'00 Jetta Bucking and Hesitating

[ju2ma2]

I have a 2000 Jetta. The engine light has been on for quite a while, but everyone says it's just running "rich". Well, lately I've noticed that the car acts as if it isn't getting enough gas to the injectors and acts as if it's going to stall out, or it will just hesitate and eventually "catch". I was trying to give it some gas this morning before I pulled off and it sounded like it was sputtering, like air or something was in my fuel line. The fastest the car would go this morning was about 25. Can anyone provide me with an answer so I can try and get my car fixed?!!! Thanks!

[veedubmechanic]

Check the fuel pressure regulator vacuum hose on the passenger side of the engine under the engine cover. Its a 8" long 1/4" thick hose that goes from the intake manifold to the fuel pressure regulator. It normally cracks or breaks off causing a very rich condition.

Also check the mass air flow sensor, they are a common issue and covered under vw's 7yr 70k mile warranty.