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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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: [...]

DIY: checking your cam revision, A or B

April 17th, 2008 Posted in 2.0T FSI | 4 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 [...]

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 [...]

DIY: changing fuel filter

April 15th, 2008 Posted in Jetta/GLI, Rabbit/GTI | 3 Comments »

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 [...]