A6 50TDI - Fuel Level Sensor Replacement

Hi Everyone,

I couldn't find any similar posts on this issue.

Last weekend I filled my car from 1/4 tank to full, when I started it up the fuel level hadn't changed, I turned it off and on again and the fuel now read at empty and 0 miles, a few seconds later a tank malfunction error message popped up. I drove away and before long it jumped up to full. I scanned the car with OBD Eleven and its showing fault code B103E1B - Fuel level sensor 1 resistance too high.

I've read elsewhere that this can cause DPF issues if the sensor fails entirely, as the car will think it has no fuel and therefore will not do a DPF regen so I am keen to get this sorted before it turns into a bigger issue.

Does anyone know how straightforward of a repair this is? Can the sensor be accessed from under the rear bench or through the boot, or does this require the fuel tank to be dropped out of the car?

The car is booked in with my local specialist on Wednesday, its his last day before he heads away on holiday for 2 weeks, and he'll only be able to do it if its an easy job because of the workload he has on that day, he's taking it in to look at it as a favour. if it requires dropping the tank I will have to wait to the end of July for a proper booking.

I go through a tank of diesel a week on average. I filled it again on Thursday and the same happened, but this time it took much longer for the fuel to jump up to full. So I expect it will fail completely soon. The fuel level also fluctuates as I drive, going both up and down one tick.

I see there is a recall out for this exact issue, but unfortunately my car is not included in the recall! Just like when I had the dreaded alternator fault we all know and love.

Any help is appreciated!