Some points to note on watercooled VW's (Based on Canadian market!)
VOLKSWAGEN New Beetle
- The individual ignition coils on all 2001 and 2002 Volkswagen products powered by the 1.8T and VR6 engines are defective. Volkswagen has undertaken a customer service program to replace the ignition coils on affected vehicles, and will provide alternate trans
- 1999-2001 : Volkswagen-supplied dealer-installed block heater can fall off the oil pan when in use and the car is unattended. If the hot block heater heating element drops onto the plastic undertray covering the bottom of the engine compartment, there is a risk of fire. Report incidents to Transport Canada (1.800.333.0510) and the APA.
VOLKSWAGEN Jetta, Golf
- 1993-95 models , the first 3 years of manufacturing in Mexico plants, experienced many problems, 1996-98 models have so far had fewer problems.
- Check the often defective power and manual side windows .
- Golf/Jetta equipped with non-turbo 1.8L engine : the exhaust system front pipe frequently fails around 115,000 km, and the replacement part sold by the dealer includes the catalytic converter, for a hefty $751. If your catalytic converter is still good, a cheaper solution is to install an aftermarket front pipe on the old converter for about $250. For a repair in the Montreal area, call 1-800-400-3792.
- Volkswagen-supplied dealer-installed block heater can fall off the oil pan when in use and the car is unattended. If the hot block heater heating element drops onto the plastic undertray covering the bottom of the engine compartment, there is a risk of fire. Report incidents to Transport Canada (1.800.333.0510) and the APA.
- The individual ignition coils on all 2001 and 2002 Volkswagen products powered by the 1.8T and VR6 engines are defective. Volkswagen has undertaken a customer service program to replace the ignition coils on affected vehicles, and will provide alternate transportation at no cost. Call VW Customer Relations at 1.800.822.2834 for further information.
- 1999-2001 : weak windshield-wiper pivots
VOLKSWAGEN Golf, GTI, GTI VR6
- 1993-95 models : many problems during the first 3 years of construction in Mexico, 1996-98 models appear to be somewhat better.
- Weak electrical system including, possible corrosion of wiring connectors. Check that the horn and rear defroster work.
- Be careful if someone offers you a GTI at a price that is too good to be true: these cars have often been abused. Also, there is a higher than average risk that you are being offered a car that has been in a collision or stolen.
VOLKSWAGEN Passat (1995-1997)
- Check the 2L engine timing belt after 60,000 km to avoid serious engine damage.
- Up to 1993 : the automatic transmission is unreliable; replacement may cost more than $4000 at a dealer!
- Make sure to check the power and manual locks and windows on each door (frequently defective).
- The individual ignition coils on all 2001 and 2002 Volkswagen products powered by the 1.8T and VR6 engines are defective. Volkswagen has undertaken a customer service program to replace ignition coils on affected vehicles and will provide alternate transportation at no cost. Call VW Customer Relations at 1-800-822-2834 for further information.
VOLKSWAGEN Jetta (1993-1998)
- Recall covering 1993-1995 models: the rear brake line on the passenger side could be routed too close to the corner of the fuel tank, which could lead to brake line damage and partial brake system failure. Inspect right rear brake line routing and replace as necessary.
- Recall covering 1993-1996 models: front hood latch bolts may lose their specified fastening torque over time. This could cause the latch move, and the hood to open unexpectedly. Inspect hood latches and securing bolts and replace if necessary.
VOLKSWAGEN Golf (1993-1999), GTI (1993-1999), GTI VR6 (1993-1996)
- Recall covering 1993-1995: the rear brake line on the passenger side could be routed too close to the corner of the fuel tank, which could lead to brake line damage and partial brake system failure. Inspect right rear brake line routing and replace as necessary.
- Recall covering 1993-1996 models: front hood latch bolts may lose their specified fastening torque over time. This could cause the latch move, and the hood to open unexpectedly. Inspect hood latches and securing bolts and replace if necessary.
