VW Golf TDI

VW Golf TDI questions and answers

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Q: VW Golf TDI 2002 Automatic. Can anyone let me know where the glow plugs are located physically?
Hi, I want to replace them myself. I already purchased the glow plugs.I removed the engine plastic cover but not sure the plugs are there. I am not a mechanic but good with tools and thought it should not be too difficult just replacing the glow plugs. also same question regrding fuel filter(?) - Or, is fuel filter more difficult/"different story"? THANKS.

A: This will help on your glow plug questions http://forums.tdiclub.com/showthread.php?t=79819 and as per the filter. the filter is located on the left hand side of the engine compartment if you are looking at the engine here is a pic http://blogs.edmunds.com/roadtests/oldfilter.jpg the only this is that when you replace the filter you may want to go get some diesel. Because when you remove the old filter and you try to start it you will get air in the lines and you will never start it without bleeding the lines. and that is a pain in the A@#. When you take your old filter out get the new one and put diesel in it in the top hole once it is full then you can install it. But Remember if you do not install the fuel filter right you are going to need to bleed the lines.....

Q: I have received a "cambelt replacement reminder". I own a vw golf tdi 05 model with 30k on the clock, yes/no?
Is a cam belt replacement necessary at 30k? My car is 4 years old next month. Can a mechanic have a quick look perhaps easy/difficult?

A: VW recommends cam belt change at 4 years regardless of mileage. If it fails it is a major repair.

Q: 2002 vw golf tdi transmission fluid?
Ok... so i don't know a lot, but was wonder where the dipstick is for the transmission fluid on a golf tdi? Please help, and if you could give me a website that would also have the info, that would be great! I have been all over the vw site. Thank you.

A: some of the newer vehicles do not have a dipstick. you have to have it checked when you change the oil. You may want to check with your local dealer service dept. should not cost anything to ask. also read your owners manual

Q: Which should i buy, audi A4 otr VW golf tdi?
Im looking at both in 1.9Tdi, also can anyone tell me the difference between GT and GT TDI I heard the GT is just the interior of the car is a higher model?

A: Both come from the same stable and are good cars - Choose the one that you like (you won't go wrong that way). Incidentally my experience with Audi and VW is that Audi spares are more expensive.

Q: I have a vw golf tdi 02reg the back wash/wiper leaks and shorts out alarm.?


A: Your washer hose popped off the nozzle. Have to pop the cover off the hatch, re-attach the hose and use a hose clamp to secure the hose. Common problem, apparently.

Q: The turbo on my Yreg VW Golf TDI has packed up. Any ideas what might be wrong?


A: Hi Are you sure its the turbo? If the problem is a lack of power then try disconnecting the wiring connector from the MAF sensor (located at the air filter housing) for starters and see if the power is restored. If so then renew the MAF. The turbo could be overboosting which causes the ECU to limit the performance to prevent engine damage. In this case you are looking for vacuum leaks in the small pipes associated with the turbo. Start at the turbo wasegate and follow the small pipe back over whilst checking its condition and security at any joins. If the vacuum pipes are okay then you need to be looking at the boost control solenoid. You may be able to substitute it for the EGR solenoid if they are similar and see if it restores power, otherwise try to get hold of a known good second hand one and see if that works, but remember to plug any disconnected vacuum pipes before starting the vehicle in case the extra air causes problems. The wastegate could be sticking or seized, or the diaphragm could be split. There are a few things to check. Can you be a bit more specific as to what is actually happening? Cheers Geordie

Q: I have 2002 VW Golf TDI Front Passenger door wont unlock with Remote, Key or Rocker Switch?
You can also lock/unlock doors from inside, but the passenger lock wont budge. Any ideas please??

A: probably needs a new lock assembly

Q: How do i reset the insp due message (on the onscreen computer) on vw golf gt tdi 99 plate?
have serviced the vechile myself and have looked on the net but have not managed to find the answer

A: It tells you in the handbook or http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080729122830AAmOHuh

Q: 2002 VW Golf TDI Automatic - how to change glow plugs?
Hi, I need new glow plugs and will purchase them today. I am not a mechanic but can handle tools well. Does anyone know and can tell me how to change glow plugs and where they are located? Also, how long should it take - like 15 minutes or closer to 1 hour? THANKS.

A: http://autorepair.about.com/

Q: Shocks for VW Golf TDI?
I need to replace the shocks on my 2001 VW Golf TDI (340,000km's). I'm looking for basic shocks to replace the original equipment -- nothing fancy or high performance. I drive mostly on the highway. Dealer installed shocks (parts/labor) is nearly $1000! Looking for better. I see many on eBay but have no idea if they will fit. Any suggestion with specific brand/model numbers would be appreciated. Regards, Bumpy in Canada

A: Get some Monroe sensatracs or Bilstein HD's. I can't tell you what feels comfortable to you but these are mid line shocks. Nothing fancy. You must also replace the mounts. Be careful when buying shocks, soft cheap shocks can let your car bottom out. Since you have an aluminum oil pan, if it hits a hole or speedbump, it'll shatter and let all the oil out, destroying the engine if you don't shut it off immediately. Common issue with VW's. Replace the shocks ASAP!

Q: how often do i need to change the timing belt on my 53 plate vw golf tdi?
my golf is a 53 plate 1.9 tdi

A: The timing belt should be replaced every 60-96k miles depending on the year. If prior to 2002 it is every 40k for automatic and 60k for manual. 2002 and newer it is every 80k miles both auto and manual. 2003 and newer every 100k miles, auto and manual. You should also change the water pump and tensioner when doing the belt.

Q: Junking a vw golf tdi?
vw golf tdi, 2001, 126,000 miles.... I blew the engine in my car yesterday. Unfortunately, I can't afford the $4400 to drop a new engine in and repair it. I have been offered $500 from someone wanting to buy it and I have another guy who buys cars interested. Problem is he won't give me an amount because he says its a rare car to come across in a junkyard and he doesn't know what to offer and I don't know what would be a good offer. I'm a single mom and every penny will make a difference to me. Can anyone tell what the approx. value might be for a fair offer?

A: Forget the guy who is low-ballin' you on the $500 offer. That would be my last pick! You're in a tough spot. Depending on the cars' condition it is worth between $4000 & $9000. (See link below) At 126,000 miles, the old engine is just nicely broke in. Too bad it took a dive. It definitely is premature failure! Check the recalls and service bulletins on the car before you give up hope. The dealer may need to give you some relief on the engine swap if there are. Next question is, can you buy something else that is as nice as your TDI for $5000? Is there a technical/vocational school nearby that teaches automechanics? You might consider checking with the teacher to see if he would like the repair job as a class project.