what kind of cooling system do volkswagen cars use?

Question 1
what kind of cooling system do volkswagen cars use?...  some mechanic told me that Volkswagen cars don't use water they use a different type of cooling system

Answers
1)   i believe they are cooled strictly by air. kinda like some motorcycles, and lawnmowers. so they probably dont like to sit to long in the heat with out moving. you def, must be talking about an older one. - POKE

2)   My husband said that some of the old Volkswagons were air cooled but the majority are water cooled. He fixes cars. Hope this helps - Meggan M

3)   Old VW were air cooled. dont know about the new ones - J

4)   VW started making water cooled cars in 1973 in the US, but had been making them in Brazil many years before that.

But they never stopped all the air cooled cars either.
They are still made in Mexico, China, etc.
Air cooled cars are much lighter, durable, easy to maintain, and inexpensive, but tend to produce more NOx than we allow in the US.


Comment to dejaca70:

The first water cooled VW in the US was the 1973 Dasher, not the 74 Rabbit.
The Dasher is not really the same as a Passat since there is a gap.
You are correct the Bug ended manufacture in Mexico in 2003, but China licensed the Thing not the Bug and still makes it. - Motorhead

5)   Ok, here's the deal- 1932-79, the Type I (Beetle) was air cooled. Then in 1974 VW came out with their replacement for the Beetle- Rabbit or Golf. Along with that was the Scirocco and the Dasher (Passat) these are/were water cooled. However, from 1949- 1984- the Bus (Type II) or Vanagon (last name before Eurovan) it was air cooled then it became watercooled (wasserboxer). In addition, there was the Type III (Fastback, Station Wagon or Variant, and the notchback) all of which were air cooled. Then there was the Karmann Ghia (air cooled) and the 411 and 412 both air cooled.

The beetle has ceased production and was never produced in China. However it was produced in Mexico, and in some South American countries the Type II soldiers on. - djaca70

6)   HERE IS YOUR ANSWER pre 1998 VW Beetles, karmann ghias, VW Thing, Squareback, Fastback and VW Buses up to 1986 are all completely air cooled; no water. there was also a few water cooled cars like the VW Rabbit and Jetta are older cars that was water cooled from VW.(All new VW are water cooled) - Jarod C

7)   If you mean the classic VW bug (which for many is the only REAL VW - grin).. they were air cooled and relied on the oil to convey the heat to the cooling fins molded into the engine block.

If you mean newer VW's.. who cares. (grin).. no, those are water cooled.

. - ca_surveyor


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Question 2
My engine light came on in my 2001 passat. Can I fix it myself? If so, how?...  The manual says Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) comes on when there is an emission related malfunction. If it comes on and stayes on there is a malfunction in the engine system. Get thee to a VW dealer and get it fixed right away.

Is this easy to fix myself?

Answers
1)   Go to autozone. They'll scan it for free and pull up what code it is so you can figure out what the actual problem is. - J J

2)   The biggest thing is to know why it came on, (requires an engine scan) AND what needs to be done to fix it. I would start by going to Advanced or Autozone and get a free scan.
Next part may not be so easy. Some codes require several steps to fix them. Like the code for "coolant temp sensor" Most times to fix that you have to replace the temp. sensor AND change the thermostat and flush the cooling system.
Word of caution. Many times with these free scans they will tell you it is an oxygen sensor and they will sell you one without saying which one(there are anywhere from 3 to 5 of them.
But fear not--there are a lot of simple things it could be too. Like if it comes up as an "evap leak" the easy thing to do is replace the gas cap and try it.
If you choose to take it somewhere, rather than the dealer I would find a VW specialist to scan it. Expect to pay $50-90 just fo the complete scan and diagnosis

Hope this helped - Arthur B

3)   Most of the check engine lights happened during a period when the injectors were clogging because the fuel was coming from low cost stations. The dealer got me at first for emissions control stuff but it became obvious over a period of 20,000 miles that it was fuel related. Cans of fuel additive to clean the injectors, then using only Chevron premium since has made that go away. Some dealers want to chemically flush the fuel system, and that works too... just expensive, like $100. I noticed the car was hard starting at first, and the code readout says "Misfire"

Another was the day after a service when the light came on and they read the computer output to me - something about "Mass air flow indicator". I think they broke something but it was about the same age others have had that problem. That was a couple hundred.

The worst was after my sunroof drain plugged during a rainy week, and I didn't notice the water on the passenger side of the floor. Under that floor is the electronics for the automatic transmission. That was fifteen hundred dollars. A towel on the floor would have saved some big bucks there. The warning light started coming on about 4 days before the transmission started acting up. My blunder not taking the car to the dealer right away when the light came on.

My experiences say if the light comes on, take it in. If it comes on again after they "fix" it, they didn't. Don't let them charge more than $50 to read the computer output. There are places out there that will read it for free if you will get it fixed there, and with the age of our cars, that is not a bad deal. I do like VW dealers for service though because they usually have seen someone else's car with the same problem before and will get to the solution faster.

Good luck. - Nat

4)   Find someone with a scanner or buy one (www.harborfreight.com) for about $30 and connect under your dash (drivers side) and read the code. The code will tell you what is going on. The scanner will let you reset the code too (turn the light off). You will want to fix the problem though... sometimes very easy fixes. I had a scan for #1 cylinder misfire... found my sparkplug wire to that cylinder was loose... 2 second fix. - inskin

5)   It could be something as minor as a loose gas cap, or as major as impending failure of the engine or transmission. The car's computer runs diagnostics continuously and when something goes wrong it throws a code (specific problems have specific numeric codes). When something important goes wrong and stays wrong, the computer lights a light on the dash to let the driver know that the car needs to be serviced. Thing is, you don't know what the engine computer is complaining about unless you find out what codes got thrown.

You do that by getting some OBDII (On Board Diagnostics, second revision) hardware (a cable) and software (for your computer) that lets you read the codes. It usually costs under a couple hundred bucks:
http://www.autotap.com/product_family.asp?FamilyId=260&Trail=36&TrailType=Top

You'll also need access to a service manual for your car to decode the codes as different companies use different codes, sometimes even between models and model years, so it's tough for the cable people to keep track of every code for every car made by every manufacturer.

The Haynes or Chilton manuals are usually under $30, and the Bentley manuals (official factory repair manuals) are about two or three times that:
http://www.car-stuff.com/mmparts/volkswagen-passat/repair_manual.html
Another option on this front is Alldata. It's an online repair manual and diagnostic tool (i.e. an expert system that helps you figure out what's wrong with your car), for which a year's membership costs about the same as a (cheaper) manual:
http://www.alldatadiy.com/

Usually people at car forums will be able to help you find out what the codes mean and how to fix them, or estimate what it'd cost to get it fixed by a pro. They might also be able to hook you up with an honest mechanic in your area (or at least another forum member who will read and interpret your codes for a nominal fee (a six pack, say)):
http://www.volkswagentalk.com/volkswagen-passat-f6.html
http://www.passatworld.com/forums/
http://www.audi-forums.com/vw-passat-forum/

You can, of course, just reset the computer and clear the codes by disconnecting the battery for a couple minutes and see if the problem comes back. It's better to find out what went wrong and what needs fixing, though. - soliton

6)   That light means something is wrong, but it doesn't tell you what is wrong. For that, you need a diagnostic computer. You can get one at an auto parts store or Walmart for $30 to $50. Or you can go to some auto parts stores, and they will let you borrow one to pull the error codes. Along with the computer comes a book that tells you what the codes mean.

Once you know the codes and their meaning, you may or may not know what to fix or how to fix it. It is possible that the problem was temporary, and just clearing the error codes will solve the problem. If after the codes are cleared, and the light goes off, and you drive 50 or 100 miles, the light comes back on, then there is still a problem.

Some problems require additional equipment to diagnose the problem. Most do it yourselfers do not have this equipment. Borrow a computer and pull the codes, and then decide from there.

I hope this helps. - iffley


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Question 3
how are VW Jetta's as a used car?...  are they prone to break down after 100,000 or so miles? i have enough money for an 00/01 jetta, and they seem surprisingly cheap. should i watch out?

Answers
1)   here's a link to a NPO website. There's nothing to sign up for Etc. etc.
You can browse for feedback from former Jetta owners

http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/volkswagen/jetta/ - Alfonzo

2)   there cheap because they can't get rid of them transmissions in the vw's are bad and have several engine problems that are fuel related - bo

3)   Excellent cars and good values.
Being somewhat plain, the Jetta is just undervalued.
They also took a hit in value when VW stopped selling them in the US for 2 years because they started up a plant in Mexico, and then the 1993 models did have lots of assembly defects.
But they took care of all that a long time ago.
Like most cars, the trick is to find a good mechanic.
Dealers not only are expensive, but want to sell new cars instead of work on old ones. - Motorhead

4)   i have a 1997 jetta and it has about 135,000 miles on it and it runs great! However the engine did have to be replaced at about 80,000 miles so just a warning. The front struts had to be replaced at about 100,000 miles also. The transmission is definitely not the greatest but i havent had any problems with it. Overall it is a great car for a daily driver and extremely easy to work on if you ever want to have your friend do the maintenance for you or something. - Vance


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Question 4
vw key will not open car door?...  

Answers
1)   Are you sure you have the right key for the right car? - djaca70

2)   Get slim Jim and open the door - al

3)   change batt if a clicker batt try wiggoling key might be a bad key. - spike_dusel

4)   use the master key - Unknown


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Question 5
Where can I find a bug screen for my ford fusion?...  

Answers
1)   In a shop - Not now

2)   in the USA any auto parts store..if not in stock overnight..on line www J.c. whitney..im sure ford dealer has them at usual rip off high prices..lol - pedro7of9

3)   they don't make them for all cars,search the internet for AutoVentshade .com,largest manufacturer,see what they say. - ramcharger


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Would this Volkswagen beetle be a decent first car for a guy?

Question 1
Would this Volkswagen beetle be a decent first car for a guy?...  Im thinking about getting a beetle for a first car, yes i am a guy, but its a car so u cant really say its feminine or masculine. it would be a dudes car when im done with it. It willl look like a beetle with a spoiler and it will have black rims with a silver lip outline, and the car will be either, silver, gray or black.

Answers
1)   It would still be girly. - Matt S

2)   So all you did was describe the car's appearance.

Nothing about the condition.

What shape it's in, etc.

So how would we know if it's a decent car for you? You're the only one who's seen it, you tell us.

And it's funny that you say it's not masculine or feminine....if it's neither, then why even point it out? - Vipassana

3)   For the love of god don't. It's a girls car and after all those modifications your insurance will be hugely expensive. Get something like a corsa or one of the hot hatch renaults - JoshGTAM

4)   I had old, original Beetles. I loved the cars. My last VW was a 1982 Scirocco, which was also a great car. When the New Beetle came out I drove one. I was disappointed. I hear that the cars are expensive to maintain. VW makes some interesting cars, however.

What's with the Renault suggestion? Must be an Answerer from Europe that doesn't know there are no modern Renaults in the the U.S.

COULD a New Beetle be a decent first car for a guy? Yes, but I'd be real sure that it's had all its shots and been taken proper care of. Whatever used car you buy, be sure to research its service history, get the Car Fax or equivalent, and have a certified mechanic (not where you're buying the car) look it over real well. This latter part is worth the money spent. - designergenes

5)   yep be grand and no car is girly unless its bright pink, i have a vw golf black one just put a set of wolferace alloys on it today black ones with silver lip looks so well on a black car just thought id mention it :) good luck - xxx:)xxx


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Question 2
What colour looks good on an old vw bug?...  Okay, so I have a old vw bug ( :D :D :D :D )
but, it's a red/orangey colour and i don't like it at all
what colour looks nice on them?
I was thinking some kind of blue
but I saw a white one the other day and it looks pretty good
I just don't know /:
I don't want it to look tacky or anything.

Answers
1)   You could always go for the classic Herbie livery! But blue and green used to be quite popular too. - Will

2)   My wife has had 4 old style beetles and in my opinion I think they look great in red. - Cass

3)   I would go with the White. - NJ-Cool


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Question 3
do diesel tunit boxes work?...  How effective are the after market plugin tuning boxes ?

Answers
1)   I have just recently fitted a soleware plug in unit to my Tdi 130 golf after hearing about the unit from one of my customers who fitted one to his transporter van. The unit has made the cars throttle response has improved immensely especially when pulling away at traffic lights.
my car now produces 160 bhp with 370 nm of torque.

I haven't noticed any running issues only a increase in the overall mpg figure.

http://www.solware.co.uk/car-performance-chips/solware-diesel-chip.shtml - turboextreme

2)   Yes it sure does. Heres a good one http://www.pro-bitz.co.uk/
I've got one and its a good bit of kit. - Cass

3)   The boxes you refer to definitely work, I would recommend caution though if the engine has a high mileage. Good luck, Gizz. - Gizzard Puke


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Question 4
what causes the white specks in the centre of my vw golf alloys?...  im going to have to replace the wheel nut covers in the centre of the alloys but what can i do to prevent the limescale looking white blobs reaccuring?

Answers
1)   It's oxidisation due to the aluminium being open to the air, what you need is some lacquer either spray brush on whichever is easiest which you probably get from Halfords or any good car accessory shop. Good luck, Gizz. - Gizzard Puke

2)   its electrolysis it happens when alloy is joined to steel [wheel hubs] you could apply a thin film of copper slip to the hubs , - J R

3)   Is the alloy bubbling? It might be oxidisation caused by the heat transference in the brakes. It is not dangerous,but you will never totally stop this process. I find that a smear of copper grease applied to the mating surfaces can help. It also helps prevent the alloy wheel welding itself to the steel hub. - dadseimaj


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Question 5
which kind of volkswagen is best for racing?...  i was wondering which kind of volkswagen would match or take out honda crx with a B16a. i know the rabbits and gti and r32 are pretty much the same, or in the same family and those were originally what i was looking at, but i don't know about jettas or any others. i'm kind of new to the vw game and i was looking for some help to see what kinds of engines there are and which models are best for racing, plus honda doesn't have a punching game :)

Answers
1)   A fast one with great handling. - Thomas

2)   R32. All wheel drive and a six speed will put that CRX out of its misery. Then again, my European-spec'd MK 1 GTi will take care of the CRX and the R32 as well, and it is bone-stock. - djaca70


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Can anyone tell me what's wrong here?

Question 1
Can anyone tell me what's wrong here?...  I have a '98 VW Passat. Sometimes when I stop at a light for long periods, My car's RPM's drop considerably, then jump back up, and the car starts sputtering, like it wants to stalling out. When I move the car after the light turns green, the car sputters while moving, with the RPM's going up and down, and then shooting up to like, 3000 or so RPM's. Can anyone tell me what wrong? Hope it's not expensive to fix...
I just recently took the car for a tune up...got new spark plugs (but same coils/wires)
And I Don't have a CEL (Check Engine Light) either...which makes it more complicated. (CEL comes on when the car is on, but the engine is off...But I think that's normal...)
And I got a new Fuel Filter and Air Filter...

Answers
1)   Sounds like your spark plugs need some changin cause I had a similar experience with VW. Get a Tune Up and I'm betting it will fix your problem! - BIGtymer

2)   Wires could be worn- you didn't state mileage, also coil packs may be going, but no CEL. Or, the O2 sensors are bad- I am leaning more toward that issue. - djaca70

3)   Sounds to me like vacuum is low. Check your intake boots and hoses. It could also be low fuel pressure. It's not spark as that would cause a check engine light to come on as a misfire. - uthockey32

4)   possible:mass airflow sensor dirty,idle air /fuel stabalizer dirty or broken /non functional, catalytic converter plugged, trans issue if automatic ? or if turbo maybe intercooler leak or vaccum issue id check the MAF sensor then the catalytic converter but check for leaks of vaccum - Drift Ninja


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Question 2
Where is the engine mount sensor on a 1988 VW Beetle?...  Car keeps cutting out and apparently its the engine mount sensor does anyone know where about in the engine bay it is?

Thank you.
Sorry Typo 1998!

Just going on what I've been told, must be crank position sensor.

Answers
1)   ENGINE MOUNT SENSOR?? what is this?? - AzaBoom

2)   You mean the crank position sensor. Left side, you cannot miss it. - djaca70

3)   There were no VW Beetle's produced in 1988 and there is no such thing as a engine mount sensor. - Hoppelemine


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Question 3
Sticky/Locking stifle and jumping?...  My welsh mare is 4, she was giving away to me 7 months as has a sticky/locking stifle, however i've not done anything other than light schooling and hacking and its not locked once, would it be ok to start jumping her???

Answers
1)   YEAH, A JUMP START WILL GET HER GOING FOR SURE!
IF NOT PLAN ON HORSE MEAT SANDWICHES FOR A
L O N G TIME. - mchaz60

2)   I didn't know Volkswagen made horses. Perhaps your question is in the wrong category? - Tufty the Squirrel

3)   Oh yeah. you own one of those really RARE VW's.. the Welsh model.

Jump starts were not always necessary especially if it was unlocked, but just be VERY careful where you connect the cables. You can really get quite a kick if you hook them up wrong.

.(You DO realize you posted this in the VW section - right?) - Good luck with your Horse.. sounds like a better ride for short trips . - ca_surveyor


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Question 4
what is the difference between a early 68 vw and a late 68 vw?...  

Answers
1)   one is from germany the other is from south america/brazil - ken k

2)   About 9 months. - ca_surveyor

3)   Go on thesamba.com, they will outline the differences. - djaca70


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Question 5
wherw is the oil dip stick on a 2002 passat?...  

Answers
1)   If its a 1.8T the dipstick should be sticking out of the middle of the middle of the intake manifold, right around the center of the engine bay. - Nick

2)   If you're having trouble finding the dipstick I'm going to assume you have the 30V V6 motor. The dipstick is under the left engine cover. Here is a pic of the motor will all the covers removed to give you a better idea:

http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii285/2deepn2dubs/atq3.jpg (you can see the bright orange dipstick in the lower left of the picture)

Here's a picture of the motor with all the covers on for reference: http://i.ebayimg.com/01/!!fDh9LgBWE~$(KGrHgoH-CcEjlLlzSkuBKZR0ezI2Q~~_4.JPG - gti_4cefed4


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where is 2006 jetta obdii connector?

Question 1
where is 2006 jetta obdii connector?...  

Answers
1)   store - random

2)   Most likely it is directly below the steering column. It is a pink connector. - djaca70

3)   Under the dash between the steering column and the door. It has a cover on it that you pop off. - uthockey32


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Question 2
how much Horsepower does 2007 2.0T Passat have?...  

Answers
1)   2007 Passat Performance, Engine & Power Specs

• Turbo compressor
• 1,984 cc 2 liters in-line 4 front engine with 82.5 mm bore, 92.8 mm stroke, 10.3 compression ratio, double overhead cam and four valves per cylinder
• Unleaded fuel 87
• Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 32 and EPA city (mpg): 22
• Gasoline direct injection fuel system
• 18.5 gallon main unleaded fuel tank
• Power: 149 kW , 200 HP SAE @ 5,100 rpm; 207 ft lb , 281 Nm @ 1,800 rpm - Cody M

2)   2007 Volkswagen Passat 2.0T Wagon Performance & Efficiency Standard Features
- Turbo compressor
- 1,984 cc 2 liters in-line 4 front engine with 82.5 mm bore, 92.8 mm stroke, 10.3 compression ratio, double overhead cam and four valves per cylinder
- Unleaded fuel 87
- Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 32 and EPA city (mpg): 22
- Gasoline direct injection fuel system
- 18.5 gallon main unleaded fuel tank
- Power: 149 kW , 200 HP SAE @ 5,100 rpm; 207 ft lb , 281 Nm @ 1,800 rpm

EDIT: 14 seconds late.... Lol
Gave credit though. :) - Garrett

3)   2007 Volkswagen Passat 2.0T Wagon Performance & Efficiency Standard Features
- Turbo compressor
- 1,984 cc 2 liters in-line 4 front engine with 82.5 mm bore, 92.8 mm stroke, 10.3 compression ratio, double overhead cam and four valves per cylinder
- Unleaded fuel 87
- Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 32 and EPA city (mpg): 22
- Gasoline direct injection fuel system
- 18.5 gallon main unleaded fuel tank
- Power: 149 kW , 200 HP SAE @ 5,100 rpm; 207 ft lb , 281 Nm @ 1,800 rpm - GT-R


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Question 3
is there a new volkswagon from germany that can top out at around 418mph?...  

Answers
1)   No it hardly can do 412mph (get real) - jimanddottaylor

2)   No, at that speed any street legal car would become unstable not even the Bugatti Veyron's chassis can handle that kind of speed. - Nick_T

3)   No. However, the Bugatti Veyron is made by Volkswagen and has been recorded to hit 407.9 km/h, which is 253.5 mph. Is that what you're thinking of?

It was the fastest production car until topped by Shelby's SSC Ultimate Aero, which will go 256 mph (411.99 km/h).

Here's Top Gear's top speed run of the Veyron:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jk1t6S737Cs - There are some who call me Tim


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Question 4
VW Beetle question people?...  I just bought a 1972 Volkswagen Super Beetle as a project car. This will be my first car, and I am working on it all the time, but I recently hit a snag. The car is stuck in gear. I put the gear shift in neutral, and I step on the clutch, and when I try to start the car, the wheels start turning! I am sure the clutch is working, because I just got done replacing the clutch cable, and it feels just how a clutch should feel. Do I need to rebuild my transmission, or buy a new one, or... what?

Answers
1)   get the new transmittion coz if the car stucks in gear that means the transmittion is dead - ArtIst Mc

2)   Don't panic yet on the transmission.
First check the shifter tube these get worn. There are bushings that may need to be replaced. There is a way to put the transmission in neutral at the transmission, try that first.
Also you clutch adjustment may be wrong, so read up on how to adjust it. - Old Man Dirt

3)   Old Man Dirt is right. Check your clutch cable adjustment, first. This is a mechanical clutch which will feel a little different than if your used to a hydraulic clutch. If still not giving proper engagement or disengaging, check the shifter coupling. To access it, need to remove back seat bottom, unscrew cover thats on the frame horn tunnel. This rubber coupling tends to go out over the decades and leads to sloppy feeling shift. Happy motoring. - Salty6


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Question 5
why do people punch eachother when they see a vw ?...  whyy????????????

Answers
1)   Because people are inherently violent - Jeff P

2)   It started with the old VW bugs, they would call it a 'slug bug'.

good road trip game -

3)   Its a game that is said to have existed since the 1960s. But its been particularly popular for at least 10 years. When someone sees a VW Beetle, they try to be the first one to shout "Slug Bug!" or "Punch Buggie!" and punch each other. There is no particular purpose of the game... people just do it to have an excuse to assault their friends and win at something insignificant in order to feel superior for a short time, no matter how illogical their reasons. - Demi


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when do i need to change my w reg passat cam belt?

Question 1
when do i need to change my w reg passat cam belt?...  i have just bought a used w reg passat. its done 53000 miles. i not sure whether the cam belt needs done at 60000 or because its 10 years old.
i am concerned because i have a year warranty on it. which will probs be void if i have not had this done.
does anyone know for sure when passat cam belts have to be changed?
its a 1.8 petrol 20 valve.

Answers
1)   When they make a squeaking sound - Jamie

2)   Hi there.
If it has never been done and you can afford it, then get it done for peace of mind.
If it is due in next service, then have it done under the service BUT if the cam belt goes, it takes the engine with it usually - not worth risking for long.
True of any car you buy, though.
Good luck, Steve. - Steve J

3)   Honest John website shows following

http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/volkswagen/passat-2001/?section=bad

1.8 20v engines are snapping their timing belts at 70,000 - 80,000 miles and the extensive damage this causes is not repairable. The car will need a replacement engine. Timing belt of 1.8 20v needs changing before 4 years or 60k miles (whichever comes first).
Get the tensioners & water pump done as well while they're doing the work. - GzH

4)   not sure my car has 390,000 hasnt been done yet
most should be replace a round 60 to 100,000 miles and its not a have to do time its a should do thing
if one snaps 90% of time it bents other parts costing more to repair - kelly_f_1999

5)   Get it changed now, miracle a 10 year old belt with 53k miles is still in one piece. Average mileage for cam belt changes is 60k miles or 5 years. - Nick C


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Question 2
Pros and cons on the 1970's or later edition VW beetles?...  i want to convince my mom to get a 1970 (or later edition but no later then 2000) VW beetle but i need some research on it so can some of you tell me the pros and cons about the car like hows it on gas stuff like that

Thanks to anyone who answers!!

Answers
1)   The biggest con is that the old bugs are death traps. You aren't likely to fare too well in any head on collision. If you're in a cold climate be ready to freeze your tail off. The heat will not work. They are also pretty small cars, so if you want something roomy, you probably want to look somewhere else. Another con is that they all leak oil and will break down (in small ways) frequently.

Biggest pro is that repair work when they do break down is EASY. The air cooled engine design requires little maintenance (except adding oil occasionally). The carburetor is simple and can be rebuilt in less than an hour if you know what you're doing. Even an entire engine change can be done in 6 or so hours. Another big pro is that they are easily customizable with fiberglass body kits and a million engine dohickys that can be added. I've had several and they are a lot of fun , but I wouldn't want one as my primary vehicle. They are basically just really cool Toy cars. - Scott

2)   DON'T sorry 2 yell but you need to hear me

1 they were ok in the 60s early 70s.[for a basic crappy means to get around but very unsafe,,the 200 "New" bugs are really not bugs under the skin so they are ok
2 as a second weekend "fun" car the old ones ar fine but for a kid/new driver? no - pedro7of9

3)   1970 VW Bug Reviews: http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Reviews-c6918-1970-Beetle.html

VW Bug facts: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Beetle

Gas mileage is around 20-25 depending if it's a 1500cc or 1600cc for 1970. - Kristoffer

4)   true they are not very safe in a collision but then again you can die in a hummer doing only 10 mph. its not just about the car in crashes. it can be about how the hit affects your body. all cars are only as safe as the person behind the wheel and behind the wheel of every other car on the road. they have drum brakes all the way around, so stopping is not as quick as a new car but you get used to it. no airbags, no anti-lock brakes, no traction control, no power steering, 4 speed manual without power clutch so clutching is a little rough, heat is not that great but if you get things set up and working properly you will certainly get too hot in the car. and some other things im forgetting. overall its a fun car to have

as for ease of use, they are very user friendly if you know how to work on cars. if not you may find yourself paying out the wazoo to get it fixed by a mechanic. every 2000-3000 miles you HAVE to change oil clean/replace oil strainer, adjust valves, check timing, check and gap spark plugs, check points/condenser, check dwell and some other things i know im forgetting. but if you do that and more you will be able to drive it with confidence. i drive a 1970 bug to school everyday, a 34 mile round trip, on the highway cruising at 60mph.

they are fun to drive and people will always stop and talk to you at the gas pump, people wave and beep all the time. its always fun to drive by little kids and hear them yelling to their parents "look, look its Herbie!!!"

but if you live in a place where you need a car with a lot of 'get up and go' then you might want to reconsider getting an old bug. my top speed, per owners manual, is 81mph. i usually get around 25mpg, acceleration from 0-60mph is about 18-20 seconds.
other than that they are fun, cheap, and easy if you know what you are doing. - Air-Cooled ACVW


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Question 3
My '03 VW Polo oil light keeps coming on, i've just had the timing chain replaced? Any ideas what may be wrong?...  
The oil level is fine!!

Answers
1)   erm lack of oil !!!!! - Stef1411

2)   Obviously you should physically check the oil level with the dip stick. If the level is ok, check around the engine block to see if there are any loose wires dangling & 'bright' metal terminals you hadn't noticed before. This is the most common cause as they may not have been reconnected! If everything appears ok obtain a new oil switch from a local motor factor ( not Halfords ). A 10 minute job to fix. - george d

3)   possibly the oil pressure switch has gone faulty. Usually diagnosed by a drip of oil coming from it. Very easy to change and inexpensive. - Chewbydoo


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Question 4
Are VW New Beetles gutless?...  I drive a v6 taurus now and I love just that little bit of 'get up and go'

I drove a friends kia rio recently and it was so gutless! hated it!

Anywho are new beetles like a kia rio because they're both v4?

thanks!

Answers
1)   The Beetle was never designed to be a performance car. - Driver

2)   most American cars are gutless and look like crap as well. Then the see a bend and get all confused - Gaz

3)   VW beetle is garbage

if you want good acceleration, get VW jetta or V6 sonata - Retarded Mode


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Question 5
01 gti door light & buzzer sound when door is closed what's wrong?...  Electronic lock also doesn't work

Answers
1)   Could be: http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=1542461

Seems MKIV VW's have a common problem with the door locks. My door light shorted out and started buzzing while I was driving. Scared the hell out of me too. - Kristoffer

2)   It is most likely in the main computer of your car, had problems like that, and it took them forever to find it...good luck - guanete42

3)   You could also check your fuses. - Martinicus The Mighty!


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1970 vw beetle will not accelerate!?

Question 1
1970 vw beetle will not accelerate!?...  the engine will run ok up until it comes to move, where there is just no power after it moves 10m what are the possible problems?

Answers
1)   Maybe its broken? - ScottF

2)   my best guess would be the accelerator pump on the carb - Air-Cooled ACVW

3)   you have to start with the basics, set the points, make sure the fuel pump is pumping, no vacuum lines off, make sure the accelerator pump is squirting down the carb - onlyoldiron4me

4)   adjust your valves
replace your points and gap them
clean and gap your plugs
replace your rotter button & cap
adjust timing and make sure all hoses are in place
then if necessary rebuild your carb. (try the other things first)
if that doesn't work get a valve job done
no..rebuild engine. - Jarod C


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Question 2
I got my Golf MK2 GTI 8v up to 190Km/hr, is it good?...  I have a golf 1987 MK2 GTI 8v and got it up to 190Km/hr (120MPH) on the highway, is that good? or do you thing that it should be doing better?
I'm asking about the car's performance and not trying to show how big my balls are. It's an old car, and people say that MK2 GTI 8V have very low top speed. And I needed to get opinions to see if I should have gotten a 16V instead.

Answers
1)   Compared to aircraft, it's ridiculously slow.

Compared to the speed limit, it's completely illegal, and irresponsible.

So what, exactly, are you proud of?

That you can hit a gas pedal really hard?

Obviously, that takes skill.....we should all hail you as an amazing driver of a high performance machine. Obviously.

Way to be a "renegade". You're certainly different than all the other kids who do exactly the same thing and brag about it, as if they've done something new. - Vipassana

2)   It's good, is it second hand, it might have run twice on Odm.
if it did wow. good for you. keep it maintenance. also if you have lil money on the side drop a vr6 engine in it. you could also find some in the junk yards. - Zeus

3)   GTI 16v is much better - Alfa R

4)   120 MPH is great for that car. I once owned a 86 GTI but I 'chickened out' at 116.
I believe that it had 110 HP.
Couple of years later VW did a 16V that upped HP to 130 I think.
So yes I think the 16V would squeeze out a few more miles at top end.
Now that you know what the car will do, please dont attempt it again on public roads. For your safety and others.
Take it to a track...... - fenton


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Question 3
what are girly classic cars?...  just asking.. thanks

Answers
1)   pink cadillacs - I'm talkin to YOU!

2)   mini cooper - coaster

3)   The first car that was actually marketed for girls was the Nash Metropolitan. Nice little classic car. Little under powered especially by today's standards. But it would be a head turner if you owned one. - Shane A

4)   Mercedes Benz SLK, Honda S2000, MX-5, - rogershawyer


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Question 4
1996 vw jetta with no reverse?...  i am thinking about buying a 1996 vw jetta 2.0 the owner says it doesnt have reverse is there a way to fix this? he says it moves about 5 feet backwards and then grinds then doesnt move anymore... does this mean new tranny? or could i just replace all the linkage and realign everything? let me know im going to see the car tomorrow..

Answers
1)   most likely need a new tranny - CM

2)   Sounds like you need to rebuild the trans. You did not say if it was a manual or automatic.. but either way its messed up. - Duke Nukem

3)   You probably don't need a NEW tranny, but you will more than likely have to rebuild it. This same thing happened to me and I own the same car. It was an $800.00 fix for me, but it might be even more or maybe less for you. Also, if you are not planning on getting it fixed right away, you are better off looking for another car. If your reverse gear is broken, the pieces from it are still inside and all over the place. Every time you run it like this you risk breaking even more stuff, and there is a high probability that this happens. - 010101


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Question 5
What is a nice convertible to get?...  One not crazy expensive, maybe 20,000 at the MOST.

Answers
1)   Well..I'm not too sure what CONVERTIBLE would be 20000 at the MOST...I mean...maybe USED they would be around that price range. I can say the Volkswagen Beetle would probably be around the price range if you want a compact fun car. The Toyota Solara (discontinued model, but great car), they start at around 20k. Even the Volkswagen Eos, starts at 28k. I really don't know what to tell you...unless you ARE looking for a used vehicle, then you can find convertibles in that price range or an older car.

<3
Life is short. - Leslie-Marie P

2)   At $20K, I don't think your going to get a new convertible, unless its last years MX5 Mazda. (I assume that you are in the US) It would be my choice for a car given several factors: it has a proven reliability that is second to none in its class; depreciation, is low, parts and accessories are widely available and it has decent fuel economy. While its true that it only seats 2, the EOS will seat 4 (but rear passengers won't be happy except for very short trips) and parts and service will be expensive.

The VW Eos can be a good choice, its quiet with the top up, has a power top available, can hold 4 people in a pinch, has a proven drivetrain and compared to all other converitbles that seat four people, its a bargain. Prices are reasonable, given what it is, but items like the power top are known to be well, a pain to deal with when something goes wrong with it. Avoid the first two years of the EOS, as they had a large number of issues and updates with them.

The Mazda is best chosen as a manual transmission; the slick 5 speed (6 in upper line models),
the engine has a nice sound, decent power, and simple to operate controls. Its possible to get a reasonably equipped model used for well under $20k, depending upon age and milage. Everybody has seen one and because they don't make yearly changes to the body, parts are easier to come by than the EOS. Performance parts are available for all years of the Miata, from the first generation to the current one. Its not a good choice if you need room for 4 people or don't like the sport type nature of the vehicle. But, its a known quanity, popular everywhere and has been highly recommended by all the car mags as well non car publications as well. - a car nut

3)   Audi A4 S-line - Shereen


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What could be causing my 1991 Volkswagen Jetta GL to be losing power like this?

Question 1
What could be causing my 1991 Volkswagen Jetta GL to be losing power like this?...  Ok I already know that my 91 VW Jetta GL needs an exhaust manifold replaced, and I am wondering if that would cause it to lose power at 2500 rpms? It will be going just fine then if I let it get above or at 2500 rpms it just bogs down, and will not gain speed no matter how much gas I give it, the CEL comes on most times when this happens, but if I push the clutch in and rev it past 2500 to like 3000 rpms the light goes off, but still lacks power. I changed plugs, wires, cap, rotor, cleaned intake, ran injector cleaner, changed fuel filter. I even replaced the catalytic converter, to no avail. I just bought car the car, and drove it 75 miles to get home, and this problem never arose, it did surge a little but never lost power like this. If any one can give me a few things to look into I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks
Another thing, the car did set for a year with a full tank of gas in it, but I used most of that up and put fresh gas in it.

Answers
1)   It's the manifold. Why did you throw parts at it, when you know it is the manifold? Also, you should have had the seller have the manifold repaired/replaced prior to purchase. - djaca70

2)   I'd take it to a mechanic - John

3)   You already know it needs an exhaust manifold? How do you know this. I think you are mistaken or foolish. Have you had the CEL scanned for a code????? Yeah, there is a lot of data missing here. Still could be other stuff.

Timing, Mass Airflow Sensor, Badd parts in the ignition(out of the box or installed poorly) Plugged muffler from a FAILED catalytic converter.

Time to go to a shop. Pretty much any shop can work on these so skip the VW Dealer.

Jack, 2003 GLI, VW since 1959, ASE Cert Auto Tech since 1978 - sci

4)   I think it's fairly obvious why the previous owner sold it , the last time I heard of this , the cam belt had been replaced three teeth out from where it should have been, why do you think the exhaust manifold needs replacing? any problem with it would be very obvious - Harley Drive

5)   Your VW is to old, visit mechanic. - Alfa R

6)   Good Jokes, Cars, and Great Sex all depend on Proper timing.

If you haven't timed your car then do so now.

To time the 91 you have to have the engine up to temp.
then using a timing light on number one plug.

unplug the CTS sensor (blue one on the side of the head upper water outlet flange) and rev the engie 3 times over 3000 rmp.

Holding it steady at 2250 RPM, then adjust the timing to 6degrees BTDC. (there is a timing hole in the transmission housing.

I would then replace the CTS sensor (cheap at Napa ) as that is known to cause issues. If you haven't replace the fuel filter now would be a good time to do it.

If you head a whine from the rear passenger side wheel arch when this happens, then you have a restriction in the fuel as in the in-tank fuel pump (also known as the fuel-transfer-pump) is going out or gone out, and causing a restriction to the main pump.

This year of jetta has 3 fuel pumps one in-tank, that feeds to the primary.

I would also highly suggest that you remove the vacuum line that runs from the throttle body to the fuel pressure regulator (on the rear of the throttle body) and see if there is raw gas in it. That is gas that drips out of the hose, if there is then the Fuel pressure regulator is bad.

I would also strongly recommend that you replace all the vacuum hoses on the car as any slight leak causes them to act the ass.

Lastly, make sure that the big black hose from the air filter box to the throttle body is not wholed, and that it is tight to the throttle body and to the airbox. - Briano


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Question 2
my vw key stoped working and my interior lights!?...  ok so i changed my interior lights to blue..

when i was putting in the final LED bulb it didn't want to turn on...so i checked the other one and it didn't work either i checked the front dome light and it didn't work either!! it was working fine until i started to replace the bulbs.

When i was getting out of my car i drooped my keys on the concrete i picked them up and i tried to lock my car but it didn't want to lock or unlock, i tried to open the truck and still nothing! the little red light flashes when i press any one of the keys, the car starts and i can manually unlock it it just doesn't lock or unlock w hen i press the button....

then when i went to my car to close my sunroof i turn the dial and it didn't move, i moved around the dial but it just stayed the way it is. im hoping its gonna fix it self by morning but i highly doubt it....

does anyone know what might be wrong with it?

no i did not replace the battery yet because the battery is brand new and the light flashes so its not the battery fault

please anyone help? :(
xthomas2009x@gmaill.com emaill Mr thanks

Answers
1)   take it to a mechanic - John

2)   sounds to me like you have blown some major fuses by changing your lights. buy some fuses and change them, then see if it all starts working again.
failing that, take it to a mechanic - stevie

3)   You have a short in one of the fuses. VWs are prone to that. - Michael B

4)   the central locking , the immobilizer and the window/sunroof circuits all read the electrical load from the door switch/interior light circuits in order to determine if the car is ready to lock, LED lights produce a very low current so the circuit is read as permanently on since there is no difference between the off and on load ie the doors etc are still open so the locks will not lock and the immobilizer will not set, if you want led lights you need a load resistor fitted to each one cheap leds do not have one expensive leds generally have one built in for cars that use filament bulbs - Harley Drive

5)   it sounds like you have a blown fuse. you might have done that replacing the lights. this fuse is really hard to replace because you need to remove all the dash board covers by the steering wheel that are by your knees when you drive. IT IS A HIDDEN FUSE under the dash board. i had the same exact problem. i can't remember what fuse it is because i didn't fix it, but i think it is the big blue one (15 amps maybe). this fuse is not on the side panel by the door, again it is hidden. because at first, i looked for a blown one on the side panel and they were all fine. vw even has some fuses under the hood, but the fuse you blew is hidden under the dash. i had the same problem a few weeks ago. it was AWFUL! vw told me that my comfort control module needed to be replaced and it would be over $1000 to fix. they never even mentioned it could be a fuse.

luckily i know someone that knows what he is doing and dug around and found the fuse. he has saved me so much money! i had the same problems, my key wouldn't do anything, my interior dome lights wouldn't work, my windows didn't open, my power mirrors didn't adjust, i couldn't open my trunk, and my sunroof didn't do anything. i was also able to unlock/lock it manually and start it. also, you should still be able to open your gas cover (i was sooooo happy when i realized that!). if you take it to vw, make sure you tell them that you blew one of the well HIDDEN fuses under the dash board (their job security) because they will be so excited to tell you it is the comfort control module and take lots of money from you. a fuse is only like $3 to replace.

if you want more information on how to fix it, edit the question and leave your email address and then i can email you. i will ask him the specifics. hahaha, i drove around like that for 3 weeks, it was horrible! this problem definitely won't fix itself, believe me i know! good luck! - noname


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Question 3
I was priced £234 to fix my electric window on an audi 1999 audi A3 Did it myself for £12 and some easy labour?...  It was not an electrics problem nut a snapped bracket which broke when I tried to wind down frozen window. These brackets snapping are apparently a common fault.
I downloaded how to do it and took lots of pictures all I used was a small drill some cable ties and a good quality Araldite adhesive. If any one wants details just let me know how I can put them onto this site and I will. Ade W

Answers
1)   So basically you have no question.

Instead you're just bragging that you fixed a window.

And....?


Reported. - Vipassana

2)   ok - I Love Shoosies

3)   Yeah most of that quote was labour charges. Well done, I like people like You. - Civil Unrest

4)   Thanks for telling us you fixed your window - I really needed to know that.

Did you want to ask a question while you're here? - Tufty the Squirrel


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Question 4
How to adjust shifter linkage on a VW?...  I'd like to know if there is a way to adjust the linkage on a manual transmission in a VW to make it shift more smoothly. I recently swapped the tranny, and I believe the linkage is a bit off. It likes to jump smoothly out of 5th (no noise or grinding) at high way speeds and recently refuses to stay out of gear. The clutch is new and was installed professionally.

Answers
1)   Cable or rod linkage???? I seriously think you have a bad 5th gear from running the transaxle low on fluid. When you changed it out you didn't refill it or you refilled it incorrectly(easy to do).


Sorry,

Jack 2003 GLI - sci

2)   go to thesamba.com an put your questin on the board - David

3)   You didn't say which year and style of VW.

The 5th gear on the older dubs (81-95) were splash oiled, and failure to maintain proper gear oil in the tranny would cause 5th gear fall out.

The Missing Linz site has the breakdown of the linkages by year: and depending on the year it could be as simple as changing the shift linkages.

http://www.4crawler.com/Diesel/ForSale/ShiftLinkage.shtml

You don't have to buy their kits, some can be had on ebay for cheap. But it shows you how they go back if you don't have a Bentley or a Haynes manual. - Briano

4)   The most accurate description of the shift linkage adjustment for a MK4 chassis VW can be found right here: http://www.dieselgeek.com/TTXfiveinstall.htm. Scroll about 2/3 the way down the page to "adjustment." The site also provides a great link to a youtube video showing the process from start to finish. If you have something other than a MK4, please update your question and I will help you out there. - gti_4cefed4


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Question 5
I got my Golf MK2 GTI 8v up to 190Km/hr, is it good?...  I have a golf 1987 MK2 GTI 8v and got it up to 190Km/hr (120MPH) on the highway, is that good? or do you thing that it should be doing better?
I'm asking about the car's performance and not trying to show how big my balls are. It's an old car, and people say that MK2 GTI 8V have very low top speed. And I needed to get opinions to see if I should have gotten a 16V instead.

Answers
1)   Compared to aircraft, it's ridiculously slow.

Compared to the speed limit, it's completely illegal, and irresponsible.

So what, exactly, are you proud of?

That you can hit a gas pedal really hard?

Obviously, that takes skill.....we should all hail you as an amazing driver of a high performance machine. Obviously.

Way to be a "renegade". You're certainly different than all the other kids who do exactly the same thing and brag about it, as if they've done something new. - Vipassana

2)   It's good, is it second hand, it might have run twice on Odm.
if it did wow. good for you. keep it maintenance. also if you have lil money on the side drop a vr6 engine in it. you could also find some in the junk yards. - Zeus

3)   GTI 16v is much better - Alfa R


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