<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/26494/dsc22757.jpg"></center><p>i'm posting this in case someone in the future has the same problem i had and is doing a search...

so the problem wasn't necessarily a boost leak, it was actually a fuel problem. i had some weird engine shuddering/jerking problems whenever I accelerated (check the link for more details: <a href="https://forums.audiworld.com/tt/msgs/1428475.phtml">original post</a>), specifically after around 3000 RPM's. i also had a weird groaning noise coming from the back of my car (louder inside the car). after plently of research, i figured it was the fuel pump about to go bad. i wasn't too excited to purchase and replace a new fuel pump, so i started with the easy/cheap stuff that i could do myself with my limited skills (in hopes that i wouldn't have to do the expensive fuel pump) - i ended up replacing the fuel filter, the spark plugs, the coil packs, and the coolant temp sensor again for kicks. to test, i also put in my OEM DV in place of my Forge DV, played around with the MAF, and checked for any leaks in any of the visible hoses (hoping it was a boost leak). unfortunately, none of these things fixed the problem.

last week, the CEL finally came on, followed by the last few words of my fuel pump and then a few seconds later my car died. i scanned the car with my VAG-tool right away and got a "System Too Lean" code (the car was previously not throwing any codes). the car also wouldn't start anymore (obviously because there's no fuel moving). i ended up getting it towed to where my buddy works at Renn-Art in Arlington Heights, IL. they replaced the fuel pump today and now the car is back to normal!

thanks to the few people here who tried to help me diagnose the issue. and thanks to my friend Eric and the rest of the guys at Renn-Art for taking care of my car. also thanks to my coworkers' friend's towing company for the (relatively inexpensive) lift.

for any Chicago area folks:

<b>Renn-Art</b>
886.RENN.ART

<b>A Tow Truck Co.</b>
847.458.6379

thanks,
chris

 

ok..i'm gonna think twice next time when I decide to run my car almost until empty