I was driving down a major road on Saturday at a steady 50mph when all of a sudden the car lost all power "reduced engine power" light came on, and all lights were flashing. I immediately pulled into the turn lane and the car died.

Turning the key I only heard the starter but the engine would not turn over. Under the hood, I shredded a belt and assumed that was the fix.

Towed it to the shop and was told the belt only drives the AC and the engine is showing low compression - they still can't get it to start and don't know what the issue is..

Has anybody had this happen before? Please help! Thanks so much

 

Check the fuel pressure. When my 2005 did this it was the fuel pressure sensor. On the newer 2004.5 and up cars the fuel pressure sensor directly affects how much pressure the fuel pump puts out. Bad sensor equals low or no pressure from the pump.

A new sensor is pricey but easily replaced by the home mechanic with hand tools.

How-to: Change your Fuel Pressure Sensor on the T5 engine