Thread 2 on the GTI

[imported_Greg1]

Well since my first post got wiped out with the server outage, I thought I might rejuvenate it because I have some Questions. I was reading some reviews and a couple of things have me worried:



1. The window problems

2. Engine Coil problems

3. Brake light problems

4. Timing belt and mass air flow sensor failure

5. Overall build quality

6. Overall reliability



Can anyone comment on these things because from the reviews I've read, this car sounds like a headache to own!!

 

[jjagain]

1. the early (pre 2002 i think) had problems with the window regulators failing and the windows falling into the door. this was fixed by changing the clips from pastic to "pot metal". I believe this is covered under warranty.



2. the coilpacks were a problem on early run 1.8T engines. It was supposedly due to a bad batch from the factory.



3. Never heard of Brake light problems? some cars had premature brake pad wear, but i think that's all.



4. NEver heard anything about timing belt problems. the MAFs were a bit touchy. my car is over 4 years old and i've only gone thru 1 (I have a K&N pannel filter). some people tried to correlate MAF failure with cold air intakes, but the results were inconclusive.



5&6. I think the overall build quality FAR exceeds anything in the price range. a golf or jetta is gonna be giving you the same interior as you'd find on an audi A4 or higher. there are some squeaks and creaks but what car doesn't have them. So far I have not had any major mechanical problems that weren't due to my tinkering