Excessive exhaust/ dirty intake manifold

My 2002 Golf TDI, 80,000 miles, last year started having exhaust coming in the cabin if windows were open, and a bit even when windows closed. Had mechanic look it over several times, but they cannot find problem. Intake manifold was almost completely clogged-- had it cleaned out-- anti shutter valve has stuck twice-- leaving me stranded. Changed all filters. Why is it getting so gunked up, and where is this excessive exhaust coming from??

I had same problem with my 2000 Jetta when flex pipe between turbo and cat cracked. I could drive home and exhaust gasses were getting inside cabin.
Also, it seems like you don't drive it much, that might be the reason for your intake being clogged up.

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Yeah, seems like two different problems.

Shouldn't get exhaust inside ever except maybe when stopped with the wind blowing it in.

The crack can be hidden by the braid.

Stuck ASV shouldn't strand you. It's easily opened by hand if necessary.