VOLKSWAGEN: Questions and answers

Volkswagen Golf 2007

We bought a Volkswagen Golf FSI last year, an 07 plate. It is parked on the street. Whenever it rains, we get water in the rear footwell (driver`s side), the rear seat gets wet, the boot interior gets wet and in prolonged rain it also gets wet in the driver`s footwell. I have tried sealant around the petrol cap cover but this has only partially solved it. Does anyone have any ideas? Thanks.(FSI)

Answers

Hi there, if somebody has previously made an attempt at stealing your car without you knowing they may have tried to force a door or window open causing damage to a seal in the process. If the seal has lifted from the paint work on the car sufficient enough to allow water to collect you may have a capillary action taking place in which water is drawn through the seal and into the dry interior of the car. Check all the seals, an easy way to check seals is to place toilet roll on all of the door/window edges and close the door/window. Leave it to rain, open the door/window and inspect the tissue, if it’s wet it will most probably stick to the seal and indicate the point of ingress. Alternatively ram a load of cling film in there... if your car stays dry you now know what the problem is, waxing a seal my sort this out too... Also, but very unlikely, you may have rust/corrosion on your inner wheel arch, this could explain wet rear seats... also check the seal around your aerial. If this is fine then you may have a more complex problem... the solutions above are also the most cost effective, if you have the time, write a list of all of the things you have checked or think it maybe, and run through it systematically removing the easiest to check, taking it to a garage could cost your very dearly to find out it was something really easy - Richard Greenhough from England

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

My Volkswagen Transporter`s oil light comes on even when it`s topped up with oil. Any ideas?

Answers

The alternator should have 2 wires - check these as they are linked to the winking stage of the oil light on the older ones. Might be same... Anton Behrendt from Lancashire

If it’s the orange low oil indicator then disconnect the battery for 15 mins and try it again. I have had this on a few VWs and it resets the ecu - Stuart Meads from Essex

Volkswagen Golf 2003

I replaced a split coolent pipe on my Volkswagen Golf tdi and refilled with coolent. I started the engine so that the coolent circulated but still have an error indicator "Stop coolent" coming on on the dashboard. Any suggestions?

Answers

Most new cars require sensors to be reset depending upon the type of sensor. A friend of mine replaced a washer bottle sensor and an oil sensor,... His washer sensor still beeps now even with a full washer bottle but I’m pretty sure he had the oil sensor re-set of it. Did it himself after a while - Richard Greenhough from England

Volkswagen Passat 2002

My Volkswagen Passat has developed a vibration from the glovebox area that sounds like a mobile phone ringing on vibrate. Are there any relays behind the glovebox or anything else it may be? Please advise. (1 9 tdi 130)

Answers

I took my VW in for the exact same thing last week. They claim to have traced it back to a spring on the fuel filter. It will be replaced on Monday, hopefully solving the problem. Hope this helps - Jim Kench from Netherlands

Volkswagen Golf 2000

My Volkswagen Golf`s brake lights are not working. I`ve checked the bulbs and they are fine and I was wondering if it`s the fuse, but do not know where to locate this. Any ideas please?

Answers

If lights do not work full stop, check the fuses. If the lights flicker and/or are really dim, check the fuses. If the lights work intermittently, check the fuses plus the earth connections. If the lights only work in the rain, after a storm or in really humid conditions check for corrosion on the bulb terminals, check all in line connections, check earth, measure resistance between bulb positive + and ground/the car chassis/negative terminal on battery. If resistance reading is lower the 10k... you have an electrical fault. (search the web or contact a main dealer and they will tell you of the location of the fuse box, the fuse box lid should show the location of the fuse that powers the lights). Hope this maybe of some help - Richard Greenhough from England

Volkswagen Transporter 2008

Hi. My windscreen wipers on my Volkswagen Transporter suddenly stopped working the other day and now sometimes they work, sometimes they stop and don’t work. Is there a control box in the dashboard or any relays that may be faulty? Any help would be much appreciated. Regards.

Answers

Hi, I had the same problem when mine had been on for about half an hour, changed wiper motor and now seems to be okay. Van has done about 100k. 2008 model. Worth just checking bonnet is closed properly first - Tony Hazelwood from Cheshire

Hi,Ii had the same problem on my 54 T5. After trying many local garages I took it to the main dealer for a full check. They said that the wires behind the passenger dashboard (responsible for operation of wipers ) had worn due to movement and vibration, causing the wipers to stop working altogether. £250 later it is now fine apparently the dash had to be removed and the wires replaced. I suppose anybody savy could do it themselves. Hope this helps, cheers. Now I have problems with intermitent engine power... Philip Lonsdale from Durham

Volkswagen Golf 2003

My Volkswagen Golf mk4 displays alternator workshop on the dashboard and it sometimes cuts out. Please could anyone help me with this problem? Thanks.

Answers

My Golf was doing the same as this and I had broken down and all the lights came on the dashboard. My alternator wire that goes to the battery had burned out and broken so it cost me £85. Kelly Williams from Staffordshire.

Volkswagen Bora 2005

What is the small button next to the driver`s side seat of my Volkswagen Bora for?

Answers

It’s to turn on and of your alarm sensors inside the car... so if you leave your kids in the car quickly to go to the shop it doesn’t set the alarm off when you lock the car :) Richard from Berkshire

Volkswagen Caddy 2004

How do I replace the driver`s side headlight cluster on my Volkswagen Caddy? (Panel van)

Answers

I would like to know myself... if you have found out? Steven Parkes from England

Volkswagen Golf 2008

When my Volkswagen Golf is running my headlights on low beam are on all of the time, even when the switch is in the off position. I have lost control of the front fog lights and rear fog lights. When in the automatic position the low beam is always on. Any ideas please? (2.0 TDI)

Answers

Hi there, this sounds like it could be an earth fault. A friend of mine did a dodgy fog light install and made a crap negative/earth connection in the process, when he indicated left his fog lamps would illuminate and do crazy things - Richard Greenhough from England

Volkswagen Touran 2006

I have a Volkswagen Touran and I am getting an oil leak at the centre rear top of the engine. I just don’t want to take the car to the dealer before getting an idea of what`s wrong with it. Can anyone help me with this please? Thanks. (Touran)

Answers

Have a look at the egr valve, there is a small hole which oil leaks out. I have taken the egr valve off and cleaned it as there was a build up of soot and it’s ok now - Phil from England

Volkswagen Caddy 2006

Hi. My 2006 Volkswagen Caddy sdi won’t start after about 90 miles. I fill the tank up and drive but when I get to about a third of a tank it cuts out and won’t start as if it`s run out of fuel. If I put a can of fuel in it will start again after turning it over until the fuel gets to the engine. I’ve had the sender unit out and that looks fine. Can anyone help? (Sdi)

Answers

Try changing the fuel pump and fuel filter - Chris V from Australia

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

My Volkswagen Transporter has done 15,0000 miles. The van is shaking quite a bit when idling but the rev counter stays in the correct position. The vehicle also seems to lack a little power and shakes slightly when driving. Does anyone have any ideas? (T 28 / 130 2.5 diesel )

Answers

Chris, have just experienced the same problem. Injector for cylinder 3 had somehow vibrated loose and was causing slight shake on tick over which could also be felt by passengers in the back once running. Power was down but not significantly. Expensive job to replace the injector in a garage even more expensive if you don’t as it will eventually trash the head - Tim Hopkins from Cardiff

Volkswagen Polo 1999

How do you replace the thermostat?

Answers

OH COME ON - THGRT GGTGY from Cheshire

Volkswagen Caddy 2007

My Volkswagen Caddy has oil in the coolant resevoir tank. I have emptied it but it has refilled again. The van is still running perfectly. Is it a gasket problem or a fault with the water coolant pump as some one suggested? I don`t want to pay for a new head gasket and then have to fix the pump. Any ideas please? (1.9 tdi.)

Answers

Sounds like an oil cooler leak. I had the same thing on my 2005 Passat 1.8t gas. Not sure if the TDI has an oil cooler. Mine is between the oil filter and the engine, where the filter srews on - Brett Hayes from United States of America

Dunno if it’s too late, I’ve a 2007 Caddy. I thought the head was gone did a sniffer test on the coolant to see was there any traces of fuel all good there, the oil cooler is a common fault and not too expensive to replace. When you flush the coolant flush the system with washing powder, it removes the oil quite well - Niall O Brien from Ireland

Volkswagen Polo 1998

Can anyone tell me where I can obtain a maintenance manual for my Volkswagen Polo?

Answers

I ordered a VW Polo 2002-2005 Haynes manual from Amazon, it was brand new and a very reasonable price, give it a try - Sylvia Josephs from England

Volkswagen Passat 1999

My Volkswagen Passatt 1.8 sometimes sounds like a diesel. Why would this be? (1.8)

Answers

Possible low oil pressure - Nick Jones from Yorkshire.

Volkswagen LT 2000

Hi. I`ve just bought a Volkswagen LT 35 extra long wheel base tdi 2000 and it is very under powered, but when I unplug the air flow meter wire it goes a bit better. Does anyone have any ideas? (tdi)

Answers

Hi. Replace the air flow meter John. My LT was the same I got one off unpart £80 all in. Now pulls like a train - Steve Clark from Cheshire

Volkswagen Lupo 1999

I purchased my Volkswagen Lupo 1.4E petrol 1999 a month ago. It came with a full service history and has just been fully serviced with MOT which it passed with flying colours. However, it has started to puff a black cloud of smoke out of the exhaust every now and then. It seems to lose power as it puffs the cloud of smoke out and then it`s fine? It happens when I am slowing down or changing to lower gear. It has been back in the garage but they cannot find any fault. Any ideas anyone?(1.4e)

Answers

Had the same problem, garage thought it was either faulty injectors or cooling sensors, got both checked, the cooling sensors were responsible, costs about £80 (checking the injectors was more expensive though) - Ronnie Ward from Nottinghamshire

Volkswagen Transporter 2006

Hi. My Volkswagen Transporter T5 runs really roughly when the fuel tank is under half full. I replaced the fuel filter 2 weeks ago. I filled the tank up and nothing happened for 300kms and then it ran roughly again . I would pull over, restart the engine and sometimes it would run normally but this would not happen all of the time. It would run fine for another 20 kms but then happen again. I`ve been to see 4 mechanics and all have said that they need to take the tank out. What can it be? (T5)

Answers

Try taking your fuel filler cap off when the problem arises. If this cures the problem, replace cap - Mark from Derbyshire

Volkswagen Passat 2002

About a year ago my Volkswagen Passat started losing power. It went ok again but then it went off and on, but now when it hits 4000 or 5000 rpm it loses power?

Answers

I have the same problem on my 2003 Passat tdi. When driving above 3000rpm, the turbo dies. If I quickly restart, the car power returns. HELP - Azeem Mohammed from England

Volkswagen Crafter 2008

Hi. I have just bought a 08 plate VW Crafter lwb van. I don’t know if it me being thick, but I can’t find how you adjust the mirrors. Thanks.

Answers

Are they manual or electric? If they are manual you just carefully push the glass to adjust - Gareth Williams from Kent

Volkswagen Touran 2003

My Volkswagen Touran has trouble starting. It will only start on glow plug light. Glow plugs have now been changed and still the problem persists. Has anyone had this trouble? If so how did you resolve this? The mechanics that have looked at it have not come across this before...

Answers

Hello. What fault code did you get? Marius Zvi from Lithuania

Volkswagen Caddy 1997

I need help with removing the oil sump from my VW Polo Caddy Diesel Van. I have removed all bolts, plus difficult ones; sump is loose but can’t get it out. Can anyone help or advise?

Answers

Hi there, I came across your question on removing your Caddy sump. I have same problem & wondered if you’d managed to solve it? Thank you - Mike from Oxfordshire

Volkswagen Polo 2009

When I start it, my Volkswagen Polo over revs then settles down once warm. The dealer has changed the cam shaft but things are still the same. Any further ideas anyone? (1.4 petrol)

Answers

You should have your automatic charge checked and the idle setting reset - Natanegara from South Africa

Volkswagen Transporter 2010

I recently had my Volkswagen Transporter T5 GP panel van converted to a camper. When I picked the van up from conversion the front and rear screen washers did not work. Any ideas? The conversion company have said that nothing they have done could have caused this...

Answers

I had a problem with Leisuredrive when they converted my van. The autoelectrician says this sort of thing happens all the time with converters drilling through cables. All you can do is take it to a VW dealer and get is put on the diagnostics machine - Charlie Cooper from Vale of Glamorgan

Volkswagen Caddy 2011

My 1.6 tdi Caddy has just under 60,000 miles and has developed a problem the last couple of days... Once the van is in traffic - on pull away the engine pinks quite loudly but on the motorway it runs fine but once back to idling in pinks/knocks again. Any ideas?

Answers

I had the same problem with mine. It was the pully and the tentioner pully that drives the aux belt onto the alternator - Steven Parkes from England

Volkswagen Golf 2005

A green warning symbol has come up on my dashboard. It looks like a round instrument gauge with an arrow coming from it. What does this indicate? It has just been into a hand car wash for a valet so I am wondering if a switch has been touched in the process? (1.9 tdi)

Answers

Hi, it’s the cruise control indicator - there is a small switch on top of the indicator stalk - move it to the off position and it will go out. Cheers - Gary Mowbray from Ayrshire

Volkswagen Touran 2005

Has anyone suffered problems with the driver and passenger windows opening when the engine is turned off? I have come back to the car after leaving it locked and windows being up to finding them both three quarters down on my return, can happen periodically. Also having problems with windscreen steaming up whilst driving to point of having to stop and clear manually with demister cloth. Been told could be pollen filter, does anyone know where I can find this in this model?

Answers

Yes, we have found the windows down like that on a couple of occasions but I am sorry to tell you that I don’t know the answer, the car just stopped doing it. Someone mentioned that I might be touching something on the key as I left the car, causing the windows to open but I can’t be sure - Donna Hansen from Cornwall

Yes, my 2007 Touran does this now and again... Today in fact! I wonder if it happens when I go back to the car and click to unlock it - if I hold button down at bit longer or somethimg though? Mog Eva from England

On Vauxhall (VW may be the same) cars, pressing and holding the unlock button on the key fob brings the two front windows down. Try this on your car, if the same happens then it looks like you have found the probable issue. (My 2-year old son got hold of the car keys and opened the windows from inside the house a couple of times. I went out to the car in the morning to find both front windows wide open.) - Lee from Bury

Volkswagen Polo 1999

When I start my Volkswagen Polo and drives off everything is fine but when I put my foot down to go faster and change gear the car just slows down. It feels like it is losing power - has anyone else experienced this?

Answers

Hiya, I’m experiencing the same thing with my Polo. 2, 3, 4 and 5th gear is just ridiculous, there is no power. I’ve tried new distributor cap and rotor arm but still won’t go. I have been told it could be my timing that is out, so that is my next thing to try. I have not a clue, was beginning to think she was on her way out as it’s a P reg that I’ve got - Clare Hutcheon from Angus (Forfarshire)

Please check the crenk pull behind the pull it might finished the pin lock on crenk pull - Renock Khumalo from South Africa

Volkswagen Passat 2004

I have lost the display on my Volkswagen Passat dashboard, just a bright red light, also a warning light like an upside down light bulb has come on. The manual says it’s a fuse but no fuses are gone...

Answers

I have had this happen twice. I have figured it out. First, find the fuse for the display. Just take them out on at a time replacing them as you go, until you find the one that makes the display light go out. After a few seconds replace this fuse and the light should stay off. You may then wish to reset your service light if it is one. To do this with the ignition switched off, press and hold in the odometer button, keeping it pressed in turn on the ignition, then, with it still pressed in, turn the clock know to the right and hold the service light should then be reset. To test turn ignition off then on again. You should be back to normal - Steve Bell from Lancashire

Volkswagen Transporter 2007

Hi all, can anybody help, my 07 T5 2.5 has a sort of misfire from tickover up to 1800-1900 revs, after that it’s OK, no loss of power or smoke and no problems up to 70-80+.

Answers

EGR valve. Had an identical problem on two Passats. I disconnected that and never had an issue since. Done almost 160K now on the current one - Jason from Staffordshire

Hi my VW Transporter T5 ecu and the computer are not connecting. Why? Can someone help me please? Andrew Brown from England

Volkswagen Golf 2006

When I start my Volkswagen Golf I get a warning message to check the engine coolant and to stop driving the car. I checked the coolant levels and they look to be OK. When I open the hood, I can hear a continuous beep noise coming from the engine. It’s a gold TDI. My theory is there is something wrong with the engine coolant sensor. I ran over a football yesterday have a feeling if may have done some damage to the underside of the engine. Would it be safe to drive the car to my mechanic 8 miles away?

Answers

My Polo won’t start... I turn the ignition, it revs for a second, and then drops off, no matter how much I rev the gas. Sometimes it starts first time, sometimes it takes 20 attempts - Shoaib Raza from Dumfriesshire

Volkswagen Crafter 2008

Hi, I have a 2008 VW Crafter with a 2.5 engine. Sometimes the revs go up to 1000 and the engine then knocks at 2000 revs. This lasts for a while then goes away, sometimes I have to turn the engine off and restart it. Can anyone tell me what is wrong, is it a sensor or is it more expensive? Thanks.

Answers

It is the diesel particulate filter being cleaned. The engine knocking at 2000rpm will only happen when under hard accelaration. This happens every two to three days with my crafter for about two mins depending whether it is around town or not. There is nothing to worry about as this is the electronics injecting diesel into the diesel particulate filter to burn the carbon and clean the diesel partculate filter. This will occur more frequently if you do a lot of around town driving - Drew Ritchie from Perthshire

I had the same problem with my VW Crafter, I traced the fault to the vacuum pump with is driven off the cams on the p/s on the engine. I replaced the vacuum pump and have had two problems since - Sam Conway from Ireland

Volkswagen Transporter 2007

Why does my Volkswagen Transporter make a clunking noise when I turn the steering wheel. Has anyone else experienced this?

Answers

My 2005 TDi does this. According to the local VW van dealer it’s a very common fault in the lower steering column. In fact, it’s so common that the service manager thought VW might contribute something towards repairing it, whilst not actually admitting it’s a fault worthy of a recall, but they weren’t having that. It seems to show up more in cold damp weather. My MOT tester noticed it but said it wouldn’t fail the test, so I just put up with it. See under Recalls on http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/volkswagen/t5-caravelle-2003/?section=bad - Rob from Yorkshire

Had this problem when I bought my Transporter Shuttle. VW changed the steering column, improved it but was still there, (damping effect) eventually found it to be the lower arm ball joint!!! Paul Young from Berkshire

Volkswagen Transporter 2006

I have a turbo 128 kw Transporter which has done 160v000 kms and is a fantastic van which suits my needs perfectly. BUT it has a rattle somewhere in the front, on the left side, it starts and what sounds like a pair of earrings in the ashtray but it isn’t, then goes to a vibration sound. I have had all the plastics off, both on the front and underneath, my mechanic spent a day on it but with no result!! I have had the dash in pieces 5 times, I’ve jammed fibre insulation everywhere. The next step is self mutilation as it’s driving me nuts. Please help! (t5 2.5 tdi auto)

Answers

This drove me mad. Mine was the passenger side speaker mounting screws. Take the cover off and back them off half a turn - Martin Thompson from England

Turned out to be in the heater box, jammed a piece of wood between the box and the fire wall to distort the box, stopped the rattle and traded it in on a Merc. My advice is don’t buy a Transporter as the dealers just don’t want to help you - Brian Neal from Australia

Volkswagen Caddy 1996

I have a beautiful ’96 Caddy. The clutch plate gave up a few days back. This was changed, but on starting the engine after the job was done, it ’hard started’ but on starting the oil pressure warning light began to flash. It never goes off, and the glow plugs warning light now starts flashing after the engine runs for about a minute. The idling is very rough and the engine does not stay on. Trying to drive, once I try to select a different gear the engine goes off. It has an SDI engine. The oil level is okay. The oil pressure switches are okay. The oil pump seems to be fine as oil comes up to the cylinder head. Help!

Answers

Wrong grade of oil used - Pat Caverlery from Devon

Volkswagen Polo 2006

My Volkswagen Polo doesn’t start and the handbrake light keeps flashing and the alarm sounds when you turn the key. What could be the problem?

Answers

I suggest that you take it for diagnosis test, so that its computer can be reseted and erase all faulty codes in it - Sbu from South Africa

Volkswagen Transporter 2001

2.5 tdi. It’s not meeting maximum revs, won’t seem to go more than 30mph. What could be the problem? This only started this afternoon...

Answers

Maybe the maf sensor is making it go into limp mode - Gary Turner from England

Hi, mine has done the same thing, has anyine given you a good answer? Have you found the problem? Cheers - Michelle Hamilton from Australia

Volkswagen Caravelle 2004

I have a VW Caravelle 2.5TDi. Year model don’t know. We replaced the master cylinder 5 days ago. Now the clutch is rock hard. It is so bad that the holding bracket of the clutch broke off. New plate/bracket R3000. Is there anyone who can help me?

Answers

It may just need bleeding and as for bracket, I own a t4 caravelle 2.5tdi and my bracket snapped. Common problem with these motors. I bought a replacement bracket off ebay £12 which is easy to fit and very strong. I may be wrong but am sure there is one on the box and one at the foot peddle. I hope any of this can help - Gary Turner from England

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

My Volkswagen Transporter’s window washer ran dry in the cold weather. I filled it up with water and the pump sounds like it is working but no water is being sprayed on to the window. Is the pump air locked or broken? (2.5tdi kombi)

Answers

My washer stopped working the hose had split where it goes under the bonnet and turns a really tight corner. Temp repair with amalgamating tape olr hosepipe repair tape. Still holding after six months - Jim from England

Volkswagen Polo 2004

Orange triangle with exclamation mark in centre and circle with arrow anticlockwise. Circle with ABS and flashing warning light (think for handbrake). I have a Polo 2004 can anyone let me know what these mean? Thanks, Jeanne in Zimbabwe.

Answers

Okay, this simple mean that your car is due for a service. If you have just serviced it with a mechanic who don’t have diagnosis machine, then you have to take it in for diagnosis. This will set your onboard computer to remind you when your next service is due. If you ignore this warning from your car, soon your car won’t start - Sbu from South Africa

Volkswagen Touran 2004

When my Volkswagen Touran starts from cold it shoots up to 1,200 revs and then within seconds settles down to 1,000 revs. Also, and at the same time, there is a brief screeching noise, then the noise stops. Also when the engine is idle after a run there is a faint rotational tapping noise and a faint whine... What might these issues indicate? (1.6 FSI)

Answers

That could be the timing chain or the variable timing adjuster, high pressure pump - Marius Zvi from Lithuania

Volkswagen Golf 2003

Hi my Volkswagen Golf1.4 heater is blowing out cold and over-heating. Has anybody any clue as to what might be wrong? (1.4 Match)

Answers

This is a typical symptom of low engine coolant or anti-freeze; it is possible that there is a leak in the system. Have a qualified technician perform a pressure test on your coolant system, this typically reveals the source of the leak - 7thDayRest from England

Try bleeding the air out of the system. There should be a little bleeder valve on the housing that the top radiator hose goes into - Jayden Mk2 golf from United States of America

Volkswagen Golf 2007

Recently noticed that the bottom hose from the radiator remains cold even after a 40 mile journey. Had a new thermostat fitted and no difference, is this normal? (Match TDI 105)

Answers

If you’re getting hot air in the cabin and your temperature sensor is reading normal then the condition you experienced is normal. The top radiator hose transports hot coolant to the radiator to be cooled. As the fan runs it cools the fluid and exits back to the engine for recycling; after the cooling process through the radiator the bottom hose should be cool - 7thDayRest from England

Volkswagen Golf 2004

I’ve let my car Volkswagen Golf for about 1 year without starting it and unfortunately my battery died without me knowing it. I got around to charging it today and and tried to start the car. As I advance the key I get a sound similar to a slow version of the car wanting to turn over followed by a rapid succession of clicks. I was told I might need a new starter, but I think that it might be something to do with sitting so long. Any suggestions? (R32)

Answers

I would say that you need a new battery mate. Having worked in a garage, I would guess that was the problem. Have a mechanic do a drop test on the battery, this will tell you if the battery is no good - Ali Gisborne from England

Volkswagen Transporter 2009

My Volkswagen Transporter’s windscreen wipers have stopped working, the fuses are fine. Any further ideas anyone?

Answers

If it ain’t the wiper motor, just try and fiddle the wiper arms underneath the bonnet - Shane Fillmore from Somerset

I would check the relay for the wipers - Gordon Craig from Dumbartonshire

Volkswagen Golf 2005

I have a mark 5 Golf that has been juddering. When it gets plugged into the diagnostics it comes up as a fuel pressure sensor. So I’ve changed this and also the fuel pump and it hasn’t made any difference whatsoever?!! What else might it be?

Answers

Check inline filter from the pump housing also how fast fuel is returning to tank, maybe the fuel barrel is starving. That could be a fuel regulator fault - Chancie Chiriga from Zimbabwe

Volkswagen Lupo 2002

Oil light started to flash, shortly after its MOT, and there was a small nick in one of the water pipes, so a bit of water had leaked. Oil was a bit on the low side. What are the possible causes? Garage did a test using water and topping up the water, used tubes etc. seemed to over-fill it to test somehow. Not a VW garage, just went to the nearest one when light came on. (TDi)

Answers

Maybe an oil pressure sensor malfunctioning. Cheap part - Bob from Canada

Volkswagen Golf 2010

I have only had my Volkswagen Golf since June 11 and had nothing but problems with it. Doors creaking when driving, strange creaking noise that sounds like its coming from underneath car when I go over pot holes in road. But the new one is that my car has started to rev at 1000 when I first start this up and even when engine is warm it continues to do so. Yesterday I started the car and it revved at 900 and actually went up to 1000 revs. Also, when I was stationary the revs started going up and down on their own. The car is in warranty and is booked in for VW to have a look at but I am concerned that I am having to drive it for a week on the motorway but also that I may be making something worse while still driving. No warning lights have come on.

Answers

I have a 9 month old MK6 2.0TDi bluemotion and have also had creaking sound going over speedbumps and potholes. The dealer has just replaced barrel bushes which has cured the problem - Graham Booth from Yorkshire

Volkswagen Golf 1995

Hi, my Volkswagen Golf mk3 gti 2-litre 8v keeps leaking oil everywhere, not just a little bit of oil but loads. I have replaced head gasket twice, took rocker cover of and cleaned to see if it makes a difference but nothing helps. Can someone please help me?

Answers

Shampoo the engine real clean and then continue driving until you can see where the oil is coming from - Bob from Canada

Volkswagen Transporter kombi 2007

Can anyone tell me where the aircon filter is situated on a 2007 Volkswagen Transporter? It definitely needs to be cleaned or changed as there is poor air flow on high. Thanks in advance for any help.

Answers

Under the glove box, there is two 5mm bolts holding the cover on - Mike from Conwy

Volkswagen Jetta 1999

When I release my Volkswagen Jetta’s parking brake the headlights would go on. Now it does not. What do you think the reason is?

Answers

Is your lights set to automatic? - Shauna from England

Volkswagen Touran 2007

The Volkswagen Touran was being driven away from traffic lights this evening, and after travelling 20-30 yards, the engine cut out, all the warning lights came on, and the steering locked. Thankfully it was being driven at a low speed, gently accelerating. I have been out in the car this evening to try to make it happen again, but no luck. I’m used to the engine stalling if I slip the clutch on a manual gearbox, but this is an automatic. Having the steering lock is scary. Has anybody else had this happen, and does anybody know the cause? (2.0 TDi automatic)

Answers

Hi mate, I had this problem with my Signum while on the motorway. Check the aux belt as this powers the battery - Craig Thompson from Wiltshire

Volkswagen Sharan 1997

I hadn’t used my Volkswagen Sharan for a few days. I tried to start it up and the battery was dead. I used jump leads to start it from my son’s car and it started for time but the central locking does not work, so I can’t put petrol in etc... It won’t work by key or manually either. Can anyone help or advise?

Answers

Try unplugging the battery for 5 mins to reset the electrics - Stephen Telford from Cumberland

Volkswagen Passat 2000

My Volkswagen Passat keeps cutting out while driving and then my steering locks. It’s very dangerous as it cuts out every 10 -15 seconds. Please help!

Answers

I had same problem in my VW Passat est 57. It’s the fuel pump under the back seat behind the driver seat. They fail in these cars common fault, get it changed, its dangerous. Buy the part from VW and fit it in yourself, it’s an easy two minute job - Rikki Jhagra from England

Volkswagen Polo 1998

Hi, in the last two days my Polo is giving ’Service Oil’. This is written instead of the counter mileage and after a couple of minutes driving, it disappears and the counter while be as normal. No other lamps lights and when I checked oil I found it as it should be. Oil Filter and Oil was changed about 4 months ago and from that month onwards the car made only a 2000km. Can please someone explain what could that error mean and if there any suggestions I can do to remove that error. Thanks.

Answers

I suggest you have your oil pump checked as I experienced the same problem and it was discovered that my oil pump had to be replaced. After the replacement the light went off - Henry Martin from South Africa

Volkswagen Passat 2001

An orange flashing round light with a triangle in the middle has come on and I start to lose power - what does this symbol signify?

Answers

That is your engine management light. You need the car to be plugged into diagnostics to figure out the fault - Simon Ware from Yorkshire

Volkswagen Touran 2005

I have a 1.9 tdi VW Touran and there’s an orange car with skid marks behind it illuminated on the dash that won’t turn off. Does anyone know why?

Answers

I had the same problem. It is a fault with the ESP. Some sort of wheel sensor that needs replacing. Luckily for me, warranty sorted it but normally the cost I believe is around £1,000!! VW now have a updated sensor as there were quite a few problems with the older ones. VW dealer should be able to give you some more detailed info - Brett Keesing from Aberdeenshire

VW now do a repair kit for the ABS unit, which saves a lot of money, but still will cost about £300 to fix at a dealer - Neil Cubberl from Herefordshire

Volkswagen Caddy 2008

My Volkswagen Caddy’s rear wiper works then stops then works again, sometimes it can go 20 minutes without working, then all of a sudden work. Any ideas? (TDI)

Answers

Have a look at the rear door lock, clean around the lock area, make sure nothing is stopping it from closing correctly. Even if it appears to be closed the contact may not make correctly and this will stop the wiper from working. At least it did on my 07 C20 - Toni Dewhurst from Wales

Cheers Toni - Julian Pierce from Merthyr Tydfil

Volkswagen Transporter 2007

Hi. I have a Volkswagen Transporter T5 Sportline and when the van has warmed up I lose boost pressure and get a whirling noise coming from the engine. Also I get a popping noise when I lift my foot of the accelerate - any ideas?

Answers

Give the boys at Midland T5 a call, Google is your friend - Steve Crosby from England

This is a similar problem as me on a ’08 T5 Sportline. Mine you have to work the accelerator more than normal, same whirring noise following revs. How did you get on if you do not mind me asking? shireswhitmore@btinternet.com - Tony W from England

Volkswagen Golf 2006

Can anyone help? My Volkswagen Golf’s engine temperature is fine but there is no heat from the heater. The blower is working, cold to hot flap moving. New water pump, new thermostat but still it is not fixed it. Also, the coolant light comes on to say low coolant now and again, but no signs of a leak. (tdi sport)

Answers

One of two things, either you have air in the heater matrix, or the blender unit is not switching to hot, the fan is nothing to do with the heat! - Chris North from Essex

Volkswagen Touran 2007

Hi, I have a 57 plate Touran. The problem is that the dashboard centre area always seems to feel cold. There also appears to be a slight cold air flow from around the glove compartment. Could there be some sort of pipe work behind the dashboard leaking cold air? Even when heater is running the centre dashboard remains cold? Has anyone had this problem and how can it be rectified?

Answers

My 2006 Touran blows cold air down on passengers right foot through a small slit where the panel underneath the gloves compartment meets the side panel. I have not found the source yet. Someone at the local VW told me it could be a badly positioned intake filter (pollen filter). I am going to check this - Per Frøysa from Norway

Do you have a circular dial in the gloce box with a hole in it? If so, turn it until the cool air flow stops - this is designed to keep snacks/drinks cool. I noticed cold air coming from round our glove box yesterday and the above sorted the problem - Simon from Kent

Volkswagen Polo 2010

On a number of occasions I have locked the car and returned a while later to find all the windows have lowered a few inches. On two occasions the windows have lowered whilst I have been in the same house - a coincidence perhaps?

Answers

I worked at a dealer for years. This is a common problem on all modern makes and models. The only system capable of lowering all windows is related to pressing and holding the unlock button on your key. If your keys are squished in your pants pocket, it will roll the windows down - Jay from United States of America

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

My Volkswagen Transporter’s bonnet catch has broken and I can’t open the bonnet! Can anyone help please? How do I get it to release?

Answers

This happened to me, my mechanic took off the sump guard or belly pan and hooked the bonnet release cable and pulled in down then lubricated the bonnet release catch. It worked fine until I sold it two years later - John Forbes from Aberdeenshire

Volkswagen Touran 2006

Hi, my Volkswagen Touran’s heater works fine for about 30 mins then the hot air slowly turns cold. I’ve tried various heater speeds and settings but no hot air? Can anyone help?

Answers

That could be temp regulator flap or air cond control panel - Marius Zvi from Lithuania

Volkswagen Touran 2005

I had a flat battery so I jumped started my Volkswagen Touran. Now the air bag fault light has come on. What and why could this be?

Answers

Hi, I had this a couple of times before. After the battery was unplugged for a while, you just need to reset the diagnostics and then the warning light will be gone. Resetting the diagnostics can be done at the dealer or some other guys servicing cars as well. I’ve never been charged for it because it happened twice after the Touran had been serviced - Jaco Janse van Rensburg from South Africa

Volkswagen Polo 1999

Hi everyone. My 1999 Polo 1.6 has trouble getting into 1st gear. From reverse and neutral. The only way to get it into 1st is to first always to put it into 2nd, then slide it quickly and firmly into 1st. This of course puts a lot of pressure on the gear stick. Anyone have any ideas why this is and how to fix it? Appreciate it, Wes. (1.6)

Answers

The gear linkage need re-aligning, this is common with most Polos or VW I should say. Always issues with gear boxes - Chris from England

Volkswagen Sharan 2001

Hi, I have some problems with my electrics that I just can’t figure out. There are a few different problems but I think they are inter-linked! 1, My reversing lights have stopped working 2, the internal LEDs, heater, radio etc flash like a disco (headlights off) until I go into reverse then it all lights up as if the headlights are on even when they are off. But when I turn the headlights on they all work fine. 3, the boot sometimes won’t open without the key (no remote locking) can’t predict when it will and won’t work. 4, the back windscreen demister stopped working 5, the back wiper has stopped working! I have done soooo many hours of research into this but can’t figure it out. I have a fantastic mechanic but just don’t have the spare cash to pay to get it fixed at the moment. Thank you in advance for any help you could offer. Jenni :-) (2L Petrol)

Answers

Try unplugging the battery for 5 mins to reset the electrics - Stephen Telford from Cumberland

Volkswagen Passat 1998

My Volkswagen Passat’s engine runs fine from cold up until 5 minutes when the engine stalls significantly a couple of times and after that the engine loses power, revs max at 5,000. Every 3 seconds the engine has a noticeable dead spot, not significant, but can be noticed - exactly every 3 seconds. Changed air mass sensor, oxygen sensor (lambda), temperature sensor, coil, plug cables, spark plugs, inspected the accelerator housing . The error is occurring at exact same spot and in the same way every time I am testing the car. Now I am stuck - any ideas? (1.6 l)

Answers

95 Passat 2E - (gas=same problems - but motor even stops, if you have diesel you could chech EGR valve http://www.obd-codes.com/p0403. Have you solved the problem? Huuka from Essex

Volkswagen Caddy 2003

Glow plug symbol on dash panel not showing - van won’t start. Could it need new glow plugs? A guy I know mentioned something about a relay box...

Answers

109 relly £10 - S Smith from Surrey

Volkswagen Sharan 2000

Every time I lock my Volkswagen Sharan the front windows keep opening. Does anyone know why and how to fix?

Answers

I know if you turn and hold the key when you lock it, the windows and sunroof if you have one should shut too! - R T from England

Same as the answer above. If when you turn the key and hold it down for too long the windows open, just lock the car without lagging time in the lock - Seb from Cambridgeshire

Volkswagen Passat 2000

How do I remove to EPC light so that the car can start? The car was fine all of a sudden it is not starting any more. Please advise.

Answers

The EPC light would have nothing to do with the car not starting, that’s a stability/traction control light. Perhaps that’s come on from a flat battery? - Bill Norris from Herefordshire

Volkswagen Touran 1996

The digital temperature display for outside temperature has stopped working. Just displays __:__ Any suggestions?

Answers

Looks like it doesn’t get a signal from sensor, could be a wiring problem - Marius Zvi from Lithuania

Volkswagen Touran 2005

Hi VW friends. My beloved Volkswagen Touran has developed a strange problem. It starts first time every time when cold but if engine is warm it doesn’t start at all. The car runs beautifully once going. Diagnostics cannot ’talk’ to the main engine ECU so cannot help me with this fault? The car has already had the ESP problem solved and new cam belt so sad that it has thrown this new mysterious problem at me :( Any help much appreciated! (2.0 tdi Sport)

Answers

Could be the temperture sensor. Sorthame happened to friend. Worth a try. Sensors usually under £10 0- Tasha Brigdale from England

Volkswagen Sharan 1998

The internal lights will not turn off even when you start the engine. Also, when it is locked the alarm goes off every 15 mins or so. I was told it could be the central locking ecu which is located under the passenger seat, but it’s not there! Is there a fix for this? Also, can I disable the alarm but keep the central locking working? Many thanks for your time (1.9 tdi)

Answers

Hi, I had the same problem on my Sharan. I traced it to damaged wires (in C post) coming off the rear door switch that operates the courtesy lights. I think they were damaged by welding on the bottom of the pillar. Everything you said mine did too. Check the wires on all doors and tail gate. If the car thinks the door(s) are open, the alarm will come on. When I found the burnt wires, I cut and insulated them to replace later. That was a year ago and it’s been fine since. Before that, I just undid the battery earth strap every time I parked and locked the car. If you are reasonable with car DIY, undo earth strap, then unattached the wires from one door switch (make sure they are insulated), reattach the battery and see if the lights are still on when you lock the doors. If they are off, you have fixed the problem! You will have to do this individually for each door and even bonnet. It may still be a fault with the alarm, but this is easy work and could save you cash and that pain of angry neighbours like I had with the 3am alarm calls. Hope this helps - Jon Foxley from Conwy

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

I have an 04 T5 1.9tdi Transporter and when driving, it sometimes starts pinking and the power drops. I noticed that then, if I switch off the engine it’s perfect again for a while. I have changed the fuel filter but the issue is still the same. Thank you in advance if you can help.

Answers

Same thing happened to my VW Crafter and I replaced the turbo at 236k - Joseph Kelly from County Armagh

Volkswagen Sharan 1998

I can’t find the central locking module/motor on my ’98 VW Sharan. Could anyone help me where can I found it please? Thanks.

Answers

Hi, not sure if you’ve found it yet, but on a lot of models it’s situated under the passenger side front seat - Mark Davies from Lancashire

Volkswagen Transporter 2008

HELP NEEDED!!!: Hi. Could anyone please tell me what the orange ’swirly’ looking light is on the dashboard of the Volkswagen Transporter is please? Thanks all.

Answers

Is it like an orange spring lying on its side? If so, that’s the glow plug lamp. When the engine is cold and you turn on the ignition, it should glow orange. When the light goes out then turn the key to switch on ignition. Don’t switch on ignition when the light is glowing. If the engine is warm, sometimes it will not come on. If you are driving and the light flashes then it is warning you of an engine fault. Don’t worry as it might not be serious but you should check with a garage that has the right equipment to plug into the socket under the sterring wheel. It is worth checking (if it flashes) that both brake lights are working first. I think it flashes to warn that they have failed too. That means a £2.00 fix instead of getting the engine management system checked - Kevin from Kent

Volkswagen Polo 2004

Can anyone help me? My 2004 Volkswagen Polo struggles to move sometimes when I’ve turned ignition on and step on accelrator the car is sluggish and will hardly move after several attempts of stepping on the accelrator. Then the car will lurge forward and move. Could it be the gear box!?

Answers

Does it still do it when you put it in gear and slowly push on the accelerator? - Roy Jewell from United States of America

Please change the crank pull the pin lock is finished - Renock Khumalo from South Africa

Volkswagen Polo 2008

Hi, my son-in- law has a 1.4 VW Polo 2008 model. The engine cuts out. The workshop replaced the sensor but it still cuts out at the inclines. What could the problem be?

Answers

Try changing your starter relay. If that’s buggered, your car will cut out - Audie Prinsloo from South Africa

Volkswagen Polo 1997

I have a 1997 Volkswagen Polo 1.9-litre diesel. When in neutral I have a very loud shuddering and vibrating inside the car. When the car is in motion the vibrating stops, What might this signify?

Answers

Misfire - common occurance. Change your spark plugs - Joe Temple from Surrey

Diesels do NOT have spark plugs - Aggelos Laskaridis from England

Volkswagen Golf 2001

My Volkswagen Golf lost all power and then white smoke began belching out of it. It’s also running rough and is hard to start. All these faults came at once... any ideas anyone?

Answers

It’s either the turbo oil seal gone on turbo shaft (new turbo needed), or head gasket I’m afraid - Joe Borge from Worcestershire

Volkswagen Caddy 2005

I have a 2005 Volkswagen Caddy 1.9 tdi. The radiator fan goes on just after starting and switches off after awhile. It then switches back on and the revs go up to about to 1,000rpm. The fan will switch off and on during driving and the water is not heating up. Can anyone help?

Answers

Could be you need the fan rewired. I had a Clio before it overheated but the fan kept doing the same then stopped took it to garage. They rewired the fan and was fine after. Maybe ask them to check it for you, hope this helps you - Lee from Kent

Volkswagen Polo 2005

There was an attempted break-in on my Volkswagen Polo by hitting a screwdriver into the key slot. We are now unable to open the trunk at all. Any ideas on how we may be able to get the boot open? (Classic 1.6)

Answers

Try going into the boot through the car. You will need to try opening the panels and release the lock manually with a screwdriver or by hand - Riaan Vermaak from South Africa

Volkswagen Polo 2001

My VW Polo’s radiator fan keeps running for about 30 minutes after the engine has been turned off. This has happened even after starting it and switching it off for just 5 minutes. What could be wrong?

Answers

By the sounds of it, I would say the thermostat is constantly open the fan should only operate when the engine is above about 100C - Luke Dixon from Durham

Volkswagen Passat Estate 2007

My Volkswagen Passat Estate appears to be fitted with heating elements in the rear side screens but they do not seem to be functioning. Are they supposed to come on with rear screen heater or is there a separate control that I have not found yet? (SE 2.0 TD)

Answers

These are part of the aeriel for the radio - Bill Hughes from England

Volkswagen Passat 2005

Hi, I bought a 2005 Volkswagen Passat 1.8T about two months ago. My "STOP Check coolant" light comes on every day. I put more coolant in and it has gone. I had the head gasket replaced. There are no noticeable leaks. Also, the car is surging. I had the coil replaced and also replaced spark plugs, twice within 2 weeks. I have replaced several parts in this car. What should I try next?

Answers

Try changing the radiator - Raj Agha from England

Volkswagen Caddy 2006

Hi, I have a 2006 Volkswagen Caddy that can be hard to start sometimes. And when I’m driving along it loses power, even when I press the accelerator nothing happens. I just pull over, switch of the ignition and it’s fine for a couple of weeks. Can anybody help? Is it the fuel pump and if so, how can I check this? Thanks.

Answers

Please if anyone knows the answer to this question, can you post? I have exactly the same problem and no-one round here knows what it is - Helen from Dumfriesshire

Hi, I have an 06 Caddy sdi, I had problems with it not starting changed, the injector seals seem to solve it - James McCullough from County Antrim

Hi, I found the problem. The wires from the cam shaft position sensor can break. If you take out the air filter box and take the black cover from around the wires that lead to the sensor, you might find a break in them like I did. The wires are just behind the oil filter - Niall from Ireland

Volkswagen Polo 2001

I bought a second hand Volkswagen Polo estate with no handbook or manual. It has 82,000 miles on the clock and an alarm light is showing when I start the car up. It looks like an engine? I checked the oil - that is OK. Please tell me what’s wrong?! Is it drivable? ANY advice would be greatly appreciated. (1.4mpi)

Answers

That is your engine management light. Take it to a diagnostics place ASAP - Marc from England

Volkswagen Beetle 2007

The coolant light on my Volkswagen Beetle comes on when I start my car. It beeps for about 3 minutes and stops. Also my car heater, when I stop at a sign or light the heater starts blowing cold air. When I take off again the heater starts to blow warm air... what does this mean?

Answers

I have the same thing happen on my 06 Beetle. It’s frustrating! - Lorena from United States of America

It sounds like a bad water pump. Common VW problem - Craig from Germany

More than likely the coolant level is low. Check coolant level in reservoir - John Weddle from United States of America

Volkswagen Transporter 2002

I bought my Volkswagen Transporter in April this year and changed all belts and water pump, oil filters etc to be sure all was OK. Now, after less than 8,000 miles, a warning about service flashes on dash where the mileage reset is, and after a few seconds a beep sounds. Any ideas what to do to reset things?

Answers

Hold in odometer reset button, switch ignition on and while holding reset button in turn your time adjustment button to the right - Jeanne-Pierre Bruin from South Africa

Volkswagen Transporter 2000

Hi, my Volkswagen Transporter Caravelle has started losing water and smoking from the exhaust what could this be?

Answers

Blown headgasket, use STEELSEAL to solve problem - A J from Surrey

Volkswagen Polo 1996

When my Volkswagen Polo is turned off the clock resets as well as the trip meter on the speedo side. Can anyone please help or advise?

Answers

Did you get a answer for your problem? I am having the same problem! - Jac Theron from South Africa

Volkswagen Golf 2006

Hi. Does anyone know what could cause a whistling sound, noisy sound from the alternator on my Volkswagen Golf? It started after the cambelt change was done...

Answers

You will get a whistling sound if the cam belt is too tight - Ron Burnell from Somerset

I mean the belt that drives the alternator will whistle if it is too tight - Ron Burnell from Somerset

Volkswagen Passat 2005

Hi, can anyone tell me what’s wrong with my 55reg tdi Passat? About a month ago an orange light started flashing on and off and I lost my turbo. I parked up at home and restarted the car - there was no flashing light and the turbo was back on and running fine. Today, driving home it happened again. When I parked up and restarted the light was off and once again running fine. Can anyone help me on this problem? Thanks a lot. (tdi)

Answers

If the car goes into limp mode after 3000 revs, it’s the turbo needs replacing. Happened to me. When you turn off engine and restart the car the fault clears but comes back as soon as you hit 3000 revs. Cost 800 and usually turbo goes any time after 90,000 miles - Raj Agha from Yorkshire

Volkswagen Fox 2008

Hi. Does anyone know where the rear windscreen heater on a Volkswagen Fox?

Answers

My backscreen heater is on the end of the right windscreen wipers handle. You push the end of it like a button - Christie Birtchnell from Berkshire

Volkswagen Fox 2008

The rear screen wash is discharging into front passenger footwell. Can anyone tell me I could fix it? (Urban Fox)

Answers

Hello, there will be a split hose somewhere, the hose that goes from the washer bottle to the rear of the car, usually goes through the passenger footwell, check the hose :-) HTH - Marc from England

Hi Paul, have you tried looking under the bonnet. If you look at the right side of the bulkhead behind the engine, you will see the washer tube. It’s about the size of a fat drinking straw, its plastic and easily comes off. Hope this helps - Lin Rutty from England

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

The passenger door on my Volkswagen Transporter T5 won’t open from either the outside or the inside - any ideas as to how to fix it? Many thanks.

Answers

Had the same problem two days ago, it’s the wiring loom under driver’s seat. Easy fix, unplud loom from relay strip cloth tape back approx 1ft til you come to three wires joined together with solder. This is the problem, strip all three wires till clean conections are available then join all three together and tape up plug bag into relay under seat and try locks. Regards - Dave Dubster from Lancashire

Volkswagen Sharan 2007

When going on a long journey and we fill up the diesel tank, the fuel gauge then goes up to full. However it stays there for quite a while. I don’t think that the needle is stuck as eventually it drops back down and works normally for everyday use. It doesn’t matter how many times it is filled up when doing high mileage the needle resolutely refuses to move. We can obviously note when we fill up the mileage and work out when we need to fill it up again. But this is now creating problems. Any suggestions?

Answers

I am a taxi driver in Aberdeen. I put in £40.00 per day and when the refuel light comes on, it might still read empty, it might read half full like it should or it will say I have a full tank for about 40-50 miles then reset itself and read okay then it might go all over the place again. I just live with it or it will be another bill to pay. Mechanic thinks it might be a faulty sender unit, the trick is just don’t believe it and keep fuel in the tank. £40.00 should give you 200 miles plus town driving - John Forbes from Aberdeenshire

Volkswagen Transporter 2006

The blower on my Transporter T5 will only work on number 4. Any ideas why?

Answers

The coil resistor will have gone. It lets 12v through for number 4, 9v for 3, you get the idea. It’s not able to let less voltage through. Hope this helps - Wayne from Gloucestershire

Volkswagen Golf 2003

The reverse lights on my Volkswagen Golf are stuck on constantly when I’m driving. Does anybody know what needs to be done to make them work as they should?

Answers

How do you take an alternator off a Fiat Stilo? - Derekk Holloway from England

Replace the reverse light switch on the outside of the gearbox. It’s stuck on causing the reverse lights to remain on - G Mills from South Africa

Volkswagen Bora 2001

The radio on my Volkswagen Bora turns up when I speed up and I’m just wondering if there is any way of turning this off? Thanks.

Answers

It is the GALA setting on the radio. Look in the instruction manual for the fitted radio and turn it to off. (On the factory fitted units - press and hold the RDS button until you hear one beep. Then press lightly until you see GALA. Use the volume up or down button to set it to off.) Hope this helps!! - Hein Steven from South Africa

Volkswagen Transporter 2008

Are the six speed manual gearboxes on the Volkswagen Transporter’s reliable as am looking at used 87000kms? (Dual Cab)

Answers

No, they are not reliable. Ours crapped itself at 145,000kms and VW wanted $13,500 to replace it we were lucky to find a repairer who did it for $4,500 - Trevor from Réunion

Volkswagen Passat 2006

Hello, I have a 2006 VW Passat 2-litre TDI SE, 140bhp. When starting from cold the engine is a bit jerky or jumpy but will stop after revving it a few times. Anybody know why? Thanks.

Answers

I think it’s the duel mass flywheel. Happens to mine too - Raj Agha from England

Volkswagen Caddy 1995

I have had problems with my Volkswagen Caddy overheating in town. Replaced entire cooling system including radiator, hoses, water-pump, thermostat, even replaced cylinder head gasket and skimmed head. No difference. It does not loose any water and the coolant mix is about 60% anti freeze to water. Please someone help, the problem has become my nemesis. Variant: 2.6 microbus. Year Of Make: 1995

Answers

Hi there, have you checked the thermo fan switch/relay and the fan itself, this is critical in slow traffic, and is not always obvious. Also check relevant fuses, cooling system purged of air locks, injector timing and radiator hot spots (use a non contact infra red thermometer for this, appx $40.00au). Hope this is of some help - Alasdair McCarter from Australia

Passenger footwell, lefthand side, there’s a small lever, pull it, go to the front. There should be a small piece of plastic protruding through the grill, when you pull it, the bonnet pops up enough to get your fingers under, bonnet support is on the left. Hope this helps - Allan from England

Volkswagen Golf 2001

Does anyone know where the hole in the bulkhead for sub wiring is located on a Volkswagen Golf?

Answers

Hi, you will have to take the glove box out and there is a hole behind there it takes a little bit of time to get to but when it’s done, you won’t see any wires. Thanks - Jamie Williams from Yorkshire

Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle 2003

A hissing sound is coming from under the dash on my Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle. It goes away when brake is pressed. The van is also not idling properly at times. Has anyone any idea what might be causing these 2 issues? (Caravelle)

Answers

My Caravelle 2.5TDi auto does this. It’s the brakes. When you have used the brakes, the pedal hisses for up to 20 seconds afterwards, sometimes sounds like air leaking from a balloon. Doesn’t seem to affect braking performance - Kevin from Kent

Volkswagen Polo 2004

OK, me and the Mrs don’t agree! Shock, I know! Maybe you could clear this up. The brake fluid light came on our car the other day and after I filled it up it remained on. I work on boilers and often pressure sensors or flow switches etc get stuck and give false readings. Could this be a possibility on a car? If anyone knows anything else it could be I’d love to hear! Pads maybe?

Answers

Have you checked to see if the brake pads are worn down to the sensors? - Dick Turner from Buckinghamshire

Volkswagen Caddy 2002

Where is the glow plug relay located on a Volkswagen Caddy?

Answers

The relay is located under the dash on the right hand side, it’s the longest one, it has ’103’ printed on it - Sean from Ireland

Volkswagen Sharan 1997

Can anyone tell me why my Volkswagen Sharan’s heater has stopped working altogether in car? And now my temp gauge is flashing and the car is beginning to over-heat? Any ideas how to fix? Many thanks.

Answers

I had an ongoing similar prob in a 2001 Sharan. It turned out there was a leak in the head gasket between cylinder 2 and 3. There was no oil in the water or vice versa. Get a dye test done by a good mechanic - Barry from County Down

Volkswagen Transporter 1996

Hi, my T4 has a thumbing / knocking noise from the under side of the floor. It does not do it all the time, more often when foot is of the gas going down hill. Any ideas what might be causing this?

Answers

I had something similar on a T5, it was a worn joint on the anti-roll bar - Dewi Jones from Gwynedd

Volkswagen Sharan 2001

I have a 1.9 tdi VW Sharan and when I drive it, it beeps and flashes handbrake on, even when it’s not. I have checked the switch, it still stays on even when unplugged. Any ideas?

Answers

I had this happen with me and it was because the fluid in the brake resevoir was low and the electronic system would pick it up. The real problem was that a rear brake cylinder was leaking and so the fluid would drop! Hope this helps - Dave Evans from Carmarthenshire

Volkswagen Golf 1986

Does a 1986 VW Golf use a vacuum line, a manual cable, or an electric switch to get fluid to the heater? The blower works fine, but ony cold air comes out.

Answers

Sounds like a vacuum line, that’s what I just had problems with. Look down by the front of the transmission where the starter is at, there should see a small vacuum line (yellow), see if it has a hole rubbed in it from the other lines. If so, just cut the part that has a hole in be careful not to break the fitting and replace with rubber vacuum line - Roy Jewell from United States of America

Volkswagen Sharan 2009

My diesel Volkswagen Sharan has a slight miss when I am driving it. It doesn’t matter whether I am driving it, doesn’t matter whether it’s hot or cold, or what speed you are doing, or what gear you are in. Any ideas anyone?

Answers

Hope you have sussed this. Had the same problem. Turned out to be the injector wiring loom which is INSIDE the rocker cover (about £35) - Stephen Clarkson from County Down

Volkswagen Caddy 2003

The MPH clock is not working on my Volkswagen Caddy - has anybody any idea how I might fix it?

Answers

Your speedometer sensor is gone on the gearbox. Replace it and it should be fine - Tom Delaney from Ireland

Volkswagen Crafter 2009

The rear interior light on my Volkswagen Crafter does not work. The display on the dash shows that the door is open, but if I put a meter on the light there is no power there. Where are the door switches? Why did they have to fit an ecu to control interior lights? DOH!

Answers

Check the loom under the passenger footwell. I had a similar problem when the jack cover on the floor nipped a wire in the loom and damaged it and it happened to be the interior light wire that was cut. A long shot but it worked for me once repaired - Tony Sidney from England

Volkswagen Transporter 1995

Hi, could you tell me what steering wheel will fit on my BW T4 Transporter? It’s a 1995 and I have been told a VW Golf will fit but don’t know which Golf exactly. Can anyone help?

Answers

Hi. Any Volkswagon or Audi steering wheel from a 1994 to a 2000 apart from the Audi A3 will fit just go to your local breakers as a lot of main Volkswagon spares dealers won’t tell you what fits and they will try charging you skyhigh prices. I myself personally find the Touran steering wheels the best as you can still see the speedo etc perfect as if you was to use a Polo steering wheel you find yourself looking over it to see your speed and it also feels heavy on you turns where as the Touran steering wheel makes the steering a lot lighter and smoother. Whatever steering wheel you choose though good luck and just go to your local scrapyard you’ll pick one up for around £30 instead of £80+ from a Volkswagon spares dealer. Google my name and take a look at my breakers. I have 1000s of Volkswagons in we have every part needed for VWs guaranteed - Gerralds Breakers Volks Bits Somerset from Somerset

Volkswagen Golf 2000

I replaced the gearbox and clutch but now I have a bad fuel leak - could I have damaged the turbo? (GTI 1.8 turbo)

Answers

What you done now, you little plonker? - Richie K from Iraq

Volkswagen Polo 2003

There is a yellow light on, similar to the red light when the hand break is applied when I start and drive the car. Does anyone have any idea whay this light might signify?

Answers

My Polo 1.4 tdi loses power uphill and the engine light comes on. If you switch off and start, the power comes back but the light remains on. After 5 starts, the light goes off - Sharend Arjun from South Africa

Volkswagen Passat 2003

Hi, I have no power going to the glow plugs on my 1.9-litre 2003 Volkswagen Passat. The fuse is OK, I have disconnected the temperature switch and the feed comes back. It’s just happened since I replaced the head. Do you think it’s the temperature switch or the control unit? Cheers!

Answers

Hi, I would suspect the loom that feeds both the injectors and the glow plugs, it runs in the head and in hot oil, a really stupid design, it’s about £80 to replace, it’s connected by means of a large twist connector on the end of the head. It’s also worth checking the glow plug relay, remove the battery and shround and it is screwed to a sliding bracket under the fuse box. Best of luck - Gary Wykes from England

The 1.9 pd engine has a different loom than the one mentioned by the other chap. The glow plugs only work from cold and being direct injection only need them for emissions not starting unless they’re very cold! - Emlyn Tilley from Somerset

Volkswagen Passat 2006

Hi. I ran out of diesel on my VW Passat. I put some diesel in and then it didn’t start. The AA came and he didn’t manage to solve the problem. He said that the injectors are possible gone. Has anyone had the same problem?

Answers

You must prime the fuel filter. Get some fuel in a small bottle and remove the spring clip from the top of the fuel filter and pull that fitting with hose on both sides straight up. Then fill it with fuel and replace fitting and spring clip and try to start. You may have to do this several times. It is very difficult to start a cold engine like this. Two small shots of starting fluid into the air intake hose which is easily remove with a pair of channel lock plyers and it will take right off - Frank Kampert from United States of America

Volkswagen Transporter 1994

I am having problems with the auto gearbox on my Volkswagen Transporter Caravelle. When cold the reverse works but when it gets hot it doesn’t go into reverse - has anyone else experienced this?

Answers

I have as well, we changed gear box oil and filter but still does it. Our mechanic says the seal is leaking so it isn’t getting enough pressure to shift gear. When revved, it shifts - Paul from Australia

Volkswagen Touran 2005

How do I replace the washer bottle on my Volkswagen Touran?

Answers

If all else fails try a VW garage! John from Gwynedd

Volkswagen Sharan 2000

I have heater problems on my Volkswagen Sharan. Great heat all summer but the first sign of cold and the thing turns into a demon. No heat for at least 10 miles, in fact, in last year’s deep freeze, after a journey of 40 miles with 6 passengers we were almost all crystalised! I spent the whole winter de-misting the windscreen with rubber scraper. Has anyone had this problem and knows how to fix it?

Answers

I had the same problem with my 2002 2.0 Petrol Passat last winter. The engine temperature failed to reach 60°C on a good day. I replaced the thermostat and the problem was resolved. Hope this helps - Sid Paul from England

Volkswagen Passat 2008

Does a Volkswagen Passat CC GT TDI have a timing belt or chain? Thank you in advance for any help.

Answers

Definitely a belt which needs replacement every four years or 60k miles - Peter Buisseret from England

Volkswagen Passat Estate 2005

All my dashboard lights have started flickering on my Volkswagen Passat Estate. Any advice would be most welcome.

Answers

I had this on an older Passat. Fixed it by replacing the dash dimmer switch for £3 from the breaker’s yard - Passat Owner from England

Volkswagen Passat 2000

Hi, when driving my 2000 Volkswagen Passat diesel after the engine has warmed, the temperature guage starts to climb to an overheating point. I have changed the thermosat and there is a good flow of water through engine but it is still overheating. Can anyone help? Thank you.

Answers

Check the viscus fan is working when hot. Other than that, it could be the head gasket - Pete the man

Volkswagen Golf R32 2009

After driving my Volkswagen Golf R32 for a few miles the car will not restart for another hour - has anyone else experienced this?

Answers

Hi Steve, start with the daft thing first, change the inline fuel filter make sure it’s fitted the correct way round as some are directional. Then go for a run. If it stops, take off your fuel filler cap and get one of those Halford’s ’fit anything’ plastic ones for a pound. Try another run, it could just be airlocking in the tank. Most injection systems run with a bit of a vacuum in the tank, that’s why you hear the rush of air when filling up. If that gets you going, possibly it’s the fuel pump on its last legs as the next point of call so get a garage to pressure test the injection system, sadly that’s where the bills start! - Steve North from Nottinghamshire

Volkswagen Sharan 2002

My key fob has stopped working properly on my Volkswagen Sharan, it will unlock but not lock. I have tried several ways to make it work, other than changing battery. Any ideas?

Answers

Definitely change the battery. A small electrical shop might even do it for you. Mine was £3.20 - John Saxton from Lancashire

Volkswagen Transporter 1999

When depressing the clutch on my Volkswagen Transporter there is a loud squealing. If you press the clutch to the floor there is a grinding feeling through the peddle. The gear change is smooth but I think it is because of the way I’m using the clutch. Any suggestions/comments would be much appreatated. John :-) (800 Special)

Answers

Hi, your release bearing inside the bell-housing of the gearbox collapsed. To replace that bearing, the gearbox must be removed and then the condition of the pressure plate splines must also be checked for damage due to the release bearing that packed up - Jeanne-Pierre Bruin from South Africa

Volkswagen Passat 2007

Hi, my 2007 VW Passat 57 heater is not working. I checked the fuse and that’s OK. Can you help?

Answers

I have had a similar problem where the heaters worked but not very good, so I did the same, checked the fuse that was okay, then I checked the pollen filter which was rammed full with cr*p. I bought a new one of those and replaced it and now works beautifully. Hope this helps - Paul Smith from England

Volkswagen Caddy 2006

I sometimes have a problem starting my van in the morning. It is a 2006 1.9-litre VW Caddy sdi van and it has 130k on it and runs well but I have just noticed that, sometimes when driving on the road, its power levels drop a small amount for no reason. I have changed the glow plugs and this has still not cured the problem. Any ideas as to what it can be anyone?

Answers

I had a similar problem last week. In my case, it was the fuel cap that is clogged, so there is a lot of vacuum created in the tank starving the fuel pump intermittantly. I found out when I bought fuel and the hissing went on forever when I was opening the cap - Johann Juliusson from France

Volkswagen LT 1997

Hi, I have major difficulty starting my Volkswagen LT from cold or warm (it took at least 20-30 seconds to fire up after turning the key, when it used to fire up almost immediately before). Clouds of whitish(?) smoke when starting from cold - loads more than normal. No smoke when starting from warm. 2.) when dropping down to low revs (for example when pulling up to a junction or a roundabout) the engine would sometimes die and not tick over or "flat spot" and refuse to rev. When it "flat spotted" you could have your foot flat on the floor and the engine would be running but stay at very low revs and refuse to increase whatever you did with the accelerator. If you waited long enough the revs would eventually return to normal, but could take several minutes! This got worse over several weeks and was NOT funny when there was a queue of traffic waiting behind me. Can anyone help or advise? Thank you.

Answers

Try a new fuel filter - Basil Brush from England

Volkswagen Polo 2005

Why, on a 1.4-litre diesel Volkswagen Polo, does the turbo switch off while on the move, at just slightly over 2,000 revs and all you do is switch off the engine while travelling and on again and the turbo starts up again?

Answers

Okay I will answer your question! If you ask dumb questions like this then you should not be driving a car! Go on the website "how stuff works" and maybe you will not ask retarded questions like this in the future - Ferdi Oosthuizen from South Africa

Not a dumb question like the previous a*shole said. Your Polo is probably going into limp mode. When you switch it off, it resets. Can be vacuum tubes or MAF or dirty turbo - Gerrit from South Africa

Volkswagen Polo 2008

After the warning light for the brake pads / linings came up on my car recently we are trying to diagnose which brake pads / linings need checking. Does the sensor light connect to all the pads / linings or can we find out which one the fault relates to please? (1.4 TDi)

Answers

Probably just the front nearside fitted with a sensor, but the idea is that all now needs checking - Vadre Smith from Hampshire

Volkswagen Golf 2007

The traction control light on my Volkswagen Golf GT is permanently on - what could be the problem?

Answers

Check your tyre pressures - Chris G from England

Volkswagen Passat 2006

Hi. Does anybody know where I might find the glow plug relay on my 55 reg Volkswagen Passat 2.0 tdi 140? Thank you in advance.

Answers

Hi, remove your battery and surround and it is under the relay box , but you must get the battery out of the way to get to it, the bracket it is screwed to slides into the underside of the relay box - Gary Wykes from England

Volkswagen Bora 2005

How do I retract rear piston in caliper to fit new pads?

Answers

The easiest way is to use a calliper rewind tool, they need pressure applied and also rotated clockwise. You can do it without a tool but much easier with correct equipment - Graham Foley from Durham

Volkswagen Passat 2003

I have a 2 litre petrol 53 plate VW Passat. 12 months ago, the engine management warning light came on for no apparent reason. I have had three diagnostic tests and had a number of sensors replaced but light comes on a few hundred miles once reset. The car is running fine I just think I am paying out for sensors for no apparent reason. Am I best to just leave the light on and carry on as I say has been coming on and off for the last year?

Answers

I have the same problems since two years. I did the tests and everything was ok. I learned somewhere in the forums that in the gas tank is a sensor which measure the pressure inside. I re-locked the gas tap and after 100 km the warning light was disappeared. But after some time it appeared again and I have no clue (even the mechanics do not) what is happening. But everything else is working great - Oltion Hyso from Albania

Volkswagen Caravelle 2008

I’m trying to change the brake pads on all wheels. Is there an easy way to get the caliper piston to retract? (se 2.5tdi automatic)

Answers

Check bleed order first as that will be your order of wheel/pad replacement. The rear calipers probably wind clockwise inwards having eased the pads out first. Don’t force them inwards. Best to buy wind-back tools for the VW from Machine Mart or other to avoid damaging/scrapping the caliper. The fronts should be a gentle push-back with a G-cramp, but once you’ve got the above tools, it will go back easily. Ensure correct replacement of any anti-squeak springs. After re-assembly, ensure you have pumped the pedal a few times to adjust piston/pads back to disc-face. Then bleed brakes in right order. Wash hands, have a drink - Roger from Worcestershire

Volkswagen Transporter 2001

The passenger door will only open from inside. The lock is still operating with key ie. lock button moves up and down but despite lubrication will only open from inside. Hopeful and awaiting your reply. Cheers Michael (mjlihou@optusnet.com.au)

Answers

I had a similar problem on my 2003 Caravelle but this has same door locks as my 2009. Try opening the door and checking the little child lock tab on the door edge. Lubricate and fiddle with it (up and down) a it. Slam door and try to open. Mine freed up after two minutes, drove me mad - Kevin from Kent

Volkswagen Caddy 2007

My diesel van sounds as if an injector has gone, it starts okay but the engine is missing and the engine light has come on. How do I know if it’s the injector and which one? Is it possible the lambda censor has gone?

Answers

Hi Eddie, I would recommend to plug it into vag-com. It could be a sensor - Yahya Alsane from Ireland

Volkswagen Caddy 2007

How long does it take to replace the cambelt?

Answers

Depends on the car, roughly 1-2 hours - Sam Williams from England

Volkswagen Golf 1994

When stationary or driving in a straight line, it’s fine, but when turning left or right and when stationary, it squeals like a castrated pig and I struggle to turn the steering wheel. As Volkswagen can’t help me and I’ve checked the power steering fluid level, can anyone please throw some light on the problem? Cheers, Graham. (Mk 3 1.9D)

Answers

That’s a massive sign that your fan belt is slipping. That’s what’s making that squeal and also the power steering pump runs of the fan belt aswell that’s why you have found it hard on the steering. A new fan belt is £15 max - Chris from England

Volkswagen Golf 2001

Hi there, I am hoping someone may be able to help me. I have a 2001 VW Golf TDI and I am getting a ’STOP check coolant’ light coming on (usually during start up in the morning). The first time I checked my coolant it was low so topped it up. When it came on again I checked and the level in the water header tank was on the max level. I topped it up some more and it cleared it for another 2 days then the warning light came on again. I top it up each time and it clears the warning light however my water level is only going down ever so slightly. The tank is pressurised and I can’t find any sign of a leak. This morning it came on and there were some traces of frof in the water tank and someone mentioned head gasket. I checked the main oil cap and there were no signs of any mayo/frof and no sign of white smoke from the exhaust. No signs of loss of power or my temp gague increasing at all. Does anyone have any ideas? Could it be the sensor is knackered or stuck? Any help would be much appreciated. (1.9 TDI)

Answers

I had the same problem on my 2001 VW Folf tdi. After numerous trips to a garage, I was told to try and get a new expansion tank cap. I tried this and all was sorted. When the engine was hot, a vapour was escaping and the level going down. Not sure about the froth though, doesn’t sound too good - Dai Broad from Wales

Volkswagen Polo 2007

What are the steps one should take when changing the turbo? (1.9 tdi)

Answers

Obviously you know how to change a turbo but before you actually run the engine you have to crank it for about 30 secs to allow oil to lubricate the turbochargers components so as for it not to blow, leave for a minute then drive steadily for the first 1,000 - 2,500 miles and don’t try and do it when the engine is hot! Dean from Lancashire

Volkswagen Fox 2008

The tail light on my VW Fox is not working but the brake light is - I have changed the bulb a couple of times and the same thing happens. Why why why?!

Answers

I drive a VW Polo and my tail lights have a double element in a single globe so your brakes and lights operate from one globe. Just check if you are getting the right globes - Jaunne Leipert from South Africa

Volkswagen Transporter 1999

The power steering makes a noise when at full lock. Any ideas why? (t4)

Answers

If it is a squealing noise when you have it on full lock then the steering pump belt needs adjusted - Bobby Cox from County Tyrone

Volkswagen Caddy 2004

In the frosty weather, it’s nearly impossible to open the doors in my caddie van, is there any tips on what I could do?

Answers

We have up to -20 here in Norway. We spray the door edges (rubber seal) with silicon spray each winter - Paul Brown from Norway
 

Volkswagen Passat 2000

My VW Passat seems to have lost power, it does not drive more than 50mph, had my clutch replaced, still the same problem. Does not make any unusual noise and has a high mileage (181,000). Any idea what’s causing this issue?

Answers

Sounds like your Ecuador (on board computer) has gone into limp mode and isn’t coming back online. Try a new Ecuador from a scrapyard, souls only be £100 - Chris from England

Volkswagen Golf 2003

What engine oil should I use?

Answers

Diesel 10-w-40 petrol 5-w-30 - Chris G from England

Volkswagen Transporter 2008

Does this have a cambelt or chain?

Answers

Cam belt. If it hasn’t been changed on schedule then do it. End of. Any decent garage can do it but for some Transporters they need a special tool. I have had two done last year on Wincheap industrial estate (Canterbury) and it cost about £450 but get it done! - Kevin from Kent

Volkswagen Polo 2005

When I drive the steering wheel light on the dash comes on and the power steering fails. The computer also resets. (14i)

Answers

Same problem on my 2006 Polo 1.9tdi please help, gouws.ryno@gmail.com - Ryno Gouws from South Africa

Hi, same with my 2004 1.4 tdi, please help, email me - Vinesh Pillay (vin31@hotmail.co.za) from South Africa

Volkswagen Passat 1999

I have changed the timing belt and now the car won’t start. No compression, how do you set camshaft timing?

Answers

If you have changed the timing belt and not set the timing up correctly and tried to start, you will have bent the valves, that is why you have no compression. There will be timing marks on the covers that will tell you where to line it up - David from Scotland

Volkswagen Transporter 1999

Whilst driving or idling, the rev counter on the vehicle will begin reading erratically and even drop to zero revs whilst there is no change in the way the engine is running. When the rev counter drops to zero revs, the oil warning light on the dash begins to flash and an intermittent bleeping is heard. The oil level is actually fine and the vehicle has just been recently serviced. Despite this problem, the vehicle is running very well. Can anyone make any suggestion what may be causing this frustrating problem? (TDI)

Answers

I have the very same problem with my Transporter 2.5 2003. It only happens every now and again and like yours, the van is running great. It would be great to get an answer on this. Have you had any luck solving this? - John O Callaghan from Ireland

Volkswagen Golf 2003

My oil light keeps flickering and it makes a loud beeping noise. Why is this?

Answers

I’d suggest topping up your oil straightaway. This would indicate that the reserve is low. It may be due to a leak or burning of oil. Top it up before the engine blows - Mids _Man from Staffordshire

Volkswagen Golf 1998

I have a warning light flashing on my dashboard with the handbrake symbol. I have checked the handbrake and it is fine. This symbol appears when driving and beeps twice then stops but the light remains on. Any ideas?

Answers

Did you check the brake fluid or are your brake pads knackered? - Martin Lynch from Ireland

Volkswagen Bora 1999

I have recently had a service and found out that both my rear brake lights are not functioning and nor is the reversing light. I have changed the brake light switch, the bulbs and the fuse but still no lights. Help! (TDi)

Answers

Today is August 15, 2011, and I’m sitting in a VW dealership right now, for the same problem. I’m being told that there is a wiring problem! Well this is a 2001 VW Beetle that I purchased new, 10 years ago. How in the world did it suddenly develop a wiring problem?! They said they will have to do a diagnostic to see what the exact problem is. I hope it can be fixed inexpensively, because not only are the brake lights not working, but neither is the cruise control which originally was attributed to the malfunction of the brakelight switch - Bianca Smith-e-Incas-Allen from United States of America

Volkswagen Golf 2002

I change my battery, and now my radio is completely dead. What can be the cause of that? (gti)

Answers

Do you mean it is still dead after you have re-entered your radio code? The radio loses this when you disconnect the battery. The code should be written down in your car’s manual somewhere. Hope this helps - Steve from Norfolk

Volkswagen Transporter 2008

I would like to know if the VW T28 has a temperature gauge display. Thanks.

Answers

Yes, it does on mine :-) - Chris from England

Volkswagen Golf 2002

When the engine is cold, my tdi runs fine until I accelerate hard then it coughs and misses, blowing white smoke. It will clear up in 5 or 10 seconds and then it runs good for the rest of the day unless the engine gets cold and then you repeat the procedure. Why is this?

Answers

I have a Golf 02 GT tdi and the only time I had anything like that happening was about a month before the turbo went. White smoke was everywhere! Might not be the case with yours but keep a close eye on it because if it’s a diesel then white smoke is bad news - Gordon Bulloch from Yorkshire

Volkswagen LT 2004

Do I need to replace the flywheel when replacing the clutch? It has a dual mass flywheel. (2.8 tdi)

Answers

I have a VW Transporter, I am finding the gearstick stiff and awkward to put into gear, can you help? - Joe Hender from England

Volkswagen Golf 2009

Can anyone tell me when a timing belt should be changed on a VW gt tdi 140 golf 2009 plate? I’m in the process of buying one at the moment from a garage with 70,000 miles on and wondered if they need to change it before I purchase it or at least I can give them the right info before I pick it up. Thanks, Paul. (gt 140 tdi)

Answers

Every 100,000 kms or 63,000 miles - Kevin from Canada

Volkswagen Transporter 1996

Hi, I bought a Transporter six months ago. It had a slight tapping noise which has gotten more frequent and slightly louder. It is mainly when the engine is cold and when it is idling. It drives fine and the noise seems to go as the revs go up. I was wondering if anyone knew what it could be? D.

Answers

Mine was doing that. It was the heat shield on the exhaust rattling. I had a jubile clip put on it, now it’s stopped...me - Lisa Webb from Swansea

Don’t panic. Other answer may be the right one but also: [1] It is probably the vacuum pump. It runs off a small cam at the front in the middle. The cam gets worn down a bit and goes ’tinkly tinkle’ and drives you nutty. It’s a cheap part but I think you have to replace the whole pump - pretty pricey - to get rid of the noise. If the pump fails then the brakes will be hard to operate - not good in an emergency. My last T4 did this for 60,000 miles. [2] If it’s a heavy rattle that sounds like it’s in a big heavy part of the engine then it might be a broken bolt on the engine sump cover. The cover is the massive steel plate beneath the engine bay (ever wondered why your engine is so clean? That’s why). It has some bent steel pegs that hold it in place with 2 bolts near them. When a bolt fails the plate can bounce up and down and rattles (the bent pegs hold it in place so it won’t fall off). It can rattle with the engine vibratoion but is more likely to do so when you drive over a bump. To test the bolts, climb under the front wheels and visually check or lean under the front and bash the plate with your fist. You’ll get the sound! - Kevin from Kent

Volkswagen Passat 2005

At what mileage does the cambelt need changing? (2L tdi sport)

Answers

Every 60,000 miles or every 4 years which ever comes first is a good guide and better be safe than sorry - Raj Agha from England

Volkswagen Golf 2007

What makes my car sometimes lose power when travelling long distances? It did happen previously when VW dealer said it was the vacuum pump but it is still doing the same thing. Sometimes it runs OK but there comes a time when I try to accelarate but it doesn’t move. Can anyone offer any advice? (GTI 2.0T FSI)

Answers

My Golf TDI was doing the same thing, might be worth checking all the vacuum hoses are correctly seated, seemed to clear it up for me - Noel Hobden from England

Volkswagen Passat 2010

How do I gain entry to car when the battery is flat and I have a keyless entry system? (1.8)

Answers

Hi, on your key there is a button on side press this and pull and there is a key inside. You have to take the drivers side handle of and place key in to open - Andy from England

Volkswagen LT 1995

Hi, I have a 1995 LT 31 and when I drive over 50mph or drive it hard in 3rd gear, there is a buzzing noise coming from behind the clocks and it does not go away until the engine is stopped. Can anyone tell me what it is and how to stop it?

Answers

The oil pressure warning system is made up in two parts. There is a standard warning light (actually an LED) connected to a pressure sender near the oil filter which operates like any other car. The second system has a seperate sender unit on the block and also senses speed via a connection to the ignition coil. This sender operates at a higher pressure than the first (around 30 psi I think). If the engine revs above 2000 rpm and the oil pressure drops below 30 psi, the oil light will flash and the buzzer sounds. Check the sender unit, if this is okay then the problem is in the circuitry. You can fool the system by disconnecting the speed sensor wire from the -ve terminal on the coil. There should be two wires on this terminal, one goes to the distributor, the other is the speed sensor - Dave Cole from Gloucestershire

Volkswagen Bora

Every time I drive in a bumpy road, my ABS light appears on the dash. Sometimes it just comes on regardless of the road surface. What can I do to solve this? (2.0 Petrol)

Answers

Check your ABS wheel sensors. One might have a loose connection or be dirty - Kevin from Canada

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

The airvent directional knob on my VW Transporter is stuck on the windscreen setting. Any ideas how to access the mechanism and how to repair it? Thanks.

Answers

You will find the control unit itself is broken and will need replacing - VW part no. (for non-climate control) is 7H0820045AM9B9. Sit down for the price. Now remove the top parcel shelf, pulls up from the side closest to the controls (held in with clips) undo two screws under that, and then remove radio (will need radio removal tools), prise off external facia (more clips) then you’ll notice the control unit is held in by 4 more screws. You’ll have to remove all 3 cables (be careful), by unclipping them & disconnect both electrical plugs. Now the unit will sort of come out from the driver’s side first at an angle. You’ll find that the white reel at the back of control unit will be broken allowing the cable lever to pop out. Good luck! - Craig from New Zealand

Volkswagen Transporter 2006

Hi everybody, I have got a problem with my van where I hear noise when I steer left or right. I have checked the tensioner and power steering pump and all is okay. Anybody come cross this before? Thanks.

Answers

I have the same problem, I wish someone could tell us know what the problem is - Heinz Conrad from South Africa

Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Life 2010

Can anyone please confirm the maximum amount of fuel this car will take in litres? Many thanks.

Answers

City:7 to 9 L High way 5.5-6.5 L - yy jackmax from Australia

How long does fuel last when the light fuel comes on? - Leda Rodrigues from England

Volkswagen Caravelle 2007

I have a 2007 2.5 TDI Caravelle (AUTO) - The problem was on the open road power was lost and going uphill, it was impossible to change gears to get more power. It sounded as if the turbo was not working. After two days of testing, they said it was the catalytic converter that was detoxing resulting in the loss of power. Now it is running fine. Any suggestions if the reason is true or not or what the problem can be?

Answers

I had the same problem on my 52 plate T4 Caravelle and the clutch finally gave in. The clutch plate was thinner than an LP record when it came out so it was badly needing it with reference to the cat converter. Replace it with a normal box, you don’t require it by law and you get a little more oomph out your van. Mine cost £48 to replace and after the clutch replacement, my van was pulling as good as when it left the factory - John Bell from Lanarkshire

Volkswagen Polo 2006

What does the spanner symbol with code 800 mean?

Answers

Why don’t you read your manual? - Ouchy from India

I have the same problem of a spanner and a number on the cluster. I just bought this car (2009 Polo 1.6 Comfortliner) but has no manual so can’t read anywhere - Mjita Kil from South Africa

Volkswagen LT 2003

There is a noise that comes from the engine/gearbox that stops when braking. Any ideas?

Answers

It is the brake vacuum pump 100% if the ticking noise goes away after pressing the brake pedal a few times which builds up pressure. I got mine from Euro Car Parts and changed it myself. I took my van to many garages and none had a clue or were deaf - Javad Chohan from England

Volkswagen Sharan 1999

Our Volkswagen Sharan 1.9 tdi 1999 is making a noise from the front of the engine. It has got worse over time, does anyone know what this could be please?

Answers

It might be your belt tensioner, when they wear they get noisy - Andrew Procter from Suffolk

Volkswagen Transporter 1994

Although I can drive my Transporter, it has massive side movement in the gear stick and flops all over the place which just don’t seem right and am starting to wonder if something is about to break? Any suggestions out there?

Answers

Look at the gear linkage on top of the gearbox, where metal rods contol the selectors, a small plastic bush (external to the gearbox) falls to bits, costs about a quid) causing this. eventually you’ll lose gear operation - Simon from England

Volkswagen Passat 2003

How do I remove the service now text from my dashboard?

Answers

Get a service? - Al from England

Switch off the ignition then press and hold the trip reset button beneath the rev counter. Switch on the ignition and release the reset button. The service message will appear in the display. Turn the reset knob clockwise and the display will return to normal. Switch off the ignition to complte the reset procedure. Hope this helps. Works on my Passat! - Richie from England

Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle 2006

I get really bad vibration at exactly 53mph, and can’t drive through it. All my tyres are new and fitted. If I reduce speed, the vibration goes. This is a major concern as I am a taxi driver and customers keep commenting on this. It vibrates right through the cab. I doubt it is the steering or drive shaft. Very slight play in os drive shaft but the garage say it would come through steering if it was os drive shaft. I replaced ns drive shaft two days ago seems to vibrate under drivers seat and rear of vehicle. Please help. (2.5 tdi)

Answers

It’s the flywheel - Mike Odriscoll from Somerset

Volkswagen Golf 2006

Why do my in-car heaters only work on setting four? Is it as simple as the switch connected to it to repair or is it more complicated and would it be a mot failure? (1.9 tdi sport)

Answers

It would appear to be the blower motor resister that is the problem. Easy fix, there are two plastic screws under the passenger side dash, remove these and pull the foam down. You will see the resister clipped in on the wiring. Unclip the resister and replace. Mine only worked on 3 and 4, and this cured it. The cost with VAT is about £35 - Brian Hewitson from Yorkshire

Volkswagen Polo 2010

Is it normal for the car to roll back when stopped on an incline? Holding the car on the brake, and moving to accelerate away, (e.g. traffic lights in a hill) the car distinctly rolls backwards, usually inches, but it feels a lot more, before engaging in forward motion. No other autobox seems to suffer roll back, but the DSG is a new format autobox with two dry clutches. Is this normal or is this a fault? Any help appreciated. (1.4 SE / 7 speed DSG)

Answers

It’s a quirk of the suspension design. i.e the rear-end is suspended on wish bones which are somewhat like scissors which run longitudinally down the body. When you stop the vehicle and apply the handbrake which stops the wheels the wheels turning, the vehicle’s weight cause the chassis to roll back slightly. As the wheels are locked by the handbrake, the vehicle’s weight transfers to the wishbones which causes them to open slightly, thus causing the vehicle to rise slightly at the back. When you come to move away, the front wheel drive pulls the weight forward. This causes wishbones to settle down which gives the impression the vehicle is rolling slightly backwards. There really is no cure for this phenomena other than the horrendous method of holding it on the clutch, which will prove to be ridiculously expensive - Brian Johnson from Cheshire

Volkswagen Crafter 2006

Every now and then my Crafter starts to produce excess smoke from the exhuast and the rev counter goes up to 1,000 revs, it smells like diesel being poured onto a hot exhaust. Any ideas? (109/mwb)

Answers

The engine oil level could be too high - Dany Ostafi from London

Volkswagen Golf 2007

My car has two reversing lights in the tailgate. How many lights should light up on selecting reverse?

Answers

Two - Kevin from Cameroon

Volkswagen Passat 2006

My engine management light came on and on the dash it says "emissions garage". Any idea what’s wrong? It’s a diesel.

Answers

Hello Izzy, I have just had the same problem on our Passat tdi 2006 - turns out the auto chap found a fault with a turbo sensor, cost £47 plus labour - total £145. There are other sensors but ours said the same as yours, emissions faliure, and there was a lack of any real power - hope this helps - emissions - Scot Lawes from Buckinghamshire

Volkswagen Bora 1999

I would like to ask about the rear suspension and how do you align the rear wheels? The rear tyre on the the near side is toed in and the wheel is worn. What do I do to correct this? (TDI)

Answers

Check tracking first... then bushings... Ralf from Ireland

Volkswagen Bora 2004

The temperature reading on the dash is all over the place. When it’s about 3 and 4 degrees outside it its reading 30 to 50 degrees. Any suggestions? Thanks.

Answers

It’s most likely your ECT sensor. Is the car hard to start and smokey? Does glow plug light stay on for about 10 secs? ECT sensor for sure - Paul from County Antrim

Temp sensor gone... Ralf from Ireland

Volkswagen Crafter 2007

How do I remove the stereo from my crafter van?

Answers

The trim panel that surrounds the stereo and heater contols is clipped on- put a small screwdriver under the bottom edge and carefully prise off. Then undo all screws and remove it! - Tony Allen from Aberdeenshire

Volkswagen Sharan 1997

My glow plug starts flashing when I’m driving and stays on for a couple of minutes and the goes off. Has anyone else experienced this?

Answers

Check your brake light switch. I have the same problem when you press the brake, the light goes out common fault apparently - Steve Sluman from England

Volkswagen Sharan 2008

The storage on the dash is stuck shut. Any easy tricks for getting it open without breaking it?

Answers

Dunno, broke mine trying - Gordon Underwood from Wiltshire

Just rub in very small amounts of baby oil, this will just soften edges enough to gradually get some leverage on to the hinges. Don’t use any other lubricant, like washing up liquid, wd40 or anything similar because this will just dry out and make matters worse - Sammie Lowe from England

Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle 2007

Does my Transporter t130 2.5 5 cylinder have a timing belt or gears?

Answers

It has gears, no need to worry about changing timing belt - Ben from Australia

Volkswagen Bora 1999

Hiya, I have got some engine lights on my dash. And I have already have a diagnostic checker the only problem is I can’t find the sodding port. Please help.

Answers

Check just underneath your aircon controls. There is a wooden plate just above your compartment for the lighter and ash tray. Put your fingers and just pull it, you will see the port - Lloyd Marongwe from Zimbabwe

Volkswagen Sharan 1997

Would the core plug malfunctioning suddenly stop my car from staring? The car was running perfectly fine, I got out to go to the shop and when I got back in 2 minutes later it failed to start and continues to fail to start. Cheers! (1.9tdi)

Answers

It’s probably your key because I had a simalar problem. These flip keys are coded - Chum Ali from Derbyshire

Volkswagen Sharan 1997

The fog lights don’t work. I have replaced bulbs but they are still not working. The fuse box cover is confusing and I can’t see which fuse it is. Can anyone help? (1.9 td)

Answers

Check the wiring loom as it comes through the tail gate on the right hand side. They suffer from the wiring rubbing inside the rubber cover and braking - Martin Squires from Nottinghamshire

Volkswagen Touran 2006

During the recent cold weather my VW Touran will not start. The dashboard illuminates, but when the key is turned nothing happens. Radio/CD and all electrics are working fine, but the engine will not turn over when I turn the key. I had the car towed to my local VW garage and they rang a diagnostic, but couldn’t find a thing wrong with it. Sods law the day I went to collect it... it wouldn’t start for a while. The garage ran another diagnostic but again couldn’t find anything. I only have this problem in cold weather, the car is fine otherwise. I’d be grateful if anyone could give me any idea’s on what could be wrong. Thanks :-)

Answers

Hi, I had a problem like this and took me a while to find out what. It turned out the starter motor was finished - Steve from England

Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle 2008

There is a buzzing noise coming from behind the dash when the engine is turned off. Does anyone have any idea what may be causing this?

Answers

It’s likely to be the N75 valve that needs to be replaced - Bill Green from England

Volkswagen Bora 1991

I drove my car to the local jet wash and after I finished washing it, it refused to start. The lights come on on the dash when I switch on the iginition and the windows are operational but the engine won’t turn over, it just clicks. Can anybody please help?

Answers

Diesel or petrol? And check starter and alternator... Ralf from Ireland

Volkswagen Bora 2000

I’ve recently cracked my sump on my Volkswagen Bora which is on a W plate. I’m not too sure if the sump has a gasket or it is just put on with sealant? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answers

Sump is just refitted with a silicone type sealent - Paul from County Down

Volkswagen Touran 2006

When my heater in car is on I can smell burning, like the electrics are on fire. What is this?

Answers

Paul, it sounds like your electrics are on fire. I would say just let it burn! Claim off your insurance and never purchase a VW again. Hope this helps mate - Walter from Buckinghamshire

Volkswagen Touran 2010

In the freezing cold weather, I have found that smoke/fumes comes out of a secondary exhaust located under the front passenger side of the car. According to the VW mechanics, this is common when weather is freezing, and the AC needs more juice to warm the car up. Has anyone else experienced this? Reason I ask is that I had to get the family out of the car quickly as what appeared to be thick smoke came into the car via the open front passenger door, and it struck me as odd that it is common to the model...

Answers

I have the same problem with my Touran 2005. I also got the same answer from the mechanics. The amount of smoke coming in the car is really annoying - Manuel Carmona from Ireland

Hi Chris, your experience sounds very familar to mine, recorded the smoke outside the car and as it entered the interior. This happens all the time with my VW Touran and I have had to remove my family from the vehicle on many occasions. Volkswagen refused to admit there is a problem with the vehicle and after being in and out of my local dealer at least 10 times, I had to give up as they were not going to resolve the issue. Unfortunately, I am still stuck with the vehicle in which I bought brand new. This now has the very common problem with the ESP fault which is another one they have brushed off saying that it’s not common. You only have to google ’ESP Fault Touran’ and you will see it is a problem with most of them manufactured before 2008 and will cost me £1,500 to have resolved. It will be my last purchase from Volkswagen, even though prior to the Touran I had four Golfs and the wife had her VW Polo. Never never again! Shame on VW, no customer care! - John from Angus (Forfarshire)

I had the same problem. My garage fixed it. There is a small pot diesel burner to warm up the car quickly. It is located in the offside front wing. There is a small exhaust pipe. This sometimes comes loose. They said it’s not easy to get at and requires a few bits removed to get at it. Mine was fixed by Terminus Motors Bournemouth. (and they don`t rip you off). I have used them for years and would recommend them. Hope this helps - Mick Willis from Dorset

Volkswagen Transporter 1998

My van has stopped running, fuel not getting through to engine but somehow it creates a vacuum within the fuel tank. When you release the fuel cap you can hear the air rushing back into the tank, can anyone help me?

Answers

The air vent is blocked in the filler cap. Run with the filler cap loose (or not screwed on at all) until you get a new one - Rob Nisbet from England

Volkswagen Polo 2006

Is this car front wheel drive? (SE 4 automatic)

Answers

Hi. Yes, your car has and yeah, they are around £500 but you can put a solid clutch in but you will notice it a little more vibration from it but will save you about £300. I changed mine to a solid clutch and it’s fine but just check because sometimes, if your old clutch isn’t that bad, you can get them welded and it could last you a long time but if it was me I would change it to a solid one - Nigel Lamont from County Antrim

Volkswagen Transporter 2003

Hi all! I just had the timing belt snap on my 2.5 TDi - changed head, done timing, built the engine, back up now but I can’t get her to start. Anybody any ideas?

Answers

Hi, you will need 0.55 mm lift on dti in back of pump or it won’t go. Best of luck mate - Nigel from Surrey

Volkswagen Transporter 1999

I have a VW Transporter. Sometimes when I’m driving a ticking sound starts, it gets louder with acceleration, then sometimes, not everytime it tick’s it makes a really loud pop sound and konks-out for a brief second then starts again. Does anyone have any information on what this could be? I’m desperate. I’ve already spent so much already.

Answers

That ticking noise should be the servo on the front of the engine to build air for your brakes. They fail on older vans a lot of the time. If it is the problem it shouldn’t affect the driving of your van. A quick test is, next time you start it to go somewhere, if it’s making the ticking noise then pump the brake pedal - it should stop ticking for few seconds if the servo is what’s causing your problem. Good luck - Rob from Ireland

Volkswagen Bora 2000

Why would it take so long for my heater to warm and why is their very little blow with it?

Answers

First I would check and replace the cabin filter... usually that’s the problem... Ralf from Ireland

Volkswagen Sharan 1998

How do I replace the air blower motor?

Answers

Once you’ve removed the passengers glove box, disconnect wiring block, grab motor turn clockwise in fitting and pull out - Gordon from Wiltshire

Volkswagen Transporter 2008

Hello, I have a Transporter 2008 and when I turn the key to allow glow plugs to warm up it makes a fog horn noise. Not everytime, just now and again. Can anyone tell me what it might be. Thanks!

Answers

It is probably the turbo boost valve - Nigel from Surrey

Volkswagen Transporter 2008

Hi readers, thanks for reading my call for help. I have a VW Transporter t5 2.5 auto. I can drive it 17 to a maximum of 20 miles per gallon. Does anyone know what’s wrong and why it using a lot of fuel? Thank you.

Answers

Firstly, you bought a 2.5 t5 and expected it to eco? Secondly, you bought an auto and expected it to be eco :P Bob Bobob from England

Volkswagen Touran 2007

My car smokes from what we believe to be underneath when stationary, when cold. There also seems to be a burning smell. The car is showing no fault on the dash and there is no smoke coming from the engine. Can anyone help to what the problem may be? Many thanks!

Answers

Almost certainly the auxiliary heating system cutting in - I’m guessing yours is a diesel and they have a diesel powered heater situated at the back of the vehicle which fires up at an ambient temperature of lower than around 10 deg C. The smoke/diesel smell should clear in a minute or so but if not then there may well be a problem with the glow pin in the unit - Alan Eccles from Mid-Lothian (Edinburghshire)

Most diesels now come fitted with a pre-boiler, basically a diesel engine runs colder than a petrol so when the temp gets below a certain degree then the pre-boiler kicks in giving optimum coolant temp and internal heating. The smoke is from a mini exhaust from the pre-boiler which is normally situated under the drivers side of the vehicle. Nothing to worry about. Hope this helps - Spencer Clarke from Surrey

Hi Lisa I have found exactly the same issue with a 2010 diesel model. Phoned up the VW mechanics at the garage where I bought the car and they said it was nothing to be concerned about. Scared the hell out of me today mind as the exhaust/smoke flooded in through the open front passenger door - Chris Bean from Surrey

My 09 Touran is currently in the VW garage for the second year running due to the amount of smoke caused by auxiliary heater. Last year they said there is no fault but after me being extremely persistent and putting my foot down they have found a fault. Apparently the earlier models have a switch where you can turn the heater off. This is what an unreliable VW garage has informed me (mine does not have this switch). They have updated the system apparently and I shall collect in the morning (not before I have checked it out for myself). The smoke is an extreme amount that whilst I’m trying to strap my children in is gushing into the car! The whole car is covered in smoke and the driver is unable to see which is very dangerous when sitting in traffic! Be hard with the dealer and get this problem fixed! Do not let them tell you it is not a problem or that it is normal for that model! Complete rubbish. Unless the only smoke coming from my car is by the exhaust pipe, I shall be keeping hold of their courtesy car!! Good Luck :-) Emma Scanlan from Hertfordshire

Volkswagen Transporter 1959

I have a 59 Transporter transaxle and am trying to mate a 68, 1600 Bug motor. We tried to use the Bug clutch and it feels like the motor is frozen up, is there a special conversion kit for this application?

Answers

You will need 59 flywheel and clutch to match bellhousing of gearbox. They are the same weight and fixing, just different dimensions - Nigel from Surrey

Volkswagen Passat Estate 2006

The car is fine but as of yesterday the glow plug sign started flashing an would not go over 40mph. Can anyone help?

Answers

First thing is to get a diagnostic check to see which gow plug is at fault, you can then remove the glow plug and check to see if working correctly by earthing the body of the glow plug out and putting power to the top of the plug (12v). If the lower part glows (do not touch as will be very hot) then you know the glow plug is ok and will more than likely be a fault with the wiring loom to that glow plug... a modified loom is available from VW ( it’s a common fault). Hope this helps... Spencer Clarke from Surrey

On the VW Golf, the heater coil flashing also comes on if the brake light switch goes faulty, get someone to check brake lights when you press the pedal - David Watson from England

Volkswagen Bora 2002

The glow-plug light on my low mileage, recently serviced Bora, comes on when driving (it goes out when starting the car but comes on after a few hundred yards). Any suggestions on the problem would be appreciated. (1.9 TDI)

Answers

The glow plug after start has a dual purpose and is an indicator that the brake lights are working (yes really). Check these. If not working but bulbs OK the brake switch may be faulty. It has four wires to it and one pair is for the brakes the other pair service the glowplug function on start. These are notoriously unreliable. It is situated above the brake pedal old type black - replacements usually green about £15 ish at VW. Remove plug twist, anti-clockwise. Leave pedal up, push new switch in and twist clockwise to lock. There are references to fitting if you search on forums. Hope this helps - Ben Shaw from England

Volkswagen Sharan 2005

What does the auxiliary heater unit do apart from belch fumes into the car and guzzle fuel? (Sport 1.9 tdi)

Answers

Because that kind of diesel is so thermally efficient over older diesel engines, there’s less waste heat to heat the car interior. The aux. heater comes on around 10 deg. C and heats up the engine coolant to to heat the engine/car up quicker. If it’s continually smoking then the glow pin is probably sooted up. Ford say you cannot replace the pin - this is waffle - it’s just they haven’t got a part number for it! Google for Eberspacher agents and they’ll sort out a glow pin for you - Alan Eccles from Mid-Lothian (Edinburghshire)

Volkswagen Transporter 2003

My engine management light/glow plug light is flashing on my dash. What could be the cause? (t5 van 1.9 tdi)

Answers

Usually its the brake light switch under pedal... easy to replace.... check if brake lights are working. If not this is the cause, had this happen on my t4 and t5... cost about 15 euros for switch... same unit works on t4 as t5. I hope this helps - Phillip Grace from France

You might get away without replacing the brake light switch as described above. There’s an adjustment on it, try winding it in/out first. Thats how we fixed ours!! C Gr from Northamptonshire

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

Hi ,my transporter t28 2.5 174bhp 2005 model is losing water from somewere but not going onto the floor. I top up the coolant bottle when it comes up on the dash, then everything is OK. Then when I drive about 10 miles it tells me to check coolant manual so I am having to top it up again. The van isn’t overheating and is not blowing any smoke out of the exhaust, everything other than the water going is perfect. Can anyone help and advise me on this matter please? (2.5 174bhp)

Answers

Hello there. I had the same problem with my t5. I found out it was the oil cooler and then it kept doing it. I kept topping it up, then I found out it was the water pump. To find out if it is the water pump get underneath it and you will see a black tube connected to the back of the engine to your left hand side - disconnect it and take the bolt out and if water pours out of it then thats your problem but I do advise that if it is the water pump then send it to a Volkswagen main dealer because there is a special tool. Believe it or not, to get the pump out, which is about £300 to buy from the motor factors. You might find this some help, good luck - Dean Linegar from England

Yes, water pump - mine just went - exactly the same symptoms - kept putting water in and it didn’t seem to be coming out from anywhere! Finally found out that when the water pump goes on the Transporter it dumps all the water into your sump because the pump is fitted into the crankcase and is gear driven. When the seals go it discharges inside the engine. Great design VW - thanks a bunch! The mechanic who fixed mine said that there was so much water inside the engine that the "oil" level was half way up the dip stick - any more and it would have blown the engine. Brace yourself for a big bill - the parts aren’t that bad but the engine has to be flushed twice with expensive PD oil - I’m looking at an invoice in front of me for £121 just for the oil. The pump was £65. Good luck - Ben from Worcestershire

I had the same problem with my 04 model (174) at 50,000 miles/18 months old. It was the water pump and was fixed by the dealer under warranty. They admitted it was not the 1st by any means! I have since put 100,000 miles on an 07 plate one without any pump failure so hopefully that one is fixed! Bill Parmenter from Essex

Just had my Caravelle 05/174hp fixed, same problem, water pump was well worn and blocked up with muck but the water was clean, only 33K on clock. Total bill £330... new pump £56, gear £20, anti-freeze £12, Oil £35 and labour. I always thought VW’s ran for ever. Now we know why they changed the engines on the new model - Pete Vickery from Staffordshire

Volkswagen Passat 2005

The engine managment light came on and then a sudden loss of power that lasts until I stop the engine. After re-starting the engine everything seems to be fine... this has happend many times... what can it be? (2.0 tdi 140 hp)

Answers

It might be a crank shaft sensor. You are resetting the system when you turn it off and start again - Dean Linegar from England

What is your mileage? It sounds just how our problems started with out 20TDI 170 Bhp at 140,000. Took VW £2000 to find the problem, after changing many parts they decided it must be the DPF filter. My advice is, if you can afford, get rid of it. We are stuck with ours for the time being, but it does seem OK now. Good luck - Anthony Fletcher from Lincolnshire

Well, it just happened to me now the same thing was driving with the 3 speed. I gave gas when it have reach 90km suddenly I had the feeling that the motor got broken it doesn’t take the gas and makes me so scared. What could it be? - Bongo from Switzerland

Volkswagen Touran 2006

What is the function of the ESP???

Answers

ESP = Extra Sensory Perception. It enables your car to make contact with the afterlife. Very useful when searching round scrapyards for spare parts that maybe be concealed from view - Mystic Meg from Pitcairn

Close, but its the Eletronic Stabilty Program and controls the power going to each of the 2/4 road touchpoints referred to as wheels. When a skid is detected, the electronic stability kicks in and counteracts the effect of skidding by shutting off torque to the impacted wheel therefore preventing the majority of common skids. But absolutely counterproductive in frost as you’re going to be slipping all the time and thus going nowhere - Robert Nulty from Cheshire

Volkswagen Transporter 2006

Air Vent Control. Dial is difficult to select face position [dail wants to continue] When held no air flow from this position. Demister and feet are fine. How do I remove radio/storage bin to check mechanism? Thanks!

Answers

Hi there. The way to get to the dial in question is to remove the top parcel panel/tray that is located on top of the dash board. This panel is removed by gently pulling it upward. Once that’s off, there’s another see-through panel that is fastened by two screws on the top. Unscrew these and lift the panel out. You may also have to remove the radio head unit by unplugging it in the back and pulling it towards you. This will expose the instrumentation that you seek. I had the same problem and found that it was because of a bent adjuster cable. I straightened the bend and that fixed the problem - Rodrigue Resandt from South Africa

Hi Rodrigue, thank you very much for answering my question. I did all as you mentioned today and actually found the blue covered cable was bent at the control switch and with some difficulty was able to straighten it, but it did not stay this way for long, it continues to bend because I found that the flap control it connects onto gets hard to move to full travel and therefore the resistance overcomes the strength of the flexible cable and it bends? Looks like the flap or pivots within the heater box where the blue cable connects is binding it preventing the flap from fluently turning through its arc moving the direction of air. Any ideas? I cannot even fit my hand in there to pull anything apart... thank you very much -  Peter Ramanauskas from Australia

Volkswagen Golf 1986

I’ve just recently bought a 86 mk1 golf cabriolet and there is a intermittent buzzing noise coming from behind the speedo/rev counter. It’s just been serviced and it’s still there plus the mechanic told me the engine was changed to a fuel injected 1600 - if that makes any difference?

Answers

Faulty oil switch - Joe Blogs from Durham

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

Hi readers, thanks for reading my call for help. I have a 128kw 4motion 2005 model. I was wondering how to remove the cheap black vinyl gear lever boot to replace it with a nice leather one I have purchased? Second thing is that a rattle has become evident every time I put the heater fan on, seems to actually be the impeller or fan - has anyone been able to fix this themselves? Third problem with the air vent control dial, it has over a short period of time become difficult to dial indicating "Face Vent" now it is impossible to dial the control to the "Face Vent " feels like the cables are binding and not allowing the dial to be rotated to the Face? Can anyone help with these stupid niggles on my van, thank you for all your advice, Peter.

Answers

Neding contact, Peter. Ches - Ceslovas Ramanauskas from Australia

Volkswagen Transporter 2008

An indicator says "SAFE" on the dashboard... so the engine starts and then switches off automatically within 1 or 2 seconds... What’s the fault? How can I fix it?

Answers

There is an immobiliser fault. When safe appears on the dash it is a message to inform you the immobiliser is in safe mode. The ignition key is most likely at fault. This would need to be re-coded or replaced. This can only be done at your nearest VW retailer or workshop... Mark from County Antrim

Volkswagen Sharan 2002

When the car is idling there is a noisy rattle from the front. If I press the clutch it all goes quiet - has anybody any idea why this is and whether I should be concerned?

Answers

Sounds like your clutch bearing! Derek from England

Volkswagen Transporter 2000

Hi, I have fully refurbished my T4 spending a fortune on parts and work. Now it looks great and works fine exept of one thing. It loses power on motorway driving, engine revs up to 2-2,500 revs and no more, I can only go about 60mph (it used to do 100mph). My mate said it’s called a "flat spot". It was plugged in to a computer, no faults found, replaced some sensors but it’s still not resolved. Van has new cambelt and service. Any suggestions? (T4 2.5 TDI 88bhp LWB)

Answers

Have a look at the fuel pump pressure and air mass metering. I would reckon you’ve already checked the injectors - Roger from Worcestershire

Air flow meter most likley. Common fault. It’s located on the passenger side of engine bay. Take one of the cables off and drive van. If it makes no difference then its not working - Alun Davies from Swansea

Volkswagen Transporter 2000

Could you tell how many miles per gallon (diesel) this engine should give. Also a very good condition van price would be? eric [dot] last [at] onetel [dot] net

Answers

Hey, we get around 36mpg form out 1.9 102 LWB t5. We typically do long journeys on the motorway to Scotland and stick to the speed limits - Chris from Cambridgeshire

Volkswagen Transporter 1999

Hi all, I’m after a bit of advice. I have a VW Transporter 800 T4 special. It has done 137,000 and recently started blowing out smoke and losing water. I took it to a garage in Sheffield and they said the head gasket had gone. They replaced it and said the head was cracked - this was 7 days ago. It’s now blowing smoke and not holding water at all - does anyone have any suggestions??? I took it back to the garage and he had a look at the water pump but it’s not that and he says there’s nothing wrong with the work he’s done on it (£1,200?). Any suggestions would be welcomed thank you.

Answers

Try Motorcast near Shrewsbury. They fix alloy heads - Bruce from Swansea

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

Hi! I bounght a 2005 VW Transporter T5 about a month ago. A great van on diesel so far but I am unhappy about the comfort factor. It seems very rough, every bump I hit I feel. I sent it to the garage and got the anti-roll bars done, two rubber bearings on the top of the shock, new brakes, and new links. And even after all this it’s still rough to travel in when I do over 60 mph - the steering wheel starts shaking like mad. I got the wheels balanced, thinking it would solve that problem but no luck. The garage said they can not see anything else wrong so could somebody help me and let me know what my problem might be? Thanks, Gavin.

Answers

Hi mate, have ALL your tyres rechecked for bulges on the "tread side" of the tyres as this has happened to me TWICE! A tyre place (that will remain nameless!!) balanced our tyres and didn’t pick up on this!! What happens is the tyre structure gets damaged from hitting lumps and pot holes in the road too hard and the steel belts that make up the many layers a tyre is made from break and cause the tyre to loose its shape. It’s not as easy to spot this problem on the tread side as it is a side wall! Paul Mitchell from England

Volkswagen Touran

Could you please tell me the good and the bad things about the dsg gearbox?

Answers

No bad points, excellent gearbox either in normal or sport mode. Manual paddle facility is particularly fun, especially on country roads. Enjoy - Stan Cleghorn from Northumberland

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

I have been led to believe that the flywheel has gone on my Transporter T25. I need a breakdown in picture form of how it is assembled. Can anyone help?

Answers

Google "vw dual mass flywheel" under images - Google It from England

Volkswagen Golf Plus 2009

What is the annual road fund licence and what insurance group is it in?

Answers

It’s group 7 insurance and road tax is £125.00 per annum - Sherry McIntosh from England

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

I have a creaking from the side sliding doors when you go over rough ground or bumps, any suggestions?? It sometimes won’t go into reverse when stationary and if you change gear quickly at high revs it crunches and also uses water. It is not going into the oil and when pressure tested does not shown any leaks, any suggestions?? (T5 Kombi Window Van)

Answers

Grease the conical locating pins on the door and it’s probably the coolant pump if its a 2.5 (my background: 8yrs with VW experience) - VW man from England