Frenchman Sebastien Ogier who dominated the opening day of the German Rally crashed out of the race on Friday and will have to wait at least two more weeks to wrap up a maiden world title.
Ogier was set to succeed compatriot and nine-time champion Sebastien Loeb with victory in this weekend's race but will not be overly concerned as he holds a healthy 90-point lead over Belgian Thierry Neuville and Jari-Matti Latvala of Finland with four rallies remaining.
"I missed the braking point," admitted the overnight leader.
"I didn't have it in my notes. I went into the vineyard a bit and hit something and damaged the front."
He attempted to repair a damaged suspension and began the second special of the day and fourth of the race before the car broke down again in the middle of the road which handed the lead to his teammate Latvala in the second VW.
Second-placed Neuville who is 2.4secs back almost crashed into the broken down VW of Ogier.
"It was soon after a high-speed crest and I was surprised to see him (Ogier) there," the Belgian told WRC.
"I had to slow down to drive around it, and perhaps I slowed too much. Okay, we're in a good battle now but I need to get some feeling in the car. I don't feel comfortable all the time."
Ogier will have to wait at least until the Rally of Australia in a fortnight when he will get another opportunity to wrap up the world championship.
Spaniard Dani Sordo in a Citroen is third and 15secs adrift heading into afternoon specials.
