Segment:
Compact car, hatchback
Key Competitors:
Ford Escort, Opel Kadett, Peugeot 309, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla
Design Philosophy:
Solid build quality, practical design, driver-oriented feel
Popularity:
Globally popular, known for its robustness and driving dynamics
Diy Support:
Empowers DIY mechanics and home enthusiasts with factory-level repair data
Professional Use:
Valuable resource for independent repair shops and professional technicians
Engine:
All engine variants and systems (detailed in Engine Specs)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional Syncro all-wheel drive (AWD)
Suspension:
Front and Rear suspension systems
Brakes:
Brake system components, ABS (if equipped)
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering system
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, instruments, fuses, relays
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats
Climate Control:
Heating and ventilation system
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injection (EFI) / Carburetor systems
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, thermostat, water pump
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (if equipped)
Safety Systems:
Seatbelts, airbag systems (if equipped)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service, fluid changes, filter replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common problems, fault finding charts
Repair:
Component repair and replacement procedures
Installation:
Installation of new or rebuilt components
Disassembly:
Step-by-step disassembly of all major vehicle systems
Assembly:
Step-by-step assembly of all major vehicle systems
Adjustments:
Precise adjustments for engine, brakes, suspension, etc.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds
Diagrams:
Detailed pictorial diagrams, exploded views, schematics, and photos
Tool References:
Includes specific VW special tool numbers and usage illustrations
Torque Values:
Comprehensive torque specifications for all fasteners
Wear Limits:
Detailed wear limits for critical components
Precautions:
Extensive safety precautions, DANGER, CAUTION, and NOTE remarks
Engine Family:
VW EA827 (later variations known as Golf/Passat engine family)
Displacement Options:
1.3L (CU, EP, EV), 1.6L (EZ, HN, PN, RF, JP, FP, JN, ME), 1.8L (EV, GU, RP, RH, PB, GX, RV, PL, KR), 2.0L (DF, FD)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 55 HP (1.3L) to 139 HP (1.8L 16V GTI/G60)
Torque Range:
Varies significantly with engine variant
Injection Carburetion:
Carbureted (e.g., Pierburg, Solex) on base models, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) on higher trims and later models (e.g., Digifant)
Configuration:
Inline-four cylinder, front-mounted, transverse
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) for 16V engines
Crash Test Performance:
Variable by region and specific year; Euro NCAP not established during this period. Known for solid structural integrity.
ABS:
Optional on some models, particularly later years
Traction Control:
Rarely available, not a common feature
Airbags:
Driver airbag became available as an option in later model years (late 1980s).
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, optional rear seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for most engines; typically every 40,000-60,000 miles (60,000-100,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SF/SG or ACEA A1/A2. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40, but consult specific engine recommendations.
Coolant:
G11 (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
VW G 000 901 or equivalent ATF (e.g., Dexron II/III).
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), electrical gremlins (especially older wiring), carburation issues, starter motor problems, suspension wear (bushings, ball joints).
Rust:
Prone to rust in common areas like wheel arches, sills, and tailgate, especially in humid climates.
Brand Legacy:
Volkswagen's reputation for robust engineering and practical, reliable vehicles.
Mk2 Development:
Built on the success of the Mk1 Golf, featuring improved aerodynamics, increased interior space, and enhanced safety features.
Design Updates:
Facelifted in 1988 with revised bumpers, grille, and interior trim.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Wolfsburg, Germany, but also produced in other VW plants globally.
Total Production Volume:
Millions of units worldwide.
