Questions and Answers

Volkswagen Jetta Hesitation, Loss Of Power
Q. I have a 2001 Volkswagen Jetta TDI with 115,000 kilometers (71,457 miles). Recently I have experienced a hesitation when I accelerate as well as a loss of power. It seems to be getting worse.

I have gone to the Volkswagen Dealer but they tell me that I will cost a lot of money to determine what the problem might be. Do you have any suggestions to what the problem could be?

Thanks,
Jim
Mission, BC, Canada

A. Volkswagen has issued a TSb on this problem. According to this TSB, the cause can range from a bad ECM ground to a clogged snow screen in the air filter housing to a bad or clogged EGR valve or passages. This is a list of all the possibilities from that TSB.

1. (Engine Control Module) ECM ground connection.
2. Injection pump timing.
3. Snow screen (if applicable) at intake air duct.
4. Vacuum hoses.
5. EGR valve and intake manifold air flap (integrated in EGR valve).
6. MAF sensor and EGR valve including solenoid valve.
7. Crankcase ventilation system.
8. Engine oil level.
9. Fuel quality.

You can ask your Dealer for a copy of the TSB. It is:

Group: 23
Number: 03-01
Dated: Apr. 2, 2003

Subject:
Poor Throttle Response

Model(s):
Golf, Jetta, Jetta Wagon, New Beetle 1998 to 2003 with 1.9L TDI (Engine code ALH)

Condition:
Poor throttle response on 1.9 liter TDI equipped vehicle.