Volkswagen Golf:  Lifter Ticking Diagnosis

One of the most annoying things that you can coming from under the hood of your Volkswagen Golf is a ticking lifter.  The ticking noise makes it sound like the engine is going to give up the ghost at any time.  There are a few things that can cause a lifter to tick, such as … Read more

Volkswagen Golf: P0171 and P0174 Diagnosis

P0171 and P0174 both indicate that there is a lean condition present in your Volkswagen Golf.  By themselves, these are some of the most common OBD2 codes.   When they appear together, it indicates that the entire engine is running lean. Definition Both of these codes are generic, which means they have the same meaning … Read more

Volkswagen Golf:  Clutch Slipping → Diagnosis

Your Volkswagen Golf’s clutch provides a direct connection between the engine and transmission.  Without it, it can’t move at all. This connection requires a tremendous amount of pressure.  This guide is intended to help you determine why your clutch is slipping on the flywheel. Note:  This article is for manual cars only.  Here’s the automatic … Read more

Volkswagen Golf:  Engine Sputtering (Causes + Diagnosis)

A sputtering engine can indicate a number of problems.  If your Volkswagen Golf has a sputter, it is most likely going to be caused by bad fuel system, ignition system, MAF sensor, or bad catalytic converter.  Your Golf’s engine is a giant pump.  It pulls in air (where it is measured by the mass airflow … Read more

Volkswagen Golf:  Brake Pedal Going to Floor Diagnosis

The single most important safety feature in your Volkswagen Golf is a good set of brakes.  If your brake pedal is going to the floor, it indicates that there is a serious problem in the braking system.  When the pedal goes to the floor, it’s usually caused by a bad master cylinder, leaking brakes, bad … Read more

Volkswagen Golf Shifting Hard: Causes + Diagnosis

One of the most common automatic transmission problems is shifting hard.  If your Volkswagen Golf has a hard shifting transmission, it can be uncomfortable to drive and a sign of serious problems. If your car’s transmission is shifting hard, it can cause a harsh ride and lead to potential damage over time. Numerous factors can … Read more

Volkswagen Golf:  Warped Rotors → Symptoms & Causes

  Rotors are metal discs that are visible behind the Golf’s wheel. They work together with the calipers and brake pads to slow down your Volkswagen Golf. Due to braking friction, rotors have to withstand and dissipate a tremendous amount of heat. This causes the rotor surface to be uneven making the brake pedal feel … Read more

Volkswagen Golf: Bad Motor Mount → Symptoms + Diagnosis

While your Volkswagen Golf’s engine mounts can last the life of the entire vehicle, it is possible that they will go bad.  Vibration and a clunking sound are the two most noticeable symptoms when driving the vehicle.  There are plenty of visible signs as well. Engine mounts connect the engine to the frame of the … Read more