reinforced manifold (post-TSB part)
- Carbon-clean the intake while access is open — these get heavily coked
The common misdiagnosis to avoid
Don't buy a cheap aftermarket repair kit unless you accept a temporary fix — the lever will snap again within 12 months. Always fit the updated VW/Audi manifold or a quality OE-spec equivalent.
Audi P2015 repair cost in the UK
Expect £320–£750 including parts and labour at an independent garage. Main-dealer quotes on Audi are usually higher for the same job, and the spread exists because the cheap cause and the expensive cause throw the same code — pay for the diagnosis before you pay for parts.
Service campaign / TSB note
VW Group revised intake manifold for 2.0 TDI CR engines to address P2015 flap lever failures.
Bob's workshop tip
While the manifold is off, this is the right time to do a walnut-shell carbon clean on the intake ports — saves a separate £250 job 20,000 miles later when the EGR codes start.
Codes usually seen alongside P2015 on Audi
- P0401
- P2002
- P0299
Symptoms drivers report with P2015
- Glow plug light flashing on the dash (limp mode)
- Engine Management Light (EML) staying solid amber
- Noticeable loss of 'oomph' when overtaking on the A9
- Rough idling when you first start it up on a cold morning
- Slightly heavier fuel consumption than usual on the motorway
Repairs that clear P2015
- Replace swirl flap sensor
- Full intake manifold replacement if linkage broken
For the generic, all-makes explanation of this code — meaning, every known cause and UK cost bands — see our P2015 guide.