Child Trauma Resourc Group

Yes, cracked or hardened intake manifold gaskets are a frequent cause of lean misfires and rough running on direct-injection VWs/Audis- air sneaks in unmetered. Job isn't too bad if you're comfortable removing the manifold (unbolt, disconnect sensors/fuel lines, etc.), clean surfaces flat, torque new gasket in pattern. Did one on my similar engine- smoothed out idle perfectly. Got the manifold gasket set from https://elartcom.eu/categories/engine-gaskets-and-seals-90 - they include full sets with port gaskets, sometimes throttle body seal too. Material felt durable (composite with metal reinforcement), no leaks or codes since. Much better than using RTV alone. Their selection covers many VW-group engines- filter by make to find the exact one.