1.8T GTI sludge?
I see that this topic has been discussed at length, but the information seems (Paul) to suggest that only the Passat and A4 are at risk. What about my 2002 1.8T GTI? I had assumed that my car was also at risk for sludging. If not, why not? If so, what can I do? I’m using synthetic oil ($75 – $80 a change every 4K, thank you very much), but should I do a prophylactic engine flush as well? Is my car doomed to seize on the I-5 Grapevine?
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thomas_mck Said,
November 13, 2005 @ 10:55 am
Warranty – The warranty extension letter covered all cars with 1.8T engines. Yes, your car is at risk.
Motorrad Said,
November 14, 2005 @ 8:49 am
1.8T GTI sludge? – Thanks, Paul. After countless problems during the first 30K, my car has actually been running perfectly for the last 14 months. It’s a fantastic car when it’s not troublesome. And, yes, the coilpacks were replaced long ago.
297 Said,
November 14, 2005 @ 12:09 pm
1.8T GTI sludge? – No, your car is not doomed to sieze on the Grapevine, unless you neglect maintenance. The reason is that the longitudinal variant of the engine (which was the initial design) on the Audi A4 and Passat 1.8T boasted a smaller oil capacity (somewhere around 3qt. or so) and smaller oil filter. The easy fix for these cars was to shove the larger oil filter than came in later-model cars, including your 2002 GTI, which, as the transverse variant, did not encounter this problem and no, the warranty extension does not cover the transverse engine — and in all honesty, it really wouldn’t matter as this particular problem does not affect it.
What you should check on are your coilpacks… make sure these were checked and replaced at one point in your regularly scheduled maintenance at the dealership. If you have not gone to the dealership for your service, call and find out if your car received the bad batch of coilpacks — you are entitled to a free replacement set.