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99 Beetle with some problems! I have no idea how to fix!!


SunnyBeetle
03-21-2009, 11:56 PM
Hi all!

I just bought my first beetle! Its a yellow, 1999 2.0, manual with 86k. No mods that I know of. I obviously bought it used, for a VERY cheap price, so I knew I was bound to have a few problems.

1. I have had it for 3 days now. On day 2, I noticed the smell of coolant, pretty strong, only on the front drivers side of the engine, especially when its running, but there is no coolant on the ground or anywhere else that I can see.

2. When I start it up sometimes I get 3 "dings" of the warning chime, but there are no lights or anything on, so I don't know what it is warning me about!!

3. Also, for like 30 seconds, my gas gauge went all the way down to empty and I got the audible low fuel warning (I had just filled up the tank). About another 30 seconds later, it went back up to normal.

I am getting no warning lights, no overheating. What should I do?

I am not very good with cars, but I would like to try and fix this myself.

Any suggestions?

Franco2112
03-22-2009, 03:49 PM
Q1. This is most likely due to a water pump seal leaking. At this mileage you will need to change the timing belt if it has not already been done. When you do this you can also change the water pump seal and other components. Dealer cost for me was $700. A ruined engine cost about $4000.

Q2. Warning chime is system check. As long as it goes away your ok. Could also be due to a weak battery.

Q3. A weak battery will make your instrument cluster act goofy. Just keep an eye on starting/battery.

Also with your mileage the 80,000 service if it has not been done is as follows:
1. Spark Plugs- Dealer cost $185/ If needed, Spark Plug Wires- Dealer cost $85
2. Fuel Filter- Dealer cost $85
3. Cabin Air Filter- Dealer cost $55
4. Timing Belt and Water Pump $700
Total Cost $ 1110 or less

If you go to dealer for this since it such a large order negotiate the price.

SunnyBeetle
03-22-2009, 08:37 PM
Hi Franco! Thank you for the reply!

Last tune up was at 40K. (assuming this includes spark plugs/wires??)

I'm going to go ahead and just replace the battery. No sense in messing with it.

Is the water pump and timing belt considered normal maintenance? If it is normal maintinence, then I will just do it. If not, is there any way to be sure this is the problem before I drop $700 on it?

The car has had ALL the manufacturer normal maintenance (it is even recorded on the carfax report!).

Franco2112
03-22-2009, 09:33 PM
Yes, the timing belt and water pump is considered normal maintenance. Those items are recommended(by the dealer) to be replace at around 60,000. You just don't want to chance ruining a engine over a belt. Some belts have broken at idle and ruined engines. Your dealer/service person can pull all records by vin # and also check your timing belt teeth wear right there in front of you. The carfax is a good thing. Let me know how things turn out.
Franco

SunnyBeetle
03-22-2009, 10:02 PM
I certainly will! I am having a mechanic I know come over this weekend to give me an estimate on ALL of the things you suggested. I want to make sure I am taking good care of this car!

Amy

Any other suggestions for maintenance that I probably don't know about?

Franco2112
03-23-2009, 01:21 PM
Engine air filter. About $10-$15. Oil change $25. That about covers it.

SunnyBeetle
03-23-2009, 07:16 PM
Engine air filter. About $10-$15. Oil change $25. That about covers it.

Did the air filter and 100% synthetic oil change yesterday! I will let you know what the mechanic says when he sees the car tomorrow.

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