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With the similarites that the Jetta / Golf / GTi have, many of the same
modifications, specifications and problems are related. So, here's an assorted list of frequently asked questions
about your MK3 that are floating out there. If you don't see one posted here you're asking, or need more info... please, PLEASE
feel free to e-mail me with any comments or questions!
Q: What does MK1, MK2, MK3 and
so on really mean? I've been hearing about it but don't understand?
A: The abbreviation MKx is meant for "Mark
x", where the 'x' is the generation or vehicle model version made by an automobile manufactor. These generations change
when there is a definite update to a specific vehicle including different style body / fascia covering, powertrain or
slight frame / body structure modifications. However the same model name is kept as the vehicle progresses
into the future. There are many 'MK' cars around the world, along with the classification of 'Evo' (Evolution) or 'Gen'
(Generation) and other non-predominant terms used in the automotive vocabulary.
Q: Where can I find a full OEM
service manual for my Jetta / Golf / GTi?
A: There's a few places to find it, and the
easiest to locate and purchase one is your local Volkswagen dealership. They have the full publications from Bentley, and are extremely detailed to every nut and bolt on your vehicle. Other places to look for these are on VW performance
online parts catalogs and even online bookstores.
Q: How to I unlock my factory Volkswagen
radio? Why does it lock?
A: OEM Volkswagen radios electronically lock-up
if power is interrupted or lost to the head unit. This feature is meant to deter theft from the vehicle. You can
unlock the radio by entering an anti-theft code; the procedure is outlined in the Tech Tips.
Q: What type of coolant does my
MK3 take and how often should it be changed out?
A: Volkswagen uses two different types of coolants
that are identified by color. The older blue version is know as G11,
and the newer red version is G12. Both of these coolants have different
characteristics and should not be mixed! Depening on model year and what's printed on your coolant
resivior is what coolant type you have in your MK3. Due to the limited availability of G11 coolant,
G12 is compatable to install but the existing G11 coolant must be removed and flushed first
before adding; if mixing occurs, a chemical reaction between the two coolants with result in a brown thick sludge build-up
in your cooling system.
The G11 coolant can last for 2 years / 24,000 miles,
and the G12 coolant is recommended to be changed every 5 years / 50,000 miles.
Of course that's depending on diriving conditions, adding to the cooling system, and the like over the specific time period.
Also, color changes are obvious of when the coolant needs to be changed. When the G11 coolant get old and turns acidic,
it turn to a green / brown color. The G12 coolant turns a cloudy pink and also turn acidic. Remember, the increase
of the pH will eat away at gaskets and hoses at an accelerated rate.
Q: When should my timing belt /
chain be replaced to avoid valvetrain damage?
A: Valvetrain maintenance is a very serious
issue on MK3's.
- 2.0L SOHC I4 [ ABA ] - These timing belts are made from kevlar
and over time wear out like a serpentine V-belt. Check the belt often and look for cracks or kevlar power for signs
of excessive wear. It's recommended to change it every 60K miles, especially since it's a belt.
- 2.8L DOHC VR6 [ AAA ] - The VR6 motors utilizes multiple timing
chains that run both of the camshafts from the crankshaft spockets. Wear is not easy to determine on a steel chain,
but streching does occur and excessive upper chain noise is a common indicator of age. Chains are due
about 90K - 110K miles depending on valvetrain noise and previous maintenance records.
A: The reason why your MIL or CEL is that the car's
on-board computer, the Engine Control Unit (ECU) programed with an On-Board Dignosis (OBD) system, is either not
recieving a signal from a single or various amounts of sensors used to track and control fuel supply, and engine
management / emissions systems. To determine which circuit or sensor is creating the warning can be found by using
a plug-in dignostic interface that shows the user which trouble code(s) are stored by the ECU. Those code number(s)
translates to a specific problem or fault on the vehilce, detailed in Volkswagen's OEM service manuals or online around
the internet. Scaning for codes can be provided by either a local dealership, favorite mechanic or at home
using purchased hardware and software. If you have scanned you vehicle and want to discern what is affected
on your car, head for the Tech
Tips page to find trouble code explainations.
Q: What is the bolt pattern and
the largest size wheel I can install on my MK3?
A: It'll either be 4 x 100mm or 5 x
100mm depending on model trim. As for wheel size, 18" inch wheels will work with a minimal (< 1.2" - 1.5" inch)
suspension lowering. With moderate / severe lowering (> 1.5" inch), rolling out the fenders will be needed for
fit and avoid tire rubbing. Anything larger than 18" inch will require a fair amount of rolling out the quarter panels
and fenders along with some extensive body work for correct fit.
Q: With
an increased wheel diameter, what tires can I mount?
A: With increased wheel diameter, you'll
need to decrease the tire sidewall to avoid rubbing of the fenderwall, and also to have your speedometer read correctly.
Your stock wheel has a specific set total diameter that your MK3 is registered to give show your speed. If that diameter
is altered, the speedometer will read higher or lower than your actually velocity. To determine what new size you'll
need for tires, head to the interactive Tire Calculator; your stock tire size will be required to find new adjusted tire size. (* MK3 Revolution thanks Miata.net)
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