Cold Start Problem on a VW 1.8 Turbo -- Helping a Friend - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

tvpierce · #1 03-16-2004, 01:38 PM

A co-worker owns a '03 VW GTI 1.8. He posted the following thread on a VW forum, and didn't get much help. I know we're lucky enough to have some very talented and knowledgable techs on this site. Do any of you have any experience with this engine?
He bought the car from a private party, and has taken it to the dealer. But they seem unable or unwilling to track down the problem.

Here's his post:

**********
My 2003 gti 1.8T has had a cold start problem the dealership cannot find. In the high rpm idle when starting it miss fires and if I put it in gear it tries to, and sometimes does, stall. I need to let it warm up for about a minute and it runs fine. They claim it is carbon build up. I've tried 3M and Chevron Valve Cleaner as well as TECHRON and it still does the same. It is highly suspect that it would build up so quickly. They have replaced thermostats, checked wiring, and can't find a problem. It seems like a cold start valve, if there is one on the car. It doesn't seem like it should be tough to find but they can't find the problem even though the computer is registering misses in starting idle on 2 and 4. I am at 19,000 miles and am still under waranty. I am tempted to take it to a independent german/foreign car mechanic to see if they can find the problem. Part of me wants to sell the car but financially I can't now, plus once it is up to temperature it is so much fun to drive... I am getting frustrated though. Does anyone have a solution?

**********

Thanks in advance for any help.

Jeff Pierce