1988 Volkswagen Cabrio Cabriolet Coupe from North America - Comments

I always had a problem with the clutch cable. I suppose Volkswagen had a faulty design there; the cable used to rip apart after time (months) when rubbing the metal sheet which divides the engine compartment with the inside of the car (My mechanic just fixed this by soldering a special metal piece).

A pain in the neck with the shifter because the bushings (I suppose), It has to be re-adjusted frequently because it's hard to engage the reverse and, as happened twice, when I can drive it on 2nd, 3rd and 4th gear only, so parking it and using reverse is a nightmare (I have to engage the reverse by moving the links with my hands in the engine compartment).

The odometer stopped working when I reached the 110,000 miles.

The latches which secure the top when it's up, became noisy when driving the car on the road (I suppose this happens with all convertible cars after years of use).

I changed the top on my car and bought the cable that secures the bottom part with the Volks dealer and is too large (tried to adjust, but still a problem).

Cruise control didn't work when I bought it.

I don't like the trunk, just because it's too low and is uncomfortable.

It's a low maintenance car, and gives you a good average per mileage.

A very reliable daily-driving car after fixing all the glitches and problems mentioned before.

Last time I took it with the mechanic, he told me that the engine runs very smooth, even though it is an old model; and let me tell you: I really use that clutch.

I have changed a lot of things in it like: transmission, radiator, clutch, ball joints, top, etc. And the good thing is that you can get used parts from an auto salvage, because even Rabbits or GTs fit most of your type of car if a piece is needed.

I like the way it picks up. Maybe it's not a 16 valve engine but it's quite fast.

I'm a 6.0" single guy and don't have a problem in it, I fit very well.

It's fun to drive.

I just solved the problem about the "bushings" (I thought it was that)!

...In part, yes changing all the bushings helps, but the main problem is to change to a new linkage kit (like the techtronics, that can be adjusted), I have seen that the majority of the VWs have the "linkage problem"!...

If you want to see more information about this problem type the phrase: "VW shifter link kit" on Yahoo!...

How about $1000 to replace the clutch, pressure plate and throw out bearing after 20,000 miles said it was normal wear and tear, I think not. very unhappy,

I've driven an '88 5-speed daily for four years. Runs great, is quick, handles beautifully, and is tremendous fun to drive. Course workers told me it's fun watching the inside rear wheel lift six inches off the ground in a tight turn at an autocross.

The only crippling incidents I've had with the car are a broken clutch cable and a failed fuel pump relay.

The rear window has always been leaky, even with a new seal and application of sealer. I had the top replaced on account of a hail puncture and had the window seal replaced again. The glass man said the seal was a tight fit both around the glass and in the frame. All was well until the weather cooled and, I guess, the glass and rubber contracted. Drip, drip. I guess the sealer will be reapplied!

Put upper and lower stress bars, Boge Turbogas shock absorbers, and decent tires (I'm using Yokohama ES100's, 185-60/14) on your car. The improvement in handling will surprise you!

I have a '90 cabrio. Love it. My 16 year old daughter just got her permit this week and is learning to drive it. I'll have to change the Mom's Toy license plate. The 5 speed pattern is close, but she mastered it in short order. The car is so much fun. We just replaced the exhaust and muffler. $64 dollar repair for custom bent exhaust, muffler, lifetime warranty. Not bad. Has some rattles, but runs like a top.

I have a 1988 German made Karmann golf Cabriolet with little more than 50 000 miles in it.

The only problem I encounter is the trip odometer failing (nothing that a good wank won't fix;) )

Anyway, VW here in Portugal wants to charge me

I own a white, '88 Cabriolet that I bought from a Ford dealership a few months ago. I traded in my '97 Pontiac Grand Am for it, and I'm not entirely sure it was a good deal. Yes, it's the most economical car I've EVER owned...but, I've had it in the shop four times already.

Twice for an ongoing issue where it dies at idle speed... which a mechanic here in Washington is all out of ideas on it. Once for replacing the clutch cable that snapped when I was turning into a Jack in the Box, and once more to replaced the cracked radiator.

I've learned how to drive a stick in this car, I'm saving all kinds of money on gas and insurance...but, I'm not sure the repair costs are worth it. I thouroughly enjoy the car, yes, but I'm thinking of staying with Pontiac or Ford for my next car or truck. But, who knows... those mid- to late-90's VR6 Jettas, Golfs and GTI's are pretty tempting...