VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER: Questions and answers

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

Recently my Volkswagen Transporter`s front wipers stopped working on the normal setting and when you push it down for one wipe. However, the intermittent and fast settings work fine with no problems. Any ideas what this could be?

Volkswagen Transporter 2002

Could someone please tell me how I go about changing the cigarette lighter in my Volkswagen Transporter? Thank you.

Volkswagen Transporter 2002

How do I replace the cigarette lighter in my Volkswagen Transporter? Thanks for any help.

Volkswagen Transporter 2000

My Volkswagen Transporter`s indicators sometiimes slow right down to being almost constantly on and then they work okay again. Any ideas?

Volkswagen Transporter 1993

Does anyone know where to get a decent electrical diagram for my Volkswagen Transporter? In particular for the radiator cooling fans V7 and V35 and the auxillary electric water pump. There doesn`t seem to be any information on these in the manual. (7 seat Caravelle)

Volkswagen Transporter 2002

About how long should it take to change a Volkswagen Transporter t4 automatic transmission?

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 Transporter 2005

What size (metric) and type is the correct plug spanner to use to remove the injectors for my Volkswagen Transporter? (1900 tdi)

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 Transporter 1993

My Volkswagen Transporter van is juddering when it starts and smoking. Any ideas?

Volkswagen Transporter 1999

When I was sitting with the engine of my Volkswagen Transporter running, suddenly smoke started coming from the engine area. I opened the bonnet and it disappeared and it seems to be running okay now. Any ideas what was wrong? (Caravelle)

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

My T28 / 130 2.5 diesel van (with 150,000 miles) 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. Anyone with any ideas?

Volkswagen Transporter 2008

When I hit my remote unlock it sounds like a small fan starts. Is this some kind of a special heater for cold weather? It does not shut off until the engine is up to operating temperater even if I shut the car off and relock the doors. Is this normal. Help!

Volkswagen Transporter 2006

Where are the fuses located for the head lights in a 2006 Volkswagen Transporter?

Volkswagen Transporter 2000

My passanger door has a mind of its own and most of the time will not shut properly. I have an idea it is somehow related to the central locking but can’t prove it. I get around it (sometimes) by manually flicking the lock catch shut and then opening it with the door handle but this too seems hit and miss some days. Does anyone have any ideas please? (Caravelle)

Volkswagen Transporter 1989

The engine of my Volkswagen Transporter smokes a lot on start up for several minutes but disappears when the engine is warm. Any ideas? (diesel)

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

Hi. My Volkswagen Transporter T5 Ecu`s computer is not connecting. Can some one help please?

Volkswagen Transporter 1998

I have a T4 transporter that has a problem with the drivers side light (parking and main dipped beam) it was working fine up until 2 days ago then has stopped working only sometime if I bang it. Changed bulbs and banged it but still not working. Can anyone help please?

Volkswagen Transporter 2006

My Volkswagen Transporter hisses when you accelerate and the oil is thick around the lid. It has also just started to emit thick black soot and smoke from the exhaust. Any ideas how to fix this problem?

Volkswagen Transporter 2006

My Volkswagen Transporter t5 has started rattling when I release the clutch. Would this be the gearbox?

Volkswagen Transporter 2009

The nylon runner on the sliding door of my Volkswagen Transporter has a bearing in it that has collapsed. The VW agent tells me that you have to replace the complete hinge and bracket and you cannot just get the roller. Is this true? How can I fix the middle and top rollers?

Volkswagen Transporter 1996

How do I change a u/s rear braking light on my Volkswagen Transporter please? (Swift camper conversion)

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 Transporter 2006

Can anyone tell me where and how do I fit the water pump on a Volkswagen Transporter please?

Volkswagen Transporter 1998

Hello all. My VW Transporter (petrol/lpg) does not start when the engine is warm. After waiting for about 5 minutes it will start again. A VW mechanic cleaned the immobiliser but that didn’t fix the problem. Can you please help? Thank You.

Volkswagen Transporter 1997

Can you repair an idler motor for a 1997 T4 Transporter?

Volkswagen Transporter 1994

Hi. When driving I have noticed my Volkswagen Transporter juddering and vibrating. And when I reverse it makes an awful grinding noise. Has anyone else experienced this and might know what the problem may be?

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 Transporter 1997

I’ve got a problem with the glow plug relay. I turn ignition on and the glow plug light shows yellow and the relay points click across. Wait for 15-20 seconds light goes out, relay points part, then I turn the key to start the engine. The relay points click across again, the engine starts but the relay points stay clicked together, still feeding power to alternator and eventually blowing in line 80amp fuse, please help.

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

My Volkswagen Transporter has started making a knocking noise when you start to rev the engine and to blow smoke. Any ideas please, as I need it fixing asap. (diesel)

Volkswagen Transporter 2000

Hi there. I have a Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 tdi and I have rattle / clattering from the engine when warm on tick over and when at speed. The noise comes and goes. And if I press the brake peddle and let it off the noise goes and comes back again??? Brake vacuum pump perhaps???

Volkswagen Transporter 1992

I’m having trouble removing the oil sump from my Transporter. I have removed all bolts and the sump is loose but will not come free from the main block. It feels like something is catching it from inside the sump. Can anyone help?

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 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 Transporter 2005

Hello. Can anyone tell me please where the coils for the cabin blower are situated and how I can get to them? Thanks.

Volkswagen Transporter 1995

I want to top up the oil on my gear box but I cannot see where the top up nut is? And if you don’t mind please let me know where is the bottom one as well. Thank you, my van is a 1995 VW Transporter.

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 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 Transporter 2009

from Leicestershire has sent in a question on My (diesel) van is 2 years and 2 months old, and has done 33,000 miles, serviced every 10,000 miles. It has been at our dealership for the last 6 days as the clutch went - with no warning whatsoever. I have now been told that it is going to cost £1,100 plus VAT to replace the clutch as it is not covered under the 3 year warranty! Has anyone else had this problem? (T5GP Panel Van T30 SWB)

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 Transporter 2004

My Volkswagen Transporter’s main beam headlights do not work. The fuses in the cab are all OK. Any ideas on what else I might try? (swb)

Volkswagen Transporter 1987

Hello, can anyone help me find a wiring diagram for our van? He starts, but when the accelerator is used he cuts out. We’ve replaced the air flow metre, fuel pump and checked the ECU and can’t find any faults. We think that a wire is loose somewhere, but no idea where to start looking. Any ideas of what to try next would be appreciated. (Petrol)

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 Transporter 2001

This Transporter is a recent acquisition and clearly has suffered a distinct lack of TLC. Mechanics are now pretty well sorted but the heater controls fail to function. I need to gain access behind the (much modified) dashboard to access the cables etc. How do I gain the requisite access? Right now, when I drive I freeze! Help! (T4)

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 Transporter 1995

I am trying to identify the model / year of a set of dash clocks I’ve been given. They are similar to the Mid (09/1995 -> 06/1999), except the rev counter also has a digital counter - can anyone help? Thanks.

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 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 Transporter 1987

My Volkswagen Transporter’s engine won’t turn over. How do you adjust automatic transmission selector? (Caravelle)

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 Transporter 2004

My Volkswagen Transporter turns over for a very long time before starting. But only when fuel gauge goes under half full. Has anyone else experienced this? Has anyone any idea if it something to be concerned about?

Volkswagen Transporter 1999

Hi. The indicators on my Transporter keep failing. They blink once then stop. Had a garage look at it (it was miles away as we were away at the time) and they fixed it and showed me what to do if it went again, but I can’t remember!! Can anyone help?!

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 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 Transporter 2003

The camshaft belt has broken on my 2003 Transporter diesel. How long would it take to take off the head to inspect the damage?

Volkswagen Transporter 2007

The 12v socket on my Volkswagen Transporter only works when the side lights are switched on. When only the ignition is on it doesn’t work, Does anyone know why?

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 Transporter 2008

I’m unable to get front lights to go to low beam from high beam - and the high beam light stays on the dashboard. But I can get them to go to low beam by pulling the arm fully backwards in the flash mode. Any ideas?

Volkswagen Transporter 1999

Can someone please help? I have a 2.5-litre Volkswagen Transporter tdi t4 that is pressurising but very strangely. It will go hundreds of miles on motorway with no problems but the minute you slow down for town traffic it dumps water from the exp tank. I have changed rad, thermo, water pump and cambelt but no joy. I noticed the rubber hose to engine block stayed cold so removed and flushed through. It was totally blocked. It now runs hot but could cylinder head be blocked with the same gunge? Help needed please! (t4 caravelle)

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 Transporter 1997

Hi, does anybody know what colour dash dials has a 1997 Volkswagen Transporter T4 got?

Volkswagen Transporter 1994

Am I being crazy in getting a low emission zone DPF filter put onto my very old but beloved Volkswagen Transporter van. Has anybody done this and can you recommend a reasonably priced garage to get it done? I’m trying to find the lowest possible price and I’m wondering, if I park it at my Granny’s in Sevenoaks for a few months then, after January the price of the filters might come down. One garage I have spoken to said they have already come down £500 since last year. Any thoughts or advice would be most appreciated. (1.9tdi 800 special)

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 Transporter 2005

Hi and thanks for any responses, mine is a T5 2.5 ,128 kw diesel 4 motion, 116000 klm’s. Firstly, I’ve fitted Cooper Tyres CS4 235/55 R17, had a wheel alignment at time of fitting but after only 25000 kilos the outside edge front passenger (NS) tyre is bald? The front driver side is also wearing but its not bald yet but soon will be. Is this extreme rapid front tyre wear normal for these T5 Transporters at such low mileages, secondly oil consumption seems excessive, it blows some blue smoke after a cold morning start up and it does seem to have become evident after I had my water pump changed at the VW dealers when the crankcase started to fill up with coolant (nice one VW) - no warranty here, thank you. Peter.

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

Hi all, any advice appreciated. Vibration and noise VW T5 TDI Auto 2005, only 36k miles. Noise and slight vibration started 2k miles ago and was only noticeable at around 1,100 revs (not moving). There was no noise when driving. Now the noise is louder and there’s a vibration when I’m pulling off and accelerating. Dash on passenger’s side is vibrating. Is this a symptom of the gearbox on the way out? (T5 130bhp Auto 2005)

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 Transporter 2005

Hi, what oil do you put in a Volkswagen Transporter T5 1.9-litre diesel? Thanks!

Volkswagen Transporter 1991

I’ve been experiencing erratic starting problems and the yellow glow plug heater light on occasions stays on the dash of my Volkswagen Transporter T4 Caravelle. The vehicle has new glow plugs but I’d love to know what this indicates!

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 Transporter 2001

Hi, can anyone tell me the firing order of a Volkswagen Transporter T4 2.5 tdi 2001? Thank you.

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

I can’t seem to locate the part number for the power steering pump on a Volkswagen Transporter 1.9 tdi swb. Any help would be appreciated.

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

Hi, everytime I pull away my Volkswagen Transporter I get a huge plume of black smoke and the power drops when driving. Could it be the turbo or is it the injecters? Thanks in advance.

Volkswagen Transporter 2004

Hi. There is constant rattle coming from the speakers on top of the dash on my Volkswagen Transporter. If I put pressure on the cover it stops. Please help, it drives me mad.

Volkswagen Transporter 1996

Can anybody tell me how to remove dashboard on a Volkswagen Transporter Caravelle or how to fix a common fault: Temperature gauge and fuel gauge not working? Thanks in advance.

Volkswagen Transporter 2007

Hi, the parking sensor warning alarm on my 2007 T5 VW Transporter sometimes comes on when put into reverse and there’s nothing behind. I have a towbar fitted, but I’m sure that is not the cause. Any ideas?

Volkswagen Transporter 2007

My brake lights are coming on when not braking and lights come on when parked up. Need advice.

Volkswagen Transporter 1995

Where do five spark plugs go to on distributor cap? There are no markings on distributor cap or plug HT leads. Brand new distributor cap and rotor arm from VW garage. I live on an island and can’t get any assistance from VW garages on mainland Australia. Can anyone help please? (Dual cab Ute 5 cylinder petrol)

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 Transporter 1996

How do I change the injector leak off pipes on VW Transporter? It is a 1996 1096cc engine.

Volkswagen Transporter 2006

Hi there, just bought the van and have found that the heater always lets out a little heat when closed to the off position and will not blow cold air at all. Could you please help?

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 Transporter 2007

How do you remove turbo in a T5 Transporter?

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 Transporter 2001

I have a VW Transport 2.4, what other gearbox will fit it?

Volkswagen Transporter 1997

Hello, thanks for taking my question, I have a 2.5 1997 VW Transporter. It keeps slipping between 2nd and 3rd gears. I take my foot off pedal and it goes into 3rd gear, great. Many thanks, David. (auto)

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 Transporter 2005

How do I get the plastic windscreen bulkhead surround off without breaking to access the windscreen wipers motor?

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 Transporter 2010

I’m thinking about buying a 2010 VW Transporter t30 102ps 5 speed gear box. Can anyone help and let me know how they run when fully loaded?

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 Transporter 1991

Our heater only blows out hot air! Please please could someone advise me on what the problem is and how to fix it? It’s sooo hot in here! (camper)

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 Transporter 2005

What is a realistic MPG figure on a 2.5 TDI Transporter on a run? (2.5)

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 Transporter 2007

What is wrong if your exhaust system fault light appears on the dash?

Volkswagen Transporter

I have a 2002 T4 Transporter 2.5 tdi. I have just fitted a new clutch/flywheel kit and now it won’t start. I also have no heater plug light and no engine management light. Does any one have any ideas on what could be wrong? Thanks.

Volkswagen Transporter 2005

My Caravelle has electric sliding doors on the rear, parked it in a car park whilst on holiday and all was okay. Upon return to car the door would not work from the door handle but will still work fine from the button on dashboard, the dashboard light is flashing whilst vehicle in motion and stays on solidly when stationary. Any ideas? All help gratefully received.

Volkswagen Transporter 1999

The lights on our speedo and rev counter needle work now and again. More often they don’t work but we have noticed they work more when it’s a damp/humid climate. We’re assuming we have a loose connection. How do we go about checking? Would like to fix it ourselves. Thank you for your time.

Volkswagen Transporter 2001

Anyone know the part number for a power steering belt and length for this model?

Volkswagen Transporter 1997

I have a heater problem, my heater will only blow hot through the side vents, it blows cold to the windsreen and cold to the the floor. Cables are adjusted correctly and both pipes in and out of the matrix are equal temperatures. Driving me mad , have spent hours, days on it. Please help, John. (1.9 td. t-4)

Volkswagen Transporter 2001

T4 2.5 tdi caravelle... refused to start replaced relay 109... not that... made up a link to replace the relay 109... then fitted a BMW two pin yellow relay which works great.... one year on and the glo plug light started flashing... the local garage replaced four glo plugs... this is a five cylinder engine.. why only replace four glo plugs? Will it now be OK for another 150,000 miles or should I ask the garage why they only replaced four when there should be five? (caravelle)

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 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 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 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 Transporter 1997

Hi. I’ve been literally peeling the Internet back to find an answer to this. Me and my partner are expecting very soon. We would like to know if anyone has secured a babies car seat into a VW T4 ’97 transporter. The back seat is still intacked, but I don’t know if it’s stable to or safe enough to put a car seat in. I just don’t want to secure it then get a fine. It has to shoulder seat belts and a lap belt in the middle. I need to know if someone has secured and used a car seat in one before??? Please let me know. THANK YOU!!!

Volkswagen Transporter 1997

How do you change the sliding door handle on the van? I’ve taken the panel off to see but can’t see any screws to undo, please help as I need to change the lock.

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 Transporter 2006

I tried to open the bonnet of my T5 Transporter and the cable must have broken, the outer cable has come through the fire wall. Does anyone know how to get in and fix it? That is open the bonnet?

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 Transporter 1997

Hi, I just bought a 97 T4 and the heater is not working but the hoses are the same temperature either side of the control valve. Can anybody help?

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 1994

I have a Transporter (minibus) which I’m hoping to export to France. In the paperwork I need to state the original number of seats of this model as it has been modified over the years. How many seats would this model have had originally? (57 D SWB)

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 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 Transporter

The heater in the back blows cold air when you turn the blower on or when you dont turn blower on. Can anybody help?

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 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