1984-1989 Volkswagen Golf Jetta Mk2 A2 Workshop Service Repair Manual

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This manual covers the Golf and Jetta Mk2 (A2) models produced between 1984 and 1989. Building on the legacy of its predecessor, the Mk2 Golf/Jetta is recognized for its benchmark...

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Type: Car

Vendor:

Sku: 140766

Tags: 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 A2 Car Cars Golf Jetta Mk2 Volkswagen Volkswagen VW

Product variants

Description

This manual covers the Golf and Jetta Mk2 (A2) models produced between 1984 and 1989. Building on the legacy of its predecessor, the Mk2 Golf/Jetta is recognized for its benchmark engineering, solid build quality, and practical design, appealing to a wide range of drivers. Key features include a front-wheel-drive transverse engine layout, a spacious interior for its class, and a variety of engine options ranging from efficient 1.3L units to the performance-oriented 2.0L 16v GTI. These vehicles are known for their robust construction and enjoyable driving dynamics, making them a popular choice for everyday transportation and spirited driving alike. This comprehensive workshop service repair manual provides detailed factory-level information for maintaining and repairing your Golf or Jetta Mk2. It covers a vast array of systems, including engine mechanicals, fuel, cooling, electrical, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering, and bodywork. Within these sections, you will find step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic troubleshooting guides, technical specifications, and maintenance tasks, all supported by numerous illustrations. This manual is an essential resource for owners, mechanics, and technicians seeking to ensure the optimal performance, reliability, and longevity of their vehicle.

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Volkswagen

Model:

Golf / Jetta

Generation:

Mk2 (A2)

Model Years Covered:

1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989

Codes

Chassis Code:

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Positioning:

The Mk2 Golf/Jetta was a benchmark in its segment, known for its solid build, practicality, and enjoyable driving dynamics, appealing to a broad demographic.

Competitive Analysis

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Ford Escort, Opel Kadett (Vauxhall Astra), Renault 9/11, and various Japanese offerings.

Key Features

Features:

Front-wheel drive, transverse engine layout, spacious interior for its class, robust construction, and a wide range of engine options.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

Primary Coverage:

Factory Service Repair Workshop

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Repair, Overhaul

Page Count

Estimated Page Count:

Likely exceeds 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals of this era)

Manual Type

Type:

Comprehensive Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language

Language:

English

Format

File Format:

Compatibility:

All PC based Windows operating systems & Mac

Printability:

All pages are printable

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip (for download management)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Engine Mechanical:

Yes, detailed procedures for disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.

Engine Lubrication:

Yes, oil pump, oil cooler (if applicable), oil filter, lubrication passages.

Engine Cooling:

Yes, radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan operation.

Engine Control:

Yes, covers fuel injection (Digifant, K-Jetronic, etc.), ignition systems, sensors, and ECUs.

Fuel System:

Yes, fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pressure regulator.

Exhaust System:

Yes, manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipework.

Transmission Clutch:

Yes, clutch assembly, hydraulic system, release bearing.

Transmission Manual:

Yes, detailed overhaul and repair procedures for manual transaxles.

Transmission Automatic:

Yes, detailed overhaul and repair procedures for automatic transaxles.

Driveline Front Axle:

Yes, CV joints, drive shafts, differential (if integrated).

Driveline Rear Axle:

Yes, applicable to FWD, covers rear suspension mounting points.

Suspension Front:

Yes, McPherson struts, control arms, anti-roll bar.

Suspension Rear:

Yes, torsion beam (common on Mk2 FWD), shock absorbers, trailing arms.

Road Wheels Tires:

Yes, tire pressure, wheel torque, fitment.

Brakes System:

Yes, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, bleeding procedures.

Brakes Parking:

Yes, parking brake cable system, adjustment.

Brakes Control:

Yes, ABS (if equipped), brake proportioning valves.

Steering Power:

Yes, power steering pump, rack and pinion, fluid, leaks.

Steering System:

Yes, steering wheel, column, rack and pinion, alignment specifications.

Restraints Seatbelts:

Yes, seatbelt operation, maintenance.

Restraints Srs:

Likely not covered in detail for a 1984-1989 manual as SRS was not standard/widespread.

Body Locks Security:

Yes, door mechanisms, locks, ignition cylinder, basic security.

Body Glasses Mirrors:

Yes, window regulators, seals, mirror adjustment/replacement.

Body Roof:

Yes, including sunroof operation and seals (if equipped).

Body Exterior Interior:

Yes, body panels, trim, interior panels, upholstery.

Body Instrument Panel:

Yes, dashboard removal, gauge cluster, switches.

Body Seat:

Yes, seat removal, adjustment mechanisms.

Air Conditioner:

Yes, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, system troubleshooting.

Electrical Wiring Diagrams:

Yes, crucial for diagnostics and repairs.

Electrical Starting Charging:

Yes, starter motor, alternator, battery, ignition switch.

Electrical Lighting:

Yes, headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb types.

Electrical Driver Info:

Yes, dashboard warning lights, trip computer (if equipped).

Electrical Wiper Washer Horn:

Yes, wiper motor, washer pump, horn circuit.

Electrical Body Control:

Yes, central locking (if equipped), power windows (if equipped).

Electrical Lan System:

Likely refers to local area network, unlikely to be relevant or covered in this era's vehicles.

Electrical Audio Visual:

Yes, radio, speakers, antenna.

Electrical Navigation Telephone:

Not applicable for 1984-1989 models.

Electrical Auto Cruise:

Yes, if equipped with cruise control system.

Electrical Power Supply Ground:

Yes, fuses, relays, battery connections, grounding points.

Procedures Included

Maintenance Tasks:

Yes, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, fluid checks, belt adjustments.

Troubleshooting:

Yes, diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting.

Repair Procedures:

Yes, detailed step-by-step guides for component replacement and repair.

Rebuilding Procedures:

Yes, engine and transmission rebuilds with specifications.

Diagnostic Codes:

Yes, for engine management systems where applicable.

Technical Depth

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers.

Detail Level:

Hundreds of photos and illustrations, detailed torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

Quality:

PDF format, indicating digital reproduction of factory documentation.

Print Quality

Print Capability:

High quality printing for clear, legible diagrams and text.

Binding Type

Binding:

Digital PDF, not applicable for physical binding.

Paper Type

Paper Type:

Digital PDF, not applicable for physical paper type.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine Options Common:

1.3L, 1.6L (8v & 16v), 1.8L (8v & 16v), 2.0L (16v GTI), Diesel variants (1.6L).

Performance

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 55 hp (1.3L) to 137 hp (16v GTI).

Torque Range:

Varies significantly by engine, e.g., ~100 Nm for 1.3L up to ~168 Nm for 1.8L 16v.

Fuel System

Fuel Injection Systems:

K-Jetronic (mechanical), Digifant (electronic) common, carburetors in earlier models/base trims.

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Standard Transmission:

4-speed and 5-speed manual transaxles.

Optional

Optional Transmission:

3-speed and 4-speed automatic transaxles.

Features

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive, transverse engine mounting, FWD limited-slip differential available on performance models.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Length Golf:

Approx. 3985 mm (157 in)

Length Jetta:

Approx. 4390 mm (173 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2470 mm (97 in)

Weights

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 930 kg to 1200 kg depending on engine and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

Safety Ratings:

Euro NCAP/IIHS ratings from this era are limited; known for solid crash structures but lacked modern safety features.

Active Features

Active Safety:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, power-assisted steering (optional).

Passive Features

Passive Safety:

Seat belts, reinforced safety cell, impact-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional upgraded stereo systems. No digital displays or advanced features.

Driver Assistance

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited; power steering was an option, ABS available on some later models/performance variants.

Connectivity

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense; only basic electrical connections for accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually.

Timing Belt Interval:

Crucial for 8v and 16v engines, usually around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Refer to manual for specific engine.

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil Spec:

API SF or SG, Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40 (refer to manual for specific engine/climate).

Coolant Spec:

G11 (Blue) or similar ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Transmission Oil Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Oil Auto:

ATF Type 3.1 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec).

Known Issues

Common Problems:

Fuel injection system issues (Digifant sensors, pump), coolant leaks (especially from plastic thermostat housing), electrical gremlins, rust (wheel arches, sills), worn suspension components, clutch wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Vw Heritage:

Volkswagen is renowned for its engineering, reliability, and iconic models like the Beetle and Golf.

Model Evolution

Mk2 Evolution:

The Mk2 Golf/Jetta built upon the success of the Mk1, offering a larger, more refined, and aerodynamically improved platform. Introduced in 1983, it saw many updates throughout its production run.

Production

Production Period:

1983-1992 (Mk2 generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

Awards History:

The Golf Mk2 was consistently praised for its engineering and driving characteristics by automotive journalists and consistently ranked highly in its class for value and build quality.