rec.autos.vw [W] GENERAL, FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION (FAQ)
Jan Vandenbrande
Archive-name: autos/vw/general-faq
Rec-autos-vw-archive-name: general-faq
Posting-Frequency: bi-monthly
Last-modified: 15 Jul 96
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
==========================================
Frequently Asked Questions
for
Water Cooled VWs
-- General --
==========================================
rec.autos.vw
Version:
1 Jan 93 = Inception, more or less.
1 Feb 93 = tool places, other bbs's., Correction on T1/5 cars
1 Mar 93 = Updated recall info
1 Apr 93 = New categorization.
1 May 93 = Updated VIN, Platform types, edits.
1 Jun 93 = Music, GTI origins.
1 Jul 93 = Edits, half hearted index.
1 Aug 93 = Edits, new VIN categorization.
1 Sep 93 = More recall info.
1 Oct 93 = Edits.
1 Nov 93 = VIN # adjustments. Recall info updates. Edits.
1 Dec 93 = Edits. Diesel stuff added.
1 Jan 94 = Tom C's edits/cleanup, Updated recall info.
1 Feb 94 = Copyright BS, purpose, organization, added, more product addresses
More club infos.
1 Mar 94 = Edits
15Mar 94 = Additions to VW family.
1 Apr 94 = Product # updated, new archives (Solid_Shifter, Vanagon Syncro
alignment)
1 May 94 = Vanagon list server change.
1 Jun 94 = Edits. Translation table of technical terms (HELP!)
15Jun 94 = CD changer info, translation update
1 Jul 94 = Edits, updated archive stuff
15Jul 94 = CA diesel fuel prob.
1 Aug 94 = Some edits
15Aug 94 = WWW access, updated recall list (P & EV).
15Sep 94 = List servers updated, French additions, reorg of archives
1 Oct 94 = Edits, Corrado TSB added, Diesel reimbursement
1 Nov 94 = Edits
15Nov 94 = German corrections, updated VW history.
1 Dec 94 = Edits
15Dec 94 = BMW WWW FAQ URL added.
1 Jan 95 = ECs, VWTrends, Funkengroovin email/URL added.
15Jan 95 = Jetta /// TSBs added, magazine info updates, Online TSBs
through WWW, rear wheel lifts, update CA diesel claims.
1 Feb 95 = Name, G60 & VR6 history, faq.vw.* submitted to news/rec.
answers for official archival, updated Corrado mailing list
info.
15Feb 95 = Archive updates, WWW for AMSOIL, some recommendations added
1 Mar 95 = Updated where VWs are made
15Mar 95 = VW's URL added, Updated Corrado, G60 & VR6 origins, added
"IT'S A FEATURE",
Approval received for *.answers & archival @ MIT
1 Apr 95 = URL updates
15Apr 95 = JT Update, update EC index
1 May 95 = Creation of INFO - FAQ: How to access the archives & info
15May 95 = Info FAQ established, duplicate info removed.
15Jun 95 = Reorged the tuner section, added some info on tools.
Jens Knickmeyer updates on rattles, ABUS & Polos.
1 Jul 95 = Lots of additions by Jens Knickmeyer, Trying to sort out
Tuners/Parts/Manufacturers...
15Jul 95 = Still trying to sort out Tuners/Parts/Manufacturers classification
15Aug 95 = Edits, Jud Main's addition of more part places
1 Sep 95 = Start of cross post to rec.autos.makers.vw.watercooled
1 Oct 95 = Minor edits if any.
15Oct 95 = Updated Corrado Common Problems.
15Nov 95 = Translation updates by Sven, Historicaql corrections,
periodocal/book updates by David Pipes
1 Dec 95 = VR6 TJ Recall.
1 Feb 96 = Edits
15Mar 96 = Edits
1 Jun 96 = Address corrections
15Jul 96 = South African production added (A1's produced till 94).
Initiator's Note: Please feel free to submit any additional info.
Jan Vandenbrande
j...@ug.eds.com (new address)
j...@lipari.usc.edu (school address, works)
See also the list of contributors at the end.
Familiar with: 78R, 81S, 84S, 86GTI, 90G60, 92SLC, 92P
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright Notice (c) -- 1993 - 1996:
All Rights Reserved
The information contained here is collectively copyrighted by the
authors. The right to reproduce this is hereby given, provided it is
copied intact, with the copyright notice inclusive.
However, the authors explicitly prohibit selling this document, any
of its parts, or any document which contains parts of this document.
(Inspired from faq.audio ;->)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index
=====
General (VIN #, Part/Perf places)
Common Problems (Recall info, common VW ailments, Resetting oxy sensor)
Interchanging Parts/Tools (substituting parts & tools)
Fuel Injection (Types used by VW)
Recommendations (people's opinions on VWs over the years)
VW Types (The VW Family)
===============================================================================
ORGANIZATION:
=============
This FAQ is divided into a preamble and a list of subjects. Each
subject is described by a list of questions and answers.
This FAQ is split into four individual postings:
Info FAQ
General FAQ <=== You are reading this file
Technical FAQ
Performance FAQs
This FAQ handles mostly general questions regarding Water Cooled VWs, while the
Technical FAQ focusses mostly on the technical aspects, procedures and
tools for water cooled VWs.
Whereas the technical FAQ deals mostly with maintaining the status
quo with your car, the fourth FAQ deals with improving upon the stock
design and performance.
The Info FAQ describes where to obtain additional information, where
the archives sites are, and other related WWW/URL sites.
Due to its origin, the FAQs are mostly geared towards the US Market,
where cars based on the Jetta/Golf/Rabbit platforms of all three generations
are the most prevelent.
As a consequence, the focus is mostly on fuel injected cars with
emmission control devices.
PURPOSE:
========
The purpose of this FAQ is to address frequently-asked questions as
a whole, so that rec.autos.vw volume can be reduced. Towards this end,
we assembled a list of common questions, and some general answers to
these questions. Most answers are assumed to be correct to some degree,
but there is absolutely no guarantee that anything is correct.
Product information is supplied for your convenience, but any product
mention is not intended as an endorsement or an advertisement.
In addition, products change, quality may improve or degrade, new ones
may supersede existing ones, and therefore all the data here is to be taken
as transient.
What is considered the best oil today may be the worst tomorrow.
==============================================================================
GENERAL
=======
Q: Where can I retrieve these FAQs, where can I obtain the VW archives
and other related information?
A: See the VW Info FAQ.
Q: What does [W] and [A] mean in the UseNet posting headers?
A: [W] = Watercooled subjects.
[A] = Aircooled subjects.
Please use this to allow people to filter out irrelevant articles.
Q: What are the best manuals for my car?
A: Robert Bentley Manuals:
"Official Factory Manuals" series. Available from the publisher
1000 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138
(800) 423-4595, (216) 572-0725 (?) (617) 547-4170
VW & other US mailorder houses.
Currently NOT available outside North America.
Covers ONLY cars sold in the US & Canada.
NOTE according to (rgo...@UMASSD.EDU) there are TWO types of
Bentley manuals:
VW Service Manual= Aimed for amateurs (us!)
VW Repair Manual = Geared for experienced/professionals
Bentley is setting up a home page. Domain name: RB.com
Some reference #s:
Corrado Manual: Bentley Stock No. VC94, ISBN 0-8376-0387-0,
VW Part No. LPV 800 300
John Muir:
"Complete Idiot Guide to keep your water cooled VW alive".
John Muir Publications Inc., Box 613, Santa Fe, NM 87504
(800) 888 9079 (?) (800) 888-7504 (?)
or try Classic Motorbooks 1-800-826-6600, or KdF Enterprises?
(Rumored to be out of print, A-1 cars only, but has lots of
advice/procedures that are still valid today)
Greg Raven:
"Volkswagen Water-Cooled, Front-Drive Performance Book"
Available from US mailorder houses.
greg...@kaiwan.com
http://www.kaiwan.com/~greg.ihr
[Vack] Peter Vack, The Volkswagen Buyer's Guide. 1-800-826-6600 (Motorbooks
International), $16.95.
Discusses the VW models and VW's technology (i.e., VR6 & G60)
over the years (up to the Corrado).
It claims that: "Overall, the Corrado had a classical shape that
harked back to the old Ferrari 275 GTB/4 and is appreciated by
enthusiasts." In general, an interesting book.
Haynes:
"Modify Your Golf/GTI" (available from Rapid Parts) "VW Service Manual".
Also available outside North America.
Chiltons:
Chilton Way, Radnor PA 19089
(800) 695 12 14, (215) 964 40 00, (215) 964 47 45
"Front Wheel Drive VW(?), 1974-1990", Item # 6962
The main problem with Chilton is that it contains ALL FWD VWs
from 1974-1990 in one small paper back book, using fuzzy pictures,
and even pictures from *other* car makes.
Chilton is generally not the preferred book to buy, but in some
cases there may be no alternative.
Caveat:
For regular service, my personal [jan] preference goes to Bentley (old
style), Muir (A1 cars), Bentley (new style).
For newer cars, I look in the older books which gives detailed
instructions, than turn to the new style Bentleys and try to figure out
what to do there.
Back issues of EuroCar/VW&P & ?? (=British car mag) also contain detailed
tech procedures that may be of use.
I have both Haynes and Chiltons, and find them entertaining but never use
them.
Naturally, your preferences may vary.
Bentley:
"Bosch Fuel Injection and Engine Management", Charles Probst, available
from Classic Motorbooks, Bentley and others.
This "Bosch Bible" fully explains the theory, troubleshooting, and
service of all Bosch systems from D-Jetronic through the latest Motronics.
Sftbd., 8" X 10", 192 pgs., 475 ill.
More of a specialized book.
Auto-Bound at (800) 523-5833 has been quoted a couple of times as
a good supplier for some of these books.
From VW's Technical Literature:
VR6 engine WSP 521-402-00
1992 model change info WSP 521-404-00
The new Corrado (1990) WSP 521-202-00
Q: Any interesting books?
A: From David Pipes:
"Golf GTI - First and finest of the hot hatches" by Ian Wagstaff
published 1992 by Windrow & Greene
ISBN 1 87200 446 6
143 pages, lots of photos, some colour, includes chapter on USA scene
"Classics in Colour - VW Golf GTI" by Ian Wagstaff
published 1992 by Windrow & Greene
ISBN 1 87200 486 5
96 pages, all colour, includes VR6 etc.
"VW Power and Style" by Ian Kuah
published 1991by Motor Racing Publications
ISBN 0 947981 49 7
192 pages, full of photos, some colour, includes Scirocco, Corrado etc.
USA/Canada distributor: Motorbooks Int. Publishers & Wholesalers Inc.,
Osceola, Wisconsin 54020
"VW Golf and derivatives - a collector's guide" by John Blunsden
published 1992 by Motor racing Publications
ISBN 0 947981 63 2
128 pages, many photos mainly black and white, mostly VW press pics.
Full of UK spec. changes, includes Corrado, VR6 etc.
USA/Canada distributor: Motorbooks Int. Publishers & Wholesalers Inc.,
Osceola, Wisconsin 54020
Q: Can I get VW Service Bulletins?
A: YES, and you can get the index for free!
Pick a flyer from your VW dealer or call: (800) 544 80 21
The bulletins are referred to by a "V" group number - year - index
e.g., V13-91-06
The actual bulletins cost $4.00 for the first, US$2.00 for each subsequent
one. You can also order a yearly subscription, in which case they also send
you a library of all microfilmed repair manuals.
Some car stores, such as SuperTrak in LA, have a computer with a
CDROM with all these bulletins, and allow you to scan through this data
base for free.
There is now also an online site that provides access (for a fee).
See the VW Info FAQ.
Q: What periodicals are worth reading and are relevant to VW?
A: US:
---
European Car (formerly VW & Porsche): Argus Publishers Corp,
P.O. Box 452, Mt. Morris, IL 61054-0452
800-877-5602.
Editor: Greg Brown, e-mail (expirmental): Edit...@aol.com
Article Submissions: Edi...@aol.com (Victor Max)
Greg Raven: greg...@kaiwan.com
Freelance technical writer for European Car magazine
PO Box 10024, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Another person you may see mentions there is James Sly: jame...@aol.com
Most relevant mag in US, [W-VWs & other European cars]
Addressed from here on as [EC].
Hot VWs [A some W]
VW Trends, McMullen Publishing, P.O. Box 70015, Anaheim, CA 92825-0015
(714) 635-9040, $18.95 US/year, [A some W]
edit...@aol.com (EditorDan, aka Dan Leadbetter, Editor, VW TRENDS)
vwtr...@aol.com, until 19950401, then VWT...@aol.com
EuroSport Car, McMullen Publishing, 774 S. Placentia Ave, Placentia,
CA 92670, (714) 572 22 55, fax (714) 572 1864.
New magazine. First issue published in fall 93, published quarterly.
A direct, though less refined (busty babes), competitor of [EC].
Many articles are almost direct duplicates of what appeared in [EC].
Addressed from here on as [ESC].
Some Grass roots publications:
FUNKENGROOVIN - The Vee Dub Chronicles
P.O. Box 233, Trout Lake, WA 98650 UNITED STATES
Phone: (509) 395-2648 Fax: (509) 395-2529
Internet: VWGr...@aol.com
WWW: http://www.vwgroovin.com/groovin/
"An International Network Of Volkswagen Enthusiasts"
Published quarterly, this magazine is "A Highly Participatory, Grass Roots,
Reader Written Zine." Share your thoughts, insights, tricks, hints, art work,
photography, dreams, and adventures. This is YOUR magazine. We'll publish
whatever you send our way. Plus, you'll find Unclassified Ads, a Schedule of
Events, contests and prizes, and much more.
German Air Sucker Society/927 Liberty Street/Salem, OH 44460.
Contact Troy Heizenrater at (216) 332-1865
$26 (new price) for 12 issues
Mary Smith: "The best source for up-coming events!"
UK:
---
VW Motoring, Stoke Orchard, Cheltenham, GL52 4SX. UK. [A & W]
Annual subscription (twelve issues) World (airmail) 43.00 UK pounds
Warners Group Distribution, The Maltings, West Street, Bourne, Lincs,
PE10 9PH, U.K.
Tel: ++ 44 1778 391153
Volkswagen Audi Car, - strictly water cooled. VW, Audi and SEAT.
Annual subscription (twelve issues) World (airmail) 55.00 UK pounds
Autometrix Publications, Market Chambers, High Street, Toddington,
Beds, LU5 6BY, U.K.
Tel: ++ 44 1525 874019
The Golf - what it says!
new magazine (October '95), issue one at 2.50 UK pounds
Link House Magazines Ltd, Dingwall Avenue, Croydon, CR9 2TA, U.K.
Tel: ++ 44 0181 686 2599
technik - German cars
new magazine (Nov/Dec '95), issue one at 2.50 UK pounds
Myatt McFarlane Publishing Ltd, Trident House, Heath Road, Hale, Ches,
WA14 2UJ, U.K.
Tel: ++ 44 161 928 3480
D:
--
Auto Motor und Sport, DPV, Postfach 10 16 02, 2000 Hamburg 1, Germany,
--general info but great...if you know German
Gute Fahrt
100% VW, some air cooled, text in German, good for keeping up with
latest news from Wolfsburg
Annual subscription (twelve issues) World DM65
Klasing + Co GmbH, Postfach 10 16 71, 33516 Bielefeld, Germany
Tel: ++ 49 421 55 92 89
AUS:
----
????, GPO Box 257c, Melbourne, Vic. 3001, Australia
SF:
---
Kupla (for Tom's sake ;->, probably Finnish, this list is world wide)
Q: Is there an index of articles of the above.
A: NewDimensions has the index retrievable from their BBS.
A:QDEXEURO.ZIP 25600 08-14-94 Eurocar Index Database for Filemaker,
Mac or Windows
Here are a few relevant ones (mostly tech procedures
or product reviews) in no particular order from [EC]:
Proportioning Valve - Aug 88, pp 16
Scirocco Suspension - Aug 88, pp 23
Scirocco - Aug 88, pp 43
GTI Tuning Advice - Jun 88, pp 18
Lower Stress Bar - Jun 88, pp 26
Heads - Jun 88, pp 34
Brakes - Dec 88, pp 32
GTI Idle Speed Reg - Jan 89, pp 12
GTI Shifter - Jan 89, pp 14
Knock Sensor - Jan 89, pp 6 & 32
Exhausts - Jan 89, pp 35
Camshafts - Apr 89, pp 7 & 32
Tranny Grind - Apr 89, pp 16
Paint - Jun 89, pp 88
Heads - Jun 89, pp 68
Clutch - Aug 89, pp 40
Brakes - Aug 89, pp 48
Bearings - Feb 90, pp 38
Proportioning Valve - Feb 90, pp 33
Camsaver - Feb 90, pp 46
Shocks - Apr 90, pp 4
Trannys - Apr 90, pp 50
Springs - Jun 90, pp 4
Radiators - Jun 90, pp 42
Race Tires - Sep 93
Performance Tires - Jul 93
Tires Tech Talk - Jun 93
VR6 Perf Mods - Sep 93
Alignmemt - Jan 93
Strut Bushing - May 93
Variable Timing Cam - May 93
Wax - Sep 92
Alpine 8040 Alarm - Apr 93
Alpine 8035 Alarm - Nov 93
Oil Analysis - Nov 93
VW Engine Build 3 - Jul 92 (A1 GTI)
Hella FF Lights - Jul 92
Drilled Rotors - Aug 93
VR6 P-Chip - Aug 93
CV Joint Repair - Jan 94
16V Techtonics Exh - Oct 93
16V Pchip - Oct 93
Colors (?) - Jan 93
Accumat - Dec 93
[ESC]:
Indexing Sparkplugs - Fall 93
A2 Perf Mods - Spring 94
Suspension Tech - Spring 94
Q: Are there any VW clubs?
A: Yes. Here's the address:
Volkswagen Club of America, Inc.
P.O. Box 154, Dept. P
North Aurora, IL 60542-0154, USA
President: Shell Tomlin, 1554 Roanoke Ave., Aurora, IL 60506, 708 896-2803
Vice Pres: Phil Williame, 4442 N. McVicker, Chicago, IL 60630 312 283-7323
Secretary: Barbara Boltz, 11007 S. Harding, Chicago, IL 60655 312 239-2685
Membership: Lynida Tomlin 1554 Roanoke Ave., Aurora, IL 60506, 708 896-2803
Second Generation VW Club (Do they still exist?)
POBox 383, Cupertino, CA 95015
Pres: Mike Krider (408) 629 30 96
Tech Ed: Tim Hildabrand (408) 980 16 91
Canadian Volkswagen Enthusiasts Association
CVEA
P.O. Box 2137
Kingston, Ontario
K7L 5J9, Canada
(613) 544 4412
SCCA, (General Car Club), USA, (800) 255 5550
Northcoast California VW Assoc.
P.o. Box 750721
Eureka, CA 94975-0721
Southern CA VW Council
P.O. Box 934
Claremont, CA 91711-0934
Stricktly German
755 N Resh
Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 776 43 56
Watercooled VW Newsletter
P.O.Box 90515
East Point, GA 30364
(404) 836 14 74 (Bill Staib)
Corrado Club of America
See http://ug.cs.dal.ca/~gajewski/corrado.html for more info.
This club is still in the making (May 95).
Q: I am going to Germany, what can I visit that may be of interest?
A: While in Wolfsburg, make sure you go to the VW Factory Museum!!! If
you have some time before you leave write to:
Hans-Jurgen Klar
Besucherdienst (Visitors' Bureau)
Volkswagen AG
D-38436 Wolfsburg
(0 53 61) 9-20200 -- drop the first zero if calling from abroad
Fax (0 53 61) 92 44 79
Ask them for help, advise, etc. see if they can arrange for your tours
of both the museum and the factory. Plant tours are at 1:00 pm and
last about 1.5 hrs. Visit the VW museum...open from 9 to 5.
When you go to the museum, make sure you have lots of film and lots
of money. The museum store (actually three large display cases) has
a lot of neat VW stuff!
Automotive Museum in Sinsheim (on the autobahn A6 which runs from
Mannheim to Heilbron - near Heilbron).
There they have a whole museum full of cars - the Blue Flame, a DeLorean,
the first Wanklemotor car (rotor engine I think), it's a real treat.
Make a trip to the Nrburgring race circuit west of Koblenz off
autobahn A48 (south of Kln off autobahn A1) for the driving
experience of a lifetime.
For about 15DM you can drive a lap of the "Nordschleife" also known as
the "green hell" - the original race circuit built in 1927 which snakes
for over twelve miles through the forests. If you don't want to drive
(anything with wheels is accepted) take a ride in the "Ringtaxi".
There is also an excellent motor sport museum, karting (the longest
track in Germany) near the Grand Prix circuit (venue for the '95
European Grand Prix).
Phone numbers are (from outside Germany):
(If phoning from Germany put 0 in front of the 26 and drop the
international code)
Local tourist office: ++ 49 26 91 92 06 0
Motor sport museum: ++ 49 26 91 3 02 147
Drive yourself: ++ 49 26 91 3 02 144
Karting: ++ 49 26 91 10 48
Ringtaxi: ++ 49 26 91 3 02 179
You're advised to phone to check opening times before making a long
journey.
If you're in the U.K. in early May, checkout "GTI International",
Europe's largest gathering of GTI enthusiasts. Takes place at the
Transport Research Laboratory twenty five miles south west of London.
'95 saw over 8,000 visitors over two days. Quarter mile sprint, slalom,
tyre testing, trade hall, club stands plus some of the very best cars
in Europe.
Further information from the organizers, Volkswagen Audi Car
magazine on++ 44 1525 874019
Q: What's A-1 and the A-2 designations mean I see all the time?
A: The A-1 and A-2 designate the platform/generation the car is based upon.
A-1 (or Mark-1) were the first generation water cooled VWs such as the
Rabbit/Golf I, Jetta I, Cabriolet, and Scirocco I & II.
A-2 based VWs are the Golf II, Jetta II, and the Corrado.
A-3 is the latest platform, which includes the Golf III, Jetta III/Vento,
and the yet to be released new Cabriolet.
VWs based on the same platform share many of the same components such as
suspension components (rear torsion beam, sway bars).
This however does not imply that the engines are the same within one
platform.
Within one platform, many different engines are available (mostly Europe.
The old Golfs came with anything from a 1.1l to an 1.8l, including
diesels), and across different platforms you may also find many of same
engines (the 2.0l 16V is used in the A2 Golf GTIs and the B3 Passats).
Therefore similar engines will share similar parts, and certain
improvements from one platform can often be transformed to the other
(e.g. exhaust manifolds from an 81 GTI to an 84 S).
There's a complete list by Tom H at the end. It includes Euro & US models!
Q: What is captured in the US Vehicle Identification Number?
A: Sample US V.I.N. :
Breakdown of VIN number for Volkswagen Products up to Model Year 1989
(actually later than that (Ed.))
[From: Joe Angerstein, joc...@bjsys.ersys.edmonton.ab.ca]
FIELDS IN THE VIN
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
_______________________________________________________________________
|__|__|__| |__|__|__|__|__| |__| |__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
FIELD FIELD FIELD FIELD
1 2 3 4 5 6
_________ _________ ___________ _________
|Manufac'r| |Bodystyle| |Engine Type| |Restraint|
| Make | |by Model | ----------- | System
--------- --------- ---------
___ Passenger Listed by ___
_ |1VW| US Vehicles increasing |0| Active
| |___|Pass.Car ---------- horsepower ___
| ___ ___ available |2| Passive-fixed
|- |WVW| Europe |A| 2-dr Economy for each ___
| |___|Pass.Car ___ model |4| Motorized
| ___ |B| 2-dr Custom A - lowest ___
|- |WV1| Europe ___ H/P Gas |5| Airbag
| |___|Truck |C| 2-dr Deluxe
VW-| ___ ___ G - Lowest ___
|- |WV2| Europe |D| 2-dr Sports H/P Diesel |9| Passive
| |___|MPV
| ___ ___
|- |3VW| Mexico |E| 4-dr Economy
| |___|Pass.Car ___
| ___ |F| 4-dr Custom
|- |9BW| Brazil ___
|___|Pass.Car |G| 4-dr Delux
___
Audi -|WAU| Europe ___
|___|Pass.Car |H| 16V / Turbo
___
|K| 2-dr Sedan
___
|P| 4-dr Sedan (Base)
___
|R| 4-dr Sedan (Upgrade)
___
|T| 4-dr Sedan (Upgrade)
Transporter /
Vanagon
___
|U| 2-dr Pickup
___
|V| 3-dr Double Cab Pickup
___
|W| 3-dr Del'y Van
___
|X| 3-dr Window Van
___
|Y| 3-dr Bus
___
|Z| 3-dr Camper
----
FIELD FIELD FIELD FIELD
7 8 9 10 11
_______ _____ _____ ____________
| Model | |Check| |Model| |Plant of |
------- |digit| |Year | |Manufacturer|
____ ----- ----- ------------
|15| VW Cabriolet calculated A=1980 A = Ingolstadt
____ per B=1981 B = Brussels
|1G| VW Jetta NHTSA C=1982 E = Emden
____ Code D=1983 G = Gratz
|1G| VW Golf(89 1/2 MY) E=1984 H = Hannover
____ VW ex Mexico F=1985 K = Osnabrueck
|1H| VW Golf/Jetta(93 MY) G=1986 M = Mexico
(inc Mexico?) H=1987 N = Neckarsulm
____ J=1988 P = Brazil
|16| VW Jetta(88 MY) K=1989 S = Stuttgart
____ L=1990 V = Westmoreland
|17| VW Golf/GTI(88 MY) M=1991 W = Wolfsburg
____ N=1992 Y = Pamplona (Spain)
|24| VW Transporter P=1993
(Pickups, Multivan) R=1994 (?)
____ S=1995
|25| VW Transporter (Vans) T=1996
VW Vanagon *5=1975*
____ 6=1976
|30| VW Fox 7=1977
____ 8=1978
|31| VW Passat 9=1979
____
|32| VW Quantum
____
|50| VW Corrado
____
|53| VW Scirocco
____
|70| VW Eurovan
____
|43| Audi 5000 / older
____
|44| Audi 5000/100/200/V8
____
|4A| Audi S4/100CS/V8
____
|80| Polo (1986->)
____
|81| Audi 4000
____
|83| Audi 4000
____
|86| Polo, Polo sedan (->1986)
____
|87| Polo Coupe (->1986)
____
|89| Audi 90
____
|85| Audi Coupe GT
____
|8A| Audi 90
____
|8B| Audi Coupe
----
FIELD
12,13,14,
15,16,17
_____________
|Sequential |
|Production No|
-------------
The old one... Haven't reconciled the two yet:
This is obviously one from a '90 German build VW Corrado build at
Karmann, with the second strongest engine (G60) and motorized belts.
Country of Origin Check Digit
/ / Model Year
/ / /
W V W D B 4 5 0 8 L K 0 1 2 3 4 5
Digit # 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 \
\
Assembly Plant
Code Digit #1: Country of Origin Code Model Year
1 United States B 1981
2 Canada C 1982
3 Mexico D 1983
4 United States E 1984
6 Australia F 1985
J Japan G 1986
K Korea H 1987
L Taiwan J 1988
S England K 1989
V France or Yugoslavia L 1990
W Germany M 1991
Y Sweden N 1992
Z Italy P 1993
B Brazil (?)
Code Digit #3: Vehicle Type Code Digit #4: Line & Body Tp
W Passenger Car A 2 Door
1/2 Truck B Sedan 2 door
F Hatch Back 2Dr (?)
K Pick Up
Code Digit #5: Engine
M Sport Truck
N Station Wagon
X Combi
Y Bus
Z Camper
Code Digit #6: Restraint Type
0 Active
4 Motorized seat belts
9 Passive
Code Assembly Plant (Mfg specific) Code Digit #7-8: Car Type
K Osnabrueck/Karmann 15 Convertible
V Westmoreland 16 Jetta
W Wolfsburg 17 Golf II
E Emden 53 Scirocco I
H Hannover 32 Quantum
A Ingolstadt 50 Corrado
B Brussels (?) 78 Passat
G Graz
M Mexico
N Neckarsulm
P Brazil
S Stuttgart
Y Spain
NOTE: The letters "I" and "O" in the Model Year table above have been
skipped, probably to avoid confusion with the digits "1" and "0"
respectively.
NOTE: Many other nations use the Chassis number only, and they can often
be found stamped somewhere on the car's body, usually in the engine
compartment. The format is very similar. Example 81 S:
W V W Z Z Z 5 3 z B K 0 1 2 3 4 5
"Z" and "z" is used as a filler, there is no special meaning behind it.
Q: What does the Karmann badge on some VWs mean?
A: Karmann refers to the body builder for VW, which made/makes all
Sciroccos/Cabriolets/Corrados. Karmann has been around for a long time.
One of the most famous Karmann-VW projects was the Karmann Ghia,
which was a pretty thinly disguised Porsche.
Ghia is also still around, but now works with Ford.
Some of it from [e0ew...@tuzo.erin.utoronto.ca].
Q: What are VWs OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturer)?
A: VW makes cars, which is an assembly of components, but not all components
are made by VW. In fact, VW makes mainly the body and the power train, the
rest they buy from elsewhere.
The OEM parts can often be had for less than buying the same VW part.
Most of the ones listed below will have a VW part number, but are also to
be had directly from the OEM w/o the VW part number.
For example MANN makes VW filters with the VW label, but the same filter
also exists with the MANN label.
In other cases, VW uses parts w/o restamping or hiding the OEM name for
marketing reasons, e.g., Recaro seats, BBS rims.
The OEM suppliers are (not exhaustive, changes frequently):
ATE Brake components (master cylinder)
BBS Rims, some cars, not restamped
Beru Electrical components (rotor, cap)
Boge Shocks & components
Boka Waterpump, Mexican made VWs
Bosch Many of the electronic components (e.g. Alternator)
Fuel, other filters, FI, antenna
Continental Drive Belts, Tires (note, they also make Uniroyal
Semperit, Gislaved and General Tires)
FAG Brake components, master cylinders, wheel bearings
Fichtel & Sachs Clutches, shocks on some cars
Fuba Roof mounted antenna (flexible one)
Gillet Exhaust (at least at some point)
Girling Front disc brakes < 81, F&R on Passat >8?,
Rear 16V GTIs
Glazurit/Hoechst/BASF Brand of paint used.
Unclear who produces water based paints in newer VWs
Golde Sunroof Maker
Hella Lights, markers, bulbs
Hengst Oil filters VR6
Hirschmann Antennas, some VWs
Keiper/Recaro Makers of VW Seats (not *real* Recaros)
Kesley-Hayes Front Brake calipers most > 81 cars
Leistritz Exhaust (for some--usually VR6 cars)
Loebro CV Joints
M.A.N.N. Oil & Air Filters
Matsushita Heidelberg (VI & others) radios.
Motorola Alternator in some US made cars
Recaro Seats, some cars, not restamped
Ronal Alloy rims some Audis/VWs
Sekurit Windshield, windows
Sofica Radiators, Heater cores (French), prone to leaks
TRW Power steering pumps
Teves Rear disc brakes (GTIs, GLIs, Corrado)
Note: ATE = Albert Teves, div IT+T
VDO,MotoMeter Gauges
Wahler Thermostats
Q: Where can I get used parts?
A: To be added to this list, you must be an established bonafide
business or mail order house. Brief user feedback as posted publically
may also be added.
U S E D P A R T S
===================
BMVW (GA):
Atlanta
770 969 1729 (new number?)
404-964-1376 (general), 404-969-1729 (recycled)
Bug World (CA):
Rancho Cordova (near Sacremento)
(800) 464 52 84
[W] Used parts. Ask for Jim
BW Dismatlers (CA):
Roseville, CA
(916) 969 1600, (800) 327 0888
VW Used parts. Mailorder.
Campbell/Nelson(WA):
Auto Wrecking
PO Box 220
Edmonds, WA 98020
In state (206) 771-4931
out of state (800) 552-2999
VW-Porsche-Audi-BMW-Saab
Coast-to-Coast Parts Locators
Send E-Mail listing of the parts with phone and name
to lon...@thunder.indstate.edu (Victor E Aldridge)
85 salvage yards across the country participate
<No positive or negative comments yet>
German Auto Salvage Inc.
1453 4th St., Berkeley, CA. 94710
Ph. 510-525-6000, FAX 510-525-4590, M-F 9-5, Sat 10-3 PDT
Don't know much about them, but you can contact G. Larsh
at gla...@holonet.net about it. Also see note at WolfSport.
German Parts and Restoration [GPR]
San Luis Osbispo, CA
1-800-321-5432
Sell rubber molding and other body parts.
Kohlweiss (CA):
3150 Spring St., Redwood City, CA 94063
They do mailorder (but not their main business)
(415) 367 8424
Motech
Used Corrado Parts, located in VA
800-4-MOTECH
Don't know much about them yet.
Recycled VWs (MI):
(313) 373-2300, Used VWs only junkyard, H2O VWs mainly
Wolf Sport (CA) (Formerly Recycled Rabbit):
see PARTS.
Q: Where can I get DISCOUNT and PERFORMANCE parts?
A: Many of these retailers sell the same OEM parts VW uses anywhere from
10% to 60% less. (See above for the OEM brand names).
Always check carefully the brand before buying
because some substitutes may be offered by other manufacturers
but with lower quality. It's best to stick with OEM or
better/performance brands.
NOTE: The contents of this list now also includes references of shops
that do more than just sell OEM parts.
I also included retailers that sell performance parts made by some of the
"tuners" and performance manufacturers.
To be added to this list, you must be an established bonafide
business or mail order house. Brief user feedback as posted publically
may also be added.
[Still Under Construction...it's a tad confusing]
P A R T S
=========
Automotive Performance Systems [APS]: see TUNERS & MANUFACTURERS
They sell a few OEM parts (e.g., brakes, shocks, thermostats,
car covers, ...) and Neuspeed parts
AutoTech [AT]: see TUNERS & MANUFACTURERS
They sell a few OEM parts (e.g., brakes, shocks, thermostats, ...),
AutoTech products, and APE products
Beverly Hills Motoring Accessories:
(800) 421-0911, (800) 367-2462 (?), CA: (310) 657-4664
Located in CA
Sell rare and expensive stuff (bras, zymoel, covers, trinkets)
See VW Info FAQ for URL.
Classic Motorbooks:
Books on cars, Bosch books, etc.
1-800-826-6600
Competition Limited
Pinckney, MI
(313) 464 14 58
High wattage H1-H4, 9004-9006 lights
Crutchfield
Aftermarket mail order for electronic equipment (speakers, car stereos)
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA
(800) 336 55 66
European Import Performance Tuning, Inc. [EIP]
"Maryland's VW Connection"
Rich Chiavacci (owner)
1532-B LIBERTY RD.
ELDERSBURG, MD 21784
"EIP TUN...@aol.com" (email)
Info (800) 784-8100, TECH (410) 549-1748
Neuspeed, Autotech, Zender, Eurospec, etc.
4 & 6 Cyl VW Performance Engine builder, custom work, etc.
11 miles outside of the Baltimore beltway (I-695 Exit 18b, on rt 26
near the intersection with 32)
They offer their own innovative performance mods in addition to the
German-imported ABT/Oettinger/Schrick stuff, plus their prices and
service compare quite favourably with most of the competition [UniqueVR6]
Euro Tire:
Mailorder tires, rims.
From NJ: (201) 575-0080, elsewhere (800) 631 00 80
GPR
Sells VW Parts
805-549-8525, 800-321-5432, fax: 805-549-8994
New Dimensions [ND]: see TUNERS & MANUFACTURERS
Full line of OEM parts, VW Service, Neuspeed, ND TurboSystems,
and others.
J.C. Whitney (IL):
VW Parts, Tools, accessories, etc.
1917-19 Archer Avenue, P.O. Box 8410,
Chicago Illinois 60680
(312) 431-6102, (312) 431-5625 fax
(Note! Some parts are NOT factory replacements. Catalog prices !=
Actual, catalogs are free. Quality varies. Be aware of shipping/trucking
costs. JV)
JT Motorsport
350 Easy St., Building 3
Simi Valley, CA 93065
(805) 579-9123, fax (805) 579-9125
ABT dealer
Marin Motorsports (aka WolfSport?)
63 Industrial Way, Greenbrae, CA 94904
(415) 927-7090
Discount Car Parts, VW, Audi
Parts Place Inc.
OEM VW Parts
2300 N. Opdyke Rd.
Auobuorn Hill, MI 48326
(810) 373-2300, (810) 3793-5950 (fax)
STILL problematic!!! (horror stories *persist* on the net 12/95).
Request the catalog from the Internet and get 15% off.
Send email to Parts...@aol.com with your Name,phone#,
address and type of car.
Performance Techniques
108 Otto Circle, Sacramento, CA 95822
Order (916) 422-4222, fax (916) 422-1754
Zendersport dealer
PlainWrap Performance:
Discount Neuspeed parts (original box, no second rate quality)
7603 Firestone, Downey, CA, (310) 608-1243 (orders)
1111 Walnut Str, Compton (warehouse), CA, (310) 604-0970 *moved?*
(Levin Bldg, ask for Greg or Steve)
Note: that their actual office is in Compton
Note: Check whether their parts carry the original warrantee and
wherer it will be honored.
Precision Auto Designs
Sells P21S wheel cleaner.
(800) 222-7253
Rapid Parts (NY):
OEM VW Parts
New address: 178 RT 59 Monsey, NY 10952, (914)352-1138
Old address: 321 Route 59,P.O. Box 371, Tallman, NY 10982,
New phone #: (914) 357-6611 (old #? 914-352-1138)
(lots of cheap replacement parts)
Store Hours M-S (EST/EDT) 9 am - 6 pm
Seems to be one of the favorites.
Rally Motorsports Inc.
533 Broadway, Westwood, NJ 07675
(201) 666-4443
VW, Audi and BMW specialists
RALLY...@aol.com
Spectra Performance:
5152 Bolsa Ave #109, Huntington Bch, CA 92649
(714) 379 35 60, Fax: (714) 379 35 62
Sells Neuspeed parts & other OEM supplies at a discount
I am not sure if they are still in business.
Strictly Foreign
5374 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown, PA 18106
Order (800) SPEED 94, In PA (610) 391-1902
Neuspeed, Momo, K&N, etc.
Tele Tire:
Mailorder tires, rims.
Timmons VW:
Mailorder VW & Neupseed parts, Transforma Mods, K&N, and
"select European parts".
Free GROUND shipping CONTINENTAL U.S. with $75+ order.
Mention add in EC for 10% discount on some items.
3940 Cherry Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807
(310) 595 46 01, (800) 266 32 47
OEM VW Parts & Neupseed Parts, K&N, etc.
Profile:
It's a regular dealership that is now specializing more in parts
distribution, and has a casual relationship with some of the
performance shops like APS. They also deal with the magazines,
lending out test cars.
Some of the people that work there such as Mike Potter (parts)
auto-x their VWs (Scirocco for Mike) and are therefore more
"knowledgeable" than the average place.
Don't bother Mike too much because he is very buzy.
Tire Rack:
771 W Chippewa AVe, South Bend, IN 46614
(800) 428 83 55, (219) 287 2345, fax (219) 236 77 07
Mailorder tires, rims.
Robert(ext307) (real name: Bill Ozinga) is an auto-xer and he can
be reached at: BOz...@aol.com or OzC...@aol.com
TR is an official SCCA Solo II sponsor for 95-98.
Tire Warehouse:
1-800-374-9876
Ultimate Street Accessories
710 Pressley Rd., Charlotte, NC 28217
Info: (704) 525-4946, Order (800) 258-5269
Suspension, accessories, exhaust, aerodynamics for Euro and Japan cars
WholeSale Import Prts (WA):
OEM VW Parts
(206) 643 33 50
Wolf Sport (CA) (Formerly Recycled Rabbit):
63 Industrial Way, Greenbrae, CA. 94904
(415) 924 83 12 (info), (800) 34-BUNNY (orders) (415) 924 7970 (fax)
M-F 9-5
They used to sell used parts only, but now sell new parts at a
discount and Neuspeed parts as well!
You can also get a list of parts on sale from these guys in conjunction
with German Auto Salvage.
Send a request to: gla...@holonet.net
Euro Carparts (UK):
+44 81-963-0555 (finally an European entry!)
>>>OTHERS/MAILORDER?
Q: Who are the VW (performance) tuners?
A: This is surprisingly harder to answer than it may seem because it
depends on what you mean by a "tuner".
For example, Neuspeed is a VW performance brand sold by APS &
other retail outlets. APS can give you advice on their parts,
but will not install them or do custom work on your car.
However, AMS, ND, VWSpecialties, Velocity Tuning and others are "tuners"
because they will customize your car using their own products
(ND Turbo systems) or other "tuner/manufacturer" products (AT, Neuspeed).
This list is mostly geared to USA & Canada. Some German addresses
are also mentioned. In the UK & D, see EU_VW_Tuners in the VW archives.
To be added to this list, you must be an established bonafide business,
tuner or mail order house. Brief user feedback as posted publically
may also be added.
[Still Under Construction...it's a tad confusing]
T U N E R S // P E R F O R M A N C E
====================================
Advanced Motorsport Solutions [AMS]:
Advanced Motorsport Solutions
3040 S Robertson Blvd (right off the 10 FWY & National), LA, CA 90034
(310) 559 7764, (310) 838 68 81
Profile:
CEO = Marc Kalaydjian (pretty much a car and computer wiz)
Sells performance VW products, similar to other tuner's.
e-mail: ma...@netcom.com
Makes custom chips for cars (concentrates on the whole program
range). Supposedly initially trained APS on how to make chips.
Used to work for Andy King of R&A Applied Arts.
Automotive Performance Systems [APS]:
3300 Corte Malpaso, Camarillo, CA 93012
(101 & Dowson, 100 miles N of their old place :-< )
(805) 388 71 71, (800) 423-3623 (orders only)
(805) 388 00 30 (fax)
Profile:
Primary retailer of Neuspeed products and a few OEM parts (brakes,
lights, etc).
Parts usually fit in stock positions and are usually CA smog legal.
Their performance philosophy is: Make it breathe (exhaust)
stiffen and lowered suspension (usualy Bilstein).
They also sell chips, but some claim that they concentrate mostly
on the top end, not the low.
Owned by Bill Neuman (who "ruthlessly" runs the place) and aided
by his two sons: Aaron and Gary Neuman (who are both very technically
capable and nicer then some of the people occasionally answering
the phone). Unlike a regular "PARTS" place they can provide advice
on how to customize your car with their products, but they will
not do any custom work anymore.
Pretty much all the parts you buy from them are good quality.
Note: Neuspeed products can be bought elsewhere for less (e.g., ND,
Plain Wrap, VW Specialties).
AutoBahn Designs [ABD]:
2900 Adams Str, Suite B27, Riverside, CA, 92504
(909) 351-9566
Body parts & other
AutoTech [AT]:
32240 E Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano, CA
(714) 240-4000 (tech), (800) 553-1055 (Order)
Owner: Ron Mozer
Talk to Dana Clarck for Corrados.
Large variety of VW products. Sells APE chips at a
slight discount. They are predominantly a PARTS place, but they
can also provide you with some assistance on customizing your car.
Like many others they also develop and test some of their own
products.
AutoThority Performance Engineering [APE]:
3769-B Pickett Rd, Fairfax, VA 22031
(703) 323-0919, (703) 323 73 25 (fax)
Profile:
Makers of Power Chips for many cars.
Claims to work on the whole power band rather than the top end only.
See the "Wired" article in the archives.
Engineer for Corrado: Mike Kisko (sp?) ext 404
Not all their chips and power upgrades are CA smog legal.
Bellevue Motor Sports:
13500 Bel-Red Rd., Bellevue, WA 98005
(206) 747-FAST
Drake:
Yuma, AZ.
Do they still exist?
European Inc.
Jacksonville, FL
Rebuilds G60. Some complaints on the net for incomplete
warrantee coverage (eg, G60 rebuilds are not covered for oil leaks).
European Import Performance Tuning, Inc. [EIP]
"Maryland's VW Connection"
Rich Chiavacci (owner)
1532-B LIBERTY RD.
ELDERSBURG, MD 21784
"EIP TUN...@aol.com" (email)
Info (800) 784-8100, TECH (410) 549-1748
Neuspeed, Autotech, Zender, Eurospec, etc.
4 & 6 Cyl VW Performance Engine builder, custom work, etc.
11 miles outside of the Baltimore beltway (I-695 Exit 18b, on rt 26
near the intersection with 32)
They offer their own innovative performance mods in addition to the
German-imported ABT/Oettinger/Schrick stuff, plus their prices and
service compare quite favourably with most of the competition
[comments from UniqueVR6 who had a 3.1l engine built for his C]
EuroRace:
190th near Hawthorne Blvd, Redondo Bch, CA
(800) 722-8678; (310) 376-0247.
NOTE: Occasional troublesome (parts don't fit right, slow responce,
mostly geared towards aircooled VWs).
EuroSpec:
6205 Engle way Unit H
Gilroy California 95020
408-848-4203, FAX 848-2145
See also European Car, May 1995, they sell new taller 2.0l 8V blocks.
EuroSport:
Moved to APS's former location:
1464 North Hundley Street, Anaheim, CA 92806
(714) 630 1555, (800) 783-3876, (714) 693-0864 (fax)
Profile:
Owner = Raffi Kazanjian, who has been auto-xing for many years.
Currently still does in his modified yellow Rabbit.
Sells VW performance mods, some of which parallel APS's line for a
lower price. Ask for Raffi Kazanjian.
Evolution Tuning (Mexico)
Imports Nothelle parts
Extrudehone:
Corp HQ = Irwin, PA, fax (412) 863 87 59
8800 Somerset Blvd, Paramount, CA 90723
(310) 531 29 76, fax (310) 531 84 03
Abrasive flow machining (porting).
Example price: Intake manifold = 700-1000US$
GTA
Quebec, Canada
Did some work on VR6 and G60 Corrados!
Dont bother asking for their Catalog or fax in a request
on details as advertised. They rarely respond.
Halsey Import Parts:
7721 N.E. Halsey Portland, OR
(800) 792-0081
H&H Specialties, Inc.
20 Reid Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824, (508) 256-9465
Fabricators of stabilizer bars since the '70's
Andy King prefers these to the Neuspeed.
[Jan: See the archive pictures, the may not mount in stock
locations]
JT Automotive:
350 East St, Building 3, Simi Valley, CA 93065
805-579-9123 or 9124
Sells ABT parts (one of the major VW tuners in Germany. Note
ABT parts are also available else where, e.g., ND if demand is high,
and make sure you compare prices!).
I don't know if they do any custom work.
Motor Technik:
Maryland
Owner: Francis Stepneck, a former partner of EIP, goal: to make his
G60 reach 180+ mph.
He is also responsible for the bigger valves and thermal barrier coating
on the VR6 head.
410-549-0441
New Dimensions [ND]:
2240 De La Cruz Blvd, Santa Clara, CA, 95050
(800) 637-2781, (408)980-1691, (408) 980-1697 (fax)
Computer Bulletin Board (408) 980-8830
Specializes in turbo charging VWs. Full service facility,
Shop & Parts (Chris Lagatuta = VP, Tim Hildabrand aka Turbo Tim = owner)
Also sells performance parts such as Neuspeed, K&N, etc.
turb...@newdimensions.com (old address: turb...@aol.com)
Web Page (still under construction, but real cool :->):
http://www.newdimensions.com/
Nothelle
Cacilientstrasse 10-12
4330 Mulheim / Ruhr 1
Germany
011-49-208-42-20-789
011-49-208-42-08-48
Tuner.
US Contacts: (800)453-HADE or (310)715-2448 or fax (310)715-2911
Northern Imports:
Any experiences with these guys as yet?
Oettinger Technik GmbH
Max Planck Strasse 36
D-61381 Friedrichsdorf
Germany,
+ (06172) 7053-55, Fax: + (06172) 7056
Newer #s?: 06172-7102-0, fax 06172-710240
OilScan:
Kit to perform oil analysis for about US$20.
PRECISION Motorsports Limited
31 Elaky Drive
Chester NY 10918
phone 914-469-8549
fax 914-469-4855
email Motor...@aol.com
Reseller of Autotech, Neuspeed, MOMO, Tire Rack, Discount Tire Direct,
PIAA, Eibach, Remus
Offers 10% Discount to Corrado club members.
Rally Motorsports Inc.
533 Broadway, Westwood, NJ 07675
(201) 666-4443
VW, Audi and BMW specialists
RALLY...@aol.com
R&A APPLIED ARTS, INC.
555 GUTHEIL PLACE, LYNDHURST, NJ 07071
CONTACT ANDY KING AT (201) 933-8833
Performance Tuner
Racing Wheel Services
140 Bordentown Road, Tullytown, PA 19007
(215) 945-3834 [ Also ref. European Car 10/94 p.50 for write-up ]
excellent place for custom wheels, street/rally/race wheels
RD Enterprises:
Sells shocks. (800) 683-2890, In CA
Ron's Parts Inc:
#6-#7 1610 Langan Ave, Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 1K6
(604) 944-0494, (604) 944-1797 (fax)
Parts & shop. Drops VR6's into Golfs.
Dr. Schrick GmbH
Dreherstrasse 3-5
D-42899 Remscheid, Germany
Makers of Cams. Write for catalog & prices. Buy direct for lower prices.
SuperChips Inc:
1958 N. County Rd 427, Longwood FL, 32750,
(407) 260-0838, (407) 260-9106 (fax)
Sells Power Chips (8V, 16V, VR6).
Note: Some claims of less than reputable practices...
Tec Auto & Sport
(00 49) 72 31-106014 fax (00 49) 72 31-3 26 67
This company specializes in rebuilding G-laders. They
offer several mods to increase the G-laders performance and life. If you
can't wait for EIP, you may want to give them a call (they are VW factory
authorized). [comments from Hulda Jowett]
TechTonics (TT):
P.O.Box 295, 19592 Southwest TV Tower Road, Sheridan, OR 97378,
(503) 843-2700, (503) 843-3933 (fax)
Maker of performance parts. Make sure they get the order right.
Daryl Vitone.
Velocity Sport Tuning:
4613 B Manhatten Beach Bl., Lawndale, CA 90260.
(310)643-0005, FAX:(310)643-0006
Ask for Jeremy Wolf: VEL...@aol.com or MONST...@aol.com
or Jeff Moss: VELO...@aol.com; veloc...@aol.com
Initial feedback seem positive.
See also their web page: http://www.velocitysport.com/
VW Motorsport (D): (sister co of VW who makes aftermarket parts for VW).
Ikarusallee 7A, D-30179 Hannover, Germany
(From the US, dial 011 49 and then delete the first 0 from the
number below).
0 511 / 674 94 22
0 511 / 674 94 88 (fax)
VW Specialties (Ron Wood):
Car service, performance alterations
Owner: Ron Wood, pretty much a VW Guru/VW Racer/VW Tuner
Sells and installs a variety of parts from different tuners (AST, NS)
and has plenty of experience.
Last I heard he flipped his Scirocco, end over end.
Build a Audi Quatro Coupe with a 300 BHp 16V water cooled intercooler
turbo VW Engine.
17682 Gothard Str, Huntington Beach, CA 92647,
(714) 848 37 66, (714) 848 43 36 (fax) (714) 848 37 66 (fax?)
VW Sport:
4838 Leafdale
Royal Oak, MI 48073
(313) 288 51 58
(313) 288 44 12
(Sell VW accessories (BBS, Bosch, VW), TShirts, etc)
Zender:
700 Pressley Rd., Charlotte, NC 28217
(704) 525-0539, (800) 832-2411
Body parts & performance parts
See also the archive: EU_VW_Tuners for European addresses.
Q: What are some of the brand name namufacturer/product addresses?
A: It's not always clear where something belongs, e.g.,
Zender is a product name, and a tuner. Therefore, see also the other lists.
There are no strict criteria to be added to this list, and to be
listed (or not) is not meant as an endorsement!
In addition, most of the product names mentioned are not purely
VW related.
Alpine:
Gramercy Rd, Torrance, CA 90....
(310) 326 8000
Alarms, audio
AMSOIL (?):
Oil, 1 micron Filters. (715) 393-7101
URL: http://www.xmission.com/~gastown/amsoil/index.html
AutoTech [AT]:
Makers of AutoTech products. See also AutoTech under TUNERS & PARTS.
BBS:
Maker of rims
5320 BBS Drive, Braselton, GA 30517
(800) 422 7972, (404) 967 9848, (404) 967 9866 (fax)
BF Goodrich Tires:
Racing and Marketing Dev't Dept.
D/0653, UGB-4
600 S Main Str, Akron, OH 44397-0001
Note BFG is part of Michelin since 1990!
New Order Number: (800) 847 8475 (Michelin's #) then punch in
RACE BFG at the DEALER ACCOUNT NO PROMPT
8:30-17:00 EST
To buy their race tires you need to be a member, which
costs nothing.
Bilstein:
Try Larry?
8845 Rehco Rd, San Diego, CA 92121
(619) 453-7723, Steve; (203) 265-2854; (800) 537-1085
Bilstein will revalve any of their shocks to your needs, for a
small fee.
Blaupunkt (part of the Robert Bosch Corp):
2800 S 25th Ave, Broadview, IL 60153
(800) 323-1943; (312) 865-6444; (312) 865-5488
Boge/Fichtel & Sachs (they merged):
Pete Mitchell deals with VW shocks
(800) 222 26 43
Bosch (Robert):
(708) 865 52 00
Bridgestone Tire:
Consumer Tire Marketing
POBox 140991
Nashville, TN 37214-0991
(800) 543 75 22
Castrol:
Oil Co., (201) 633-2200, Located in NJ
Continental Tires/General Tires
One General Street, Akron, OH 44329-0001
(800) 338 61 86, Canada (800) 461 43 57
Dunlop
Dynamic Control:
P.O. Box 15232, Hamilton, OH 45015
(513) 829 32 51, (513) 829 32 61
Makers of Dynamat Sound Deadening material
Eibach Springs
15311 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92718
(714) 727 37 00
Springs, sway bars.
Flofit
127 Business Center Drive #B, Corona, CA 91720
Mr FLo...@aol.com, http://www.flofit.com, 1-800-FLO-FITS
Aftermarket seats. Note that FloFit changed ownership in 1995,
and claim to have improved their quality, using the same mfging
processes as Recaro at 1/3 the price. Seats carry a 30 day no fault
return policy and a full TWO YEAR WARRANTY.
I have no feedback from the web about these reengineered seats.
Hella Lights:
201 Kelley Drive
P.O.Box 2665
Peachtree City, GA 30269
(404) 631 7500
Hoosiers
RICK GENHART, westren us distributor 209-485-4612
Fresno: 800-866-4612, fax 209-485-4632
Kenwood Stereo:
2201 E Domingues, Long Beach, CA 90221
(310) 761 8206
Kano
Nashville, TN
Makers of Kroil penetrating oil (supposedly good).
(615) 833 4101
(615) 833 5790 (fax)
K&N Engineering Inc:
P.O. Box 1329 or 561 Iowa Ave, Riverside, CA 92502
Makers of K&N air filters
Koni (KT)
Shocks, Dutch Company
Talk to Lesley for a good sense of humor (606) 727-5028
Tech number: 606-727-5011 or (606) 727 5053 Steve Sudler
Fax: 606-727-5001
McGard Inc.
3875 California Rd, Orchard Park, NY 14127-4198
P.O. Box 102, Ft. Erie, Ontario L2A 5M6
(800) 444 58 47, (716) 662 9617
Makers of wheel locks.
Meguire's
17991 Mitchell S., Irvine, CA 92714
(800) 347-5700 (?), (800) 854-8073.
Waxes and polishes: (800) 545-3321
MECA Cooling Company:
255 Route 41 North, Sharon, CT 06069
(203) 364-5130, Fax: (203) 364-0888
Sell propylene glycol & special oil filters.
Mintex (BBA Friction):
Makers of Brake Pads
P.O. Box 18, Hunsworth Lane, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire
England, BD19 3UJ
Mobil Oil:
(800) 662 4525, located in PA
Lubricants, Synthetic oil
Neuspeed:
Manufacturer of VW Performance parts.
For direct retail sales see: APS
For all other sales (usually for less than APS) see the PARTS list.
New Dimension Products & New Dimension (ND) Turbosystems :
See New Dimension under TUNERS.
RedLine:
3450 Pancheco Blvd. Martinez, CA 94553
(510) 228-7576, (800) 624-7958
Synthetic Oils
Remus:
Aftermarket exhaust systems. Expensive but nice.
West US: 16200 S Figueroa Str, Gardena, CA 90248 (800) 766 0064
East US: 20 Temple Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601 (800) 846 1144
Schroth
Seat belts/harnesses for racing
(303) 447-1700 Fax (303) 447-184
Scosche Industries:
5160 Gabbert Road, P.o.Box 8099, Moorpark, CA 93020
(800) 621 36 95
Makers of Accumat Accoustical insulation (like Dynamat, no smell
sticks better)
AMT045 (like vinyl tyles, for doors etc), AMT250 (for car floors,
is about 1 cm thick with foam), AMT750 (mats for hood).
Speedline America Corporation:
Bill Hoffman, Operations Manager
Speedline Italian Sport Wheels
1177 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33323
(305) 846 9234
Makers of rims. OEM on 93 Corrados.
Spectro Oil
1-800-2-GET-OIL
High quality (synth) oils.
Synthoil Corporation:
High quality (synth) oils.
PO Box 6077
Boise, Idaho 83707
(800) 843-7733 (order), (208) 336-8600 (Tech)
Tokico:
1330 Storm Pwy, Torrance, CA 90501-5041
(310) 534 49 34
Shocks.
VDO/YAZAKI Co.:
980 Brooke Rd, P.O. Box 2897, Winchester, VA
(703) 665-0100 FAX (703) 662-2515
455 Welham Rd, Box 8700, Barrie, Ontario, Canada L4M4V3
(705) 722-6400 FAX (705) 722-4407
Valentine (radar detector & G-Analyst):
1-800-331-3030 for ordering
1-513-984-8900 for questions
Yokohama ():
(800) 423-4544
Q: Where can I get special VW tools?
A: To be added to this list, you must be an established bonafide business,
tool maker or mail order house. Brief user feedback as posted publically
may also be added. The most often mentioned here are: Sears, Snap-On, and
Schley.
Assenmacher Specialty Tools:
6440 Odel Place,Boulder CO 80301,
(303) 530-2424, toll free (800) 525-2943, fax (303) 530-4720
They sell VW specialty tools.
BAUM TOOLS UNLIMITED INC.
Dana J. Baum - VP R&D, dana...@crl.com
URL:http://www.crl.com/www/~/danabaum (does not work for me)
URL:http://www.crl.com:80/www/users/da/danabaum
Manufacturers, importers and distributors of VW [A] & [W] special tools
HAZET, STAHLWILLE, USAG, MATRA and PEISLER tools available
3922 Murdock Avenue
Sarasota FL 34233
1-800-848-6657 Orders (US & Canada), 1-941-927-1414 Office
1-941-927-1612 Fax, catalogs 1-800-848-6657
or
WEST COAST WAREHOUSE, 1523 38Th Avenue
San Francisco CA 94122-3011
1-415-566-9229 Orders, 1-415-566-0694 Fax, 1-415-298-7831 Mobile
Griot's Garage:
(800) 345-5789
They sell VW specialty tools.
J.C. Whitney (IL): see PARTS
Schley Products Inc:
5350 E. Hunter Ave, Anaheim Hills, CA 92807-2053
(714) 693 76 66
They sell VW specialty tools, and have a good reputation.
Don't sell directly, you have to go through some distributor like
Snap On.
Mac Tools:
Recommended by some. Same deal as Snap-On, you need to call them.
They also have some VW specialty tools.
Sears:
All over the USA & Canada. Generally good quality (non-professional)
handtools.
Craftsman brand carries lifetime warrantee.
They have some special tools, e.g., 17mm VW tranny drain plug hex wrench
Snap-On Tools:
1-800-866-5748 Snap-On customer direct order program
Snap On has fewer and fewer warehouses to obtain tools from. Typically,
you order a catalog, then call, and then a truck will eventually
pull up with the tool you need.
Most of their tools are of professional quality.
They also have some VW specialty tools (e.g., CV-Joint tool).
S&K Tools:
Zelinda Machine Tools Corp (NY):
66-02 Austin St, Forest Hills NY 11374,
(718) 896 22-88
They sell VW specialty tools.
Caveat: Often a suitable replacement for these tools can be easily made.
MAILORDER RENTAL
----------------
Recycled VWs (MI):
(313) 373-2300
Q: What are VW's related numbers and addresses?
A: VWoA = (800) 822 VW US or (800) 822 8987
Note that this number will also provide you with recall info on your car.
(800) 544 80 21 for service publications (see above)
Pres. Clive Warrilow (new) | 3800 Hamlin Rd VWoA Auburn Hills MI 48326
Pres. Bill Young (old) | 3800 Hamlin Rd VWoA Auburn Hills MI 48326
Dr. Ferd. Piech | Postfach VWAG-TK-24 3180 Wolfsburg I Germany
Volkswagen Canada INC
1940 Eglinton Avenue East, Scarborough ON, M1L 2M2, Canada
(416) 288-3000, Fax: (416) 288-3298, Telex: 06-963588
Guaranteed Mobility/Roadside Assistance Program,
refer to the owners warranty manual for further information
Volkswagen: (800) 263-7601
Audi: (800) 461-2834
(USA and Canada only):
VW Protection Plus Program (for 93+ VWs):
For more info call: (800) DRIVE VW
The address of the "VW World" publications/subscription dept.
(free for new VW owners, 20US$/7years for others):
Volkswagen World Headquarters
PO Box 2012
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303-2012
VW Mobility Access Program (disability):
(800) 444-8987
Q: What does 'Fahrvergnuegen' mean (current commercial jingle in NA)?
A: Fahrvergnuegen (with ue=u") means 'pleasure of driving', and VW claims
it can only be experienced in a VW. I think most of us could find
similar pleasure in a 911 Turbo, though :-).
Q: Who did the music on the US/Canada VW commercial?
A: "Harry's Game" from the album "Anam" on Atlantic Records by the Irish group
Clannad.
Q: Where did VW car names come from?
A: Most of the European names given to VWs came from wind names.
In other countries, the same models may bear different names, such as
the Golf I called the Rabbit in the US and Caribe (?) in Mexico.
More recently, VW started adopting other naming convetions (e.g.,
Corrado). (Enhanced with Dennis's notes).
Scirocco - Hot North African desert wind that blows into Italy
Original name was rumored to be Blizzard.
Golf - Gulf stream winds (a high altitude North-south 100 mmph wind)
Jetta - Jet stream (East/West wind, affecting Pacific air travel)
Passat - Trade winds
Vento - Blowing/windy (E/I)
Polo - ?
Santana - Hot desert blast accross the Sea of Cortez.
Corrado - Not a wind, it's derived from Spanish Correr which means to
run. The original name for the car was Taifun (Typhoon)
which means huricane except it was already a registered
trade mark for a GM truck.
Q: What does GTI, GLI and so on mean?
A: L = Luxe (base model)
LS = Luxe Special, couple more do-dads
GT = Grand Tourisme, better equipped & usually a larger engine than
the "L" series
GL = Grand Luxe (geared for more luxury), basically == GT
GTI/GLI = Originally, the fuel injected version of a GT/GL which means it
produced a lot more power. With most cars FI, the GTI/GLI
designation means a more powerful engine than a GT/GL model,
sometimes also with a better suspension. Note that originally,
GLI != Jetta, as the case in the USA.
SL = Serie Limite' (limited series), like the Karmann series in US.
Really a variation on a GT.
GTX = Same as GTI but used in Europe and elsewhere.
G40/60 = GT version with VWs G-type supercharger. The number is the width
of the G-charger (lader in D) coil in millimeters. For those who
aren't aware, the G40 is used on some Polos, the G60 on Passats
and Corrados.
VR6 = Cars based on the new staggered 6 cylinder engine (in-line-V-6).
SLC = Sport Luxury Coupe, the VR6 equipped Corrado in the US.
Syncro = VWs version 4WD distributes its torque with a "visco-gear"
(It's a special silicone gel that stiffens if the relative
motion (shear) increases)
VWs 4WD is designed by Steyr-Puch, an Austrian Company and not
by Audi.
Originally, all European VWs were carbureted, except those with the "I" or
"i" and a few rare cases with an "E" for "Einspritzung", designation which had
a more powerful fuel injected engine, a "GT" set-up, and some more sporty
equipment (suspension, gauges).
In the US, VW switched over to FI first with the '76 limited
edition Super Scirocco and in 77 to the rest of VW's watercooled
cars, and in Europe a bit later (with mono-throttle FI) which meant that
all cars really counted as "I" models.
GTI/GLI now just means that the car has a more powerful engine and a
sportier set-up.
Note also that the US, only gets the two top of the line VWs from their
larger mass produced series (but not the Polo).
Certain special models, such as the Golf G60 Synchro, the US will never
see.
In Europe, VWs came with anywhere from 1100, 1300 to 2900 cc engines. The
US never saw the 1100 & the 1300's and only sees a slightly scaled down
version of the 2900.
Q: Is VW the inventor of the VR6 and G-charger design?
A: No in both cases. Most of the car "novelties" you see now on the road
have been invented between 50 and 100 years ago.
The reason why you only see these innovations pop up now is because
many of these innovations where not economically feasible to be
mass produced.
For example, the G-charger, was pattented in 1905 [Vack], was to replace the
common piston driven steam engine, requires very precise machining that
can only be achieved with current day NC machine tools.
The VR6 design is modeled after an 18 degree V4 made by Vincenzo
Lancia for the Lancia Aprilia [Vack].
ABS is also nothing new, a mechanical version based on centripetal
forces was used on German trucks during WWII.
Similarly, Turbo chargers were first used on Messerschmidt planes
to compensate for thinner air at altitude.
However, if there is one thing VW should get credit for is applying
some of these innovation and making it economically feasible to
produce. Not a simple feat.
Q: What is VW's heritage?
A: [By Jan & Rauhut]:
VW was founded by the controversial Adolf with the goal to make
an affordable and reliable car available to everyone.
That's also where the name came from, Volkswagen litterally meaning
"People's car". There were other similar efforts, such as the "Volks" radio,
but only the car remained until now.
In May 1938 VW built the first factory nearby Fallersleben, which
is now Wolfsburg. Prof. Ferdinand Porsche designed the first Beetle in
the thirties. The beetle was presented by the Nazis as "Kraft durch Freude"
"Strength through Joy" car, which was a part of the Nazis philosophy. Due to the
WWII VW did not sell much beetles until 1945. After WWII VW sold altogether
15.235.200 Beetles.
VW produced some other air cooled, rear-wheel drive cars. The VW 1500,
VW 1600 were produced from 1961 until 1973. They looked like a long
beetle, VW managed to sell 2.583.015 units. The VW 411, VW 412 were
produced from 1986 until 1974, 355.200 units were sold.
In the late 60s, VW realized it needed to diversify its product
line and acquired a number of companies such as NSU (1970) and
Audi (1969). Audi (Audi NSU Auto Union) was summary of the companies
Audi, part of NSU, DKW and Auto-Union. In the early 80's VW acquired the
Spanish SEAT (pronounced Say-Ath), and in the late 80's Skoda after the
Berlin wall came tumbling down.
NSU had a few interesting products such as the K70 and Ro80.
The K 70 was developed by NSU, Neckarsulm, in 1969, and VW
sold the K 70 as the VW K70 from 1970 until 1974. Altogether
210.082 units were sold.
The K70 was sold with two different engines: 1.6l with 75 hpwr and
1.8l with 100 hpwr. The VW K70, developed by NSU, was the first VW with
a water cooled engine and first front-wheel drive car.It resembled a
boxy version of the first Jetta.
Another one of NSU interesting products was the Ro80, probably the
first production car with a Wankel (rotary) engine. The Ro80 was sold
from 1967 until 1974, 33910 Units were sold. The Ro80 had a 0.5l(!) engine
with 115 hpwr. Its production was stopped due to persistent problems,
but was at the time a very innovative and modern looking car.
Probably the most lasting influence to the VW product line was made
by Audi whose Audi 50 become the start of their new line of cars.
The Audi 50 become known as the first VW Polo, and many of the drive
train components are shared between VWs and Audis to this date.
Q: What's the relationship between VW, Audi and Porsche?
A: VW and Audi are under the same company whose name is
"Volkswagen Audi Gesellschaft" (VAG).
They have separate research departments, separate assembly plants,
but do share parts, engines and cars (US VW Quantum == Audi) on occasion.
The original version of the Polo were actually made by Audi
called the Audi 50. The basic 1500/1600 now 1800 cc block is also
from the former Audi 80.
In Europe it is not uncommon to have both dealers that sell and
service both VWs and Audis (and sometimes also Porsches).
In North America the two (three) are usually separate.
Regarding VW & Porsche (From Tom H.):
There are no ownership arrangements -- the two companies are essentially
separate. There is, however, a lot of co-operation, as Porsche does
consulting work for VW, and Porsche has some access to the VW parts bins.
VW has also built some 914s, 924s and 944s for Porsche, and Porsche is
to build the Audi 80 RS2 for VW.
And of course Ferdinand Porsche designed the Beetle while running a
design office in the 30s -- and Ferdinand Piech, the current CEO of
Volkswagen AG, is his grandson.
The relationship was much closer yet in the early years of VW and
Porsche, when Heinz Nordhoff was running VW: this is when the 914 was
conceived as a VW-Porsche. When Nordhoff died (in 12 April 1968), the new CEO
(Dr Kurz Lotz, replaced on October 1 1971 by Rudolf Leiding)
did not want to honour all of Nordhoff's verbal
agreements with Porsche. As a result, the relationship soured somewhat
-- and the 914 was significantly more expensive than originally planned.
One of the best books relating the VW/Porsche relationship is _Excellence_
_was_Expected_ (which is primarily a Porsche book; alas, it's most certainly
not cheap.
Q: What do the oval "B", "D" stickers on car's bumpers mean in Europe?
A: They stand for the country of origine. I use the same conventions
throughout this FAQ:
B Belgium
CH Confederatie Helvetica (Switzerland)
D Deutschland (Germany)
F France
GB UK
I Italia
L Luxembourg
NL Nederland (Holland)
The number plates of all EU states have the same
style now and show the country on the plate which makes the sticker
superfluous as long as you do not leave the EU. If you travel to
other countries you will still need the sticker!
Q: What are the racing colors per country?
A:
B Yellow (bet you didn't know that)
D White
GB Green (of course)
I Red (of course)
Q: What is the VW Visa card?
A: 5% of your charges, $700 per year up to 3500US$ total can be used towards
the purchase of a new VW. Underwritten by MBNA, 16.9 % Annual Percentage Rate
NO fee on the GOLD or the REGULAR card.
Call 1-800-847-7378 ext.55 in the US
Several other major car manufacturers (Ford & GM) have such a program.
NOTE: These conditions change periodically.
COMMON PROBLEMS & RECALLS
=========================
Q: How do I obtain NHTSA (Recall) information (USA)?
A: Call (800) 424-9393 (selection menu 1-2-)
They have info on:
1) Recall Info on cars
2) Child Safety Seat Recall
3) Crash Test Report
4) Tire Quality Grading
5) Other Safety Info
6) Rear seat retrofit kit
9) Repeat menu
Note: The above service is TERRIBLY inefficient...after 3 tries I still
have not received the info I requested on my Corrado.
I guess the person there can't read or write.
A Corrado is not a Cabriolet. Makes you wonder how many other morons work
there. [Jan]
Q: What are the known defects for the VW product line?
A: Following is an unverified and incomplete list.
The ????'s indicate unconfirmed or second hand info.
Recalls are mostly for the US/Canada.
Mostly > 1980 model years are covered.
RECALLS:
========
From: joc...@bjsys.ersys.edmonton.ab.ca, additions from "old list"
by Jan (still needs a bit of reformatting).
Summary of some recall campaigns, service actions, pre delivery campaigns
for Volkswagen models. This may not apply to some vehicles in CANADA or
the UNITED STATES, as some campaigns are not implemented in the respective
countries. This list may NOT be ACCURATE, for the correct information always
refer to you local dealer, who will be able to check for any outstanding
campaigns for vehicle.
Please note, that the biggest problem for any manufacturer is the notification
of the owners. Please advise them of the purchase of the vehicle, if the
vehicle is used from a non VW dealer or private source and any
address changes. Again, your local dealer is more then willing to help you
in this matter.
NOTE: The * stands for a single charachter
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOX
----
Fox 87 9BW**030*HP000001/ Replacement of crankshaft PM 12/87
9BW**030*HP026007 pulley
Fox 87-89 9BW*A030*HP000001/ Inst. of steering wheel QD 04/89
9BW*A030*KP009988 spring retainer + lock nut
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RABBIT
------
Rabb. 81-84 1VW**17*BV000001/ Inspect/replace EGR valve PD 04/87
1VW**17*EV104300 with automatic transmission
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GOLF
-----
Golf 85 1VW**017*FV007583/ Checking dust sleeves NJ 06/85
1VW**O17*FV017394 of front brake caliper
Golf 85 1VW**017*FV000001/ Replacing front seat belts MP 05/85
1VW**017*FV003370
Golf 85-87 1VW**017*FV000001/ Inspect/replace EGR valve PD 04/87
1VW**017*HV036149 on vehicles with auto transmisson
Golf 86 1VW**017*GV033771/ Replace fuel transfer pump + PC 07/87
1VW**017*GV047000 filter
Golf 87 1VW**017*HV032808/ Replace filler neck, sending PA ??/??
1VW**017*HV054650 unit and gasket
Golf 85-86 1VW**017*FV000001/ Replacing fuel tank assembly NV 06/86
Diesel 1VW**017*GV033970
Golf/ 85/86 1VW--017-FV000001/ Replacing fuel tank assembly NV 06/86
GTI GAS? 1VW--017-GV033970
GTI 86 1VW**017*GV000001/ Check torque of rear NZ 10/86
1VW**017*GV074477 axle bracket bolt
Golf 88 1VW**017*JV000001/ Installation of starter PV 06/89
Auto MOD 17-63 1VW**017*JV017457 support bracket
Golf 88-89 1VW**017*JV000001/ Replacement of coil, plugs, QN 12/89
1VW**017*KV018693 vacuum thermo switch (no 16 V)
Golf 89 3VW**01G*KM000001/ Replacement of coil, plugs, QN 12/89
3VW**01G*KM863602 vacuum thermo switch (no 16 V)
Golf 90 3VW**01G*LM000001/ Replacement of coil, plugs, QN 12/89
3VW**01G*LM006563 vacuum thermo switch (no 16 V)
Golf 91 3VW***1G*MM000001/ Replace knock sensor and QX 05/91
GTI 16V 3VW***1G*MM000747 reroute cables
Golf 89-92 3VW***1G*KM000075/ Inspect/replace pwr steering RT 10/91
3VW***1G*NW012208 assembly (CANADA ONLY)
Golf 88-89 1VW***1**JV000001/ Install preheating tube RW 09/93
1VW***1**KV999999 support bracket
Golf? 88-91 3VW***1**JM000001/ Install preheating tube RW 09/93
3VW***1**MM054357 support bracket
Golf 85-89 1VW***1**FV000001/ Replace heat exchanger SD 06/92
1VW***1**KV018693
Golf 89-91 3VW***1G*KM000001/ Replace heat exchanger SD 06/92
3VW***1G*MM023331
Golf 88-92 *VW**01**J*000001/ Replace fuel hose and clamp SK 09/93
*VW**01**N*067742 Cars equipped with Digifant
------------
GTI 90-92 California, Knock sensors SC
16V and/or vacuum ampl. could
malfunction
A3 VR6 93-95 WVW***??*????????/ Radiator Fan Failure TJ 10/95
WVW***??*???????? results in overheating
<*>A3 Golf 95 WVW***??*????????/ Aftermarket Cruise Control ZM ?/95
WVW***??*???????? may not return to idle
<*> = New
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JETTA
------
Jetta 81-87 WVWG**16*BW000001/ Inspect/replace EGR valve PD 04/87
WVWG**16*HW540014 on vehicles with auto transmisson
Jetta 83-84 WVW**O16*DW402800/ Checking / replacing front NS 11/85
WVW**016*EW170305 brake hoses
Jetta 85-87 WVW**016*FW000001/ Replacing fuel transfer PC 07/87
WVW**016*HW359885 pump and filter
Jetta 88 WVW**016*JW700001/ Inspect / replacing QA 11/88
WVW**016*JW734535 brake booster
Jetta 88 WVW**016*JW000001/ Replacement of coil, plugs, QN 12/89
WVW**016*JW768209 vacuum thermo switch (no 16 V)
Jetta 89 WVW**01G*KW000001/ Replacement of coil, plugs, QN 12/89
WVW**01G*KW864001 vacuum thermo switch (no 16 V)
Jetta 88 WVW**016*JW015810/ Inspect/replace right front QP 06/90
16V WVW**016*JW69065 line (Jetta 16v in USA MY 87-89)
Jetta 89 WVW**01G*KW000084/ Inspect/replace right front QP 06/90
16V WVW**01G*KW121988 line (Jetta 16v in USA MY 87-89)
Jetta 90 WVW**01G*LW106033/ Replacement of PWR steering QR 04/91
16V WVW**01G*LW278931 pump bracket (mod. 1G2 5G4)
Jetta 90 WVW**01G*LW000001/ Replace fuel pump QW 05/91
GTX WVW**01G*LW476499 GTX only
Jetta 90-91 WVW**01G*LW000001/ Replace Knock sensor and QX 05/91
GTX WVW**01G*MW030623 reroute cables (GTX only)
Jetta 90 WVW***1G*LW000001/ Modification to headlight QY 07/91
WVW***1G*LW328840 switch ( CANADA ONLY)
Jetta 89-92 WVW***1G*KW267499/ Inspect/replace pwr steering RT 10/92
WVW***1G*NW048596 assembly (CANADA ONLY)
Jetta 90-92 *VW**01G*L*000001/ Update engine management RY 03/93
GTX 16V *VW**01G*N*044803 GTX 16V Standart Transmission
Jetta 85-90 WVW***1**FW000001/ Replace heat exchanger SD 06/92
WVW***1**LW416005
Jetta 88-92 *VW**01**J*000001/ Replace fuel hose and clamp SK 09/93
*VW**01**N*067742 Cars equipped with Digifant
-------------
GLI 90-92 California, Knock sensors SB
16V and/or vacuum ampl. could
malfunction
A3 VR6 93-95 WVW***??*????????/ Radiator Fan Failure TJ 10/95
WVW***??*???????? results in overheating
<*>A3 Golf 95 WVW***??*????????/ Aftermarket Cruise Control ZM ?/95
WVW***??*???????? may not return to idle
<*> = New
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CABRIOLET
---------
Cabrio. 85-87 WVWC*015*FK000001/ Replace transfere pump + PC 06/87
WVWC*015*HK008110 filter (supersedes NG)
Cabrio. 81-83 WVWCA015*BKOOOOO1/ Inspect/replace EGR valve PD 04/87
WVWCA015*DK999999 with automatic transmission
Cabrio. 83-84 WVW**015*DK007549/ Inspect/replace front brake NS 06/87
WVW**015*EK023149 hose
Cabrio. 90 WVW**015*LKOOOOO1/ Modification to headlight QY 07/91
WVW**015*LK012443 switch (CANADA ONLY)
Cabrio. 90-91 WVW***15*LK000001/ Secure water separator panel RH ??/??
WVW***15*MK010315 (91V162000)
Cabrio. 87-90 WVWCA015*HK000001/ Inspect/replace fuel tank RS 02/92
WVWCA015*LK000678 (91V201000)
Cabrio. 92 WVW***15*NK007064 Inspect/replace front track RU 02/93
WVW***15*NK010116 control arm
Cabrio. 90-92 WVW***15*LK000975/ Replace fuel hose and clamp SA 02/93
WVW***15*NK024047 (92V058000)
------------
89AUG-90JUL 91V215000 Secure passive restraint wires RN
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SCIROCCO
---------
Scir. 83-84 WVW**053*DK017368/ Checking / replacing front NS 11/85
WVW**053*EK038276 brake hoses
Scir. 85-87 WVW**053*FK000001/ Replacing fuel transfer PC 07/87
WVW**053*HK008693 pump and filter (supersedes NQ)
Scir. 87-88 WVW**053*HK000001/ Inspect/replace fuel tank RS 02/92
WVW**053*JK009034
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CORRADO
-------
Corr. 89-92 WVW**50*LK000001/ Inspect/replace pwr sterring RT 10/91
WVW**50*NK000882 rack assembly (CANADA ONLY)
Corr. 90 WVW**050*LK000001/ Modification to headlight QY 07/91
WVW**050*LK012147 switch (CANADA ONLY)
G60 VR6 90-93 WVW***50*LK000001/ Replace Fuel hose and clamp SH 11/93
WVW***50*PK005031
VR6 92-93 WVW***50*PK000001/ Secure Engine compartment SQ 02/94
WVW***50*PK005031 electrical wiring harness
applies US & CANADA
-----------
G60 90 91V068000 Replace fuel pump assembly RG
VR6 93-95 WVW***??*????????/ Radiator Fan Failure TJ 10/95
WVW***??*???????? results in overheating
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PASSAT
------
Pass. 89-92 WVW***31*LE000001/ Inspect/replace pwr steering RT 10/91
WVW***31*NE026718 rack assembly (CANADA ONLY)
Pass. 90 WVW**031*LE000001/ Modification to headlight QY 07/91
WVW**031*LE123429 switch (CANADA ONLY)
Pass. 90-92 WVW**031*LE000001 Update engine management RZ 03/93
Autom. WVW**031*NE408342 automatic transmission
(Hesitation during the
upshift cycle of transmission.)
PASS 90-93 WVW**031*LE000001/ Update engine management RY 03/93
Man. WVW**031*NE407754 manual transmission
Pass. 93 WVW***31*PE000001/ Replace fuel hose and clamp SG 11/93
VR6 WVW***31*PE117434
Pass. 93 WVW***31*PE141535/ Replace front strut self- SR 08/93
WVW***31*PE163434 locking nut/washer assembly
Pass. 92-93 WVW***31*NE000001/ Replacement of power window- SW 05/94
WVW***31*PE213773 lifter rear
VR6 93-95 WVW***??*????????/ Radiator Fan Failure TJ 10/95
WVW***??*???????? results in overheating
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VANAGON/CAMPERS
----------------
Vana. 81 WV2ZA025*BH003450/ Check / replace fuel MD ??/81
WV2ZA025*BH098864 expansion tank
Vana. 81-82 WV2**02**BH143904/ Replacing sliding NC 09/84
WV2**02**CH154356 door lock springs
Vana/ 85 WV2*A025*FH000001/ Checking / modify sliding NR 04/86
Camp WV2*A025*FH115553 door striker plate
Vana. 86 WV***02**GG000001/ Replace filler neck, PA 11/87
Syncro WV***02**GG118815 sending unit and gasket
Vana. 86-87 WV***02**G*000001/ Replace fuel tank, PB 08/87
WV***02**H*064100 main & idle control unit
incl. Syncro, see Campaign details
Vana. 87 WV**B02**HH036719/ Replace shift lever pawl PG 12/87
autom. WV**B02**HH082874 (automatic transmission)
Vana/ 87 WV2**025*HO051294/ Inspect/seal water inlet PL 12/88
Camp WV2**025*H-999999 housing
Vana/ 88 WV2**025*JH000001/ Inspect/seal water inlet PL 12/88
Camp MOD 2539 WV2**025*JH003998 housing
Vana. 86-89 WV2**02**GH000001/ Replacement of fuel hoses in PW 05/89
WV2**02**KH019148 engine compartment (no Syncro)
Vana. 90 WV2**02**LK000001/ Modification to headlight QY 07/91
WV2**02**LK044564 switch (CANADA ONLY)
Type YY FROM/TO VIN DESCRIPTION CODE DATE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EUROVAN
--------
Euro 92-93 WV2***70*NH000001/ Replacement of brake handle ST 05/94
WV2***70*PH089395 spring. Install beading (see circular)
Euro 92-93 WV2***70*NH000001 Replacing fuel hose and clamp SX 05/94
WV2***70*PH089395 (see circular also part of ST)
Euro 92-93 WV2***70*NE000001/ Replacement of power window- SY 05/94
WV2***70*PH116000 lifter front
Euro 92-93 WV2***70*NH000001/ Replacement of steering TA 05/94
WV2***70*PH069881 universal joint bolt
Other Known Failures/Technical Service Bulletins:
=================================================
This section contains common known failures reported by VW users or
VW magazines, and "official" Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) from VW.
The TSBs are VWs way to tell all the mechanics: "If you see this
problem, do that". That's all. They are NOT recalls, and do not
imply any financial comittments.
If your car is under warrantee you will not have to pay, if not, you pay.
With any problem, you always have to be able to recreate it.
However, not all dealers are up to date with their TSBs (:-<) and
on some occasions we can use knowledge of these TSBs to point to
a potential solution and also point out that your case may not be
unique. The TSBs are identified by a number: V35-92-01. See elsewhere
in this FAQ on how to obtain them (I have to rearrange things a bit
as soon as I have time).
83-86 GTI, GLIs, 84-86 Cabriolets, 83-86 Sciroccos except 16V, 84-86 Cabs:
Self Machining Transmission due to lack of snap rings on the differential
shafts. See April 1990, EuroCar pp 53, "VW 020 Gearbox Failures: Causes and
Cures". Only Close ratio transaxles are affected.
Starting at serial number 15102 (built after october 14th 1982).
Serial numbers up to 14102, (built up to October 14,1982) are immune.
VW part#171-498-088 offers the clips as part of the rebuild kit.
(Another sources says: If either rivet has been removed, secure the
differential pinion shaft with circlips, Part No. N 042 363 1.)
Gear oil leaking under the tranny, or strange noises are first signs,
between 50k and 120k miles.
NO RECALL! Sue VW. Techtonics Tuning is recommended by VW&P to fix self-
machined cases (probably because they wrote the article).
See also the archive: Tranny_Clip_Failures
78-8? R/J I:
Fuel pump relay recall. Fries itself. FI cars only.
Fix = move relay for better cooling.
87-89 Jetta & 84 GTI & 83-84 Scirocco?:
Front brake line recall.
85-? Golf & Jetta, GTI/GLI:
Heater Core failure. Recall.
85-86 GTI & GLI:
Engine hop problems. Requires a hop kit and/or upgraded front engine
mount.
89-90? Jetta:
RT Recall - Leaking steering rack recall?
85-91 Golf II & Jetta II, GTI/GLI:
Rough cold idle & stalling problems. Several causes see the technical FAQ
for possible diagnosis.
85-?86 GTI/GLI:
Recall RC, Code PC 13: Transfer pump failure.
85-?86 Golf:
?Recall PC?: Clean/replace transfer pump fuel screen.
Symptoms: Transfer fuel pump becomes noisy.
85-?86 GTI/GLI/Jettas/Golfs:
v13-89-01: connecting rod repair.
85OCT-85DEC and 84OCT-85SEP GTI:
NV/NW Recall (86V149000 & 86V029000) - Fuel tank replacement due to non
compliance with FMVSS 301.
87-89? Scirocco:
Gas tank leaks. Recall. (weren't other cars affected?)
16V Engines:
Drive belt failure around 50k miles. Breaks valves!
Remedy: Replace belt at 50k miles!
89-92 16V 9A CA:
SB Recall - Ca. smogged 9A engines, hanging idle switch.
Not officially announced by VW as yet. Non-CA have a less severe problem.
Fix: New throttle body assembly.
90-on Corrado
V13-91-06 - Abnormal engine noise with warm engine at 1800 to 2500 rpm
The connecting rod may float on the crankshaft causing a metallic
noise between stated rpm range.
In severe cases, instal crankshaft Part No: 026 105 101E
90-91 Corrado G60/Passat:
V35-90-01 - Transmission binding in reverse. Replace/lube back up light
switch, check shift rod cover (Part 02A 919 835), MoS2 grease on shifter &
shift linkage
90-9x? Corrado/Passat/Golf/GTI/Jetta/Cabriolet/Vanagon:
V30-93-04: Shifting difficulties - 020, 02A & 025 Manual Transmission
Clutch disk binding on spline ==> dragging.
Replace clutch with Cadmium coated spline.
90-91 G60:
V35-92-01 - Mods on 02A gears and shafts.
???-??-?? - Replace muffler hangers to reduce droning/vibration
V13-91-06 - Metallic knocking noise between 1800 and 2500 rpm caused
by out of tolerance connecting rod or crankshaft.
If severe, replace crankshaft.
90-? Passat/Golf/Jetta/Fox/Corrado:
V42-93-01: Rear Tire Wear
This Service Bulletin supersedes: V42-92-01 & V42-90-02.
Fix: Replace rear stub axles.
Note: This problem has been most prevalent on Passats with Continentals.
Updated axles are= 357 501 117B (for Passats)
91-94 Corrados, Passat GLX
94 Golf & Jetta III
95 Cabrio
V28-94-01 (Aug 1, 94): Sparkplugs listed in the owner's manual and other
service literature may not be correct.
90-? Passat:
Rear window regulators. Service bulletin exists. See recall SW.
90-? Passat:
Mysterious gauge fluctuations on Passats and Foxes...
There is a VW service bulletin for the Passat showing a procedure to fix this
problem.
The voltage regulator is not usually bad, but they frequently is not well
soldered. The bulletin explains how to re-solder thge gerulator to the
circuit board. Since I mentioned that I knew of this bulletin,
my friendly dealer called VW and got the repair authorized under warranty...
90 Passat/Auto:
Car won't start: Replace transmission switch.
90-92 Corrado
87-88 Scirocco
88-92 Jetta
88 GTI
90-92 GTI & Passat
V28-91-01: No Start/Hard Start/Poor running
Problem: High tension arcing on distributor caps resulting in poor
starting and poor running.
90-91 Corrado (PG Engine)
V28-92-07: Cannot attain High Speed (supersedes V28-91-02)
Fix: Check knock sensor & replace if needed
90 Corrado
V24-91-01: Engine does not start at first attempt
Fix: Cut wire to digifant unit terminal 23 in ECU plug.
91 Corrado SLC/VR6, Passat
V34-92-04: 5 Speed Transmission 02A Gearshift Mechanism Modified
All transmissions as of 03 09 1 have the new mechanism (which includes
the counter weight). Old cars except for the G60 can be upgraded.
93-94: Jetta /// GL
Moonroof rattle. There is a TSB out on this.
CA DIESEL FUEL:
The environmentally friendly diesel fuel being sold in CA since Oct 93
is rumored to destroy the injector pump seals.
Call: Califronia Trucking Association, Mike Thomas, (916) 373-3534
who is collecting claims.
California Air Resources Board 1-800-952-5588 leave your name address,
etc and a complaint about what happened to your vehicle.
Gov. Wilson's office (916) 445-2841
In California, I've just read
that Univ of Dayton (Ohio) scientist has finally figured out what went
wrong with the Low-Aromatics-Diesel introduced in California. Apparently
the lack of armomatics and sulfur allowed oxidation of the fuel (when
meeting up with heat and oxygen) to form peroxide. This peroxide wasn't
detected in the fuel, but was found on the damaged oil rings. All major
refiners in Calif. are now blending anti-oxidant additives.
(per U.S. Oil Week 6/06/94)
Today's newspaper (9/3/94) reported that legislation to repay those of
us who have lost diesel injector pumps from the 'new and improved' diesel
fuel, has been signed by Gov Re_Pete Wilson.
Reimbursment of up to $450 bucks for cars and $550 bucks for trucks
will be alloted to those who have suffered damages.
Details on how to get reimbusrsed will be published in the newspapers later
this year. The Senate and Assembly passed the bill in August.
March 1, 1995 is the deadline for filing a claim with the State of
California for replacement or reimbursement for damages to your
diesel pumps. Trucks are entitled up to $1,000, cars are $450.
Call 1-800-272-2667 to get a form sent to you.
TSB ACCESS
==========
The Technical Service Bulletins are now to be had ONLINE for a small
fee from ALLDATA:
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
For FREE trial access to the World's Largest Database of
Vehicle Repair and Maintenance Information, including detailed
information about any of the above bulletins, visit ALLDATA at:
WWW : http://www.alldata.tsb.com
GOPHER: gopher.alldata.tsb.com
or e-mail The...@alldata.com for more information.
\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/
NOTE that some car parts supermarkets allow you to retrieve and
print out this data for free as well.
Here is a sample of the free index available through WWW:
JETTA /// TSB
-------------
[jer...@ftp.amcc.com]
Year: 1994
Make: Volkswagen
Model: Jetta III
Engine: 4-1984cc 2.0L SOHC
JAN 94 1. OBD BASIC ENGINE SETTING AFTER DISCONNECTING BATTERY
JAN 94 2. POOR DRIVEABILITY
DEC 93 3. FRONT AND REAR VW EMBLEMS-REPLACING
DEC 93 4. WINTER TIRES/SNOW CHAINS
DEC 93 5. VACUUM DOOR LOCKS
NOV 93 6. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION 096, VALVE BODY REPLACEMENT
NOV 93 7. HORN PAD REMOVAL
NOV 93 8. INDUSTRIAL FALLOUT, REPAIRING PAINT FINISH
NOV 93 9. GOLD PLATED TERMINAL REPLACEMENT
NOV 93 10. CLEANER FOR INTERIOR SURFACES
NOV 93 11. ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR (ECT) REPLACEMENT
NOV 93 12. IDLE SPEED HUNTS WHEN COLD
NOV 93 13. REAR TIRE WEAR
NOV 93 14. TROUBLE CODES 00533 & 2231 (ISC NOISE DAMPER CLOGGED)
NOV 93 15. WATER LEAK AT ENGINE BULKHEAD SEALING PROCEDURE
NOV 93 16. GUIDELINES FOR WARRANTY REPAIRS
NOV 93 17. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION REPAIR
OCT 93 18. LOANER CAR CHARGES FOR PAINT/CORROSION WARRANTY REPAIRS
OCT 93 19. M.Y. 1994 WARRANTY COVERAGE INFORMATION
OCT 93 20. NEW 16-PIN DATA LINK CONNECTOR - ACCESSING/CONNECTING
SEP 93 21. RADIO SECURITY CODE STICKER, NEW LOCATION
SEP 93 22. 1,000-MILE CONSULTATION PROCEDURES FOR 1994 MODELS
SEP 93 23. 1994 PDI PROCEDURE AND MAINTENANCE/LUBRICATION SCHEDULES
>>>>MORE???? Pls provide recall campaign & number & a 1 line description
Q: I heard there is a recall on my Golf/Jetta/GTI heater core. What do I do?
A: The recall affects only '85-'90 cars of the above models, although older A1
VWs have had heater cores fail also. For some time, VW was replacing cores
under a 'goodwill program', and now the recall is official.
VW recommends that if you are experiencing any of the typical symptoms,
take your car to the nearest authorized VW dealer.
If you paid to have the work before, AND you can prove it, they will
reimburse you.
Q: What are the symptoms of a leaky/bad heater core?
A: A smell of coolant coming from your vents when the heater is on, an unusual
amount of fogging of the windshield, and in some extreme cases, coolant
leaking into the inside of the car, burning the occupants.
There are many cases in which the front passenger or the driver
himself were hurt. First known cases in Japan, VW recalled the
questionable cars (only in Japan!). Later many cases in Germany,
too, but VW waited with a recall since Feb. (?) 1996.
Q: My A/C is smelly after use, especially during humid summer months?
A: A kit to alleviate this from (313)-774-4300, which removes mildew from
evaporators. Of course first you should try spraying 1/4 can of Lysol down
the fresh air entry vent, WITH THE DOORS AND WINDOWS OPEN!!
Q: My radio keeps on playing when the car is turned off?
A: This is normal. Most VWs sold up to 1992 will play with the car turned off.
You can change that by using the switched power wire instead of the "always
hot" wire. Newer VWs have found a compromise: The radio will play after the
car is shut off as long as the key remains in the ignition.
NOTE however...this will probably NOT work with coded radios.
Q: My oxygen sensor light has come on. What am I supposed to do?
A: Change the oxygen sensor (aka Lambda Sensor), and reset the oxygen sensor
light. Oxygen sensors are to be changed every 30k/60k miles depending
on your car. Many claim that the newer heated 3 wire ox. sensor can last a
lot longer than the designated 30/60 k miles. This is probably true, but
when it does go, your car will run very rich!
Some have reported poor running conditions, rough idle and significant loss
of power as well (recent news thread on r.a.t).
A bad O2 sensor will increase the catalytic converter temperature
significantly and could lead the substrate to loosen from the casing
(happened to me). You will hear a distinct rattling from your exhaust, and
eventually clog the exhaust system.
Note, engine temp will also increase, risking engine damage and possible
fire.
This increases back pressure and decreases the car's power to the point
where it may not sustain highway speeds.
Again depending on your model, a cat. conv. can be very expensive (US$400-
US$800 in my case), while the ox. sensor is about US$100. If you decide not
to replace the sensor, do follow Bentley's procedure periodically to check
whether it's still ok!
Note from M Sirota: I found a 16V converter at Wolf Sport for $365. I've
actually found a new 16V converter at Techtonics for only $125, but they
say it sucks.
Q: How do I reset the oxygen sensor light?
A: The oxygen sensor light is attached to a small odometer which trips a
switch every 30/60k miles. To turn the oxy light off, you have to reset
that odometer. VW has two locations for this unit: Either somewhere along
the speedometer cable, or as part of the instrument cluster.
A2 Jettas & Golfs: Remove the coolant reservoir to locate the box with the
white recessed switch. Push it in far until you hear a satisfying click.
You should only need to push once. The "box" is black, and the speedometer
cable passes through it.
Q: I have a Clock, not a tach, can I get a "new" instrument cluster?
[b...@cellar.org]
A: Yes! Any cluster from just about any late VW (Golf/Jetta2/Sirocco2), will
work with any other cluster. There were a few changes through the years,
but the speedo, tach, temp, fuel, and warning lights (ex. Upshift, and OXS)
will work. I installed a cluster from an 85 Golf in my 89 and it works just
fine. A "new" used unit can be installed in a Golf/Jetta in about 45 min,
with minimal hand tools. The new gauge cluster will plug right into the
existing hardware. It might make life a bit easier if you remove the
steering wheel, however, its not necessary.
While it *might* seem simple to just replace the clock with a tach, its
not, this is fairly complex, and time consuming. I know you will "loose"
your original mileage with the "new" used speedo, but trust me, its just
simpler to do.
Q: What's a good car cover for my car? Will it scratch or dull my paint?
A: Generally you are looking for a cover which is soft where it contacts
the car paint, resists water from penetrating, breathes (trapped
moisture dulls paint), and is mold resistant.
Car covers made out of "Evolution 3" made by Kimberly Clark, or Technalon
material seem to be the current favorites and satisfy the above. They do
get wet with heavy rain or when the water repellent stuff wears off after a
couple of washes.
(For a sample call in the US (800) 424 80 00, code= 44-12-36).
They are also pretty bulky, and if wet, heavy.
I hose my covers down every couple of months and occasionally wash them in
an industrial washer. Apply Scotch Guard to make it somewhat water
repellent again.
Nylon covers are next to worthless.
To minimize paint scratches, keep your car clean, keep the cover clean, and
"roll" rather than slide the cover on.
I have also found that rolling it on and of is by far the easiest way to
cover the car. Install from the front.
Get a lock, and the cover then serves as reasonable theft deterrent as
well.
Q: Whenever it rains, the carpet in my VW gets wet?
A: There are two sources of this problem: The front of the car, and the rear.
Front: Rust around windshield, antenna wire or other holes not plugged
right. Better fix this because if it leaks at the driver's side it may
short out your fuse box. Also check all the rubber grommets that plug the
holes.
[eld...@csi.jpl.nasa.gov] There are 2 water drain holes in the area just
below the hood vents forward of the windshield which tend to get clogged
with leaves. Make sure these are clear. If the water doesn't drain fast
enough it will come through the vent air intake.
[From finn...@navo.navy.mil:]
A break in the plastic drip shield which runs across the top of the
firewall under the hood can allow copious amounts of water to flow into
the fresh air intake vent. Replace the shield.
Rear: Water leaks resulting in large puddles in the rear seat footwells are
generally caused by poor seals against the door windows, and broken seal
on the door liners.
The window seals are easily replaceable. To replace the seal inside the
door, you have to remove the inner door panel, which is quite easy as well.
Glue a thick sheet of plastic between the door frame and the door panel.
See tech tips for more detail
From Jens Knickmeyer: Every time I found water puddling in the car just in front of the drivers
seat, the seals inside the door were defective. I had this problem
on several cars (3 Polos, 1 Audi 80, 2 Golf). Thank heaven only
the Polos were my cars!
Q: My back up lights don't work anymore, but the bulbs are ok!
A: Most likely your back up light switch in the transmission is broken. In
some cars it will also disable the upshift indicator. According to
rgo...@smucs1.umassd.edu, short shift kits reduce the longevity of these
switches to 3-4 months.
IT'S A FEATURE NOT A BUG!
=========================
Q: During hard cornering my inner rear wheel lifts. What's wrong? Is this
bad?
A: This is normal behavior in all A-type (and probably other) VW's, and for
that matter many other cars as well.
VW dials in a lot of rear roll stiffness to reduce understeer.
This with the limited rear wheel shock/spring travel distance
causes the rear inner wheel to be lifted during hard cornering.
It does not reduce performance much because the inner rear wheel
has very little load at that point.
Many other cars have the same feature to some degree or another.
If you think a Porsche 911 will fix the problem, look closely,
they lift their inner front wheel during hard cornering.
Q: My VR6 equiped VW (Corrado, Passats) rattles in idle, but the sound <SOUND>
goes away when I push in the clutch!
Q: My VR6 equiped VW (Corrado, Passats) rattles when I take off <SOUND>
It sounds like "Krrrrrrr"
A: They all do that. According to Jens Knickmeyer:
This problem is well known at VW. The reason is the gear-box. The tooth
wheels (a pair for each gear) have too much space between the teeth
which results in the rattle. Nothing to worry about, there are other
cars with the same symptom (Polo-G40, Audi 100, VW LT28, ...)
Some reported similar problems with a heat shield ratteling
but in that case the sound will be independent of whether you
push the clutch in.
Q: The AC comes on when I turn on the defroster. What's wrong?
A: Sigh! Does anyone read the User's Manual anymore? The AC comes on to
eliminate moisture. Works real well too!
INTERCHANGING PARTS & TOOLS
===========================
Q: What VW parts are interchangeable between models & years? (This is for all
you junk-yard cats). Created on a suggestion by [dh...@andrew.cmu.edu (Dan)]
A: General Rule:
All cars based on the same platform are mechanically similar. When the
engine is mostly the same, it'll share engine parts, exhaust, suspension,
transmission, brakes, rear axle beam, most electrical components, sway
bars. Different years may have different components, but the rule is
usually that G & J are about the same in one year while the S's and
Corrados are usually a bit ahead and occasionally share components found in
the next platform (e.g., The A2 based Corrados VR6/SLC have the A+
suspension found on A3 GTIs).
Note that in Europe the engine range is much larger than in NA, but
mechanically things are similar within the same engine range. Throughout
this document you will find other hints of interchangeabilities, for
example, look at the part numbers: S's have a lot of part numbers from R/Gs
(the second and third set of numbers are important), see also the list of
rims and wheels for interchangability. GTI/GLI rims are a nice upgrade for
most G & Js.
However the opposite is true as well...The same model of the same year may
have slightly different components. Essentially VW builds cars until they
run out of a particular batch of parts, or they make them for one region
but then send them elsewhere (e.g., Corrados sold with heated seats in
Southern California). Another example of this are radiators, don't ask what
radiator is supposed to be in your car because no one really knows...
A1: R=G I=Conv/S I & II/J I are all similar. Bodywise & interiorwise, the J
& R are most similar, except for the rear trunk, rear seats, & muffler. J's
used to have thicker sway bars, a good upgrade for an S & R. Final exhaust
sections also different. S's are bodywise & interiorwise different, struts
are different (?), mechanically things are laid out a tad different (air
filter). Convertibles share most with the R/G I, but later models have
similarities with S's (exhaust).
The Passat I/Dasher shares some mechanical parts with the other A1 cars
(e.g., 1600 engine), but otherwise shares more with the old Audi 80/Audi
Fox (NA). Note that the reverse is also true, some Audi 80/100 (4000/5000)
parts will fit in A1 VWs (e.g., the windshield washer canisters of a 5000 =
S). In Europe, the low end Audis share more mechanically with the high end
VWs, because they basically use the same engine block (1600/1800).
There are also some parts shared with Porsches, most notable the 924 & 944
series (locks, rack, steering (?)).
A2: G II/ J II/Corrado. The G & J are most similar, except for the obvious
differences. The dashes are very similar but there are some nuances like
the trim which is bolted in for J but snapped in on early US made Gs.
Corrados 16V (Europe) share the most with GTIs, but the G60s only share
some suspension components (rear axle beam). The SLC/VR6s don't share much
mechanical with other VWs but share a lot with the other C's (brakes,
interior & body). VR6 rims will not fit a G60.
Please add specific contributions:
Brakes: Most >81 A1/A2 VWs can be upgraded to newer calipers & rotors be it
in some cases with some additional modifications (VW&P/EuroCar has had a
bunch of article on that).
The biggest right now are those on the Corrados.
Cylinder Heads: Cylinder heads on 1.7 l A-1 cars from US '82.5 thru '84 are
interchangeable with earlier A-1 engines except a different tool must be
used to depress the lifters. GTI cylinder heads are incompatible.
[eld...@csi.jpl.nasa.gov]
Struts: R/G=J
Interior pieces: A lot will be interchangeable (R/G=J) but be careful a lot
of piece will look the same but won't fit.
Steering wheels are interchangeable up to 8/88? when they switched to a
finer spline. An adaptor
is used to make the wheels fit, so you can use any old wheel on a
newer car if you purchase this adaptor.
Alternators: Almost all are interchangeable, but some may require a
different harness. Usually go to a higher amperage, never lower. The 90A
are the current "hot ticket".
Starters are the same on the engines of one model of the A1/A2 cars.
Electrically no problems, just look at the mechanical requirements
before you go to the junk yard.
Q: Will Rabbit seats fit in a Scirocco?
A: Rabbit seats won't fit, the legs on the seat are too high. Try a junk yard
seat, or weld the adjusting mechanism to a height suitable to you.
Q: I need tool VW #xyz. Is there a suitable replacement?
A: Often yes. Here are some:
Remove grease cap from rear axle tool:
Adjustable pliers, screwdriver
Timing belt tensioner pulley tightening tool:
Bend a section of coat hanger into a U shape of the proper size for
the holes in the pulley. or (lousier) two nails & a screw driver.
Upper strut bolt tool:
Air impact wrench, or grab a socket with a vise grip with the allen key
through the top.
From [Ken_...@qmgate.arc.nasa.gov]: The Oxygen Sensor Socket from Lisle
will work. The socket has a hex at the top so you can use a combination
wrench to loosen the strut nut while holding the center rod stationary
with a 6 or 7 mm allen wrench.
Spring Compressor:
ALL SUBSTITUTES ARE DANGEROUS! Buy the real thing for ~US$40.
Remove radio tool:
use a coat hanger, make 4 cuts, so each piece is a "U". Stick them in
the holes, and move the hanger pieces "out" to the left and right,
while pulling the radio out by the tape entrance.
Remove Valve Adjustment Shims:
For changing valve shims, a valve depressor is necessary, but the funny
special pliers are not. All that is needed is a small "jeweler's"
screwdriver. File the blade until it is narrow enough to fit flat into
the slot in the shim bucket. Then file it until there is a nice knife
edge on it. Depress the valve, and stick the screwdriver through the
slot on the bucket and under the shim at the same time. It will just pop
right out, though oftentimes it helps to wiggle the valve depressor
around to help out. [Borowski]
Pin Wrench:
From: ted...@garnet.berkeley.edu (Ted Crum): A pin wrench (pin spanner)
is needed change strut cartridges, adjust [W] cam belts, etc. I've used
this trick from Popular Science for years: Make a pin wrench from an
adjustable ("Crescent") wrench with two holes drilled into the sides of
the jaws, near the tips. With pins placed in these holes, it is a strong
adjustable pin wrench. A second set of bigger holes can go a little down
from the tips and further from the nut-turning faces:
__
/ o |
/ |
/ |
|______|
Timing plug removal tool:
Use the handle of a stubby craftsmen slot screwdriver (or the lug wrench
from an old Bug).
Transmission plug tool:
I use a 17mm wheel lug bolt... They're plentiful: if you don't have any
spares, [some] bone-yard will be more than happy to let you paw around
their wrecks and carry away as many as you can hold.
You can either snap a pair of vice-grips onto the bolt's shaft
(tightly, mind you- those plugs can be VERY tight...) or do what I did,
and weld a nut onto the end of the bolt.
This allows you to use a socket and breaker bar or flex
handle to loosen the plug, then switch to a ratchet to spin it off.
It also allows you to use a torque wrench to re-install the plug to
manufacturer's torque specs.
[David M. Duma]:
Go to the section of the hardware store where they sell angle iron and
threaded rod. Buy a "coupling nut" for the threaded rod (basically a very
long hex nut). I found that the nut for 1/2" rod was 11/16" across the
flats, which is about 17.5mm . Walk over to the tools aisle and check the
coupling nut with a 17mm wrench to be sure. This fits my car's transmission
plug perfectly. If yours is snug a few minutes with a coarse abrasive stone
should produce a custom fit. You can then put the coupling nut into a
socket or box end wrench whenever you need it.
The same principle allows you to buy some of those power screwdriver bits
and put them into a 1/4" socket to use with your ratchet handle.
I'm still looking for a BIG nut to fit into the timing mark hole plug on the
transaxle.
>>>COME ON, THERE MUST BE PLENTY MORE
Q: My factory VW radio is CD changer ready. What unit other than the VW one
can I use?
A: The ones that can control a CD changer are made by Panasonic for VW.
The VW changer is also made by Panasonic for VW.
The head unit will only control the VW changer -- it won't control
other Panasonic changers. In other words, you are stuck with VWs changer.
FUEL INJECTION
==============
Q: What are the FI types used by VW?
A: [From TomH] First, let's remember that "CIS" is really Bosch K-Jetronic,
and "CIS-E" is KE-Jetronic. Now, as for the US GTI/GLI injection systems:
83-84 8V K-Jetronic
85-87 8V KE-Jetronic
87-89 16V KE-Jetronic
88-92 8V Digifant II
90-92 16V Motronic
KE-Jetronic is basically a K-Jetronic with ignition control and a knock
sensor, while Motronic has full engine management capabilities.
Note that the above data is for the US GTI/GLI series cars. The US GT/GL
models for example in 85-87 use CIS [kok...@rpi.edu].
Digifant is a pulsed injection system (rather than continuous, like the
Bosch K series), which is in principle better. I'm no big fan of (at
least the early versions of) Digifant, I don't think it has horrible
reliability problems, either. You *will* need to run injector cleaner
through the engine more frequently, though, or performance and mpg will
drop right off the scale.
[From Jens Knickmeyer]:
The Digifant was developped by VW because the Bosch L-jetronic had
too small arrays, in VWs opinion. So they made their own system and
included the Dignition which lead to the motormanagement system
Digifant. I do not know for other contries, but here in Germany the
system has a communication bus called ABUS (Automubile, Bitserielle
Universelle Schnittstelle - automobile bitserial universal interface).
It is used to connect the diagnostic computer to the Digifant which
has a built-in automatic error detection (can detect defective temp.
sensor and knock sensor. If the latter is detected, the Digifant will
cut off fuel at high loads approx. every 5 secs.). The Digifant uses
ABUS also to exchange data with DIGIFIZ and maybe other future
components.
Polo injection systems:
Engine ID l kW / hp build FI-system
AAK 1.05 33 / 45 11/89- 7/90 Bosch Monojetronic
AAU 1.05 33 / 45 10/90- Bosch Monomotronic
NZ 1.3 40 / 55 2/87-12/90 VW Digijet
AAV 1.3 40 / 55 1/91- Bosch Monomotronic
3F 1.3 55 / 75 10/89- 9/90 Digifant (MAF)
3F 1.3 55 / 75 10/90- Digifant (MAF)
PY 1.3 85 /115 3/87- 7/90 Digifant (MAP)
PY 1.3 83 /113 1/91- 8/94 Digifant (MAP)+knock sensor
RECOMMENDATIONS
===============
Q: How do I take care of my car to make it last long?
A: Here are a couple of one liners, some of which are explained in more
detail elsewhere?
- Check fluids often (oil, coolant, PS fluid, brake fluid, battery)
- Follow recommended maintenance
Change oil & filter 3000 miles/5000km or 7500mi/12000km with synthetic oil
Use the correct weight of oil for the climat
Change coolant when it looks dirty (or every 2-4 years) and use phophate
free coolant mixed with distilled water
Bleed brakes yearly. Use Dot 3/4, Dot 4 or Super Dot 4 fluid
Change fuel filter (at least every 30k miles or 50k km)
- Use OEM, MANN or Bosch filters.
- Change the oxy-sensor at the recommended interval (if you don't
you may burn your cat. converter which is A LOT more expensive to replace)
- Reset mechanical trip odometers when the car is stationary
- Warm up your car by driving gently until your oil temp is 80C
- Check your CV boots for breaks often and replace as soon as they crack
(this will prevent having to replace the whole joint)
- Use fuel injector cleaner every couple months
- Check tire pressures periodically. It's better to over inflate than to
underinflate (I run 40 psi on my G60 with little effect on wear)
- Garage the car, leave it out of the sun
- Replace all gaskets and seals if you take something appart.
It's a small cost in comparison to the cost and time to take
something appart
- Cars with solid lifters: Adjust valve clearances as recommended
(if you don't, you may burn your valves).
- Replace all belts every ~60k miles/100k kms
- Replace all hoses every ~100k miles/160k kms
- Replace vacuum hoses as they get stiff and brittle
- Learn how to rev-shift to save clutch wear
- Check transmission level periodically. Familiarize yourself
first what that level should be for you car.
- Stay away from low quality parts, especially for CVJoints and axles
Do not use remanufactured parts, only OEM
- Run your AC at least once a month for a couple of minutes
to lubricate the bearings and prevent the seals from drying out
Q: Should I warm up my VW?
A: General recommendation is:
- Let it idle for a bit (couple secs, 1/2 minute)
- Then drive the car easily, rpm < 3000 or so.
- When the car is up to operating temp (80C oil or water needle 1/2 way)
you can increase rpm.
Why? Part of the reason is lubrication. Cold oil is not as viscous.
Oil pumps are constant volume pumps (at a specific rpm) and therefore
may produce excessive pressures when cold.
The second reason is thermal expansion. An engine is made to be driven
at operating temperature, and therefore things will not fit or seal
as well when cold. In addition, engine components expand at different
rates (e.g., cast iron vs aluminum, small vs large volumes) and the
slower this process occurs the smaller the expansion differences.
Idling your engine may warm up the engine too fast, driving hard
immediately will produce reduced lubrication and excessive pressure.
Q: Which is better High or Low revs when driving? Will either one damage the
engine?
A: The answer is to avoid extreme stress on the engine, neither excessive high
or low revs are advised.
Low Revs: You are putting a lot of torque on the engine with a low oil
volume & pressure. This can lead to damage. Generally stay above 1500 or
2000 rpms.
High Revs: VW engines are rather comfortable in the higher ranges. However,
at high revs you have a lot of (transient) thermal effects taking place
which are not always healthy (valves, head) in addition to certain harmonic
vibrations in all the shafts that spin, sometimes also the pistons
(motorcycles tend to have that problem more).
So far I have found VW engines to hold up well.
These cars were designed to sustain fairly high speeds in Germany.
However I have also found that the periphery does not always hold up:
Waterpumps tend to leak a lot quicker when you rev high.
Now what's high? Generally near redline is high, and it's not advised to go
over, or stay there for long.
Normal non-aggressive driving should be done between ~2000rpms & max torque
which is usually around 4000 rpms, resulting in "normal" wear.
Q: How do you break into all A1 & A2 VWs (exc. Corrado, Passats, A3) w/o
breaking glass in under 10 secs? (Verified by Jan, in a junk yard of
course).
A: This has received some protest, but I decided to post it anyway to make
people aware of the ease with which one can break into a VW, and because
advertisements for the deterrent actually has a picture on how to do it.
Punch a small hole with a screwdriver directly underneath the doorhandle
(underneath the lock) and move screwdriver up and down to unlock.
ADP armor door plates are the only safeguard. (800) ADP-LOCK, about $50 per
pair. Install in 5 minutes with just a screwdriver. Other brands exist.
Stay away from flimsier products though.
An alarm with engine lockout is also HIGHLY recommended.
Newer VWs come with such an alarm! Apparently very effective.
Q: What gas (petrol) should I use?
A: Very tough to answer! Generally stick with the better brands because they
take better care of the quality of the gas, keep their tanks cleaner, etc.
Note however that many brands share gas in rural areas to reduce
transportation costs (though they may add different additives).
It's also recommended to stick with one brand. Apparently the additives
are not always compatible (varnish).
Convenience stores switch brands often to reduce cost ==> not recommended.
I have a VW brochure from '87? that recommends Shell, Chevron & AMOCO
BY NAME (Publication W42-002-920-0). Texaco seems ok too (IMHO).
That brochure talks about additives that reduce carbon build-up.
I have had rough idle problems with ARCO EC gas in CA.
Whether you need "super" or high octane gas remains debatable.
Some brands add more detergent in their high octane gasses which will
keep your engine cleaner.
Gas formulas change over time and per geographic region.
In the winter a more volatile gas, or oxygenated gas is sold to improve
cold starting and reduce emissions (which may increase gas consumption
between 3% and 15%).
Cars with knocks sensors can derive more power with higher octane gas.
And, yes, all watercooled VWs can run on unleaded fuel.
Basically, if your car runs well with the brand you are using, stick to it.
Q: When/how often should I get an alignment done?
A: Cars generally stay aligned unless one of the components wears out
(e.g., spring sag, upper bearings stretch), you hit something hard or
you replaced shocks and springs.
If you notice any form of uneven wear, e.g., feathering, more wear on
one side than the other, it is time for an alignment.
However, it's a good idea to first replace the worn out part before
you do the alignment, and with the high cost of tires, it may be
a good idea to check things out then.
You can do some primitive alignment checks yourself to see whether
the car is at least in the right ball park. See the alignment archive
and faq.vw.perf for more details.
Choosing an alignment shop is a different issue. Having computer
equipment means nothing. The place I visit uses merely hand tools
with his expertiese and I trust him alot more than the majority of
alignment places that just blindly punch in some numbers and align
two arrows on the computer. Ask around.
To avoid the BS they may give you, on most A* VWs, only the front
camber and toe-in are adjustable. Caster is not. The rear is even
easier, nothing is adjustable without either bending the rear axle
arms or by adding shims behind the axle stubs. In general, the rear
is not adjusted. Some shops will want to do a "four wheel alignment"
to determine the "thrust angle". It's ok to check things out but
in general I would only trust a specialist to touch my rear wheel
alignment and I would only pay a small amount over a front end alignment
rather than double to have the rears checked.
Q: Good and bad VW years? Impressions?
A: >>>Need help with this one!!!
General:
(From M.Sirota) US [made] VWs, unfortunately, suck after lots of mileage.
Most notably, they rattle like the dickens. (??-'88 Rabbit, Golf, GTI, base
Jetta). Jetta GL's and GLI's and Carats and the like were made in Germany
during this period.
[From Jan:] Do not mistake bad service with the quality of the car. In the
US, most VW service is at best second class. Older VWs (A1) are also more
prone to rust, esp. around the wheel arches due to the absence of the
plastic protectors. Newer VWs are much better protected, up to the point of
using galvanized sheet metal on some panels in Corrados.
[From Dan Simoes:] as far as quality goes, it seems to follow the pattern:
(best-->worst) German-built, Mexican-built, US-built although there are
certainly enough exceptions to this rule. VW recognizes the quality
problems with the Mexican cars, and feels that they will be fixed by the
time we get the A3 cars.
81 Scirocco: Made by Karmann, European Market! Major Problems: 2B5 Zenith
Carb, electrical problems (easy to fix, hard to find), motor mount, 2nd
gear wears out after 100-some k miles.
Impressions: Noisy. With modified suspension a fantastic handler. A car
with an incredible portion of fun, though engine a bit underpowered (86
HP).
79.5 (?) - 84 Rabbit Diesel (US-built models):
(tgpt...@uhura.cc.rochester.edu)
Major problems: For some reason extremely hard on starters and alternators.
Heavy vibration when cold reduces life of some parts. Even more prone to
engine mount woes than gas models.
Impressions: The car that wouldn't die. Consistently run 300,000+ miles.
Anywhere from 30 - 55 mpg. Horribly underpowered (52 HP). Emissions exempt
in some states, which is a good thing. Regular oil filter & fuel filter
changes even more important than most. You either love them or you hate
them. At 300,000 miles things that were supposed to last "the life of the
car" start to break.
84 US Rabbit: another car that won't die. Mechanically excellent--I have
177k miles and it runs like new, though I've had to make one major repair
(cylinder head). Interior doesn't hold up as well--I've replaced the carpet
and the headliner fell off the ceiling. Outside body/paint still excellent.
I want something fancier but I can't justify it since it's worthless as a
used car. All rattles disappeared when I replaced the infamous right hand
engine mount. You do need to stick on anti-sway bars for decent handling.
[eld...@csi.jpl.nasa.gov]
85-87 8V GTI-US: US made, US market. Major problems: Rough Idle, switches,
seat bolsters ripping, some (85-86) been released with mismatched
wristpins. Engines usually seem to last long. Cat converter usually dies
between 80-120k miles. Some batches have paint problems. Older cars
develop alot of little leaks (oil, gas pump housing along the seam).
Impressions: Lots of low end torque, good handler, great around-the-town-
car, and good low speed (<80 mph) cruiser. Good mileage (~30 mpg or better).
High end lacking. Very practical.
88->90 GTI/Golf: Mexican made, US market. Major problems: Same as above.
Quality of cars varies a lot between batches.
Impressions: Reduced low end torque, higher seats.
90-> Passat: Made in Germany. Major problems: Early production had many
quality problems all over. Later models seem to fare better.
Common problems: See the recall list, rear window regulator,
rear stub axles causing uneven tire wear.
Impressions: 4 cyl version underpowered especially in automatic version.
VR6 equipped car is quieter and more powerful. Lots of room. Good handling.
90-92 Corrado G60: Made by Karmann, US market.
Major problems: Generally fairly reliable.
First cold start sometimes fails. Second start usually ok. Notchy
transmission/Linkage/Reverse binding, many had their 2nd gear syncro die,
most G60s do not have the clutch with Cd or Ni plated splines
exasterbating shifting problems.
Common problems: exhaust hangers go bad (it's a heavy exhaust),
auto belts malfunctioning (really, starter switch),
windshield wipers miss a few areas, vibration damper gets loose
on driver's side axle, supercharger dies between 50-?k miles (no corrolation
found with those using AST or Neuspeeds smaller pulleys), sunroof dies
after a couple of years, foglights don not crack as easily as the SLCs.
Impressions: Low end lacking, notchy shifter, but otherwise a nice, sturdy,
and practical car. Good handling, bad rear visibility. The usual rattles
but better then other A2s or A1s.
Lots of aftermarket parts available to improve power and handling.
92-> Corrado VR6/SLC: Made by Karmann, US market.
Major problems: Transmission Linkage binding, increasing notchiness.
Several had their ABS system go bad, many had their 2nd gear syncro die
older VR6s (92) do not have the clutch with Cd or Ni plated splines
exasterbating shifting problems.
Common problems: Windshield wipers miss a few areas, sunroof dies
after a couple of years, foglights crack due to heat.
Impressions: Great car, better than the G60 version in virtually all
respects. Quiet.
[Tom H]
From what the service people at my dealer (whom I have a lot of confidence
in) say, a partial quality/reliability ranking might be something like:
Corrado > Golf/Jetta A3 > Golf/Jetta A2 > old Passat
(Karmann) (Puebla) (Westmoreland) (Emden)
The Mexican-built A2s appear to have had very uneven build quality, with
some highly trouble-free (like mine) and others complete disasters.
[From Jens]:
Worst case on European market: VWs built 1984. VW used sheetmetal from the
GDR and it was so bad (state and metal :-) ... ) that you cannot paint
as quickly as new rust arises! These cars rust on the hood and on the
roof, not only in critical areas.
About VW's batteries: They last roughly 2 years or 50k miles, almost
to the nose. If they die, they die very suddenly, one start works perfectly,
next start, nothing, and really *nothing*. Speculated failure
mode due to internal shorting. Get a replacement when you are near that
limit.
TRANSLATIONS
============
Ok, don't laugh, I know I mispelled alot, it's hard to keep track of
four languages at once. German and French are probably the most
relevant, Dutch to a lesser extent ;->. Please feel free to complete
the list. If you want to add another language, please create a second
table. [Jan]
English/UK German French Dutch
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accelerator Gaspedal acce'le'rateur Gaspedaal
Airfilter Luftfilter Filtre a air Luchtfilter
Alternator Lichtmaschine alternateur Alternator
Bumper Stossstange pare-choc Bumper
Brakes Bremsen Freins Remmen
Caliper Bremssaettel Etrier Remklauw
Clutch Kupplung embrayage Koppeling
Color Farbe Couleur Kleur
CV Joints Gleichlaufgelenk Joint Homokinetique Homokinetische
koppeling
Distributor Verteiler distributeur Stroom Verdeler
Disc brakes Scheibenbremsen Freins a disque Schijfremmen
Drum brakes Trommelbremsen freins a` tambours Trommelremmen
Engine Motor Moteur Motor
Exhaust Auspuf Echappement Uitlaat
Filter Filter Filter Filter
Fog Nebel brouillard Nevel/Mist
Foglights Nebelscheinwerfer anti-brouillards Mist lampen
Fog tail light Nebelschlussleuchtefeux anti-brouillards arrie`res Mistlamp
Gas/Petrol Benzin Essence Benzine
Grease Fett graisse Vet
Headlights Scheinwerfer Phares Koplampen
Horn Hupe Claxon Toeter
Horsepower Pferdestaerke Chevaux Paardekracht
Hood/Bonnet Motorhaube Capot Motorkap
Ignition Zuendung allumage Ontsteking
Ignition Coil Zuendspule Bobine Bobine
Intake/Inlet Saugrohr admission Inlaat
Oil Oel Huile Olie
Paint Lack peinture Verf/lak
Powersteering Servolenkung direction assiste'e Servostuur
Radiator Kuehler Radiateur Radiator
Resistor Widerstand Resistance Weerstand
Rims Felgen Jauntes Velgen
Rotor Verteilerfinger rotor Rotor
Screwdriver Schraubenzieher Tournevis Schroevendraaier
Shim/Tappet
Shockabsorber Stossdaempfer amortisseur Shokdemper
Socket (tool) Douille Dop sleutel
Sparkplugs Zuendkerzen Bougies Bougies
Speed Geschwindigkeit Vitesse Snelheid
Spring Feder ressort Veer
Steeringwheel Lenkrad Volant Stuur
Stress Bar Querstrebe
Sway Bar Stabilisator Stabilisator
Taillights Schlussleuchten feux arrie`re Achterlichten
Tires/Tyres Reifen Pneus Banden
Throttle Drosselklappe Gasklep
Transmission Getriebe transmission Versnellingsbak
Trunk/Boot Kofferraum coffre Koffer
Tubes Rohr tuyau Buizen
Valves Ventile Soupapes Kleppen
Upper Stress Bar Domstrebe
Windshield Windschutzscheibe pare-brise Voorruit
Wiper Scheibenwischer essuie-glace Ruitenwisser
CURRENT VW TYPES:
=================
A01: 1975-1980
Polo, Derby
A small car with a transverse FWD layout. Derby is a sedan version of the
Polo; both available with 2 doors only.
A02: 1981-
Polo, Polo Coupe, Derby/Polo Sedan
A small car with a transverse FWD layout. Derby later renamed Polo Sedan.
Base Polo has almost vertical hatchback, while Coupe is sportier looking.
All are available with 2 doors only. Facelifted for 1991.
Jens Knickmeyer:
New engines since 1984/85: [kw/hp]: [33/45], [40/55], [56/75], [83/113].
The latter one uses the G-supercharger G40, therfore the car is called
Polo-G40. At first only 200 cars were built for motorsports (Polo-Cup
in Germany und UK), then a second series of about 500 and a third of 500
cars were produced.
1992-1994 the new Polo-G40 has been produced regularly. VERY expensive
insurance for that car.
A1: 1974-1984 (in some cases, e.g., Cabriolet: 1993)
Golf/Rabbit/Caribe, Jetta/Atlantic, Scirocco I & II, Cabriolet,
Pickup/Caddy.
Compact cars with transverse FWD engine. Jetta has a trunk, while Scirocco
(2-door only) is a sportier design by Giorgio Giugiaro (S I only).
Rabbit/Golf was face-lifted in 1980 (1981 in the US).
Golf/Rabbit GTI production 1979 (US: 83) through 1984.
A1 Scirocco I production ended in 1982 followed by
the Scirocco II until 1990 (1988 for USA), while Cabriolet (->93) and Caddy
(Pickup) continue to be based on the A1 chassis.
US and Mexican production continued until 1984 for the Rabbit.
Sciroccos and Cabbis were always made in Germany at Karmann.
NOTE: A1 Golfs were continued to be produced in South Africa until 1994?
The Citi Golf is a budget car in a sense. The
1300 base model competes with the ford and mazda variants (also old models
kept alive, but VW started it in 1985/6 when the A2 was introduced) on a
montlhy basis to see who can sell it for less than the competitors !!!!
This is because cars are exponentially more expensive in SA than for
instance in the USA.
A2: 1984-1991
Golf, Golf GTI, Golf Country, Jetta, Jetta GLI, Corrado (continued until 95)
Compact cars with transverse FWD. Jetta has a trunk, while Corrado (2-door
only) is a sporty version allegedly inspired on a Ferrari 275 GTB/4 [Vack].
US production of Golfs & GTIs continued until 1988 then
switched to Mexican production (with Jettas and GLIs) until 1992 for the
American market (this is in parallel to German and other location
production).
Note that the (US) Mexican 16V versions of these cars had German made
engines, and some of the (US) special editions such as the Wolfsburg and
Carat Jetta editions were German made as well.
Corrado is made by Karmann.
Synchro AWD and/or G60 available in some countries.
NOTE: A2 Golfs were continued to be produced in South Africa until 1993.
The MK I, A2 and the A3 was build simultaneously for about 6 months or so.
Apparently the only VW factory to have done so.
A3: 1992-
Golf ///, Vento/Jetta ///, Golf GTI & VR6, Jetta/Vento GLX/VR6,
Cabrio (95->).
Compact cars with transverse FWD. Vento/Jetta has a trunk.
US production started in 1993/4 from Mexico except initial batch of VR6
cars that came from Germany.
Cabrio is made at Karmann.
B1: 1973-1979
Passat/Dasher, Passat Variant
Mid-sized cars with longitudinal FWD. The original fastback design with a
separate trunk was changed to a hatchback in 1976.
B2: 1980-1987
Passat, Santana/Quantum, Passat Variant/Quantum Wagon
Mid-sized cars with longitudinal FWD. Base version a hatchback, with
Santana/Quantum a sedan version. 4-door only. Apparently also a 2 door
version available in Europe. Syncro AWD available.
Production continues in China.
B3: 1988-
Passat, Passat Variant/Passat Wagon.
Mid-sized cars with transverse FWD. 4-door only. Syncro AWD available.
Corrections from JWA...@UA1VM.UA.EDU:
T1: 1949 - 1966 (European model years; - 1967 U.S. Model years)
Station Wagon/Transporter (Micro-bus, Bus, Camper, Kombi, Pickup Truck,
Double Cab Pickup Truck, Panel Van)
A utility vehicle/truck with rear air-cooled engine (Type I engine)
T2: 1967 - 1970 (Eur. mod. yrs; 1968 - 1971 U.S. Mod. yrs)
<same as above T1>
A utility vehicle/truck with rear air-cooled engine (Type I engine).
T2: 1971 - 1978 (e.m.yrs; 1972 - 1979 U.S. m.yrs)
<same as above T1>
A utility vehicle/truck with rear air-cooled engine (Type IV engine).
Same engine as Porsche 914 and VW 411/412.
T3: 1979 - 1982 (e.m.yrs; 1980 - 1983+1/2 U.S.m.yrs)
<same as above T1>
A utility vehicle/truck with rear engine: either air-cooled boxer (Type IV
engine), water-cooled boxer (Type IV-based) or water-cooled diesel inline 4
(Golf). Availability of engines overlapped.
1980 - 1991 (e.m.yrs; sold in U.S. only 1981 - 1983 U.S. model years) <same
as above T1> except only Vanagon/Vanagon Camper were sold in U.S.
A utility vehicle/truck with rear water-cooled Rabbit Diesel engine. <was
still offered in Europe until introduction of T4 bus. Most of the T3 sold
in Europe were Diesel or Turbo-Diesel powered>
T3: 1983 - 1991 (e.m.yrs; 1983+1/2 - 1991 U.S.m.yrs)
<same as above T1>
A utility vehicle/truck with rear water-cooled engine (Type ? engine)
(engine is basically the same Type IV, but with water-cooled heads. Engine
size is much different, however: shorter in length and width) <no other VW
used this engine; however, Subaru made an engine very similar for use in
their cars, front wheel drive, no less> Syncro models available in Europe
until 1993 model year.
T4: 1992 -
<same as above T1>
Transporter, Bus/EuroVan, Camper
A utility vehicle/truck with transverse FWD. <there are two gasoline
engines and one diesel (does Turbo count as 2nd engine?) engine available
in Europe: Two of each: 2.0L and 2.5L. Only one gas engine in U.S.>
LT1: 1975-
LT
light and medium-duty utility vehicles/trucks.
CURRENT AUDI TYPES:
A01: 1974-1978
Audi 50
The twin to VW Polo, introduced before its sibling. 2-door hatchback only.
B1: 1973-1979 (81?)
Audi 80/Fox, Audi Fox Wagon
Mid-sized car with longitudinal FWD. First only with 2-door, but later
available as 4-door as well. Wagon only available in North America.
B2: 1980 (81?)-1987
Audi 80, 90, 4000, Coupe, Quattro
Mid-sized car with longitudinal FWD or AWD. 2-door and 4-door versions
available (except Coupe and Quattro 2-door only). 90 was a 5-cylinder
version of 80; quattro AWD available for all models.
B3: 1988-1991
Audi 80, 90, Coupe, S2
Mid-sized car with longitudinal FWD or AWD. 4-door only. Quattro AWD
available for all models.
B4: 1992-
Audi 80, Coupe, S2
Mid-sized car with longitudinal FWD or AWD. 4-door only. Quattro AWD
available for all models. S2 is a high-performance version of the Coupe.
mild revision of B3 chassis.
C1: 1969-1976
Audi 100, 100 Coupe
Large car with longitudinal FWD. 4-door only, except Coupe as 2-door only.
C2: 1977-1982
Audi 100, 200, 5000, Avant
Large car with longitudinal FWD. 4-door only. 200 has turbocharged engine
(similar to 5000 Turbo). Avant is a wagon version. Quattro AWD available.
C3: 1983-1991
Audi 100, 200, 5000, Avant
Large car with longitudinal FWD. 4-door only. 200 has turbocharged engine
(similar to 5000 Turbo). Avant is a wagon version. Quattro AWD available.
5000 renamed to 100/200 in North America after 1988.
C4: 1992-
Audi 100, Avant, S4
Large car with longitudinal FWD. 4-door only. Quattro AWD available for all
models. S4 is a high-performance version using a turbocharged 5-cylinder
engine. A moderate revision of C3 chassis.
D1: 1990-1994
Audi V8
Large car with longitudinal AWD. 4-door only.
D2: 1994-
Audi A8
Large car with longitudinal Quattro AWD. Based on the ASF prototype,
the body and chassis of the car are in aluminum, making it up to 40%
lighter than a comparable car in steel. Introduced in March 94.
At first available with 2.8 V6 and 4.2 V8, a V8 TDI with 200 HP may
follow if there is interest.
CURRENT SEAT TYPES: (NOTE: SEAT is a Spanish Co. started by Fiat and
bought by VW in 1990)
A01: 1994- (?)
Marbella
A very small car with transverse FWD. Based on some Polo components.
[Current Marbella is not VW-based or derived.]
A1: 1993- (?)
Ibiza
A compact car, something between a VW Polo and a VW Golf, with
transverse FWD. Presented in May 1993. Designed by Giugaro. It is
an evolution of VW's A2 platform. The car is a hatchback (3 or 5
doors). Since most parts in the car originate from VW, it certainly feels
like a VW. The interior of the car just looks like a new version of the
Golf (maybe the Golf II-and-a-half :-).
Anyone who knows the A3 car will recognize the handles, the instruments,
the side mirrors, etc. All engines available are VW engines; there is a
1.0 (45HP), 1.3 (55HP), 1.6 (75HP), 1.8 (90HP), a GTI with the 2.0 (115HP).
Diesels: 1.9D and 1.9Turbo D Cat. Still to come: the top version with
VW's world famous 1.8 16v (130HP).
Cordoba:
An evolution of the Ibiza, 10cm longer than a Golf III. Presented
in September 1993. Looks like a hatchback, but it is really a sedan.
Available with VW's 1.4 (60HP), 1.6, 1.8, 2.0 and 1.9(T)D. Introduced
in March 94: the 1.8 16v.
B1: 1991-
Toledo
Presented in 1991. Looks somewhat like the Vento/Jetta III. Looks like
a sedan, but it is really a hatchback with an enormous trunk. Available
with the 1.8, 2.0 and 1.9(T)D. Still to come: the top version with the
2.0 16v (150HP). [as far as I know, a Toledo VR6 does not exist].
OLD VW TYPES:
Type I: 1938-
Beetle, Cabriolet, Karmann Ghia, 181/Thing
A small car with an upright air-cooled engine.
Type II: 1950-
Transporter, Bus, Camper
A utility vehicle (truck) with either an upright (early) air-cooled,
pancake (middle) air-cooled engine, or a pancake (late) water-cooled
engine. See also T1 through T4.
Type III: 1962-1973
Sedan/Notchback, Coupe/Fastback, Variant/Squareback, Karmann Ghia
A mid-sized car with a pancake engine.
Type IV: 1968-1974
Sedan (2/4-door), Variant
A large car with a pancake engine.
OTHERS: [Anyone know whether these fit at all into the VW nomenclature?]
VW-Porsche 914: 1970-1976
Coupe
A mid-engine coupe designed by Porsche and built by Volkswagen.
K70: 1971-1975
Sedan
A large car (but smaller than a Passat) with a watercooled inline 4.
Iltis: 1982-
Convertible
A four-wheel drive utility vehicle designed largely for military use, using
both Beetle and Golf components.
Fox/Voyage:
A small car with a longitudinal FWD layout. Made in Brazil and exported to
North America.
Contributors (not exhaustive):
------------------------------
Note: Quoted contributions imply possible conflicting pieces of advise
with other contributors.
jmm...@zeus.tamu.edu (Jeffrey M. Mayzurk)
ms...@netzone.com ma...@wdc.sps.mot.com (Mark Shaw)
dil...@techops.cray.com (Robert J. Dilmore)
tgpt...@uhura.cc.rochester.edu (Tom Guptill)
rgo...@UMASSD.EDU (Ric Golen)
c...@sei.cmu.edu (Craig Gary)
boro...@hpspkla.spk.hp.com (Don T. Borowski)
to...@metrics.com (\tom haapanen)
te...@kingcong.uwaterloo.ca (Prateek Dwivedi)
gaje...@ug.cs.dal.ca (ANdy)
er...@quantum.qnx.com (Eric Johnson)
da...@ans.net (Dan Simoes)
dil...@techops.cray.com (Robert J. Dilmore)
ted...@garnet.berkeley.edu (Ted Crum)
craw...@fido.econ.arizona.edu d...@panix.com (David Crawford)
sir...@greenwich.com (Mark Sirota)
Josh....@Eng.Sun.COM (Josh Sirota, & yes, they are related)
b...@cellar.org (Dan Reed)
sco...@pangea.Stanford.EDU (Scott Zeller)
chri...@wucs1.wustl.edu (Christos Papadopoulos)
rr...@rcx1.ssd.csd.harris.com (Bob Rusk)
aa...@po.CWRU.Edu (Andrew A. Spencer)
ni...@cs.bu.edu (Nicos Kontopoulos)
le...@newton.ccs.tuns.ca (Fred Lew)
dch...@gateway.sequent.com (Duncan Hill)
JWA...@UA1VM.UA.EDU (joel)
en...@hpl.lut.ac.uk (Paul Waine)
Ken_...@qmgate.arc.nasa.gov (Ken Tsai)
bi...@tss.com (Bill Castellano)
boro...@hpspkla.spk.hp.com (Donald Borowski)
aho...@informix.com (Andy Hogben)
rd...@homxb.att.com (Ron DeBlock)
fval...@uhura.cc.rochester.edu (trey valenta)
eld...@csi.jpl.nasa.gov (Dan Eldred)
sce...@vaxa.isc.rit.edu (Scott C. Ernst)
jw...@r3vm.dsd.trw.com (Judson West)
wil...@trombone.sps.mot.com (Bob Willers)
mcgu...@csd4.csd.uwm.edu (Ronald J Mcguire)
kok...@rpi.edu ()
AP...@ESOC.BITNET ()
mshe...@math.ucla.edu (Michael Shearer)
tho...@wrdis01.robins.af.mil (Cont Tim Hogard)
ke...@starchild.ncsl.nist.gov (Lawrence B. Keys)
pgri...@magnus.acs.ohio-state.EDU (Peter A Griffith)
jc...@CC.MsState.Edu (john c luthe)
sco...@tekig5.pen.tek.com (Scott John Mockry)
joc...@bjsys.ersys.edmonton.ab.ca (Joe Angerstein)
t...@philabs.philips.com (Teun Hendriks)
d...@research.nj.nec.com (Dan Ruderman)
de...@seismo.CSS.GOV (Dennis O'Neill)
hunt...@PICA.ARMY.MIL (hugh)
be...@berkeley.edu (Beorn Johnson)
r...@mchip00.med.nyu.edu (Roy Smith)
DBR...@mcvax.csusb.edu (Dan Brown)
j...@filetek.com (Jan Morales)
crem...@ibmsp.elis.rug.ac.be [Nick Cremelie]
ber...@metapro.DIALix.oz.au [Bernd Felsche]
le...@vgi.com (Alex Lewin)
martyn...@canrem.com (Martyn Kerluk)
t...@ready.rsip.lsu.edu (Tom Smailus)
she...@hera.manchester.edu (Stephen Hepner)
L...@SLC.SLAC.STANFORD.EDU (Lawrence Searcy)
bwdon...@delphi.com (B.Donnelly)
f...@emsdev4.emss.com (Frank Williamson)
vw...@aol.com (VW Nut)
JWA...@UA1VM.UA.EDU (Joel Walker)
mxb...@psuvm.psu.edu (Mike Brzezowski)
gds@alsun144 (Glenn Strouse)
ant...@osd.ulaval.ca (Antoine Gautier)
M...@ussu.Ciba.Com (Michael Chin)
and...@airs.com (Andrew Evans)
Eric G Schneider <schn...@world.std.com>
f...@cadre.com (Felix Yen)
hz2...@rs1-hrz.uni-duisburg.de (Bert Paul Rauhut)
dr...@myhost.subdomain.domain (Andrew MacPherson)
jmce...@wpi.edu (James McElroy Jr.)
jer...@ftp.amcc.com
MCL...@UConnVM.UConn.Edu (Mary Smith)
joh...@ripco.com (MKJohnson)
Andy Nguyen \ a...@tivoli.com
Jeff Amato am...@pangea.stanford.edu
hor...@stein.u.washington.edu (Michael S. Hornung)
Mike (mvoo...@wpi.edu)
HAP...@aol.com
Peter K. Trumper
Doug Jones (djo...@cpdsc.com, doug....@chrysalis.org, djon...@aol.com)
kwa...@wv.mentorg.com (Keith Watson)
T.Skil <umsk...@electra.cc.umanitoba.ca>
zrxh...@baracke.rus.uni-stuttgart.de (Ulli Horlacher)
AAdar...@aol.com ALLON
tai...@infinet.com Dennis
Jens Knickmeyer <kn...@ibr.cs.tu-bs.de>
Brett Shelton <she...@postsmg.daytonoh.attgis.com>
<dave...@postoffice.ptd.net> David M. Duma
vw...@aol.com (Larry Adres)
Jud Main <jud...@colorado.edu>
<de...@ps.msm.cern.ch> Sven DE MAN
<voic...@netcom.com> DaveC
David Pipes <da...@plusone.demon.co.uk>
Snoopy <qiclab!sopwith!sno...@uunet.uu.net>
Hulda Jowett <hjo...@nasc.mass.edu>
Uniq...@aol.com <Edward>
<gcoll...@naccess.com> Geri M. Collinson
<ka...@cats.ucsc.edu> Gary Yuen
Jonathan Courtney Evans <jce...@eos.ncsu.edu>
<chri...@garratt.tnet.co.za> Christo
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Disclaimer: My employer has nothing to do with this.
Use any info in this posting at your OWN risk.
This is public information and should not be dissiminated
for profit.
--
o ___|___ [\\] | Jan Vandenbrande j...@lipari.usc.edu
__0 /\0/ /-------\ _ | http://alicudi.usc.edu:80/~jan/
\<,_ O \\ (_________) .#/_\_. | If you are still in control, you are
(_)/ (_) // [_] [_] |_(_)_| | not going fast enough.