23rd Jan 2007, 16:35
My 98 tdi beetle ran great for 6 years 150 thousand miles.now when I shut the car off for about 4 or 5 hours or over night it won't start the next morning anyone have an idea what the problem is??
20th Mar 2007, 20:49
Hello Everyone,
I used to work as a mechanic for the Volkswagen corporation.
Installing a timing belt is a straightforward operation that involves removing the engine mount.
It was no co-incidence that the engine dropped out, this comes under the heading of negligence.
The mechanic simply did not replace all of the parts, I hope that you did not pay for his mistake?
23rd Mar 2007, 13:49
I had the no start after 4-5h or overnight. It was the engine speed sensor. Replaced it myself and have had no problems sense.
11th Feb 2008, 19:48
98 TDI 5 speed now with 168000. No real problems. Have always performed regular maintenance. Brakes lasted forever - finally replaced pads at 120K. Clutch still good. Burns out low beams about every 16 months, but are easy to replace.
Original window buttons and mirror control replaced early on under warranty. Body, interior, fit and finish still looks amazing. People still think its new.
Runs best with 45 cetane if you can get it. Note: europe typically has min 49 cetane! Most of US is 40 : (.
Originally got this car with the intention of my daughter taking it to college - but at 50mpg avg I've kept it for me!
22nd Nov 2006, 10:40
I have and drive daily an 03 VW TDI 5 speed beetle and I'm sorry to hear about all your trouble. This car is my 8th beetle and it is just as excellent as all of its predecessors. I still have my 78 convertible. Years; 59,60,63,64,73,78,2000,2003. Be patient with your Herbie, once you get a handle of the learning curve you will be able to make wise decisions as to what the truth really is. That motor mount story is classic.