Everything you never wanted to know about working on your MkV VW.

DIY: Valentine V1 hardwire install

May 20th, 2008 Posted in Jetta/GLI, Rabbit/GTI | 3 Comments »

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)

May 18th, 2008 Posted in 2.0T FSI, 2.5L, Jetta/GLI, Rabbit/GTI | No Comments »

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)

May 18th, 2008 Posted in 2.0T FSI, 2.5L, Jetta/GLI, Rabbit/GTI | No Comments »

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.) [...]

DIY: Rear wiper delete plug

April 24th, 2008 Posted in Rabbit/GTI | No Comments »

DIY rear wiper delete

Tools needed:
3/8 socket wrench
2” extension (optional)
10mm socket
13mm socket
Phillips head screwdriver
Needle nose pliers
PB blaster
Towel/rag
Cleaning solution

Supplies:
Clear silicone
zip ties (optional)
1” nylon hole plug(PURCHASE AT LOWE’S. on package says made by hillman 1″ nylon hole plugs black. comes in quantity of 2 and costs like $1.39 for the pack. can be found in the drawers next [...]

DIY: $25 PCV fix

April 19th, 2008 Posted in 2.0T FSI | No Comments »

(pictures courtesy of OOOO-A3)
Typical disclaimer… do at your own risk… blah blah
blah…
Soooo…. I think many of you are now familiar with the
PCV valve on the 2.0T engine. Its the second weak spot (second to the DV)
on these engines. The failure seems more common on chipped (stage2) cars,
but even stock cars have had these valves fail. [...]

DIY: APR downpipe install

April 18th, 2008 Posted in 2.0T FSI | No Comments »

Tools and supplies:
PB Blaster (or other penetrating grease)
Oxygen sensor wrench
1/2″ drive socket wrench
3/8″ drive socket wrench
16mm socket or 16mm wratcheting wrench
16mm deep socket
13mm socket
15mm socket
17mm socket
17mm box wrench
T20 torx screwdriver (for removing engine cover)
Jack
Jackstands
Wheel chocks
NOTE: The first few steps are EASIER TO DO if the engine is still hot.  The oxygen sensor and downpipe nuts [...]

DIY: removing stock engine cover (2.0T)

April 17th, 2008 Posted in 2.0T FSI | No Comments »

Tools required:
T20 torx screwdriver
Step 1: Unplug the MAF sensor wire, tuck it aside.

Step 2: Unclip the two metal clips holding the turbo inlet pipe onto the MAF housing.

Step 3: Pull the turbo inlet free of the MAF housing.

Step 4: Unscrew the two T20 screws on the air inlet.

Step 5: Pull the air inlet free of [...]

DIY: checking your cam revision, A or B

April 17th, 2008 Posted in 2.0T FSI | No Comments »

(Pictures courtesy of NoRegrets78 and syntrix)
Tools required:
T30 torx bit
1/4″ drive socket wrench
3″ 1/4″ drive socket extension
Rags

Step 1:  Locate the vac pump.  Its on the driver’s side of the motor, held on 3 black screws… and has one large vac hose connected to it.
Step 2:  Remove the 3 torx screws.  Blue arrows indicate location.

Step 3: Remove [...]

DIY: brake fluid bleed / change

April 16th, 2008 Posted in Jetta/GLI, Rabbit/GTI | No Comments »

Brake fluid is caustic and generally hazardous to your health.  Wear rubber/vinyl/synthetic gloves that are chemical resistant while working with brake fluid.  See MSDS here
Tools and Supplies:
Motive Pressue Bleeder (optional, if you don’t have this you will need a friend to pump the pedals for you - GermanAutoParts)
1.5L of suitable brake fluid (I used Motul DOT [...]

DIY: changing fuel filter

April 15th, 2008 Posted in Jetta/GLI, Rabbit/GTI | 1 Comment »

WARNING: Fuel system is under pressure.  It is ALWAYS a good idea to use goggles and gloves to prevent blood poisoning or injury.  Take all the obvious precautions… no smoking, don’t work near any ignition sources, etc.
Tools and supplies:
OEM Fuel Filter (p/n 1K0 201 051 C)
Phillips screwdriver
Large flathead screwdriver (optional)
Rubber/vinyl chemical resistant gloves
Goggles
Drain pan
Jack
Jack stand
Wheel [...]