Does anyone own a VW bug?

Question 1
Does anyone own a VW bug?...  Do you ever see people punch each other when you drive by?

Answers
1)   Yes and yes! Kids especially, but the guy at Starbucks got punched really really hard by his co-worker yesterday, and then wanted me to weigh in on it. It was pretty funny :) - wyllow

2)   all the time - J.R.

3)   i have 2 bugs, a silly looking pimp mobile with bodykit and spoiler and a 71' superbeetle w/ autostick tranny.

the superbug is real loud and blows flames and will drag off the usual street prowlers in holden commodoors. i dont see any people punch one another in a game of "punch buggy" but i do get a LOT of 5-9 year olds wave to me! least they dont throw food at the bug like they did with my crappy van.

BEETLE'S 4EVR!!!!!! - shaunmichaeljohnson

4)   Hi Miss
If you like good advice then read this entire thing in one sitting.
The later model VWS are much better that the earlier 1970's models due to the newer fuel injection systems even though they are old school.
Maintenance is going to be a headache and a nemesis in terms of financially keeping it up and running in the years to come.
If I were you I would invest in a classic car like a 1960's or 70's ford mustang with the V8 and a sweet sounding 289 under the hood.
Parts are never a problem if you know where to look and ford will help you out,even the e bay motors ford guys know where to find the parts to keep it running for a long time to come. Ford man old school man in san diego,ca - lwr735

5)   I have a 74 and people do comment on it wherever I go.

As to the punch dub commercials, I'm confused why people would play this with current VWs because they are one of the most bland makes out there. Nothing unique to see there. - Jay S


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Question 2
What would cause my rear brakes to lock only on my 1967 bug, then suddenly OK?...  

Answers
1)   Sound like your caliper is sticking.... get it repaired yesterday or it will/can stick to where you can't move the car. - LT

2)   Could be a couple of things. You may have a leaking wheel cylinder that got fluid on the shoes. It may also be the master cylinder. - uthockey32

3)   Bad master cylinder
dirty fluid (spec of dirt blocking brake line)
Sticky wheel cylinders
e-brake cable got caught on something under the bug

My 73 has a problem with the right front tire locking up and the rest do not help to stop it.......good times! I have a new master cylinder so I can replace the bad one this weekend - Rod Knocker

4)   All bugs had drum rear brakes. The parking brake was not likely to lock up.
It is almost certainly the wheel cylinder.
When it corrodes, it will bind.
But a binding wheel cylinder can eventually retract and be ok again for awhile.
When you try going back and forth, it can force the pistons past the rough spot.
But it will happen again.
And the heat can do a lot of damage.
Take the drum off and check.
You should be able to put a finger on each piston and easily push them to one side or the other, as a pair. Or you can simply put a screwdriver into the slot in the piston end, and turn it. It should be easy to turn. A corroded one will not be easy.
On a bug this old, this is also time to check and consider replacing any rusted brake lines.
They are cheap.

If this was from sitting a week or so with the parking brake on, it could just be adhesion.
Typically one just bangs on the backing plate with a hammer, and the shoes will break loose. - Motorhead

5)   It could be a wheel cylinder, but I have had more problems with the rubber brake hoses.
They get old, the insides swell up, not letting the fluid back to the master cylinder - onlyoldiron4me


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Question 3
Thinking of buying my first super beetle, please help.?...  I was driving down the road the other day and saw a beetle on the side of the road. Its a 74 Super Beetle, the owner was asking 2700, I saw some flaws and offered 1500. He then called me back a week later and I test drove it today. (he agreed to my price)

Jumping right into the pros and cons that I saw, I am looking for some help to see if this is a good buy.

Body - Great shape, no dents, dings, chrome in good shape, door line up. willing to buy off of looks alone

Paint - looks like a semi good paint job, but a big flake fell off the front hood, only place I could see, exposing a dark primer. 1-2 minor paint/rust bubbles around the window. Looks like a cheap paint job overall

Driving- kind of scary - the shifter has a lot of play in it, when in gear you can shift the shifter all over the place, it stays in gear, but feels like neutral in terms of how much it wobbles. What causes this?

Brakes- more scary, they just dont stop the car pumping the breaks helps but I would not trust it going 30 mph and not having 20-30 feet to stop. Possibly need to bleed the breaks, but not sure

Interior - upholstry in good shape, seat covers going on cant tell condition of seats, Dash is ruined by sun. Divers side window does not go down.

misc notes - owner said needs new ball joints, will give me one but need another, dont know cost to install. Engine sounds good, but never been in a bug before.

Over all, I want this car, have to admit i have been bitten by the bug. The owner wants 1700 but I am standing firm at 1500.

I would not mind putting another 1500 to fix up this car, but I expect that 1500 to cover me a long time, until I start major cosmetic work.

Any help would be great!

Answers
1)   Sounds like it has a lot of miles, you didn't mention milage. Ball joints wear out about 100,000 miles.Sounds like shifter needs new bushings and adjustment. It needs new brake job -$400 unless you do yourself. You can buy new dash or cover it. If you work on yourself it's ok deal. If not, theres a lot of these out there. A newer one with new body style is better to buy. - MRD

2)   Sounds pretty standard for a bug. Nice that (from your description) the body is sound. Check under the battery and heater channels (under doors) for signs of corrosion.

If you mechanical competent I'd say go for it. Judging from your question I'm guessing you not machanically anything. Keep in mind this is a 37+ year old vehicle, even if parts an labor are cheap expect lots of issues to continue popping up. A bug is so simple theres only a few things that really need to work, thats brakes, steering and engine. You need new shifter bushings, bugs have alot of shifter linkage. Brake bleed/brake job and maybe a master cylinder.

For the age, I'd plan on more money for upkeep if your not doing the work for yourself. If you are, that should be more than enough. - kbeefy

3)   Hey Guy
When you are buying something this old you can be in the market for numerous headaches and misery.
The newer VWs are a lot better especially the upper 1970's models because of things like fuel injection and electronic ignition systems.
The old school points systems are unreliable and when they get wet are hard to start,not to mention that the points are well obsolete even by today'sstandards.
The only thing to do is to sell it asap because you'll be so sorry you bought it in the first place,the costs outweigh the joys of owning one. - lwr735

4)   This is a difficult one. You will need expert assistance. You can try asking here
www.expresshelpline.com
Its a paid service and cheap. I personally like this service but thats just me.” - Sanjeev

5)   The easiest car in the world to work on.

The brakes probably need to be totally redone, but that is easy.
The wheel cylinders are only $20 apiece, and the master is about $100.
Shoes are $15/wheel.
The only hard part is getting the large axle nut off the back, (take to a shop and have then take it off and back on with air before you take them off yourself), and learning how to grease and adjust front bearings, (you pack between the bearing with as much grease as you can and adjust bearing to no freeplay but no preload).

The shifter is trivial, with a bushing in front and universal in back. Take and hour and cost $10.

Ball joints are also cheap and easy, $25 eash and an hour. But you will also probably need track arm bushings, that need to be pressed in, at $50 each.

Otherwise nothing to it.

Much better than newer cars because you don't have to fool around with expensive and finicky fuel injection, breakerless ignition, sensors, computer controls, etc., which are a total pain. - Motorhead


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Question 4
what car is beater subaru st-i or a jetta?...  

Answers
1)   The term beater is not limited to make and model. A beater is just an old car that has had a rough life. You don't care if it gets beat up more. However, I think an st-i is more likely to become a beater because it is more robust and reliable.

Most beaters are old pick ups or economy cars. - Headtater

2)   I think the Jetta is the better car, because it has more 3rd party parts available. It is easier to work on.
In Japan they impose a massive tax on cars more than 5 years old, so Japan does not engineer for long life. They tend to change parts often while manufacturing, depending on current price. This makes for difficulty in finding replacements. - Motorhead

3)   Sti's will kill any jetta. Sti's also have PLENTY of parts that are about the price of the German piece of s**t cars they call Volkswagen.

Overall subaru makes a better car. - baddogjmh

4)   I presume you meant better, not beater. The Subaru is better. More crash resilient and more reliable. - MRD


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Question 5
my seat ibiza i filled it with petrol?...  Seat ibiza 1.4 petrol mpi w reg i filled the tank i with 10 pounds of petrol and i got 60 miles out of this around town and stuff do you think this is very good or could be better.

Answers
1)   I think this is excellent! It makes me feel that the Oil refinery where i live has done its job proprly of keeping drivers informed. - joeyrodent2

2)   If you went on a longer journey and didn't speed you could probably do even better. Sounds good.To ensure you get the best from your car get it regularly serviced by a good mechanic..private ones charge less than the garages. - andianna

3)   It's your driving technique , or lack of. Drive smoothly and listen to your engine , it will tell you it's struggling in the wrong gear. You should get about 80mpg around town. Don't 'horse' the car in the wrong gear. - 16 seconds in

4)   its not bad though i do think you could do better. always drive in the highest gear possible :D - BargainBasement


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Does my FWD Volkswagon also have 4WD?

Question 1
Does my FWD Volkswagon also have 4WD?...  I am looking to buy a FWD Volkswagon Passat wagon. I have a Toyota T100 and it is a RWD but also has a 4WD option, does the Volkswagon have the same feature?

Answers
1)   You can get a AWD Passat if that's what you're asking. If you buy a FWD Passat then it will be FWD... - Chad D

2)   All wheel drive, similar to Audi's quattro is available. It's called 4Motion. - djaca70

3)   Like Chad D said, you can get either a FWD or AWD Passat, but you won't be able to switch between the two like in your T100. - Paul

4)   There is the 4WD Syncro, Touareg,and Routan. These are selectable.
Or you could take an AWD Passat and add unlocking hubs on the front. (but not recommended) - Motorhead


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Question 2
is this blue too bright for the vw jetta?...  I recently turned 16 and I am looking at cars, I really like the Jetta but for used cars this is the only color available...I don't think it is terrible I just don't know if it is too bright? do you guys think it looks tacky?

http://gallery.carreview.com/data/car/678/medium/2009_vw_jetta_tdi_19.jpg

Answers
1)   I like it - Skuske

2)   Not at all. I think it is a nice color - MOODYBLUE412

3)   no thats a good color..... especially for that year. i have a lighter color of blue, I'm a guy, and i still like it. Go for it - Jimmy S

4)   that's a great color for the jetta!
a lot of girls at my school have jettas, and they're all red, black, white, or miserably wrecked.
(: - mybabybow


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Question 3
what pressure do i fill the free on to in an 04 bug?...  

Answers
1)   In light of your question, this is not a DIY project. - LeAnne

2)   I guess that you meant to write freon and not free!
If the freon is correct, then the answer is a little complicated.
The AC system, when operating, has a high pressure (output) side and a low pressure (suction) side! Freon is usually added to the suction side line.
It would be best, if have never done this before, to get some experienced person to help you the first time. If you make a mistake and overcharge the system, you and/or the system could be damaged! - alleyoop0391

3)   Freon is done by weight not pressure. To much and you raise the pressure to high and can blow up the compressor. Normal is about 130 to 145 on the high side and 80 to 90 on the low.To do the job correctly you need to vacuum out the old freon and then put in the proper amount. The car will have a sticker in the engine compartment that tells you how much to put in. - uthockey32


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Question 4
Registering a Bug, 3 years back registration?...  what would i be looking at in fees??
I want to buy a bug....found a running one for 850--- what would i be looking at in fees if its is a 1969, with 3 years no paperwork done one it.......?????

Answers
1)   Since you are the new owner you would not be responsible for the back registration. Just take in the paper work that shows you just bought it. - uthockey32

2)   get the vin or plate # and call the DMV, tell them your thinking of buying it and you wanted to check if there are any fees on it, usually they'll tell you if there is and how much. - Christopher M

3)   Registration fees are to license the car to make it legal to drive for that year. It's not something that is required unless the car is being driven thus the DMV isn't going to require you to pay for the years the car wasn't being driven. - Paul


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Question 5
Vw engine seized or not I need advice?...  So, I hit a rock pretty good and tore a hole in the oil pan, but then drove a few feet not really realizing what I had done.I parked the car and in the morn I figured it out very quickly when I saw the trail of oil and my skid plate on the ground.But I was in the woods so had to drive my car out to have it towed so I drove it not even a few yards to a clearing and parked.My question is I dont know if I seized the engine or not in that short time the car seemed to run fine given to situation but I'm not sure if when I fix it and start it up if Its gonna work.

Answers
1)   If the motor will start then it is not froze up. Most likely it is OK.

What do you mean you "hit a rock pretty GOOD"? sounds like you hit it pretty BAD! LOL Just joking Really I think you did all the right things. Good luck! - clncarplz

2)   generally speaking, when you drive and oil starved engine what happens is the parts moving back and forth overheat from friction, and at some point if the heat is severe a piston may weld itself to the sleeve. and the engine is toast, the other thing that can happen is a bearing that does not have enough oil will spin, or wear until it starts to knock (which actually takes a while, and if it freezes up while running, then the engine blows. The smartest thing to do, is what you did, turn it off. Now there is usually a tiny residual bit of oil on parts, and when things are cold, the clearances are bigger, starting up the engine and driving it a few yards is unlikely to have damaged anything, but only because you did all the right things. you can put a big socket on the nut holding the pulley on the crankshaft with a long breaker bar and rotate the engine in the direction it turns when running, if it moves freely, its not seized. also keep in mind, that if any damage did occur, the first time you start it after you fix it you will find out. from your description, of what happened, and the fact I have blown a bug engine or two, I believe the engine will start and run just fine, and it is doubtful if you caused any internal damage. best of luck, even though doing the right thing was a pain in the ass and very inconvenient, turning the key off in a situation like that is critical to saving your motor, good job!!! please leave additional details and tell us how the start up goes ??? - dick car guy

3)   There will be enough residual oil to drive a few yards probably.
So it will probably be fine.
It would not have had a chance to get hot even if there was friction.

If you want to be sure, then install an oil gauge.
If the bearings took damage, the oil pressure will be low and continually drop until you throw a rod bearing.
If oil pressure continues to be normal, you have nothing to worry about.

What you could have done was to clean the oil off the pan with starting fluid, and then use duct tape to seal the leak enough for you to get some oil to stay in. - Motorhead


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I've got a 2007 VW Passat ready to turn in or buy for $15000 but sons say it will be a lemon after 70k miles!?

Question 1
I've got a 2007 VW Passat ready to turn in or buy for $15000 but sons say it will be a lemon after 70k miles!?...  It's been great and has 38k. Do you know if ALL Passats will have big trouble with the fuel pumps as they're telling me? Help! I must decide soon.

Answers
1)   Ask your sons what miles have anything to do with the condition of a car.

Wait for them to stutter and stammer, and attempt to explain how far something has gone somehow equals what shape it's in.

Seriously. Think about it. It's just a scale of distance. It doesn't say the car is in good shape, or bad shape.

I don't get why so many people look at miles and think it gives them some magical insight into how much longer the car will last, but don't be as stupid as your sons.

if you like the car, keep it, and maintain it well..

Oh, and remind them that the lemon law, and therefore, the definition of cars as "lemons" only applies to new cars.

A used car isn't a lemon. It's just a used car. In good shape or bad. - Vipassana

2)   The guy before me has a point but is pretty dumb.
Yeah the mileage means distance. But the more mileage the more wear and tear. Thats why they tell you to replace certain things after a certain mileage has been reached. If the car is maintained and cared for then there wont be any problems.

I doubt passats have problems with the fuel pumps. If you do hit a problem with the fuel pump, you can buy one on your own and replace it yourself. its fairly easy to do, just research it online and youtube to get an actual video of it. Me and my dad replaced the fuel pump on my 97 jetta gls earlier this month.
However VW seem to have a lot of electrical problems, at least the older ones do. for example my passanger window doesnt work, nor does my backseat driver side window. And the trunk button sometimes has difficulty registering (i have to press it multiple times) - Shaun diZle

3)   VW has had some serious reliability issues over the years, which in turn leads to some pretty bad consumer reviews, there's plenty online to look at, I wouldn't be too worried about the fuel pump as that's not as bad as the transmission going south, that usually happens around 70k. I can think of better cars for 15k - Buster

4)   What do they know? Keep it, maintain it, and it will go well past 70K. - djaca70

5)   That is ridiculous.
I have over 300,000 on my Gulf GTI.
VW has never had any sorts of serious problems.
It is the most reliable brand out there.

It is easy to prove.
Look at the resale value.
VW holds resale value better than any other car.

And it is silly to talk about any car being a lemon.
It is almost always the owners and faulty mechanics who don't do good maintenance.
The Passat uses Bosch fuel pumps, the same as Volvo and Mercedes.
There is no "big trouble" with the fuel pumps.

Just silly rumors. - Motorhead


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Question 2
Are Volkswagon cars generally a money pit?...  We have a 2004 VW Passat. This year alone we have put probably $3000 in to this car. Every year it's something. My husband insists that VW cars are "special" and need to go to a dealership for repairs (which means higher labor costs). We aren't wealthy. I think this car is over-priced and not worth it. I can not fathom how we have put more into this VW in the last two years than I have put in my 1998 Explorer in the last EIGHT years!

Is this generally a money sucking car? Or do we have s troke of bad luck with this one?
I didn't drive it into anything. They are mechanical failures of various types. Not body repairs.

Answers
1)   Stop driving it into things then........dumb ass - tk240z

2)   I think you had a stroke of bad luck.
However,
it is normal for a VW to cost more than other cars. It's an import car from europe, so labour costs as well as parts' costs will be higher than, say, the Explorer's. Your husband's persistence on bringing it to the dealership is definitely costing you more, but it could be because it's still under warranty, or simply because he wants to keep authentic VW parts in the car. A general garage will definitely be cheaper, but you have to know your way pretty well around them to not get ripped off or a bad job done on the car.

As for being worth it, that's a matter of opinion. I'm not picky about cars, if it's got 4 wheels and it goes decently fast and is decently safe, I'd drive it. If I were in your situation, I would either bring it elsewhere for repairs, or definitely ditch that car and get myself something else that would cost me less per year in maintenance.

PS: a stray thought, I know resell value is pretty high on VWs. - David S

3)   volkvwagon are shit belive me.
The parts are so expensive and the design are made by a retarded fool.
Buy a Range Rover sport - Jollymankillu

4)   VW has always been the least expensive car to own and operate.
That is because they not only are well engineered and built, but because there are so many of them, and they try to use consistent parts and methods.
This means there are more 3rd party mechanics and parts available for VW, than any other car made.

So the problem is your husband.
Instead of using this fantastic supply of 3rd party parts and mechanics, he has been using the dealer.
And that is a terrible idea.
The good mechanics all go independent, so you get a lot of kids at the dealer.
Dealers don't do good repairs because they mainly want to sell new cars, not fix old ones.
It is the independents who live or die by the quality of their work.

It is true you can beat an Explorer and it won't show very much as compared to a VW, but if you actually do take care of it, a VW will last almost forever, with far less cost, any time.
It has nothing to do with luck. Cars do not break because of luck. They break because of abuse and lack of maintenance. Nothing serious should ever happen because everything can be caught before it becomes expensive. - Motorhead


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Question 3
Does the VW Beetle have a draft shaft, or is it like a front wheel drive car, with the engine in the back?...  Does the VW Beetle have a draft shaft, or is it like a front wheel drive car, with the engine in the back?

Answers
1)   The old beetle, has a transmission mounted w/ the drive axles coming out on each side. The engine has no motor mounts, but is bolted onto the trans w/ 4, 17mm bolts. If it takes you more than 15 minutes to take the motor out, you're fired. - Bob H

2)   Neither the 'old Beetle' [produced until the 1980's] or the New Beetle [began production in 1998] have a 'drive shaft'. These two cars are completely different . About the only thing they share is the similar body style and the name...
Usually, only cars with engines in front and rear wheel drive have a drive shaft. BMW , for example. Also, All-Wheel-Drive or 4-wheel drive cars have a drive shaft.
The old Beetle had its engine in the back. It had 2 short axles connecting the transmission to the wheels.
The New Beetle has its engine in the front. Its called front wheel drive. It also has 2 short axles from the trans to the wheels.
Hope this helps. - fenton

3)   You did not specify which Beetle(the New Beetle or the old Type 1-the air cooled engines) Most people don't know the difference calling them all Beetles. Volkswagen never officially called it a Beetle until 1971(with the SuperBeetle) Otherwise, they were all the Type 1 sedan.
All front wheel drive cars I know of, have the engines in the front. Name me one car company that doesn't.

The Type 1's had an aircooled motor mounted in the rear directly onto the transmission/rear axle (or transaxle)From the transaxle to the wheels were independent driveshafts. They were rear wheel drive because the engine weight was there - and the weight gives you traction.
The New Beetle(which is a step away from the air cooled engines to water cooled engines) is a front engine mounted onto a transaxle on the front end. (This is basically the Rabbit engine frame assembly with a different body) So it is front wheel drive because the weight of the engine is over the wheels for the same reason as the rear wheel drive cars. It basically has 2 independent drive shafts(one to each wheel)as the transaxle was the source of twisting power. Much easier to understand if you got a "Fix your VW" repair manual and looked at the pictures.
The driver always has a "draft" in one hand. Why do you think they are the friendliest people? - I might assist if I feel like it


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Question 4
why dose my 1971 1200 beetle have trouble accelerating?...  the bug runs fine for about half an hour then all of a sudden flat spots in the acceleration start to appear then a few minutes later the car as real trouble acceleration and starts jumping around you ever have to drop down a gear and rag the f**k out of it before changing up or you just have to keep pumping the gas pedal and it will pick up speed. It has no trouble holding any speed it only has trouble accelerating. Ive reset the points recheck all the valves and reset the timing to 10 degrees BTDC please i need help

Answers
1)   change the fuel filter first. check the fuel pump pressure. if all else fails you might have to rebuild the carb - brian d

2)   Brian D pretty much has it.

But besides checking fuel pressure (3 to 5 psi), you should also check volume.
It should squirt a couple of feet.
Your fuel tank input screen (looks like a vertical tube about an inch in diameter and 4" high), could be getting restricted.

It could also just be the accelerator pump, and not require the whole carb being rebuilt.
Take the air cleaner off and pump the butterfly.
You should be able to see the accelerator pump squirt through the small brass tube.
I have even seen them where the tube had fallen in. - Motorhead

3)   Sounds like crappy points sticking when heated to me. - doane_nut


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Question 5
What would be the reason for the rear wheels on a 1968 VW beetle to be bowed in?...  Ok so im working on a 1968 beetle and i pulled the rear end out and put it back in and I did it exactly the way I put it back in but now the rear wheels are bowed in like this \ / and it is just got me puzzled of what I could have maybe done wrong or if it will straighten back out if I drive it down the road. Thanks
-Clint

Answers
1)   The wheels will return to a normal stance once you move the car. - Arthur O

2)   Is the motor in yet? That additional weight will level them out as that is what the torsion was set to hold. If the motor is in, but you have not moved the vehicle yet - then think of the tires as pencil erasers. they don't slide easily when pushed sideways so they are stuck by the friction on the floor. Get it rolling - just down the driveway is enough. You will see, the wheels come to normal. - I might assist if I feel like it

3)   The 1968 was the last year of the swing arm axle.
It always has rear camber.
It is why you should rotate tires on older VWs (but rotating tires is not a good idea on newer cars).
When you hit a bump, the axle swings up and goes from negative camber to positive camber.
So slightly inward is a reasonable compromise.
It was originally desogned for off road, where it did not matter.
Look at the Dakar road ralley, and you will see all the competing cars have lots of camber to start with.
When they went independent rear suspension in 1969, there was no longer a need for initial camber.

However, it is also true that they will look better once you roll 10 feet and they flatten out some. - Motorhead


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Is Volkswagen Jetta GL good for first car?

Question 1
Is Volkswagen Jetta GL good for first car?...  Please Help! I am really would like to buy an good, reliable, cheap, car because I go to work and college everyday and need easy transportation and over 2 weeks of browsing and doing research I finally came across with 1999 Volkswagen Jetta GL for $2500.00 the miles on the car is 104,370. It is automatic transmission (That's what transmission I want not Manuel). Perfect condition no dents, rips, and etc and interior is clean too. It's an 4 door car and drive tran is FWD. I understand Honda, Nissan, Toyota are the best but they are too expensive and also I am new driver on the road and don't want to think about expensive car. What you think will it be good car??

Answers
1)   its good if you take care of it. but if the parts break its costly - The Situation

2)   have it checked out by a mechanic before you buy - pickmefirstplz

3)   Generally VW's are more expensive to repair than Japanese cars. And you're wrong about Toyotas and Hondas being more expensive. Generally VW is more expensive at retail price than Japanese auto makers. I just test drove a Honda civic that was also $2500. But a car is a car, and if you found something with that kind of mileage for such a low price, well first I would check it to make sure everything is working correctly, and NOT if the paint is good or there aren't any dents. You need something that WORKS, not necessarily something that's pretty.

But if it works and doesn't need repairs, I'd say go for it. I would go check it out in a heartbeat if I saw a deal like that. - Chris L

4)   You also should compare car insurance quotes for cars before buying one, for example here - carinsurance.yoll.net - Richard

5)   yeah its a decent car, especially as a first. i have a jetta gls and its pretty nice.
mine was 3000 and it had about the same miles. it lasts quite a long time. but recently it started having problems.

first your gonna want to replace the clips on the coolant hoses and such as they "always" get worn out and cause dripping. this is just standard.
but my cars hose broke so i almost overheated the engine.

recently my dad tried starting the car when we ran out of gas, and supposely corroded the fuel pump. we took it to the dealer and they said that may be the problem if its not something with the ignition. so we paid 325 for the ignition since we couldnt do it ourselves. that wasnt it so we replaced the fuel pump ourselves. still wasnt it so the dealer said theyd look at it and fix it for free. well they looked at it for free and said that the timing belt was messed up, which i thought was fishy cuz i thought theyd notice something like that the first time around when they did the diagnostic. so that cost like 750$
and then the car started a handful of times but was shaky when it started. and it would die out right away unless you started driving literlly right away. now it stopped starting again. and my dad thinks its cuz we need to replace the distributor cap cuz he thinks the spark is getting out of a little hole where theres a black mark on the cap. i hope hes right.

but keep in mind i put like 40k miles on my car in a year and a half maybe a little longer - Shaun diZle


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Question 2
how can i watch dvd in my vw routan while in drive?...  

Answers
1)   And you think anyone will fall for such a silly question? - Motorhead

2)   I honestly hope that you're not serious. - LeAnne

3)   You are kidding right? Shouldn't you keep your eyes on the road, and your hands upon the wheel? - djaca70

4)   Besides being extremely dangerous to do while driving, in many states it is illegal to play a movie within the the driver's view while the vehicle is in motion.

That is why many vehicles require that the emergency brake be activated before the dvd will operate.

Also, note that most in-vehicle entertainment systems are placed behind the driver's seat for the passenger's enjoyment, not the driver's. - Thomas


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Question 3
how would i find out what "mark" my golf is?...  how would i find out what "mark" my golf is? I am trying to hunt down Various parts for my p reg golf 1.4 but while looking online for an exhaust but they all say to fit mark 1 or mark 2 and so on please help thanks

Answers
1)   its a mark 2 mark 1s are well old - Paul

2)   Yours is a MK3.

http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20081120130724AA4sNis - Sim

3)   Have a look on here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf and you will be able to judge for yourself by the pictures of each mark - Timbo is here

4)   Yours is a 1996 which makes it a Mk III. - "isitme"


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Question 4
Is a VW beetle safe for a beginner driver?...  Hello!
So, i am going to begin driving soon and my family has an old VW Slug bug. My mom got this car when she was 18 years old and so that would make it 34 years old. There isn't and real problems with it except its been sitting for a long time, and needs to be fixed up. I very badly want to drive it but my concern is the safety that it has. As far as i'm concerned it has no airbags and i want to know if it would actually be safe for me to drive and how the crash test ratings are or any personal experiences with crashes that i could know about before putting myself in danger!

Thank you for your help!

Answers
1)   I have a baja bug and that would have to be the safest thing ive ever driven. - David

2)   I so love those old Beetles!
My 1st car was a 1972 Beetle; drove the Arctic White Bug all over the East Coast for many memorable years. Never once let me down.
Reliability, economy, easy to work on, were its strong points.
However, safety was mediocre . Just like all cars built during this time, safety was not paramount . Nowadays it is hyped interminably. The Beetle was a stout, robust car for its time.
As you say it has no airbags. It also does not have any of the modern significant safety features; ABS brakes, etc.
Besides, its been idle for a long time. Brake lines and master cylinders dont take kindly to the moisture accumilation that comes with idleness. Have them checked and have the brake fluid replaced. Check the condition of the shocks too.
It hurts to say this but I would not drive an old Bug . OK maybe just on Saturday or Sunday mornings to visit Starbucks. Limited miles; In my opinion, it just isnt safe enough to protect me from an encounter with a SUV or truck.....
But I still miss my ol' Bug. So when the New Beetle came out in 1998, we test drove one and loved it. We bought a 1999 . It had all the safety features we wanted; a steel shell with steel bars in the doors, ABS brakes, airbags, impactless steering column, crumple zones, etc. We had the best of both worlds! The New Beetle was as trustworthy as my ol' 72 was. Enjoyed many years of happy motoring.
So that might be an option for you too. If you feel the 1976 Beetle is'nt up to your standards, I suggest a New Beetle...... - fenton

3)   The VW bug was designed originally for military off road use.
It is probably the single strongest vehicle made for its weight.
The pan on the bottom is incredibly strong, yet the whole front of the car can crush and absorb a 50 mph impact so that passengers survive unharmed.
The rounded shape if the strongest design anyone has ever come up with.

And airbags make no sense at all.
They are powered by an explosive device that has been known to kill hundreds of people.
Seat belts are just as good, and have never killed anyone.
Nor do seatbelts cost $400 to replace every time you have a fender bender.

If you are worried about putting yourself in danger, never ride in the front seat of a car with airbags.

And ABS is almost as foolish.
Any good driver can stop shorter than the automated ABS system. There is on way ABS can know what the right pedal pressure is, so it wildly oscillates from one extreme to the other. It is not hard to do better than that.

I have not only owned dozens of bugs, but I have bought dozens more totaled in accidents, for parts. And I can tell you they survived high speed crashes better than any other car made. It is the weight of heavier cars that crush them and kill the passengers. It is the fact the VW is light that makes it safer.

It is true that if a heavy cars will fare better than a light one when they hit together head on, but that is a reason to make heavy cars illegal, not anything against light cars. Light cars do much better if you hit an immobile object.

And a new Beetle is not a good suggestion. They are much more expensive to maintain than an older bug. A young student can't afford it. The old bugs are very simple, anyone can work on them, and parts are dirt cheap. New Beetles have things like ABS, automatic transmission, AC, and airbags, which make them far more difficult and expensive to maintain. The cost of changing a thermostat on a new Beetle will be over $400, and cost more than a complete brake hydraulic replacement on an old beetle. - Motorhead

4)   its prob not that safe. but according to the person before me the design is safe and the weight makes it safe too. you dont need abs breaks, just remember to pump the breaks and not slam on them.

also considering this is your first car, your prob 16. therefore your probably only gonna be driving this car around your home town. when i first started driving i only went like 15 miles north on the free way at the farthest. and i thought that was far. since your most likely driving on the street i doubt youll have to worry about hitting something at top speeds. so yes its prob safe for that

now i drive daily 50 miles to get to school and 50 miles back. well every other day but still haha. - Shaun diZle


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Question 5
where to get copy made of vw beetle key made?...  i just bought a 2001 vw new beetle and i want a spare key! but i'm not sure where to get it made... i know where there is a vw dealership, but i'm not sure if thats where i would go. i went online and i couldve ordered one, but then where do i get it cut to match my key? please help! i just want a copy!

Answers
1)   WalMart Automotive - I just had one made for my Nissan. You DON'T have to deal with a dealer all the time. My key ran me $1.86.

Hope you get your copy soon! - Jeriseau

2)   I HAD to have the dealer make mine. - ottovonflea

3)   Oooh, that will run around $3-4 hundred dollars, VW=Expensive. I have a Jetta, and was going to get a key made, the car will not start without the sensor in the key, thus dealership. - nnik

4)   A really good locksmith can cut your key and "clone it," so that it doesn't have to be programmed to the ignition/computer of the car. The machine isn't cheap; they run from $1500 or so all the way up $10,000, depending upon what the machine can do (some of the machines can also cut a "lazer key") so only the better locksmiths have it. Your car is equipped with anti-theft ignition system, in some places called a "electronic dead bolt," and key is "chipped" and normally needs to be programmed to the vehicle in order to start it. Since you have an existing key that works, you can either take it to the dealership or VW independent specialist, have them cut the key and programme both keys to the vehicle so that will both start the car. The good thing about the "chipped key" is that if you loose it, the other key(s) can be programmed to the car again and the lost key (if found) won't be able to start the car. The lost key will still be able to open the door and possibly the boot and/or the glove box (depending upon the cut) but won't start it.

Normally, I suggest you have three keys (that's what the car came with); 2 switch blade keys that have the keyless remote system on them and a valet key that will only open the door and start the car, won't open the glove box and/or release the fuel door switch (on the door) to operate. The dealership or a good locksmith can make you a valet key so that you can give that to people who park your car. If you programme one or up to six keys, usually the labour charge is the same (at least at the dealerships I've worked at), so it makes sense to make as many keys as you might actually want and save programming costs. Most places charge between .5 to 1.5 hours of labour at the posted hourly labour rate to programme the keys...

Hope this helps, a car - a car nut


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Where can i buy headlights for a 73 Supper Beetle?

Question 1
Where can i buy headlights for a 73 Supper Beetle?...  My friend's 1973 Volkswagen Super Beetle's head lights are broken. Her bday is coming up in 6 days. I would like to get her Super Beetle head lights !!! please help!!

Answers
1)   Any decent parts store should have those headlights in stock, Napa, Autozone, Advance Auto parts all carry the older large round headlights because many older cars used them, not just the beetle.

Call your local parts store - BalloonRich

2)   at auto parts store.at junk yard. - Madu.s.a.

3)   Advance Auto parts all carry the older large round headlights because many older cars used them, not just the beetle. - Dafdfgd

4)   Assuming you mean JUST the lamps and not the entire assembly:

Kill two birds with one stone.

At JCWhitney.com you can not only get new headlights, but you can buy a conversion kit that changes them over to the brighter and more reliable quartz lights used in newer cars. Runs you about $35 plus the cost of the lamps which you can then pick up at a local auto parts store.

. - ca_surveyor

5)   cip1.com sells pretty much every part you can think of for air cooled VWs

Good luck - Jay S


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Question 2
VW Beetle just for girls?...  Is it uncool for a guy to drive a VW Beetle?

Answers
1)   i think that it should be just for girls. but ive seen guyes drive them too. - racingfingers94

2)   it is definitely uncool for a guy to drive A Beetle ur either a little fruity or weird... - ortizj1413

3)   I see a few men in them, but mostly women. My husband refuses to drive mine unless it's an emergency. It has a flower vase on the dash, that makes it wa-a-a--ay too girlie, in his opinion. - skier_80302

4)   yes I would consider it rather gay if a guy was driving a VW beetle - Paul

5)   an old bug of new bug

old bugs are bad as-s - Dr. Douchebag


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Question 3
07 jetta a/c problem?...  well i noticed when the car is in neutral and i turn on the a/c, the a/c fan does not come on by the radiator. what this does is just blows in warm air through the vents. The weird thing is when i start driving for couple min. with the a/c on, the air starts to cold...? and when its in neutral it comes back with warm air. What problem could this be?

Answers
1)   This isn't a problem. The thing is that the fans usually start working when you start driving for a couple of minutes. Another thing you can do to get the car cooler is to use AC refrigerant I think that's what it is called. Go to NAPA or Auto-Zone or target and u can get some. At the auto shops like NAPA they will show you how to connect it and use it. - John F

2)   AC does not normally put out much at idle. You need to rev the engine before you really get any good AC output.
So I can't really tell if there is anything wrong at all.

If the output is less then it used to be, then you are probably simply low on freon.
But do not put more freon in unless you see bubbles in the reciever/dryer sight glass (cylinder after the condenser, near radiator). Too much freon will blow the pump.

But it does not sound like anything is wrong unless the car starts to overheat and the radiator fans still do not go on.
And by the way, the fan on the radiator is for the radiator really, not the AC. - Motorhead

3)   First off there isn't a sight glass on this car. That was back in the day. Secondly, yes that is a problem. Your cooling fans arn't coming on at idle when they should. The fact that you feel cold air when you drive is just because as you drive, the airflow going through the front of the engine helps cool off the condenser. This is actually a common problem on Jettas. The brushes on the electric motor in the fan wear out. Nothing you can do about it. Just get some new fans and install them. Pretty easy. Just four screws, and the fans slide out from underneath the car. - Enrique R

4)   I agree with the last answerer (Enrique)..but before going to the fan,I would first look at the two 30A fuses on the battery first (depending on type of jetta/model year), these fuses easily give up due to heavy current draw from the fan motor.
Goodluck - schatz


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Question 4
2003 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0 GL acceleration problems?...  I have a 2003 Volks Jetta and recently it's been having some weird acceleration problems. It has just had a tune up and a Volkswagen Dealership fixed a weird electrical problem, so I don't think it's a spark plug problem. What's been happening is that car is revving REALLY high, but the car has very slow forward movement, and it takes a long time to pick up speed. It also seems to rev high when going at slowish speeds. I think it was at around 3,000 RPMs just going at 40 mph when it's usually at around 2,000/2,300 RPMs going at the same speed.

Sometime before, I always had to rev the engine high to pick up speed after stopping, the RPMs would increase, but then the car would jerk forward when the acceleration picked up and the RPMs would go back down to normal.



The car has almost 100,000 miles on it. It's around 99,600. Could it be the transmission? Clutch? Help!
The car is an automatic, not a 5 speed.

Answers
1)   Your transmission is shifting too late, or it could be that you are too heavy on the gas and the transmission is having trouble keeping up. If your transmission is not wanting to shift at 3k rpms it could be because your foot is on the gas so just let off a bit and then it should shift. If not then it's your transmission. - Peter

2)   Some kind of transmission problem. Low fluid, failing torque converter, internal failure. Get ready to pay. - Captain Obvious

3)   You were just at the dealership. Go back. Without directly saying they "f" it, indicate to them you did not have this problem before. Talk to the Service Manager. Not the front honkies. Most likely low on transmission fluid. But let them make that detemination in case I am missing something. - I might assist if I feel like it

4)   I have problem with acceleration for my 1999. - Shary


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Question 5
Is volkswagen Beetle already selling good in India?...  

Answers
1)   Oh yes, Beetle has got a phenomenon response in India as the sales of the car are much above the expectations. The car is seen as a style statement by the rich-shots and flaunting the car is the ideal way to do that. The car has managed to sell 280 units till noe which is great, The car is priced at nearly 20 Lakhs segment, but the high responses only suggest that Indians are now ready to spend provided the offering is exceptionally unique. - sonika

2)   I'll be surprised if they are able to sell anything beyond 10-20 Beetles per year!!!! It's got only heritage value... Though interior quality is excellent... but it still NOT a treat to drive...

Will NOT sell for sure!!!! - Sonia

3)   You may be surprised to know how the car sales for the Beetle are moving in India. Volkswagen has sold about 284 units of the New Beetle in less than five months since its launch. April alone brought the sale of about 92 cars. The iconic Beetle has a waiting period of two-three months, as the company is importing it from its manufacturing plant in Mexico, and selling it in India as a completely built-up unit. Read through for the complete info about the sales: http://blog.carazoo.com/2010/05/bug-called-the-%e2%80%98beetle%e2%80%99.html

For the complete review you can visit: http://www.carazoo.com/volkswagen/newbeetle - Carazoo.com


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how to put turbo in my engine for a jetta 2.0?

Question 1
how to put turbo in my engine for a jetta 2.0?...  just bought my car and need it to go faster im a street racier and need help

Answers
1)   Okay, since you are a street racer you should have enough money to do this, take it to a shop if you really dont know how. Otherwise, i think you should check www.neuspeed.com or www.ecstuning.com. Since you didnt provide the year of the jetta i cant help you pick parts that will work the best for your jetta, but if you put on a turbo, you need usually to get new pistons and crankshaft to handle the increased force and heat. Also get a cold air intake, a more aggressive camshaft and a sport suspension if you dont already have one. Thats all i can think of off the top of my head, oh also take out anything you dont need in it that weighs anything. Replace parts with lightweight pieces. And just dont put a spoiler on it please lol, its still FWD.

The stock spoiler on the GLX is the exception, it belongs there, a big wing doesnt. - Simply Jake

2)   There isn't an application for the 2 slow. If you claim you are a street racer, why didn't you get a GTi? Plus, this is an embarrassment to VW, and all the aficionados out there. - djaca70

3)   You will blow up the car if you try to install a turbo.

An easier way to get a few more HP out of the engine is remove the cylinder head, take it to a machine shop and have 2 mil removed from head mating surface, and re-install with a new head gasket. You must run high octane fuel from then on but by doing this you will increase HP by at least 15-20HP.

If that sounds ridiculous, it sounds more ridiculous to add a turbo to that car. - nywholesale

4)   you can buy my jetta, it has a turbo. it's a 1.8t though. - noname


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Question 2
is a jetta 2.5 a Diesel?...  

Answers
1)   no, that's the five-cylinder - Gob

2)   Available in both gas and diesel - Dan

3)   No, it is gasoline powered.

The Diesel will have a TDI badge under the right tail lamp. - Chris

4)   a 2.5 is a 2.5 liter..it runs on gasoline..if its a TDI then its a diesel - Javi


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Question 3
Trade my 94 Jeep Grand Cherokee for a 95 VW Golf?...  Im going for better miles per gallon here because my jeep is an all wheel drive V8 but im worried that the price to fix the VW might be too much if it breaks. Any advice or opinions please!!

Answers
1)   depends on the mileage. VW's are good cars up to a certain point(150k), and they do cost more to maintain and fix. - Gob

2)   Get a camry. They are reliable cars. Not a new one but a used one. - zmanherb

3)   yea, vw's are really expensive to fix and they need to be fixed a lot. i have owned my vw for about 7 or 8 months and have spent a good deal over $5000. and the thing only had about 50k on it. i would never get another vw and i wouldn't recommend one to anyone.

listen to the other guy and get a camry. - noname


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Question 4
I have a 1999 passat 1.8 petrol.Its not pulling well . Checked the plugs and timing all ok. Can anybody help.?...  

Answers
1)   Yes. Get rid of that piece of crap and get a real MAN car, i.e., Mustang Cobra or Vette - upyourschet

2)   Is it a turbo?

If not it's probably one of your filters, check them all (fuel etc). And are you sure your plugs are ok? It could be the HT leads (the ones that connect to the plugs). Otherwise just ask a good mechanic, VW's rarely fail but when they do it's usually the same things that go wrong. And they use the same engines, electrics etc across VW/AUDI/PORSCHE etc.

if only everthing in life was as predictable as a volkswagen - Biz Shekwan

3)   If it is not a turbo and is an automatic, the 1.8 is not going to have a lot of pulling power.

But if it used to have more power, then is it idling well?
If not, then you probably have a misfiring plug, bad wire, or intake leak.
Do any plugs look different?

The fuel or air filter could be clogged.
The air mass sensor could be dirty.
The oxygen sensor could be dirty.
Fuel pressure could be low.

You can switch to premium and advance the timing until it almost pings.

Check the catalytic converter for too much back pressure, at the oxygen sensor port.

Make sure your ATF is full, clean, pink. - Motorhead


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Question 5
My mechanic says I need new struts?...  What exactly are they and what do they do? He says I can wait a little while before I do it since the charge will be $320. He says only a couple of weeks but I'm thinking a couple of months. What are the negatives that can happen to my car if I don't get this done sooner?

Answers
1)   this one is more can be easily answered through e mail or im ...i will try though....if they are bad they can make a lot of diff sounds nost common is the kind of popping noise espi when you hit a large bump......they can also make like a squeaking noise.....if you do not get them replaced they can damage components in the front of your vehicle...to name a few the tie rods will wear more rapidly, the ball joints will wear more rapidly ....as well as if the upper strut mount goes out if can literally poke a hole through your hood (had it happen to me) the good news .....even when they are bad you can wait a good while and i mean a good while to change them like a year is safe most times......and all they basically do is absorb impacts similarly to the shocks....they just give you a smoother ride - advise please

2)   The Macpherson strut is a unit that contains the spring and the shock absorber. The original intension for the Macpherson strut was to replace the upper control arm. In simple words to test to see if your struts are gone you can simply go to the corner of your vehicle that you believe has blown struts, and jounce (push down) the corner really hard it should bounce on it's own ounce more after you have pushed it down ounce if it keeps occilating up and down then they are pouched. They should be relativly cheap to repair unless you drive a volkswagon then they cost a little more it should take no more then 2.3 hours for a licenced mechanic to change. Not much negative will happen to your vehicle other than it's very uncomfortible to drive and you may wear out your ball joints.

Northern Lights College, British Columbia, Canada - Jeff

3)   I need the same thing for my car so i know what you mean. The worst that could happen is that you will scrape the front bumper lip on curbs and the tires will rub on the fenders easier but thats like only if you have about 2 inches of clearance like mine. since i dont know what type of vw you have i say Just relax and repair them when you want, it wouldnt hurt to wait, just repair when you have the money,

My dad has driven his vw on bad struts for over 10 years.. You will do fine. trust me - Simply Jake


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Would a VW thing be a good 1st car?

Question 1
Would a VW thing be a good 1st car?...  drive 50 miles a day to school in back. 40 highway, 10 city.

Answers
1)   The VW thing stopped being imported because it couldn't pass U.S. safety standards. I sure wouldn't consider it a good first car, especially for someone who has a long commute everyday. - mustanger

2)   yes. Its my first car. and i loveee my beetle :) :)
mine is like 11 years old with a hundred or so thousand miles and it runs basically like new.
get one :)

find one you want and go on youtube or something and look up the crash test for that year and model. - blah

3)   I once owned a Thing! Believe it was a 1973 model. Here are some pro's;
Its a convertible. The windshield folds flat. The doors can be removed ; all 4 of them.
Gets decent MPG abt. 27. Fun to drive. Looks cool ; to me anyway. The interior can be hosed down with water. Mine was super reliable. Find the best one you can; dont accept a rusted, abused one.
Parts are available because the engine/transmission etc. was from the Beetle.
However body parts will probably be scarce. VW only built it for abt. 4 or 5 years. They stopped because sales went down, not because of safety issues, it was as safe as any other small car available at the time. Of course today it would be considered unsafe. No airbags, door impact supports, etc. Very easy to work on.
Cons; Loud inside. Cheap top. It had a heater that was powered by gasoline.The heater was terribly unreliable. Very slow; it only had abt. 50 HP. Hard to find one that is in good shape.
I think it would be a good 1st car if you can find a good example. One that had TLC and was well-maintained.
However, I would like to state that its a 70's car and as such will not do well in crash tests; compared to modern cars, any 70's car is not going to perform well in front or side impacts. IMO the Thing is best used as a week-end driver. Not for commuting.
Before you buy , have it checked out by a mechanic that is knowledgable with old Beetles. - fenton

4)   i dont think so i think u should buy a chevy or a ford something cheaper cuzz VW is nicee but the parts and mantenience are very expensivee - Gabriel

5)   Prob. not..

Your driving about 1100 miles per month in a car that is not designed for long commutes.

The noise factor is greater then even the VW Beetles, the suspension is a bit stiffer (more bumping) and the convertible roof and solid windows will not make for the greatest warmth in the world if you are in a cold area at winter.

Add to that the initial price which will be fairly high because this is a collectible car and it does not make it a great choice for a daily driver.

If you want to go with the VW.. buy a classic bug. Same engine and so on, but a better ride, more comfort then then thing, and easier to maintain (lots of parts available vs. the rare thing), plus the bug will also hold its value if you care for it.

either way.. enjoy the ride - ca_surveyor

6)   I drive my 1973 type 181 daily and love it. I have many other vehicles I could drive, but the Thing is the most fun. I do about 60 miles a day in it and do not have many problems (I have to replace the throttle cable about every 3 or 4 months because I need a new cable housing tube so it wears through and snaps $6 fix)
My Thing has the stock 1600 in it (tired and still gets 24.2mpg) that has never been rebuilt. I love the convertible top and how easy the windows come out and fit under the hood up front. Parts are cheap and easy to find. The car is easy to work on and requires minimal service (oil change and valve adjustment every 3000 miles....about 30 minutes for everything)
I have owned bugs, buses, squarebacks and 2 Things over the years and the Things are the best!
If you do not like the idea of an air cooled engine, it is easy enough to transplant a Toyota, Honda or Subaru water pumper into it. You can also ad A/C if desired. - Rod Knocker

7)   i would try for something with a little better i recomend the ford fusion or taurus (new) bett er economy and more stylish or go for a used camry or corrolla - Chris


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Question 2
My 1999 New Beetle sputters at idle?...  So my automatic 1999 New Beetle...which I know hate with a passion has yet another issue. ( I swear there is always something wrong with it) It sputters at idle... and it even rocks backwards and forwards a bit...but accelerates fine.. it's worse when it's rainy..I think it may be the injectors...or the timing but Im not sure... The check engine light is on and flashes every once and a while.
I refuse to take it to the dealer so I hope this is something that i can fix (I have some expirene fixing desiel..but not much with gas) The dealership charges way too much and are assholes... I rather have a headache for trying to fix the damn thing then pay them another cent.
So if you have an idea of what may be wrong...can you provide a link for nstructon on how to fix it?

Answers
1)   when the check engine light flashes

that usually means the engine is misfiring

so.
could be
spark plugs
spark plug wires..
etc.. - Y/A™

2)   First of all, why are you taking it to the dealer?
Dealers only want to sell new cars, and are required to fix them in order to do that, but they don't want to work on cars and are not good at it or affordable.

VW has the largest number of independent mechanics of any auto brand, and the most important advise I can give is to start taking advantage of that.
Find a dependable independent shop.

Second is that when a car runs badly on rainy days, it is almost always bad spark plug wires, or cap and rotor.
You could also clean the plugs and set them to a smaller gap, like .035" or so.

Timing is worth checking, because it is easy and you get more power if you advance timing as much as possible.

But not likely to be injectors. They don't get better and worse, but stay consistent. - Motorhead

3)   Try replacing the coil pack and if you feel like it, the wires and plugs at the same time, since you are already right there, oh yeah, and how about that ground wire for the coil pack too, that causes cylinder activation faults. That usually takes care of the problem. - Sydrell

4)   As a VW technician, I can say that not everyone in a dealership is an *sshole. Most likely your problem is a leaking coil pack. If it is a 2.0 Litre, run the engine at idle and spray water over the coil pack and plug wires. If the engine runs rougher, or you see sparks, you have found your problem. If it is a 1.8L, the best way is to have it scanned for misfire faults (most auto parts stores will do this for free). The coils are known for causing this problem. The difference between them is the 2.0L has a coil pack and plug wires, the 1.8L has an individual coil for each cylinder. Hope this helps! - Moose

5)   why don't you just find a vw mechanic or a foreign car mechanic?
you can also buy a service manual(from any car store or the dealer) - blah


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Question 3
I have 2002 passat that broke timing belt this is a v6 automatic transmission is there any valve clearance l?...  

Answers
1)   There has got to be valve clearance or the engine would not run ,but with the timing belt breaking it could have have damage the valves ,and you can't tell until you strip down the head . - keith p

2)   You have me confused, because the VR6 is driven by chain and not a timing belt.
The 2002 Passat did come in a 16 valve 4 cylinder version that had a timing belt.
But I just did one of those on a Golf GTI, and there were recesses in each piston to prevent valve damage.
Perhaps the Passat version may be interference fit, even though other VW models are not, but unlikely.
However there is nothing at risk to simply trying a new belt.
It only takes a half hour, and you need to buy a new belt anyway. - Motorhead

3)   If the car was driving when the belt broke, there is an 80% chance the valves are bent, you first need to verify that by putting a new belt on and starting it, if it runs smooth, luck bastard, if not, valves are bent, you can replace the bent valves or 2 used heads. When its all back together, make sure you have replaced the timing belt tensioners, rollers, thermostat, water pump, idler etc, or you could have the problem again with 10k miles - Sydrell

4)   The 2002 Passat didn't come with a VR6 motor. The 2.8L V6 is an interference motor, as in, if the belt breaks, the valves and pistons will make contact. You can always try a new belt and hope you got lucky (I suggest not taking it to the guy who said it only takes 30 minutes, because it takes a little bit longer than that). Unfortunately, the V6 isn't too forgiving when it comes to bending valves. - Moose

5)   The Passat has an interference engine, when the timing belt breaks, the valves and pistons collide. In other words, your engine is going to require some serious work in order to get it back in running order. - Ronald


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Question 4
i have a clacking or clicking sound in my 73 beetle engine, what can it be?...  Today i changed the accelerator cable and everything was working smooth. My dad opened my air filter up and he believes he might of dropped something in there which could be the source of the clacking noise. i know i need to replace my timing belt but i don't think it could be that, i don't know. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Answers
1)   pull the air cleaner assembly and dump it out. if the air cleaner is mounted on top of the engine and you ran it, it's too late if he did drop something in there - brian d

2)   A clicking or tapping noise can usually be attributed to your tappets or lifters. This is because you have either let your oil age far too long and it has lost it's viscosity or you put far too slick of oil (Example: 5w20 in an engine that takes 10w30). The lifter's and tappets are in your valvetrain and sit on top of your valves allowing equal amounts of oil into the cylinders around the pistons so they are properly lubricated.

Letting this problem go too long can cause some problems in your engine, minor or even serious.

Talk to a mechanic and ask him to listen to your engine, if I am correct, ask him how much it will be to repair. If it is too costly for right-now-repair, the best thing you can do is put proper oil for your engine and a high-end oil filter and keep changing your oil before it gets old (3 months of city driving is usually normal). There are also additives that you can buy at auto stores that stop the tapping temporarily, but I wouldn't bother if the tapping isn't too loud.

If it is CLACKING you hear, and you are afraid that your timing belt may be going, there is a good chance your firing sequence may be out of kilter and you're hearing a misfire or a sparkplug firing with no fuel/air to ignite it.

The air filter is a vacuum, anything dropped in it would either be drawn to the intake manifold or be sucked up against an elbow in your intake, so if you're driving and you're hearing this, I wouldn't bet on it being a foreign object. - Kurtis

3)   first of there is NO TIMING BELT only a fan belt. if he thinks he dropped something in there first place to check is the carb, since the object might not have made it to the heads. check the valve clearance since they should be checked/adjusted at every oil change. if you adjust the valves and still have the clicking noise, you'll need to pull the heads to look for any foreign matter that you think is in there and inspect the cylinder walls, cylinder head, and the heads for damage if you do find something. could be a spun bearing also. does the clicking sound deep in the engine or more on the upper end. where the sound comes from can mean many different things to check. check for crankshaft end play at the pulley. if there is more than i think 2-3mm you're ready for a rebuild

if you can post a video or something on youtube so we can hear what you mean my clicking

bad rod bearing....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOYNJFL1bRE&NR=1
loose rod.....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOYNJFL1bRE&NR=1 - Air-Cooled ACVW

4)   STOP ware you are there is NO timing belt. the tapping is a valve either loose or one that is burned. first take the valve cover off and adjust the valves. BUY A MANUEL FROM THE PART STORE.don't drive the beetle.and follow the instructions. the belt you see is a generator belt that has to be in place to run the car or it will over heat. timing is run off a gear in side the engine that never need to be changed. - Jarod C

5)   A couple of ideas....

1) There is no timing belt on a 73 beetle. Do you mean the fan belt... ?

2) If your dad dropped something in the AIR cleaner that is no big deal. If he dropped it into the Carb. that is a major problem if it is metal and makes it to the valves.. (which would then click and clatter, by the way, as they try to pass it.

3) If your dad only dropped it inot the air cleaner, then I would sugges that maybe you need to have your valves adjusted. This is something that should be checked on a regular basis anyway.

4) If your fan belt is worn, it could be hitting/slapping something.

5) When you pulled the accelerator cable thru did you push the tube back into place? If not, it may be rubbing on your engine fan inside the housing. The tube should fit flush against the fan cage.

hope those help... - ca_surveyor


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Question 5
i have a 70 dune buggy with a 4 speed can i put a porsche auto trannmission in ti?...  

Answers
1)   only if it's a porsche buggy - brian d

2)   Why don't you put a VW automatic in it, it will be a lot easier. - djaca70

3)   Only if you are looking to burn up the motor. Stay with the stick. - Kyle F

4)   If the auto is out of a 70's air cooled Porsche(914), it will not be too much work to swap. If it is out o0f a newer 911, it is not worth the effort. Find a fastback or bug with a stick o matic and use that. - Rod Knocker


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Is a Volkswagen good investment for at least 10 years?

Question 1
Is a Volkswagen good investment for at least 10 years?...  
Looking to buy the 2010 TIguan

Answers
1)   yes - ♥♦♣♠

2)   it is better u die - Godwin K

3)   no(ex vw vag technician) - green village idiot

4)   Yes, but they are very expensive to fix once they go out of warranty. - nick93mac

5)   Best auto investment possible.
They don't go through as many variations as the Japanese cars, so the parts are more consistent and available through 3rd party suppliers.
There are far more mechanics who know about them and specialize on them.
So they can be kept up and running for far longer and at far less cost than any other car in the world.

The Japanese intentionally plan for obsolescence. Their car laws practically prohibit keeping cars for a long time, so they don't built in endurance. They use a philosophy of instant inventory, so they constantly change sources, parts, design, etc, in order to save money. But that destroys long term maintenance and supply.

More expensive cars like BMW and Mercedes are either needlessly complex or expensive because they don't want to make that many of them. They cater to snob appeal.

There is no other car that holds its resale value as well as VW.
No car is a good investment, but VW is the best.
I have an 88 Golf GTI with over 300k miles, and it does not use a drop of oil between changes.

Side advice is to never buy a new vehicle, you pay through the nose for warranty. And don't take a car to the dealer. Dealers only want to sell new cars, and they are not the best for repairs or maintenance. - Motorhead

6)   Loaded question with no additional info. What year are you considering and which model? Cars in general are not a good investment.
Better off to buy something like an original Dodge Hemi Cuda with all the "stock stuff " in it and hang onto that. Less numbers were produced so more rare. Now to find one that only cost a couple hundred. - I taut I saw a puddy kat


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Question 2
How cool would it be if we could all hitch a ride from a passing lady bug!?...  

Answers
1)   Well... err. that would be pretty bizarre indeed!
As I'm a bug-a-phobic. I'd probably set the wings on fire! :p - Questioneer

2)   Ok, so like, I'm totally high right now. I just smoked like a whole crap load of Cali's finest. Not some weak Florida crap, but some real potent stuff! The kind of stuff that has beginners and teens coming on here everyday and asking questions like "I smoked weed and I hallucinated and almost passed out, I think it was laced?". Yeah that kind. Yeah that's what I got. Anyways, the first thing I saw after leaving the bong and coming on the internet was this question. It was amazing, to just imagine that. Like actually riding a ladybugs back would be so cool.

But then I thought about it, and you know what? If I wasn't so high, this question about riding on ladybugs would be STUPID! - Todd Trollsworth

3)   That's a fantastic idea! *shuffles off to ancient laboratory to create a ladybug the size of a dump truck* - gravitybong

4)   and fly off to mushroom land to eat the sun.
i bet the sun tastes good :D - Jesus


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Question 3
would it cost more to insure the 2 door VW Rabbit than the 4 door?...  

Answers
1)   Ask your insurance agent for a quote. I highly doubt that there will be much of a difference, if any. - djaca70

2)   yes - ♥♦♣♠

3)   Two door cars are considered to be slightly sportier and less family oriented, but the difference should be quite small compared to things like age, occupation, and even area code. - Motorhead

4)   Help yourself - you can check your quotes in internet, for example here - autoinsurance.bebto.com - Clay


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Question 4
My Volkswagen New Beetle's A/C makes this growling/whurring sound, how can I make it stop?...  

Answers
1)   bring it to a dealer - Nismo

2)   IGNORE NISMO, don't take it to a dealer unless you want to pay A LOT. there's a vent/fan motor that sends the air into the cabin. it's either broken or damaged somehow, find a good vw mechanic and have him sort it out, NOT THE DEALER. - Gob

3)   Could have leaves or something that came though the vent into the fan. But the fan could be hitting something or the bearing could need lube. Can't tell you how to get at the fan on a newer Beetle though. In the older models it was accessed though the engine compartment, by unscrewing the cover over the air vent. - Motorhead


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Question 5
high pitched wine from engine when accelerating could it be the turbo golf gt tdi?...  

Answers
1)   It should be. - bikerwoody

2)   Buy a Hyundai, Kia or DaeWoo!


Is it red or white wine?! - ♥♦♣♠

3)   I would be checking the V belts first to be sure they are not glazed. A turbo generally does not make any noise(well it does) but it is a distinct wine sound. (a wine that is especially good with cheese and crackers ). Best you let a VW mechanic take a listen to identify the noise for you.(and you ride with him to point out the sound). So they know what concerns your "wittle mind". - I taut I saw a puddy kat


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my 73 super beetle needs a new accelerator cable, where can i find it?

Question 1
my 73 super beetle needs a new accelerator cable, where can i find it?...  The cable that connects to the accelerator might or might not be broken, either way where can i find this cable and what exactly is it called?? what websites or catalogs are out there??
To any mechanics out there; what would you charge for this kind of work?

Answers
1)   i can tell you that thing is a pain.i think it runs through the trans tunnel,and it might even fit in a sleeve,or maybe that was just my manx.anyway,you should be able to order it almost anywhere, even buy from ebay.if it were i, i might change the whole assembly out and reroute the cable.just me. it was a real pain and i wouldnt even take that job.go somewhere else id say.id install a marine cable on it and be done,even if i had to weld 1/2 inch agle iron on the bottom of the pan to protect it. - idontgivafork

2)   http://www.mamotorworks.com/acvw?frame=1.5007

you need style 2 for a '73.

you can change it yourself. its one of the easier jobs of owning a vw. you need to disconnect it from the carb linkage (an 8mm wrench and a pair of pliers) and from the pedal (dont need to remove the cluster, just use a pair of pliers) feed the cable through from the pedal end, attach to hook on pedal, hook up on carb. you will need to adjust it at the carb. buy 2 cables and an extra clutch cable while your on the website. trust me, they are spare parts you must have with you at all times. you never know when its going to break.

if you dont have this yet....BUY IT!!!! http://www.amazon.com/Keep-Volkswagen-Alive-Step-Step/dp/1566913101/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1273185049&sr=1-1 - Air-Cooled ACVW

3)   Have you asked the dealership parts department? It does not need to be 1973 can be a 75,68,53. Basically they are all the same. Easiest thing to replace. Disconnect at the carburator, and flip back the accellerator pedal and pull on the other end. and out it comes. Feeding it back works the same way. Heck, you could get it at an autosalvage yard for that matter. - I taut I saw a puddy kat

4)   auto zone has one for 16.99, they ship to your home

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/homePage.jsp.

and jeg has on i order from them all the time there fast

www.jegs.com - frost1085

5)   Hi , I have a 1973 super beetle and you can get the cable at ebay.com, mamotorworks.com, or jbugs.com. Take care of that classic, keep it running don't abandon it. Vw will never make them like that again. - expertpilot15


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Question 2
why wont my 99 jetta start?...  i have a 99 jetta gl 2.0 manual. car wont start new starter wires plugs and cap. battery fully charged. starter gettin the right voltage. all dash lightrs come on. when you push the car and pop the clutch it starts right up and drives fine. the alarm sets itself if i disconnect the battery or take the keys out of the ignition. can any one help?

Answers
1)   the starter works or no
check your fuses - Alex

2)   Alternator. - Reda

3)   trade it in for a new american car. once german stuff starts going wrong, it gets expensive . chevy, and chrysler have some nice looking stuff in the jetta size. good luck. - Silver N.

4)   Does it turn over at all? I had this problem with a 2000 Beetle. The problem that I had was that a wire in the starter rusted through so there was no contact being made. Make sure that the ground wire that connects to the engine from the starter is secure and tight. Have someone observe the engine while you are trying to start it, if there are sparks coming from the general direction of the starter then you have a faulty and loose connection of the ground wire that attaches to the engine block.

Also, make sure your spark plugs are in proper working order. You may have a problem with them. Also, make sure that your fuel distribution (fuel pump) is working correctly (e.g. injecting enough fuel into the engine, injecting too much fuel into the engine, high presence of bubbles in the fuel line indicating a flaw in the fuel pump, etc...)

When you push start the car and it is idling does it the engine make a knocking sound? If so, then you may have a valve that is stuck open or not closing fully which allows too rich or to thin of a gas to air ratio for the engine to start with spark plugs. Check all these things and you should be able to find the problem. Start with the most simple and work your way towards the difficult and more intricate things. Cheers. - dubsessed


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Question 3
Volkswagen old school beetle exhaust?...  Whats the slang term for the old beetles exhaust where its sticking out in the air like 2 feet?
My teacher said he'll give me an A if i get it right.
He gave me a hint saying its two words and the first word starts with "Don"
Any help guys?
Donkey Dicks it is!!!

Thank you!

Answers
1)   I always called then extractors... - rick29148

2)   That is an easy one, if the nanny censor lets it through.
They are called "donkey dicks".
This is also the name for the flex filler pipe you screw onto a 5 gallon jerry gas can.
It is sort of a WWII tradition.

It appears the nanny censor prevailed again, so I will encode it:
"d_o_n_k_e_y d_i_c_k_s" - Motorhead

3)   a stinger, they are really really really loud... might be illegal in your city or state. there is no muffler, just pure 57 hp of pure air-cooled fury

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3u66QqjZmo

http://www.mamotorworks.com/acvw?frame=1.4832 - Air-Cooled ACVW

4)   Stinger was the term I was familiar with when buying them. - I taut I saw a puddy kat


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Question 4
How cool would it be if we could all hitch a ride from a passing lady bug!?...  

Answers
1)   Well... err. that would be pretty bizarre indeed!
As I'm a bug-a-phobic. I'd probably set the wings on fire! :p - Questioneer

2)   Ok, so like, I'm totally high right now. I just smoked like a whole crap load of Cali's finest. Not some weak Florida crap, but some real potent stuff! The kind of stuff that has beginners and teens coming on here everyday and asking questions like "I smoked weed and I hallucinated and almost passed out, I think it was laced?". Yeah that kind. Yeah that's what I got. Anyways, the first thing I saw after leaving the bong and coming on the internet was this question. It was amazing, to just imagine that. Like actually riding a ladybugs back would be so cool.

But then I thought about it, and you know what? If I wasn't so high, this question about riding on ladybugs would be STUPID! - Todd Trollsworth

3)   That's a fantastic idea! *shuffles off to ancient laboratory to create a ladybug the size of a dump truck* - gravitybong

4)   and fly off to mushroom land to eat the sun.
i bet the sun tastes good :D - Jesus


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Question 5
Is 170 thousand miles too much for a used Volkswagon Passat?...  I'm looking to purchase a used car for around 4 thousand and found this Passat http://m.autotrader.com/(S(om3xi545di2e1c3ic22uqrjs))/Car.aspx?PageID=CR2&id=279076645&from=/make%3d%26start_year%3d1997%26model%3d%26end_year%3d2011%26zip%3d41503%26distance%3d100%26__first_record%3d11%26__num_records%3d10%26__total_records%3d1633%26type%3dboth%26min_price%3d0%26max_price%3d5000

Is this car a good deal or should I continue looking? Thanks!
Thanks guys :)

Answers
1)   170,000 MILES is ALOT! hell that's alot for the space shuttle! lol (just kidding of course.)
Keep looking, it's not worth half of that. - G6er

2)   you can buy it, but its not worth anywhere NEAR $4k

its worth about $1200 or less - Dave87gn

3)   Hello Leslie,

The best thing you can do is get a Carfax report; 170.000 miles is a lot of mileage for any passenger car, but I know some German taxi drivers that put over half a million miles on their cars, so it's more how well the vehicle was taken care of - the Carfax report can tell you that (engine repaired, oil changes, etc.). The norm is about 12.000 to 15.000 miles per annum, so this would come out anywhere between 96.000 & 120.000 miles; this vehicle is way over that.

If a car used to be a taxi, that entails a lot of round the clock, stop & go traffic which eventually wears out the vehicle; however, if it was a vehicle that was typically used to travel long distances, it endures less wear and tear.

Now the Passat is a brill vehicle, very reliable and trustworthy; my only complaint is that ye can't get them with a diesel engine where I live :-( - Paul from Mars

4)   What? You expect it to have zero miles on it? Then I would worry....as there must be something wrong with it if they don't drive it......
So, it has a few miles on it. The engine can be rebuilt just like most every other part of the car. If the upholstrey is not worn out nor the body rusting away, she could be a decent car.
But I would be checking out the local newspapers for private sales, rather than dealerships. See what the asking price is for the car(give or take a year). You get a ballpark idea. Check the nearest big city paper if you live in a small town. as your selection of "vehicles for sales" is greater there with the increased population. - I taut I saw a puddy kat


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