Engine pinking !!

[belfastmark]

Hi All.
I am driving a 2001 1.6s 16v Golf 4 ( AZD ) with about 77,000mls.
For quite a while now I am experiencing pinking from the engine which seems to be getting more noticable.
It's at it's worst in 5th gear accelerating from about 40 or 50 mph.
I am trying to fuel her with the highest grade of fuel that I can find, I think it is about 96ron.
I would like to ask if there is anything I can do to minimise the problem or correct it.
I have heard stories about tappets going, could this be a sign of this ?
All feedback appreciated.

Marko.

[Doctle Odd]

Hi, Is it long since the plugs were changed, did you check them for carbon? Give her a VCDS scan the knock sensor may be on it's way out. She might also be running a little lkean but a scan first

[belfastmark]

Thanks for the quick reply.
Plugs were done about 7000mls ago.didnt see them as a mechanic changed them.
Whats the knock sensor ?
What should I look out for on a scan ?

[Doctle Odd]

The scan will show the fault codes stored in the car's ecu. With them you can start working out what the problem is. Pinking is usually caused by carbon build up on the plugs or inside the head its not common nowadays thanks to these KNOCK SENSOR 030905377C VW Golf Audi A4/TT Brand New | eBay

[belfastmark]

Can you enlighten me as to what a knock sensor does ?
Also, do you reccomened I change my plugs ?

Thanks.

[Doctle Odd]

Plugs will be fine for a year or two mate. The knock sensor senses when the car is going to pink and adjusts the timing to compensate. The VCDS scan should come first it's cheaper than changing parts at random. There's a map on this site showing members with VCDS and where they are. there's should be someone near you
VWAF User Location Map - VCDS - Google Maps
.

[belfastmark]

Is there a difference between VCDS and a bosch scanner or anyone who has diagnostics ?
The nearest member with the VCDS is about an hour away. If there wasn't much difference it would save a journey.

Marko.

[Doctle Odd]

I haven't used a Bosch but have a look at this

Ross-Tech: VCDS: DTC Comparison

Break yourself in gently with one of these bad boys...

http://www.gendan.co.uk/product_VAGUSB.html