Volkswagen Rabbit/GTI/Jetta/GLI MkV DIY & FAQ

DIY: replacing shift bracket bushings

Tools:
Socket wrench
10mm socket
13mm socket
T25 torx
flathead screwdriver
Step 1: Remove intake (and/or engine cover depending on how your car is equipped).

Step 2: Remove battery. Disconnect negative terminal, then positive. Then remove 13mm bolt and clamp holding battery in place. Remove battery and sides of battery box, set aside.

Step 3: Remove 3 10mm bolts holding [...]

DIY: Plasti-Dip Tiguan Front Chrome Grill

Periwinkles and I decided to pull apart the grill on the Tig, and Plasti-Dip the chrome front.
1. First there are 3 screws, one by each light and one in the center holding on the grill.(only 3 screws? they aren’t trying very hard.) Light screws. One on each side.

Center Screw

2. After removing the screws, start [...]

FYI: Updated approved oil list

See here: http://www.audiusa.com/etc/medialib/cms4imp/audi2/aoa/company/aoa-specific.Par.0023.File.pdf

FYI: Alignment Specs (US and Euro)

Front, US:
Camber: -30′ +/- 30′
Toe Out (at left and right lock): 1deg 38′
Caster: 7deg 34′
Ride Height: 382mm +/- 7mm
Front, Euro:
Camber: -44′ +/- 30′
Toe Out (at left and right lock): 1deg 22′
Caster: 7deg 47
Ride Height: 360 +/- 7mm
Rear, US:
Camber: 1deg 20′
Rear, Euro:
Camber: 1deg 45′

DIY: Replacing Transmission Side Mount

Tools:
10mm socket
13mm socket
16mm socket
18mm socket
socket wrenches
jack
jackstands
chunk of 2×4
Step 1: If you have an aftermarket intake you may need to remove it.

Step 2: Use the 10mm socket and disconnect the battery, negative terminal first.

Step 3: Use the 13mm socket and remove the bolt and clip holding the battery in place.

Step 4: Remove the plastic shell around [...]

DIY: Replacing Side Engine Mount

Tools:
Jack
Jackstands
Block of wood
Breaker Bar
10mm socket
13mm socket
16mm socket
18mm socket
Socket wrench
Socket extensions
T25 torx screwdriver
Step 1: Remove 10mm bolt that holds the windshield washer fill neck.

Step 2: Pull the wiring harness away from the coolant res.

Step 3: Remove 2 T25 torx screws holding the coolant res in place.

Step 4: Disconnect coolant level sensor, and pull res to the [...]

DIY: GTI/Rabbit antenna swap

Tools:
T20 torx driver
T25 torx driver
10mm socket and socket wrench
22mm socket and socket wrench
Small inspection mirror
Plastic trim tool, or flathead screwdriver wrapped in vinyl electrical tape
Please note: The headliner is made of fiberglass, long sleeve shirt and gloves recommended, exposure to fiberglass can cause skin irritation.
Step 1: Start by removing the trim piece at the rear [...]

DIY: Valentine V1 hardwire install

These instructions can be used to hardwire just about any aftermarket electronic device so that it will power on with the ignition.  The only difference is where you mount the device, and how you run the wire.
Tools required:
Trim tool -or- flathead screwdriver wrapped in electrical tape to protect interior pieces
T20 torx screwdriver
Optional:
Add-a-circuit -or- fuse tap
Double-sided [...]

DIY: modifying service interval settings (with VAG-COM)

To perform the mileage adaptation:
1.) Select 17-Instruments
2.) Select Adaptation (10) under advanced functions
3.) Enter Adaptation Channel Number: 42 and select “Read”
4.) The window should read: “Minimum value mileage” and Min. Value Oil in 100 Miles
5.) The stored value should read “50″ for 5000 mile intervals
6.) Enter “100″ for 10000 mile intervals
7.) Select “Save” and select [...]

DIY: resetting service indicator (with or without VAG-COM)

For people without access to VAG-COM:
Vehicles with Multifunction Display -
1.) With the key out of the ignition – Press and hold the “0.0”, located on the right side of the instrument cluster.
2.) While holding the reset button insert the key and turn to the “Accessory” position. Wait for “Service now!” message to appear on multi–functionscreen.
3.) [...]