I have a 99 jetta and im pretty sure my ignition coil is going,it sure sounds like it every time i start the car.What should i do.

Mr. Baginski, I would suggest talking to the nearest VW dealerships in your area. However, keep this in mind:

http://dealer.vw.com/vwpress/fullStoryA.html?release_id=5824

"Volkswagen of America, Inc. and Audi of America, Inc. today announced a customer service action in which the companies will ultimately replace the ignition coils in all 2001 and 2002 model year cars equipped with certain engines that have been experiencing a higher-than-normal failure rate. Also affected are very early production 2003 models.

The companies are currently notifying all customers potentially affected and are initially replacing those ignition coils that fail at no cost. The updated customer service action, replacing all ignition coils whether they fail or not, will be implemented in the coming months."

The recall doesn't seem to include the 1999 model year, so make sure to specifically ask them about that.

I also have a 99 Jetta VR6 whose ignition coil went on a long road trip. The EPC light in the dash went on and the car had no throttle. I took it to the nearest dealer and nobody said anything about a recall. I know it says it is only for 2000-2003 but for what reason would my 99 blow out? They tell me it is going to cost $532 to replace.
i just dont know

I have a 99 Jetta that keeps coding for the following.1-Bank 1 lean, 2-Fuel injectors 1-6 short to ground, 3- Evaporative/fuel tank leak,
4-Oxygen sensor out of range, 5-Secondary air relay short to ground, 6-Secondary air pump faulty. What the heck is going on here?

today 9-1-03 my 99 beetle gls lost power and the epc light came on. it did not blink, just steady on. got home and let it cool down, started back up and light is out and car runs normal. .. what ????????

I have a 2000 jetta 1.8T and I recently experienced my fuel gauge reading innacurately. Has there been a recall, any suggestions.

my 2001 jetta epc light has also been coming on usually while i am driving and doesn't allow me to keep up with the speed it slows me down this happen about a month ago. once i came home turned the car off and then later came back the car was back to normal. now, tuesday sept.16,2003 the epc light has come on again and this time when i started the car it turned back off i turned it on again and now the check engine light is on and also the car's rgm is moving by itself jjust as if i was pushing the gas while still in park whats up wit that?????? it goes in the shop on monday pray for me!!!!

I have a 2002 Beetle 1.8 turbo and the epc light came on then went off then came back on, and now is off. Great!!!

We have a 2000 VW Golf and this year we have taken it into the VW garage for a recurring problem. The car when driving and excelerating will suddenly cut out completely- very dangerous when you are driving on a parkway.
The car keeps losing speed so you can't go over 40 miles an hour and when you ayt forty miles an hour the revs. are high. Has there been a recall on this car. It is a diesal VW Golf 2000 GL TDI.
I am very concerned as the garage still is not able to pin point the problem.
I don't want to cut out again on a busy road as so far- we have been very fortunate that we havent been hit. But I do want our car to be safe. so far, we bring it home and it goes wrong every time.

Visited VWSucks.com yet?

Peter, I just stopped by and checked it out. It is indeed lame car companies can't conduct proper quality control and higher-quality assembly. But consider that the people we hear from the most are those with something to say, and most people choose to speak up when there's a problem rather than when there isn't.

All I can say is I'm very satisfied with my 2002 TDI. The only problem I have with it is a funky temperature gauge that is acting up.

I wanted to share this information with this board. This past Thursday I was driving to the airport when my 2001 Jetta Wagon's EPC & check engine light came on. The car began to lose power and then the engine started knocking. I drove to the nearest dealer and was told, "You're fine to continue on your journey. If the lights begin to blink on and off then you have a real problem." I drove to the airport but made an appointment for the car anyway. When I returned I drove the car directly to the dealership and had them give it a tune up and check the sensor codes with the diagnostic machine. The codes were P0321 & P0322. They told me that they mean a general malfunction of the lights and reset them and sent me on my way. I was about 25 miles away from the dealership when both lights came back on and the car simply lost all power, I was going 70 mph at the time as well. I was able to get the car off the road and restart it and then proceeded to drive carefully to the next nearest dearlship. I showed the service manager the fix-it slip with the codes and told him what happened as I was driving. The head mechanic come out took the car and gave it a hard test drive and the car stalled on him as well. The problem wasn't the ignition coil; it was a faulty speed senor. The cost was $299.00 parts and labor and was fixed in the amount of time that it takes to get an oil change. Anyway, I hope that this gives a little more insight into this really annoying and dangerous situation.

I own a Jetta 2000 GL, my check engine light comes on every 5 or 6 months (20,000 milles) last year a took the car to the dealer,they replaced the ignition coils, but I still getting the check engine light, what do I need to do now? any suggestions, if i take the car back to the dealer, they toll me that they'll charge me $100 just for a diagnostic, do I have to pay for this?
Erick D.
South California

HI

I have a 2000 golf gl 2.0
The car is amazing, execpt for the check engine light. I took my car to the garage on severals ocassion to make that engine light to go away. I had the iginition wire, the Catalyc converter, the o2 sensor, spark plugs, filter etc...changed yet I still have the same problem...so now i think the only thing left is the the injector and the coil pack.. Any advise on this situation
Thank you

I have a 2001 Jetta with 20,000 miles on it and my EPC light has been coming on and then going off every now and then, but whats strange to me is when my EPC light comes on my brake light dont work. Has this happened to anyone else???

I also have a 2001 Jetta with 47,000 miles and the EPC light is on the brakes light do not work and the transmission is locked in Park. I also am noticing different bulbs through out the car have been blowing out and have to be replaced. Twice the left blinker, bulb behind the heater fan, trunk, both brake lights. Has anybody had their problems resolved to satisfaction?

I woke this morning at 4:30A to find my 2003 GLI Jetta with 9000 miles unable to start for work. The EPC and engine light luminating. A noise of a grinding iginition was the only sound stirring. Beware dealership i'll be in route....

2000 Jetta - having problems with rear parking lights - I've checked all bulbs and fuses, all seem good. In this situtation - there isn't a luminated EPC light and the break lights work fine - it's only the rear parking lights - Any ideas?

Hi Jo Miles - re conking out while driving

if its any consellation i had a very similar problem. It got to the stage.Fortunately the car was within one week of the warranty expiring and so i was able to get the job done free.To give credit to vw they handled that situation well and did not give me any hassle. IT turned out to be a big job, had to replace the turbo on the tdi.
However if others are experiencing the problem as well then maybe ????
I have had loads of trouble with this car. I wanted to get a quality car so bought the top of the range vw paying £19000 with all the extras you know 2k for the extra leather seats etc.Instead i wish i had bought a skoda.

Anyways going in for a recall today for my brakes(yet again). They will probably fix the weakness but will they refund me the hundreds of pound iv had to waste on a recurring brake problems. i was informed "maybe its because you use your brakes too hard that we need to keep changing them". I been driving for 20years and that was a real dumb ass answer. Does anyone know where to buy a skoda?
regards
tony

I have a 2000 Jetta VR6 with about 35,000 miles. I have already replace my ignition coils once and it's back in the shop again. I have contacted VW of America and they are going to reinburse me for only one-half of my expenses. If this problem where my engine keeps stalling continues to occur, I'm not sure what I'm going to do. My be contact the State about the Lemon Laws.

Owner of 98 Jetta TDI and had been having an on again, off again problem with the headlights, heater/ac fan and emergency brake dash light. Long story short: Start car, no fan, no headlights, dash light for emergency brake stays on dimly. If you shut the car down and restarted it sometimes it fixed itself.

Had it checked by dealership years ago...no problem found.

Last week the start, restart trick didn't work anymore and I had no headlights except for the override high/low beam manual hold the arm forward function.

Found www.tdi.com and autoforums.com they have an entire VW section...It looks as if VW has had problems like this in almost all of their models starting in 91 - including the GTI and GLS gas burners. My awesome VW mechanic determined as did the ppl on the websites I perused that my iginition switch was bad.(There may even be a recall on some years) $250.00 later and it is fixed. So, it looks as if it was bad all along...since I bought it in '98 and the dealership couldn't find it.

Just for the record I have been driving for 26 years, have owned one of almost everything. This problem was an occasional problem, no more than a nuisance, until last week. My car has 245,000 miles on it and is probably the most reliable car I have ever owned...great fuel mileage 45-50 mpg and is still tight with no squeeks or rattles even though I have to travel down 6 miles of rough dirt road everyday.

I wish you all the best with your Volks!

My 2001 jetta has 41,000 miles and the check engine light came on, i read it on the manual and did a little of research on the internet and comparing with everyones problems i think my ignition coils failed. I read that VW is replacing them for free because it is a manufacturing problem. I called VW and they say they will not cover it because is only on certain VW's not all.. so now I am stuck with a useless car and have to pay almost $600.00 to fix.
Is increadible that a car with only 41,000 is suck crap!!
I WILL NEVER IN MY LIFE BUY VOLKWAGEN AGAIN, !!!!the worse cars in the market!!!!

I just bought a used VW Jetta VR6 from a dealer. I picked it up last Friday. I was on my way home last night, on the hwy, with a quarter of a tank of gas left. As soon as I got to the off ramp and made the turn on to the main road, the car starts sputtering. Any ideas? Could I have run out of gas? It hasn't happened before and I filled up as soon as it did and it hasn't happened again. Other than the that, and the terrible gas mileage, I like the car.

2000 Jetta 1.8 TURBO engine light goes on volkswagon tech tells me to change the 0.2 sensor,and change the thermo sensor,so I did after $600 to replace parts the light is still on after 40 miles the volkswagon tech tells me the Bank 1 mixture system too lean . Went back to Volkswagon and was told I need to change the rotor, brakes and calibur because they stick to the back wheel, so they changed the emergency brake cable, the entire job cost
$1,050.00 and the car has only 39,000 miles, I paid $21,000 and I have the worst lemon I have ever driven in my life...please advise and warranty on this

Just got a 2004 passat wagon 10 days ago (1.8T/manual transmission). Has been a great car for the first 469 miles. Speedy and solid. Tonite at a stop light just as I started to accelerate the EPC light and then the ESP light (the inverse yield sign with an "!" in it and with arrows going around it) came on almost simultaneously. The car immediately lost power and I pulled it over. I put it in neutral and the rpms started to fluctuate like i kept putting my foot on the gas and taking it off. I restarted the car and same problem ... EPC and ESP lights were on with fluctuating rpm's. Waited and then restarted again. Same. Restart again. Engine light is on only with rpms fluctuating less. Restart again. Everything looks fine and I drove it home with no problems. Going to the dealer tomorrow. Have taken note from previous posts that it may be the speed sensor. Very not cool problem to have.

2001 VW Passat 1.8 turbo, check engine light came on at 42,000 miles. Emission workshop, alarm appeared on dash, the car is now at the dealership and they have not said anything about the ignition coil recall. I think that they are up to no good and are going to try to stick me with the whole bill.

Check engine light has been on at left turns and high speeds on my 2000 Jetta GLS VR6. My VW dealer mechanic informs me today that the ignition coil needs to be replaced at a cost of $575 total. I understand a little bit about the recall situation and in fact had VW of America pay 50% of the costs for an 02 sensor replacement last year...what chance do I have for VW chipping in again? Thanks. An immediate private response would be appreciative.

I got a recall notice in the mail today about the brake lights malfunctioning.
However, something else is bothering me...I haven't noticed any mechanical problems out of my car (2002 Jetta GLS), but the check engine light has been on for months. The light came on for no reason. Sometimes it would even go off for a couple days, but come right back on. I took it to Auto Zone where they put it on diagnostics. The man told me it was a "dealer special" and only the dealership would know what it was. I'm taking it to the dealership on Friday morning. If anyone has any info for me, let me know! Thanks!

1998 VW Passat gas v6 with 120,000 miles. Hot restart problems. Cold, it starts fine. Hot, when ignition is turned off and then on..... a real problem with the restart. Dealer cannot fix and doesn't know what's up. Any help out there?

Re: "dealer special" check engine light. When Autozone or anywhere else checks for codes, they get a code. They just don't know what it is. If you ask them, I am sure they will give you the code "eg. P1128". If you just google your code, you will find all sorts of information.

VW is just going to charge you more. There are a number of sites that list what all the codes mean.

check out
http://www.bentleypublishers.com/tech/vw/vw.dtc.table.htm

Good Luck

My 2001 Jetta GLX VR6 has had enough issues that I am considering getting rid of it. At approximately 3 years old and 65000 miles, I have replaced all of the things mentioned in this page and more.

I signed an initial estimate of $150 to diagnose the current problem (flashing check engine light) and if it was the catalytic converter it would be covered under warranty. They came back telling me I needed new spark plug wires (at a total cost of $430) BEFORE they could determine if the catalytic converter was damaged because it was throwing a code for the catalytic converter, but that may happen with the spark plug wired firing inappropriately. They replaced the spark plug wires today and have since advised me the catalytic converter must also be replaced (covered under 8/80,000 warranty in CA).

My concern is this...

Did a failure in the catalytic converter have anything to do with the spark plug wires being damaged? Or did the spark plug wires being damaged cause the failure of the catalytic converter. They told me the spark plug wires were damaged when I last replaced them (I have never replaced them and just barely know what they are) and only a VW dealership has serviced the car.

What would cause it to look as if V shaped cuts were in the spark plug wires? Shouldn't they have seen V shaped cuts in the spark plug wires three months ago when I had my 60,000 mile recommended service? I am worried that if I spend this money to replace the spark plug wires but there is something more wrong with the car, they will just be ruined again. And if the catalytic converter caused the demise of the Spark Plug Wires then at minimum the $150 to diagnose the problem should be waived.

Help!

i have a 2001 jetta 1.8t and my check engine came on again after i just had the car fixed a month ago.when i brought it in last time it was the maf sesor and something else with my throttle body that was making my car run very rich [so the dealer says] anyway i have an AEM cold air intake on the car and i was wondering if anybody else has had this problem with their jetta with an after market intake?? e-mail me at mike69216921@yahoo.com

i have a 2002 beetle and I am having 2 problems, but I do not know if they are linked. Today, and two other times in the pst the car will not allow me to move out of park. Today it did the same thing but the EPC light came on as well. I turned it off and on several times, then it finally let me move it. The light was no longer on. While driving home the EPC light came on again. I did not notice any power flucuations. The light is not blinking. I went out to try to go somewhere 20 minutes later and the light is on and it will not go into reverse again. Help me!!!

I have a 1999 VW Jetta and my alarm once activate will not shut off. It happened once before and then I just stop using it. My husband now took the car out of town and set the alarm and cannot get it to turn off with the either key, the keyless entry or the key in the door any suggestions?

Please help.

LKM

My 1998 Volkswagen Jetta GL has cost me nothing but headaches...and over $3,000 in repairs since my ignition coil failed a year and a half ago. After that was repaired, my check engine light came on in April of last year, and I had difficulty starting it. Several repairs later of parts such as the e-vap canister and filter, muffler, center resinator, coolant housing...and my check engine light stays lit. We've tried changing the gas cap, resetting the computer, etc...Car runs fine. I know I will have to replace the catalytic converter in about 6 months, but mechanic says he doubts this is why check engine light is on....What next?????!!!! Any ideas???? I have to take it for inspection in August, and I know it won't pass with the check engine light on.

I am planning to buy a new car (2004 Jetta...may be) because my '99 Jetta lease is expiring now. I liked it very much except I never dealt with so many problems and recalls in my life. I used to drive Toyota and never needed any tune up or work except some oil changes for 80K miles and sold it with an excellent condition. I would love Jetta only if there was no problem. My main concern is the electric part. If I am not driving at least once a week for a long distance (say 20-30mil on freeway) and is only city drive of stop and go, this Jetta has been completely dead and does not even make any noise when I try to start the engine.

Does anyone can shed a ligth on how is new 2004 Jetta condition? Any info would be appreciated.

DogNut

I recently received a recall letter re: Brake Light malfunciton for my 2000 Jetta VR6. I inadvertantly trashed the letter with a "code number" that my dealer said was included. Also, I have been reading about another recall re: Ignition Coils. Does anyone know if this recall included 2000 Jettas?

Thanks,
Great informative and helpful site!

I don't believe the formal recall covered the 2000 models, but VW is acknowledging some problem with them.

My 2k Golf 1.8T is in the shop right now getting 4 new ignition coils after i had a CEL and misfires on acceleration. 3 of the coils were faulty.

It's not at a dealer but a local shop w/good rep. They say the coils are normally around $200 each, but VW is selling them for $23 each because of the fault.

Apparently it's not bad enough or wide-spread enough to make it a regular recall, but i'll be keeping my receipt in case it becomes one.

i have a 2000 beetle volkswagon im having trouble with a/c
theres no juice (power) to a/c compressor. any relays and
where are they located. i really appreciate any info!!!

thanks joebed22

I've got a 2001 Jetta VR6 and driving home from the mountains today, my EPC light came on along with the "Engine Workshop" light. I came home, checked out this board and saw that there was also a recall due to brake light failure. Well, checked the Jetta and the brake lights are dead. Is the EPC/Engine Check failure tied to the brake recall? I recently moved and probably never updated my address with VW if they are indeed sending out recall notices. I've also got this Masterguard extended warranty but don't know how good that thing is. Any help would be much appreciated!

Thanks...

I have a 1999 Passat v6 and have had nothing but headaches. Don't get me wrong loved the car at first whole reason purchased was for the top rating it had received for safety, etc. Since 2001 I have had the car in the vw dealership, private garages for engine lights codes out the wazoo. Everytime $500-$600 dollars later...STILL engine lights fast blinks steady stays on sometimes days,comes on at off itself(guess when the car feels like it),get it reset same thing all over again..the autozone personnel know me by name! Just checked the tires the recall for the same thing all over again unequal wearing on the inside of the front tires, so bad now that the car is vibrating estimate? Never guess $850!!!I am currently shopping and one thing for sure it will not be a VW!!!

We have a 1999 Passat V6, can you say money bag, phantom engine lights, knock sensor, miss fire, get a complete tune up replace all plugs and wires coil in May $500, June 15TH, engine light on the way home, stop at dealership, yup missfires now the reason if faulty wires and knock sensor $642 later ENGINE light AGAIN!! Had it! Also I am about to buy stock in the manufacturer of the damn bulbs, blinker here, blinker there, brake light, must have replaced the front headlights 5 times this year so far! Into dealership again, need new light in trunk it was draining the battery, of course I needed to have new wires run up over the driver door$500 later! Come back from vacation, (took other car so we were not stranded or need to visit a dealership), car completely dead, jumped the thing ran good 2 days my girlfriend comes home(with a co worker) yup you guessed it car dead, won't start. New battery...neighbor calls one night says the lights are blinking off and on, take to garage, can't find anything wrong....go figure. dealerships other than vw here we come!

*Editor's Note:*

Both "Rebecca" and "Justin" posted from the same IP address so take their comments with a little more salt than you normally would.

I have a 99+ GTI VR6 manual transmission. My check engine light at one point would go on and off, and not occur again for months, and I didnt notice any loss of power when it happened to be on. But for the past two months, maybe longer it has stayed on steady, again, no loss in performance. Needing a tune up after 3k miles and for an upcoming road trip all over NY state I took it to a mechanic ans asked for them to reset my check engine light. 6 hrs after getting my car it came on again. The very next day my EPC light came on, and while driving I lose all throttle, until I let off the gas, then throttle again and can again, get speed, but a noticeable decrease in performance. This happened 6 times in the course of an hour. I took it back to the mechanic today, and well, just by his reaction he doesn't know what the heck to do. And I lost power twice ont eh 5 miles trip home. I've read all the past posts and have written some possibilites down to run by him before I take it to my local VW dealer and get totally ripped off :/ Theres a few well known VW mechanics around, but I'm hesitant. Until this passed week this car ran flawlessly. So besides telling them it could be a faulty speed sensor, is there anything else I should know about the 99+ GTI Vr6 manual transmission that I should bring to their attention? Any helpfull info e-mailed would be greatly appreciated. Thanx and I hope all of you resolve your VW problems, as cheap as possible :/

Yes there are two postings from "Rebecca" and "Justin" both of which are me! At first I was typing and entering my problem, then after posting, he came home and I read to him what i wrote and he added some things I missed, so yes both postings are from the same address as since they are speaking of the same car. As for Michael good luck I am now faced with having the car go dead and going to the garage via tow truck as I am writing this. So Michael keep the road side assistance card handy 1-800-411-6688, sounds like you are gonna need it. Also call cust relations 1-800-822-8987.

i hate my volkswagen jetta! it is the biggest piece of crap car i have ever owned ! i bought it new and have had problems with that junker from the start! i have no idea how much money i have spent repairing anything and everything on this piece of crap car and as much as i'd love to sell this death trap I can get anyone to take it off my hands because of the reputaion these piece of s#!% cars have earned themselves! anyhow just needed to vent! I will never ever by another vw! ever!

I have experienced all of the isssues posted regarding the VW 2001 GLS 1.8 Passat and am currently at my wits end! From the fluctuating RPM's,replacement of the gasketset due to the CAM Tenstioner rattleing,the "Check Engine light",EPC,ESP "STOP Motor"lights and oil pressure low light flashing,which the dealership reccomended an oil pump inspection and or new oil pump would repair. And all recalls performed for the Air Flow Meter/Thottle body,Wheelhouse liner and Ignition Coil. And I am still experiencing the "Check Engine Light" problem and now it looks light I will be experiencing the catalytic converter issue now that my "MIL" Malfunction Indicator light" has come on. When I related my concerns and information I have complied regarding the oil pump replacement and that it did not resolve any of the problems .The only comment the Dealership had was " I had not had all my reccomended oil changes made (1), proof that the oil changes were made at locations other than dealership, which I no longer have for the warranty to cover the repair and "customer has declined inspection and has been advised vehicle is unsafe to drive and MORE engine damage may occur". There has been nothing documented to state there is ANY engine damage has been inccured due to the low oil pressure issue. So I guess their reccomendation is that I park my Passat in the garage and walk. I would appreciate any insight or resolutions to my problems. Contact me at chinabowl@aol.com

As the operator of this website, I just want to interject with my own experiences with my Volkswagen. I have a 2002 Golf TDI GL with no options besides the diesel engine, purchases at Rod East VW in San Antonio and serviced at Charles Maund VW in Austin.

No major problems.
No major costs, besides the expensive scheduled maintenance.
No jackass service techs screwing things up.

My only issues:

*My temperature gauge failed a few hundred miles ago and they fixed it during my 60,000 mile service.
*Car would randomly not start. Discovered through online research that it was gunk closing off the anti-shudder valve in the intake manifold coming from emissions regulation equipment. Flicking a lever outside the manifold fixes the problem by breaking the gunk's seal.
*Replaced one headlight, one front turn signal, and one tail light.

Other than tires and things I did the car, the has run beautifully and reliably. I do not regret the choice to buy VW at all.

But your mileage may vary, as the many comments indicate.

Charleston, SC -

I have a 2002 VW Passat that I purchased from Stokes VW in North Charleston, SC. I took the car in for it's 40k "overhaul" (at 38k since I knew that I'd be doing some driving) and at noon today, when the car hit 41k, the engine light came on. I just spend $600 on the 40k service and had to have the rear breaks done. Anyone else have problems at 41k? Did someone in the Service Shop forget to trip some trigger? I'm not prepared to pay another $600 in service fees.

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Cherrel.

My Jetta 2001, purchased new, has only 25K miles, started having problems in August when the EPC light came on and power dropped to 5 MPH. It is now September, the EPC and ASR lights have come on, and the car is back in the service dept for the fifth time. VW customer service now wants $400 to $500 (estimate) to replace the wiring, but they can't agree on whether it will fix the problem. The car has been sweet, but VW quality and service is very questionnable.

High beam indicator lamp and right high beam headlamp will not com on!!!! on my new 04 jetta td1

I recently bought an 1998 Audi A4 1.8Turbo AWD. The car alarm has a mind of its own and goes off all through the night. After I wake up, walk outside, turn the alarm off with the remote, it goes back on within the next half hour. Has anyone had any similiar problems? Any advice is helpful and apreciated, thanks.

2001 VW Golf 1.8T:
I'm having a several problems with my car.

Problem #1:
Here is a little background history, I had the ignition coils
replaced at the dealership three months back. Two weeks later I
began to notice that the car would stutter on a cold start. After about a week of this the check engine light came on and
I brought the car back to the dealer.
The dealer said that the programming did not work right the first
time (I'm assuming it was not done correctly).
After this the car ran fine with exception to problem #2. Last week I notice the car is stuttering again on cold starts. I've
taken it back to the dealer and had them check things out. They
told me I should replace my spark plugs also recommended doing the 60k maint. which costs $400. So, I'm planning on doing this
myself. Does anyone know if this requires any special type of tools? I've also seen 60k OEM kits for sale for $130. Any recommendations?

Problem #2:
I've been having a problem with the turbo engaging smoothly. It
tends to surge at some points. I've read that this could be as
result of a faulty diverter valve. Does this sound correct? If so, any recommendations as to which replacement part is best?
I'm holding off until after I change the spark plugs.

Thanks,

-jp

I am a new owner of a VW New Beetle. I bought it in 2002, was over a year old, as a show model car. My car presently ONLY has 23,000 miles on it. The CHECK ENGINE light came on, I came in for a diagnostic and was told it was the OXYGYN SENSOR. I then asked the question "why would a new car need an important part replaced so soon" but no one could answer it.. I then said "If I get this replaced, will this be a $400 bill to be expected every 2-years" and still no one could explain anything. I was charged a diagnostic fee of $95 and told it would be removed from the charge later on. I just wish that someone could please let me know, how would they absolutely know it if WAS the O-2 Sensor. I sort of feel suspicious of this since I did an early 25-thousand mile check at 22-thousand. Could it be possible that the CHECK ENGINE light comes on automatically to alert the owner to bring in the car FOR this milestone check?? and that the warning light was not turned off? Thank you. Someone, PLEASE respond.!!!

I bought a used 98 beetle in Jan of this year, only 16,000 miles. My car has lost speed 3 times over the summer and the front brakes would smoke when I pulled over. I took it in they said it was possibly the master cylinder, something blocking the flow of the brake fluid, but they weren't certain. For $450, I wasn't either. The problem hasn't happened in 2 months. Now the check engine light is on, and when I start on a hill and shift into 3rd, the brake light flashes and beeps. Any ideas? No one seems to know what's wrong with my car.

I have a 2001 Jetta V6. Two times now the car has (once at 35 mph and once at 70 mph on the highway) had the interior warning lights come on and the car jerked. As if it shut off. It immediately came back on but it was pretty scary. Someone told me it might be the computerized ignition syetem. I have also noticed the interior lights on the dash and outside headlights dim when I roll up the window. Also, power windows and sunroof have started acting up. Has anyone had this problem. I am thinking about trading it in, no I am definitely trading it in. what a piece of junk. And it only has 34k miles!!! I think I got a lemon! Also, does anyone know cost associated with fixing this problem. May be better just to trade it in...

i have a 99 golf tdi and it has trouble starting in cold weather. my glow plug lights go off as normal after a few seconds, and there is no check engine light on or anything like that.

I have a gti vr6 2001, with 58,000 miles on it i have only put 5,000 of those miles on it. I turned on my car a few days ago and saw that the CHECK ENGINE light was on. I went and had a diagnostic test done it today and found that it says i need a new catalytic converter. I see that people that have posted comments have similary to the same as what is happening to my car. I am very discouraged with VW's as of right now. This is my first time owning one and it hasnt impressed me what so ever (probably as to why someone traded this car in). Any one that is thinking to buy a VW, I am going to tell them that there are lots of problems with these cars. I have owned two hondas and never had this shit happen and they were WELL OVER THE MILEAGE of this car. Its ridiculous! I cant wait to see how much VW is going to charge me !!!!! My warranty better cover this or im fixing it and trading it in !!!

We see that other VW owners are experiencing the same "apparent" mechanical problem. We own a 2000 Passat V6 with 80,000+ miles. The "engine warning light" has beeen going on and off sporadically for the last 3 months. An independent repair shop has replaced various sensors($400), but problem persists. Recently, as a result of diagnostic check, a VW Dealer recommended that both catalytic convertors and assorted sensors be replaced at the tune of $5000! Should we take the computer report literally or be skeptical about computer accuracy. Is there some way catalytic convertors can be checked directly? Help!

Hmmm ... I see a sort of pattern in most of these postings. I just bought a '97 Jetta a few weeks ago and am beginning to wonder if I've made a terrible mistake. Well, no, now that I think about it, the '89 Firebird was a "terrible mistake." Maybe the Jetta is just a "mistake."

I've noticed mostly electrical problems for the past week. The check engine light has been on the whole time. Previous owner says that it's been on for a couple years now. VW replaced his MAF and the light stayed on. Still, no other major problems.

Here are the symptoms that I have (note the afore mentioned pattern):

*Left blinker blinks double-speed
*Runs rough when cold
*Rear brakes make grinding sound
*It is possible to drive in reverse with *parking brake engaged
*Check Engine light is on all the time
*Fluctuating tach during idle (subtle when engine is warm)
*Electronic door locks don't respond immediately (interior button)
*Driver-side seat warmer does not work
*Passenger side seat warmer only works in the lumbar/back, not on the lower seat cushion
*Key-in-ignition alarm does not always stop when key is removed; have to reinsert key and pull it out again to stop the alarm
*I can start moving from 3rd gear with no stalling

After all of that, I must say that so far it seems to drive okay. I had my neighborhood mechanics check it out before I bought it. They warned me that the rear brakes have about 25% to go before needing replacing. Front tires are worn down, and they also mentioned that the serpentine belt will need replacing. All to be expected at 157,000 miles (except for the brakes, which were replaced about a year and a half ago). They said that it was a good car, but that parts will be expensive.

Here is what I've gathered from all of your posts:

*Left blinker seems to be related
*fluctuating tach during idle seems to be related
*history of bad rear brakes
*history of frequently blown bulbs

probably not:
* o2 sensor
* MAF
* fuses
* ignition coils
* plugs
* plug wires
* gas cap
* e-vap canister and filter
* muffler
* center resinator
* coolant housing
* cat. converter

Possibly:

*speed sensor
*ignition switch

My conclusions are:

A) VW has a problem and we should all lie down and avoid them
B) We may all have to learn to stop worrying and love the engine lights
C) I may be looking at an expensive pattern of repairs that result in no change
D) We should all conf. call in to Click and Clack, the Tappet Brothers, and figure this one out

I noticed that noone on this site has really resolved any issues (except for a few burned out lights and a gunked anti-shudder valve). I've also noticed a lot of posts begging for help. Well, here is one more post with no answers, but hopefully it will shed more light on the emerging pattern.

The funny thing about all of this is that Japan imitated German industry beginning back in the late 1800s, when they sent their last samurai warriors over in business suits to copiously study every aspect of business and manufacturing there. They continued improving the process for decades and now we have Honda, Toyota, and Sony. What does Germany have? A really great train system, and a fear of Lexus.

I have a VW Passat 2001 4C Turbo. Just recently I am seeing that the outsida ambient temperature reader all of a sudden drops to -40C, when this happens my air conditioning starts blowing hot air instead of cold air. What is the problem and is it something that I can fix myself? I have had VERY bad experiences with VW overcharging on their services !!

when Iam driving my abs light comes on. Then my head lights go off. this is on my 97 GTI golf 2.0 5 speed. they caome back on A MINUTE OUR TWO LATTER. Then go back off. then they will stay on. WHAT THE H. IS THAT ALL ABOUT. I HOPE YOU CAN HELP ME . THANKS LLOYD

(Nissan Altima / 98 / 95000 miles)
I was driving, and got a little cold. I started to pull up my passenger window, and all of a sudden, both my break and battery like came on. My car did not stop or anything. Would someone please tell me what could be wrong with my car?

(2002 VW Golf 1.6s)
My car is doing strange things! Last night I started it up and the EPC light came on. Apparently the engine management system thinks there is something wrong! Thinking back, the car has failed to start first time on 3 occasions, I put this down to the automatic choke at the time, but thinking about it... this was quite strange for a new car. After reading comments on this board I can see some people have had problems with ignition coils! Anyhow, am taking it to the dealership in an hour or so, so will report back!! Fingers crossed im not going to have to re-mortgage my house :-)

i have a 1998 volkswagon beetle and my emergence light won't stay off. in fact it will beep sometimes and keep flashing. do you have any idea to what is wrong?

I just bought a 2001 VR6 and it is great, but today the EPC light came on which is starting to sound normal in vw's. But the car ran fine nothing felt weird, but the temp guage and the miles per gal. gauge is out. All of the dash lights come on when you start the car but not the middle ones. Anyone have any ideas?

My 2000 VW Beetle 1.8L turbo lost power while driving 45 mph and would not restart. Engine does not rotate when trying to start, sounds like starter bendix won't engage. Ran great before this happened. 85,000 miles.

My wife and I have a 1999 New Jetta with 85,000 miles on it. Recent problems repaired include: 3, yes that's right....3 catalytic converters, plus the rest of the exhaust system, ignition coil (not covered under any recall, but VW will "look into it" for the '99 model), mass air flow sensor (only covered under extended 70,000 warranty, oxygen sensors, coolant temperature sensors. The car will still need a $250 tune up. We have soaked over $2000 into this car and have not driven it full time in over a year. The third converter failed and the car hadn't been driven from the time it was replaced until it was diagnosed again. Please tell me there's something VW will do for us!

Just got a call back from Volkswagen of America: "we regret to inform you that because of the age and mileage of your vehicle, we are unable to take care of any reimbursement". I told them that unfortuntately for them that my wife and I would never be purchasing a Volkswagen again. So we have been reduced to the black sheep of the VW family...simply because the car is out of warranty. They don't give a rat's you-know-what about me and my situation. It is a real shame. I hope they wake up and realize someday that customer service is the name of the game, and if they can't service their customers, warranty or not, brand new car or a 40 year old Beetle, they should be out of the game.

My girlfriend has a 2001 Beetle and has only one problem. When she is driving, the door ajar warning starts to ding, & the dome lights will turn on. Hitting bumps, or smacking the door handle inside, temporarily remidies the problem. Unsure what the problem is and the local dealer will repair for $300, but wont guarantee they can fix the problem. So whats the $300 for? Anybody else have, or know of, a similar problem?

I am driving 2.0 Golf, year 2001. I have 91000 km on it. My EPC lights come on for couple of days and that it goes off. Same with my rear (reverse) lights are most of the time out, but there are days when they are working too....

Please help.

The door sensor of my Golf GTI 1.8T (2003) tells me that there is an open door - but all doors are closed. In addition,after I park it, the alarm goes off (randomly).

Are the two events related ? Do you know how to turn off the alarm so I can sleep at night ?

Thanks

I bought a used 2000 New Beetle Turbo in September of 2003. I was sure I was getting a tremendous deal: the car was everything I wanted (fully loaded, leather, black on black, etc) with only 9,000 miles. Very sharp car. Almost immediately the 'engine' light started coming on. I now have 40,000 highway miles on it, and have had it in the shop 4 times in 18 months. I have replaced an oxygen sensor which the dealer covered parts and labor for (not the diagnostic, however). The recent 40K maintenance, which cost almost US$600, seemed to do little good, as now the "EPC" light comes on regularly, and I have always noticed that when accelerating, the turbo seems to drag a bit. After reading all of these comments, I think it is time to part with a car I absolutely LOVE, but HATE to think of repair costs.

The worst fucking Piss of shit ever. VW Jetta VR6 2001
Here are all the fucking problems I had in only 6 months of owning it.

-Cruise control don't work
-Window is broken
- Cigarrete lighter don't work
- check engine light on
- EPC light on
- ASR light on
- Radio Don't work

I HATE this car. My '99 VW Jetta (80k miles)is a money pit. Here's a few of my problems. 3 catalytic converters, 2 air compressors/condensors, heating/cooling air conditioner stuff, radiator, countless air sensors, timing belt, battery, elec key doesn't work, horn assembly, cup holder, i have to pull the door handle twice for it to open, leaking oil gasket. We should all boycott or sue this horrible company. I only paid 13k for this car. If I wouldn't of bought a $2000 extra warranty I would of paid nearly $5000 in repairs. I will be on my way to VW dealership tomorrow for yet more repairs.

P.S.- VW in Mandeville Louisiana "Chuchk" is a complete idiot in need of customer service training....and manners.

2001 Jetta TDI, bought used with 48,000 miles. It now has 118,000 miles. Window fell down and MAF sensor quit sensing--dealer/extended warranty covered it. Driver's side seat heater works sometimes. Bulbs seem to burn out more than usual but voltage is ok--bulbs are of poor quality. Overall though, quality and workmanship seems to be good. Mine is a complicated car with all the options.

I do have intake problems with black soot closing off EGR area of the intake. Expensive to clean.

I took the car in to get rear shocks replaced. Dealer very close to Johnstown, PA charged $450 to do that. Seems a lot just for 6 or so bolts and standard VW production-quality shocks. Service manager really tried hard to sell me on a whole list of strange servies.

The most entertaining monologue was a 4-wheel alignment because 2 rear shocks were replaced. Had to listen to some really wierd and unique rationalizations interlaced with some pretty impressive mechanical/technical jargon. I think the service manager was/is a displaced photocopier salesman or gerbil shaver. Who knows?

Maybe someone who reads this knows about cars or gerbils or something. Maybe you could send them a clue. OK? Thanks.

The bottom line here is I'll buy another VW TDI.

i got all th3ease problums as well 2001 jetta 1.8 turbo

check engion light on for ever now the car has no poer when i give it gass unless i hold it to the floor light bulbs burn out contuinaly idleng up and down like im steping on the gass .. windows fell in sevral times
car is now limp only runs liek crap and im screwd cuz i cant get to work and cant afford to take it to the dealer
<never will buy vw agean <even though i loved the car when it ran right

Ok, I have a couple of questions. First, how do you know if you need new engine coils? Second, I punctured my oil pan and my husband fixed it after it sat in our garage for two months. He had a hard time getting one bolt off the oil pan. After he put the new oil pan on and put new oil in it the motor started chattering. Now he thinks it could be either air got into the oil pump or water did. My husband does all the mechanical work so if anyone knows why the motor is chattering please help?
Thank You!

OH yeah, I forgot to tell you that I have a 2000 jetta GL

I have a 2001 Jetta GL 2.0 my check engine light came on. I have always been told that VW's are great cars. This is my first and I have had the car for 1 month. Car seems to be running fine. Does anyone know what it could be?

I have a 2001 Jetta VR6 5-Speed Manual. I have owned the car for 2 days short of one complete year. I have put 2 coil packs, 2 Mass Air Flow Sensors, 1 Window Regulator, 2 Coolant Temperature Sensors and new plugs and wires in it. So long to VW... I really hope a rock falls from the sky and lands on this POS so I will not have to worry about the crap I will get trying to trade it in.

I have a 2001 Jetta GLS 2.0 that I have had since Nov. 2001. I have literally had my check engine light come on every few thousand miles. My car is currently at the VW dealership, which I just found out was another faulty O2 censor. This is the sixth O2 replacement. My last replacement was covered under an extended warrenty, so I will demand that they pay for this one as well. If your check engine light is on, it is a great possibility that it is the O2 sensor. Ask if it is covered under an extension by VW.

I have a 2002 GLX New Beetle , I have a battery drain problem , and it happens sometimes (and only with day light),
I think it is the secondary air pump relay , but I don`t know where it is located , Can somebody help me to locate the relay and get the part number?

I found out its my Throttle Body....piece of shit car...I have had the car one month...The car runs fine but the light is on.

For 5 years on and off my coolant light has gone on and off theres always a small problem with the car. It was a recall and had it fixed now the TRASSMISION IS GOING !!!! Any help???

I have my 2003 Adui A4, 1.8T brand new since november 2002. So far, I have the ignition coil problem 5 times, two of which they have replaced all 4 coils. Other problems include replacing the Master Air control twice, thermostat, oil and coolant leak, squeaky dash board finishing . What a piece of junk!

I have a 2003 Passat we bought bran new in 2002. It's been the most disappointing car I have ever had and I've had some beater boxes but even those didn't have the kind of problems that this car has. From the first time I met my wife she always wanted a volkswagen (bug) and finally after about ten years we finally had enough money to invest into a new volkswagen (passat since we now have two kids)because it's always been known as a great company. We'll maybe we purchased the lemon because the problems we've had are major. First an ignition coil went bad. Basically the car did't start or anything and had to be towed in. While there they told us about a recall on them. They wern't going to replace all of them until each one went bad (excuse me but that's 6 and I'm not just going to wait until the pieces of crap go out, especially with two kids) so after arguing with the dealer ship they agreed to replace all of them but that took my car out of commision again for another day. After the ignition coil issue we had two flat tires (both for no reason since the tire repair shop couldn't find anything wrong with them). Actually the first flat was at home that I changed myself and took the tire in but the second time (on the exact same tire that was previously fixed) went flat on the highway and was destroyed by the time we stopped. Within the first year we owned the car we had two or three problems with it. Within the second year our oil pump went out and now just recently our car is in the shop again with what we think is the same problem. My wife was driving home from work at about 10pm when the dash board flashed STOP ENGINE NOW in huge 2" letters. The problem was that outside the temp was only 0 degrees and she was about 30 minutes from home. Sorry had to drive the rest of the way home, I couldn't get her I was at home with my two kids!!!!! Anyway the shop calls to tell us it's going to cost $600 in parts to get the engine cleaned so they can see what the problem is and that the whole engine may need to be replaced. What a bunch of bull shi_. The whole reason we bought "BRAN NEW" was to have a worry free, minor maintence, and dependable car. Not something I can't even trust to drive around in with my kids in the fear it'll break down somewhere, I mean W.T.F!!! I did discover thru my research about similar problems is that there's a recall involving a fire hazard with where the fuel tank is located and if you have a flat tire in the rear. Great!!!!!!!! had the flat tire already, is my car going to explode now and take me out of my misery.. Thanks for taking the time to read my frustrating experience letter. All I hope for now is Volkswagen will do something for me and everyone else that has had bad experiences with their cars, and if not hopefully that class act lawsuit email will come over some day suing their ass for bad quality control in the manufacturing plants where machines, MACHINES build the cars. Maybe Volkswagen should go back to better quality control and stop being cheap asses in buying the parts that go into important parts of the car (hmmm lets see, like the oil pumps, etc.)

Brian

I own a 2004 Passat, bought it brand new, off the showroom floor, I hadn't even had it 3 months and the gas cap light goes off,then the check engine light. Took it to dealership, they told me "you aren't putting your gas cap on right"....well, sorry, I think I know how to put my gas cap back on(when i purchased it, salesman repeatedly told me to make sure I "click" the gas cap at least 5 or 6 times before shutting it) & at the time, it didn't strike me as anything, but looking back, why would they stress that if they didn't know about the problem previously? At 12,ooo it happened AGAIN...except now i've noticed that the gas cap is coming undone byitself! What causes this? Now i have to take it in again...also every one of my tires go flat, all at same rate and time? I drive normal, what the hell is up with this brand new car i paid 33 thousand dollars for? Please , I am begging for advice....

I've been reading about the EPC light problem that seems to be plaguing many drivers. Mine ('99 VW Jetta GLX) went on a few months ago and I took it in to VW. VW told me I needed a new Catalytic Converter that was going to cost $2700. I balked at the cost and took it to an independed repair guy who told me I just needed two new O2 sensors. It cost less than $150 and my car has been fine.

Lesson learned: If you're over on your warranty - don't go to the VW Dealership. They'll try and rob you.

I have a 97 Jetta GLX VR6 that has about 133,000 miles on it and ran perfect until a couple of weeeks ago my tire tore apart on the freeway......well I pulled over and turned my car off. When I turned my car back on it started shaking, even at idle. Since then my car shakes and lossed alot of power. I took it in for a Diagnostic check, where I bought my car about almost a year ago, and they said that it is pointing to the ignition coil. Well I have researched on the internet and have read alot about faulty ignition coils for VW cars in 2001-2003. But my question is, does this problem also happen to 97 Jettas Vr6's? Any Info I would really appreciate? Do you think that VW would replace this part for free even though I did not by this car from a VW dealership and that it is a 97 VW instead of a 01-03???? Please Help...PLEASE

DO YOURSELF a BIG BIG favor!!!!!!!!!!! NEVER BUY OR LEASE VW. They all suck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Every Year, Every Model, Every Dealership!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have a vw golf mk 4 2001 the epc light is on as well as the exhaust emissions warning lamp it came on when i was driving then conked out. i got it started again then took a slow drive home now it wont start any one had the same problem

i have a 2003 vw jetta 1.8t and my seat warmer burned a hole about the size of a quater in my drivers side seat...i was wondering if there was a recall or if this has ever happened to anyone before...if anyone knows the answer please email me at pitcher2587@yahoo.com.

hey, guys!!! i can't beleive i'm even here. i just had long hard day at work and felt like crap so i left early. went to my car and it started fine, but realized i coudln't move it out of hte parking spot cuz i couldn't move teh gear thingy out of 'park'?! crap! noticed the freakin' EPC was on, as well. from just reading this website page, i'm realizing it's common, huh? :( ...called roadside assistance and they told me to

--turn the car off and pump on the brakes VERY HARD 5 times
--the fifth time, keep the foot on the brake while turning the car on.
--leave it on for 5 seconds and then turn it off.
--turn the key a tiny bit, but not so much that any of hte dashboard lights come on.
--now put the car in neutral.
--now turn the car on and put hte car in drive.
--now do the hokey pokey and you turn yourself around, that's what it's all about! :(

i started laughing at first cuz i thought it was a freakin' joke!! amazingly, it worked, but i had to put my car in REVERSE to get out of the spot, so this essentially did me no good! i had ot get the car towed to my nearest VW dealership, whcih is [thankfully] the one i always go to. obviously, it's sunday, so i have to wait 'til tomorrow mornign to see what these dudes say. i'm especially pissed, cuz as one poster said earlier, i just paid $575 for the 40K check up. i got the check up at 38K miles, and i'm currently at 40,072. how convenient! :( i have 6 months left on my warranty and i'm scared &%^#-less cuz from what i read here, it sounds like this EPC light nonesense is the beginnign of a nightmare. i'll keep you guys posted.

thanks for hte education...i'm so sad/pissed...

We have had nothing but problems with our 99 Jetta. Since buying it a little over a year ago we have had to replace two electic window motors. You can't put in an after market cd player because it "messes up" engine diagnostics so we had to buy an expensive one from VW. The radio keeps not working and they want to charge us $60 each time to take it out, get the code and reset it. The radio comes on in the middle of the night... they said it was a faulty ignition. $300+ later it still did the same thing. Only now the radio doesn't work at all. The speedometer only works when it decides to work and sometimes it registers 10 mph too slow. The dealer in Tacoma, Washington, is worthless. They have not been helpful at all. Too the car in, paid $$ to diagnose the problem, they had to order parts, they charged me the $$ for diagnosing and they charged me a hazardous waste disposal fee. When asked about what was disposed of, I was informed that it is added on to every bill, every time a car comes in for work whether anything is dosposed of or not. I refused to pay it and threatened to call the State and complain about it. I look forward to the day when I can get rid of the car.

I love my convertible bug...just wish I could change my own headlights...anyone have instructions?

it was the brake light switch, folks! wowza. luckily, the tow, parts, and labor were all under warranty. i hope everything works out from now on. thanks for the heads up, everyone!

I have a 98 Passat V6. I bought it brand new... the first one the dealership got... big mistake! I have loved it in every way except one. The check engine light has been on since the 50 mile mark... not the 5oK mile mark... the 50 mile mark. The dealership in Buffalo, NY (Autohaus) was incompetent and could never fix it under warranty... well my warranty went out and I still have this nagging problem. Well, I moved to Maryland and have to pass my state emissions test, and will fail it if the check engine light is on. Rather than messing around, I decided to take it to Congressional VW in Rockville Maryland. The said the code was 'cylinder misfires'... this has always been the code. I need to get the Check Engine Light turned off, and they said, then I will have to get:

1. All 6 spark plugs and wire replaced
2. Throttle Body Cleaning
3. Fuel Injection Service
4. Carbon Removal

Grand Total: $918!!!!

20 miles into driving it, the check engine light went on again. I almost went postal. They said, well now I have to replace my Mass Air Flow Censor... another $160. Is this a crime? This should be a crime. It still may not work.

Does anyway know how I can pass Maryland State Emissions with this issue? The car is great shape... and I really need to take care of this once and for all... any suggestions?

Thanks, Sameer

03 VW Passat- have been very pleased with it. Great car, fun to drive...im sure all of you passat people can relate. But what is mistifying me are 2 things....everything else has been running fine. My rear left and right doors ramdomly won't open. I have taken into vw for servicing and they have repaired iut multiple times, fixing it-- but it still breaks. They say its the cable lock on the door. Has anyone else expericed this?

And the other-which i am seeing some previous problems but not a tremendous amount. The brake light won't come on...all the fuses are good. A few yrs ago the brake light wouldn't go off...now its the reverse...and this time its happened simoutaneously with my rear door not opening! Perfect timing! VW is prob thinking the same- and they have to wash my car! ahhaaaaa.

has anyone else had these problems occur, know how to remedy them or what is causing it? thanks.

I have a helpful hint for people suffering from VWitis, Look in your yellow pages for a "Import Repair Shop". My new to me 2000 Jetta has 76,000 miles on it and i was quoted 500 at a very good VW dealer for the 80000 check up. I called up a import shop and it was 100 for labor, 50 for parts. They had the work done in the course of an afternoon and i couldnt be happier. I also would like to mention a website for very inexpensive MAF Sensors Im in no way affiliated with the but i found it to be the cheapest place (53 dollars) to get these much needed items. Let me know if thayts cool

HI,
I have been reading the postings on VW's. My story is I have a 2000 VW Passat. I bought it for 31,500 dollars in 2000 from Rusty Wallis, Dallas TX . This car had the engine light came on due to engine oil leak from 30,000 miles. They fixed it twice. Now it has 91,000 miles. I took care of the car pretty well. Good oil change and at teh dealrrship. Now the engine light came on. I took it for an oil change service, it came back again next day. Then they replaced the sensors. I believ knock sensors. I paid 289.00 dollars. The engine light came back within 12 hours. Now they are saying they have to run the step 2 diagnose which they will replace something and I have to pay. They mentioned if step 2 doesn't work step 3 is to replace the catalytic converter which cost about $3800 dollars which is a (Rip Off). I called few VW OEM parts shop the price that they gave me is 358 dollars each for the right and left converter. I don't know where they came up with the 3800 dollars. May be for the engine. That what the price for the engine is.
" Can someone please give me a good suggestion. " any experienced folks. My email is "infotecksystems@yahoo.com "
Thank you.

If I am right the VW engines are under POWER TRAN WARRANTY till 100,000 miles.

On my 99 Passat when I lock the doord the car alarms goes off. I have tried to reset the keyless entry but it still goes off after a couple of minutes. Any suggestions? Tks!

I have a warning indicator in my new golf that looks like an engine, what does this mean please?

I had the same problem as sbjetta. Thanks for sharing. It helped me out alot.

April, i'm so sorry you had the same problem, but extremely happy i was able to help you out!!! what a coincidence! have you been by the dealership by now? did they tell you the same thing/problem they told me?

crazy!!

I have a 2000 beetle 1.8L turbo with 65,000 miles. When I bought the car from a little used car dealership the EPC light was on. They sent it to a VW dealership and it was fixed. I was told it was a recall but I can't remember what for. Maybe something with the brake lights? Well now, about four months later and just three weeks after my warranty ran out, my Malfunction Indicator Light came on. Also, I have noticed how loud the engine is when idling. I change my oil faithfully at every 3000 miles, give it only full synthetic oil, and only premium gas. Why? Why???????? am I having more problems with a 5 year old car than I had with my 15 year old 4-runner with 280,000 miles???????

i just picked up my 2001 VW jetta from a local dealership today. this is my first VW. from the dealership i took it to the gas station to fill the tank, and as i pulled in, the EPC light started blinking. i didnt think anything of it at the time, and did not notice a lack of engine power or anything like that. i also drove the car to work and back tonight without any problems. should i be worried? i just bought the car today, and havent even had it inspected yet, so i dont think id be responsible for the problems that the EPC light may cause. any response is appreciated though!

P.S. it is the 2.0 liter paired with the 5 speed manual..

i have vw jetta tdi i buy this car on 2000 o miles from dealer now i have 207,000+ i pay like $8.000.00 on 4 year . this car is the worst i see on my life?i have the same problem everybody have>>i think i will go crazy with this car alot money>>the bad thing is no one can do nothing about this>??now i see im not the only one.thank you> good luck> every one.

CAR DETAILS: Jetta 2000, VR6 GLS, 42,800 Mi., Manual Shift 5-sp

PROBLEM DETAILS: Solid EPC indicator light followed shortly with the Traction Control indictor (Triangle with Exclamation) followed by solid Check Engine light came intermittantly (over 2-3 months) after cold starts within 5 minutes of operation. Multiple re-starts would clear EPC indicator light, but Check Engine light stayed illuminated for usually 12-24 hrs. When EPC would come on, Engine would temporarily stutter like taking foot off gas momentarily and then return to normal oepration but with indicator lights on. The last occasion before I took the car to the Dealer -- from cold start the car could not hold idle and RPM indicator bounced between 500 - 1000 RPM. Burn from exhaust rich in fuel -- nearly flooded. All 3 indicators (EPC, Traction Control and Check Engine) stuck on. Multiple restarts did not cure idle issue. After 1 hour of starting and restarting (probably 30 cycles spaces by a few minutes), car finally held an idle and reached a drivable state.

CORRECTIVE ACTION & COST: Drove to Dealer. I prepared for the worst. Dealer diagnosed 3 separate issues all relating to EPC -- Brake Light Switch, Mass Air Flow and O2 Sensor. Brake Light Switch and Mass Air Flow replaced Free of Charge under a VW extended warranty. O2 cost approx $30 + labor ($75 total). Dealer did not charge for any Computer Diagnosis.

RESPONSE: In the end, I am quite impressed by VW for extending warranty on these key components reacting to customer issues. I of course can question why O2 failed at 42K miles, but regardless of car vendor, that's the nature of all emission components used in the environment that these components are used in. Local Dealer (Fred-Vincent VW) performed stellar job that was honest, courteous and professional and accurately diagnosed and corrected the problem.

FINAL COMMENTS: I orignally bought VW because of their German Engineering. I am in Germany roughly 3-4 times per year in an out of VW's, BMW's and Mercedes all the time. Every German vehicle has its own flaws no matter how cheap or expensive. VW is not an exception nor an abhorration in Germany when it comes to reliability. VW stands behind their cars in Germany for those owners that fulfill their recommended maintenance program, as does Mercedes and BMW. In this case, I am impressed with VW's coverage since my initial warranty was 2 yrs / 24 months. My warranty expired 3 years ago and this is the first problem I've encountered out of warranty.

Have there been problems with VW Jetta/Passats with the EGR cooler or valves in the emission controls? If so, has VW of America addressed the issues?
thank you
Jennifer

1999 Passat 1.8 Turbo, The car I love to hate. Bought it used from a dealer with the extended warrentee. Thank God for the extended warrentee. For the person who's cruise control doesn't work. Have your shop check to make sure that VW didn't leave anything out when it rolled off the assembly line. There were actually pieces missing in the cruise assembly when I got my car. For those of you with phantom alarms going off, check to see if there isn't a blown fuse in your trunk. This caused my car to alarm itself and lock doors and cause the alarm to go off by itself, etc. Apparently, that fuse sends a message to your car that someone is trying to break into it and must be the most obnoxious car it can be to avoid theft. Let's not forget that when your battery dies, there is still juice enough for the ALARM system to go off and screw up everything. Keep two sets of keys on you at all times. One for the ignition and one for the door to disarm your alarm system when you are trying to jump your car. Also, have your car radio code handy as your radio will go into safe mode. Of course, they didn't have and never provided me with the code for my radio and I had to pay for a new one. Did I mention that the reason my battery went dead was because the guage cluster in the dash was malfunctioning so the little indicator bell that goes off when you leave your headlights on never went off? The check engine light . . . . that seems to be my current headache. I dropped $500 in the last two weeks on the O2 sensor, oil change, and the Tie rod end which was NOT included in the last steering assembly recall. Yes, I know that tie rods just wear out. But this still does not solve my check engine light. I currently owe more on this car than it's worth. Can't wait to unload it. I was actually remenicing about my 1985 Plymouth Horizon the other night. I couldn't kill that thing, even with a blown head gasket. I have had numerous other costly $$$$$ problems with this car (the VW, that is). The extended warrentee ran out last year. I will never ever ever buy another VW, and I mean never!!!

I bought my New Beetle used. Have had it less than three weeks. Headed to the mall, just as I turned into the parking lot, the EPC light came on. Looked it up in the book, thought...ok I'll have it checked tomorrow. Went into the mall.
Came back out, car started right up. Dang thing stuck in park. Dealership replace brake light switch. Drove 80miles since, so far, so good.

I have a 2001 New Beetle GLS TDI and have to say that so far (I have had it since Feb. 2002)I am not too thrilled with it. There are several recurring problems, one of which is the MIL. It came on not too long after I bought the care and I had it repaired (back then it was still under warranty). The MIL came back on around Xmas last year and I have not had the opportunity to get it repaired. The car runs, but definitely with less power. I am not sure if I should take it in again, as I fear it will happen again in a few years. The other problem I keep having is the brake release switch (I believe that's what it is called). Sometimes I can not put the car (automatic) into the drive gear and have to pump the brake several times until I can. I've had this repaired 2! times and it still happens. The interior rubber? coating on the doors is peeling off and the plastic components on the side of the seats keep falling off. I will keep this car as long as it drives, but I will never get another beetle again.

I have never had a problem with my 1998 VW Beetle. Today the battery went south. My girls have long since lost the manual. The radio is in safe mode, and I can't seem to get the code (which I found by the jack to enter) I used the preset keys to get the code in, but it will not enter and bring the radio back on. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I have a 2001 VW beetle. How do you change the tail light blub?

I just bought a VW Lemon... Am I suppose to make lemonade? I never should have left Honda.

I used to like VW's, but I will never buy a new VW again . I own a 2001 1.8t 5spd bought NEW(kind of regretting it). I have had similar problems. The problems I have experienced.(1)- Engine rpm fluctuates at idle to the point were it seems like it might die, but hasn't, ever since I have bought it. It was not that big of a deal to me at the time I metioned it to VW service, but they can't do nothing until it fails? (2)- On 2 occasions my clutch has stuck to the floor, when stopped, and the clutch started to engage slightly dropping the engine idle. I had to shut the car off and manually pull it back up and pumped it a few times to get to spring back kind of a pain when your in traffic. I was told it was something hydraulic(sorry can't remember what the part was), and it happened to a few other VWs, but only one has failed permanently that it had to be replaced under warranty, and that it hasn't happened to enough cars to bring out a recall. In order for them to fix it, I would have to have it towed in with it stucked to the floor? I have not had a problem since the last time. (3) The check engine light came on at 40K, and had to have the turbo by-pass valve replaced, good thing it was under warranty. After that I had had boost problems. It would come on so irregularly that you might rear-end someone. Took it back few times to get it checked out, they would adjust it and it would be marginally better, but still not to the way it was. Took it back again, because it gradually started to run rough when cold. Took it back again they reflashed it,and it has been driving well again. My gas mileage has dropped off in between those times I have taken it in. Apart from that it did not have the same sports car sounding ratcheting whoosh, that it had originally, I've read somewhere that they have muffled it to make it sound more upscale? (4)- The window jammed and then something broke, causing the window to drop to the bottom of the door. I thought it was the base of the window that broke, because it made a graunching grinding noise, as I tried to move the window to close it, when it started to jam. It turned out to be some cheap plastic clips that hold the window that broke. They were replaced under a Re-call Notice with steel ones. They had no courtesy car available on short notice. (5)- Check engine light came on again 60K this time to replace a filter, because the car was running rich and plugged the fuel filter. I'm not sure if it was from the adjusting of the boost before trying to reflash it, that cause the problem, but I was getting a little pissed off, and had a bitch session at the service desk, because I was having to make too many trips for unscheduled maintenance done, with out having a courtesy car available. It still consumes a bit more gas, at one time it got bad, then corrected itself, before I could make an appointment. (6)-I Found out the VW alarm system is a P.O.S. I had my car broken into, a few months ago. I realized they just broke into my car with a simple screw driver. The way the alarm is set up in conjunction with the windows they by-pass the alarm system. All they do is break the lock, which the barrel is pretty thin,and not beefy at all, that a baby could break it. The screw driver acts like the key now and disarms the alarm, because it thinks the battery is dead in your remote keyless entry. A pretty stupid way of having an alarm system governed by a lock? They ended up taking a few camping items from my trunk, but fortunately they left the more valuable stuff behind? Go figure I had at least $600 bucks of equippment,and they took the cheap stuff? IDIOTS!!! I decided to get a $300 after market alarm system installed, before getting the lock and cap replaced, which would have costed $300 for parts and labour, and along with getting the plastic cap painted to match. Normally this would be cover by insurance, but unfortunately a year ago they changed the deductable to $300 instead of a $100. It was a good thing I decided to do that first, just before my alarm installtion appointment the, them bastards did it again. This time they took my insurance papers and owners manual, I guess they did it out of spite. All this within the same week. Just think if I had got the lock replaced imediately, I would be out another $300. I am here writting this now, because it happened again. My new after market alarm system scared them away. I still have not replaced the lock just because of this. I just had gummy tape stuck in there and dime to fill the hole. I was planning on replacing the lock, when some interior parts I ordered came in, but now I've decided to do away with the lock all together and replace it with a keyless cap. It's unfortunate I will be losing a feature, were you can close the windows with the key, without it being in the ignition.

I'm not sick of it enough, to get rid of it, yet. The service is still good, they haven't tried to nickel and dime me, but I do find some of the answers I have been given is a little on BS side. It is embarassing, when co-workers that own domestic cars don't have to bring their car in as much.

I like my car. No let me take it back. I used to like my car. Now for every service I have to spend so much money. Today I had to spend 450$ for 40k service and recently they had me replace the spark plugs which costed me anoth 150$ and the next day check engine light came. What a big mistake I did buying this car. If I paid coupld of thousands more I would have got a nice BMW and my life wouldn't be this miserable

I bought a 1998 Passat 1.8 Liter 20 Valve engine. Smoke is coming out everywhere. Mainly from the exhaust. I suspect coils after reading all about this car but Im not sure. It also has a loss of power. Codes indicate miss fire in cylinders 2, 3 and 4

I have also experienced many of the isssues posted regarding the VW 2002 GLS 1.8 Passat. The car has 33,400 miles and while driving I got the "Check Engine light",EPC,ESP "STOP Motor"lights. I had the car towed at my expense to the VW dealer near my house. The service manager has not opened the engine but suspects serious engine damage. The Dealership insists that I provide proof of oil change regularly @ 5K miles. I already found 4 receipts with the last one from a VW dealer at 27K miles. Without all the proof the dealership and VW america is saying that this is not their responsibility.
Looking for advice..

2000 GTI VR6, 105,000 miles

My only big negative was with a misfire which occurred intermittently in damp condiditons. When I took it to the dealer where I bought it, at about 20K miles, they charged me $72 for an hour of diagnostic time, and told me it was either a faulty plug wire or the coil pack. I figured it might be a bad wire shorting through some dirt when moist, and chose not to do the coil pack. They did not bother to clean the wires however, which ticked me off, as it seemed like the diagnostic would have taken about 15 minutes. Later, it became terminal, and fortunately I had the extended warranty so it didn't cost the reputed +/- $700 to fix.

I've also had some issues with the check engine light. First it was the mass airflow censor (intermittent form about 45-70K, then terminal at 74,000 mi, just over the factory extension for this item, another beef with the dealer, since they were aware of it as a preexisting issue) then the catalytic converter (98,000 mi). Not too bad given the milage honestly. Figure the catalytic converter finally packed up since most of my driving in the past six months has been a short trip to the commuter rail station. I am told this packs them in quicker than if you really heat them up and burn off the gasses.

I've had to do full rear brakes once, around 80K, and still have not had to replace the fronts. I bought a set of mounted Dunlop SP4 winter tires which get me through most of the winter weather up here in Maine, although an inch or two of ride height would help at times. Been replacing the all weather summer sets at roughly 45,000 mile intervals, when they start to get a little dicey in heavy rain conditions.

My latest issue is what appears (sounds) to be a left front wheel bearing. Anyone out there had to deal with wheel bearings yet?

At roughly 105,000 mostly highway miles in a rather inhospitable climate the necessary maintenance doesn't seem too bad. Often enough it does communicate the quality of a decent piece of German engineering, which is a significant reason I went with this car. I plan to keep it as long as possible, and it still seems tight, without the rattles I remember from my '81 Rabbit.

Ok, my POS Jetta TDI is having MAJOR issues. It's a 2001 Jetta GL (I think) TDI, approx 82000 miles on it. The speedometer went out. We were driving with cruise set, and all of a sudden the cruise kicked off, the speedometer went to 0, and the gas guage is unsteady (fluxuates as we turn corners, etc.), and the odometer is changing. We've got to figure something out, because we cannot afford to get gouged at the repair shop or dealership!! Has anyone had this problem, or have any idea what causes it?

I drive a 2001 VW GLX (VR6. mY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON SHORTLY AFTER I TOOK MY CAR ON A TRIP FROM MIAMI FLORIDA TO ORLANDO FLORIDA. I RECENTLY HAD A EXAUST INSTALLED BUT THERE WAS A LEAK LEFT OUT BEFORE THE CONNECTION OF THE PIPE TO THE MUFFLER. I ALSO HAD A INTAKE WITH HEAT SHIELD INSTALLED AND ABOUT A DAY OR SO AFTER THE TRIP MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TURNED ON AND THEN ON THE EXPRESSWAY ONE DAY MY EPC LIGHT AND ASR LIGHT ALSO CAME ON. I REPLACED THE FILTER WITH THE ORIGINAL STOCK ONE AND REMOVED THE MAF HOUSING AND CLEANED WITH ALCOHOL 70% LET IT DRY GOOD AND WHILE DRYING I WIPED DOWN THE CONNECTOR TUBE TO THE THROTTLE BODY AND THE FRONT OF THE THROTTLE BODY. I HAD THE LEAK IN THE EXAUST FIXED AND THE CAR RUNS PERFECT. ONE THING HAPPENS THOUGH, WHILE IN GEAR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION THE CAR REACHES RPM OF 3000ROM IT ACCELARATES ITS SELF LIKE WHEN YOU FLOOR IT AT THE TORQUE RANGE OR 3100 IF YOU LEAVE IT STUCK ON 3000 RPM IT WILL ACCELARATE ITS SELF CONTINUESLY RIGHT AFTER ANOTHER. PLEASE IF ANY ONE HAS ANY SUGGESTIONS OR A SOLUTION PLEASE I DO NOT WANT TO TAKE TO DEALER YET IT TAKES FIDELITY TWO WEEKS JUST TO APPROVE THE WORK AND THAT REALLY SUCKS WHEN IT COULD BE CHEAP AND SIMPLE IF IT GETS COMPLICATED THEN I WILL HAVE NO CHOICE.

03 jetta. seat warmer caught fire...dealer replaced n/c. Got official looking document from an attorney w/class action verbage. Anyone else hearing about $$$ and/or warranty info? The smoke just freaked me out!

Working on friend's 2000 Jetta 2.0 5 speed (first time working on one). Ran rough when cold, improved a little when warm. Check Engine Light on, and gas mileage was terrible. Took vehicle to Auto Zone to have them read computer for codes - came back with :
P1128 - Bank 1 Too Lean / Fuel Meter
P0300 - Random / Multiple Misfire
P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire
P0302 - Cylinder 2 Misfire
P0303 - Cylinder 3 Misfire
P0304 - Cylinder 4 Misfire

Seriouly doubt what I was told by guys @ AutoZone on what they think was wrong. One guy said ignition coil (car in service 5 years - first time it had a problem like this - one owner), another said the catalytic converter was bad. Exhaust flow was fine, as said by a qualified exhaust techniciab.
Went home, removed the engine dust cover, found vaccum hose for fuel pressure regulator broken. Replaced hose - no change. Replaced spark plugs and wires, thinking maybe a fouled plug or dead shorted wire (vehicle recently in service shop because of FUBAR fuel). Bought some fuel system treatment and put Citgo 93 octane fuel in - still no difference. Took vehicle back to AutoZone (not back to the same one - those guys & I had a few words) - had them read the computer again - same errors, but this time I had them clear them as well. Started car and drove around - runs normal, no word on gas mileage as of yet. Hope this helps someone with whatever problem they may have.

On the 2000 TDI Jetta, posted by Crystal, I'd check the Speed sensor first, and I'm not sure if it has a cable or not - haven't had to look in to that as of yet. Also, if it so happens that the speedo is electronic drive, check the fuses on the interior fuse panel, as well as any that maybe in the engine compartment. Hope this helps!

To Maureen Tobin:

The brake lights not working and trans being locked is caused by the brake light switch. This switch activates the park-lock switch, which lets you shift out of Park. VW currently has a recall on some vehicles for malfunctioning brake light switches. I would suggest calling your local VW dealer and asking if your vehicle is covered under this recall. Have your VIN number handy, as this is how they check this. Best Wishes!

I'm seeing a trend here. Been reading your posts for the past few hours, and this is what I see.

'99 Jetta / Passat - OFF LIMITS - all kinds of "unknown" or "spoofalous" problem - all with no explanation from dealers.

'00 Jetta - A little better, as long as you don't take it to the dealer.

'01 - '03 Jetta / Passat / Golf/GTi - Getting better, still have the same problems, despite a recall. Stay clear of the 1.8T, still has teething problems. Also stand clear of any with auto transmission, not made in German - MADE IN JAPAN (Jettas/Golf).

'04 Stay away from automatics, and I think they may have it just right.

'05 - STUPID - they just had to start from scratch. Get a good design going, start getting some reliability, and they change it all again - back to square one, right back to 1999.

Hope this tickles somebody, cause it sure tickles me.

hi-
Well I must say that there seems to be a trend with the posts describing the CHECK ENGINE (MIL) light coming on - soon after bringing the car in for service. I find this extremely strange. I myself brought in my 2002 GTI 1.8L for a 40k checkup (at around 37k miles) and guess what? Two weeks later the MIL light has come on....hmmmmm....I have been told that some cars have this light come on before important maintanance checks....and that maybe they forgot to reset the thing when i brought it in...not sure but i have an appointment in 1 week (thank god the light is not flashing)

THINGS THAT HAVE GONE WRONG OVER LIFE OF CAR:

DAY 1 (YES DAY 1) : I went to lower the driver side window as I drove away from dealership - falls into door - cannot re-raise.

RECALL 1: IGNITION COILS replaced (actually failed before i could bring in to dealership)

RECALL 2: Turn signal mechanism replaced

LEAK in Coolant line (collant light started coming on within 6 months of owning the car)

PASSENGER side window falls into door (within 1st year of ownership)

Hi Everyone,

I have a VW 2001 1.8 T. I have had a problem with the ASR light coming on and staying on for more than a year. It is horrible. They can't figure out the problem. I can't tell you how many things they've tried to fix this.
My ASR light comes on while driving on DRY pavement and stays on. My car's performance decreases greatly. I have a case with 800-VW and my local VW has been trying to fix this for a year. The MAF (mass air flow) is still failing, but since it has already been replaced TWICE, they won't replace it again. We got an extended warranty on the MAF as you might recall.
I am at a loss.. they've replaced the air filter, cleaned the throttle body, replaced the ASR switch, they've redone all the ground connections, and replaced the spark plugs. NOTHING IS WORKING. MY ASR LIGHT STILL COMES ON 4 DAYS/ WEEK.
If anyone knows anything, please help me! Right now, my VW has their techline involved and even they don't know what to do. I've payed for several UNNEEDED repairs for my car and the ASR light still comes on.

ANY THOUGHTS AT ALL ON THIS SUBJECT?? Thanks so much! -Simcha

I have a 1999 Jetta, my check engine light has given my nothing but problems in the last three years. My EPC light was just on also, not allowing me to go over 30 mph. Since my car is no longer under waranty, I took it to my mechanic. He said the VW people said the part needed was 770.00 plus his labor, they took the trottle body apart and cleaned the sensor and tightened the fingers, it's been two weeks, so far so good. I anticipate the check engine light to come on again, for what who knows? I am constantly replacing all these damn censors. I don't think I will ever by a VW again. To expensive to fix.

I have a 2001 VW Beetle, sometimes it is hard to get in reverse, most of the time on a hill but not always, I put the brake on and ofrf and it takes a few minutes before it will go in gear, any suggestions?

I have a 1997 Vw Jetta 2.0L and I have a Code P0322 what could be wrong and how can i fix it, Any help would be great, thanks.

I have a 200 Jetta that just passed 40,000 miles. Just today, my door lock alarm has gone off three different times...once an hour, almost. What do I need to do? Replace a fuse, a battery? Anyone else had this problem?

I have just purchased a 00 New Beetle automatic with 60,100 miles and after owning it two days it started getting stuck in park problem. Please advise if you can help me out.

Shelly in Oklahoma

I recently lost my radio power for the 3rd time. I took the car and the numbers into a volkswagen dealer in Colorado Springs Colorado and asked them for the code. They got really crappy with me and said hey it costs money for the code. It takes us time to get it. I just walked out. So how can I get a co