2001 VR6 Stress!!!

[Aymee022]

I purchased my 2001 VR6 a year ago today. It currently has 44,000 miles on it. I've had nothing but problems.

Ignition Coil
Ignition Wire #5
Mass Air Flow
Passenger Window
Turn Signal
Cracked Oil Pan
Engine Light malfunction

My main concern is that the car is in the shop more than it's in my driveway. It's been in 6 times for a total of 10 days. That number doesn't include the days it had to sit in the driveway waiting for a service appointment. I've owned two other vehicles and neither of those cars had problems like this. I can't function without a car and I can't afford rentals every times it goes in the shop. I feel like I've been had, but I don't know if there's anything I can do about it. I've researched the implied warrantly law of MA, but I'm not sure how far that will get me. What should I do?

[lionheartedhero]

Aymee,
Unfortunately you may be a victim of dishonest service technicians, at least that is what it appears to be here. I have a 99 VR6 5 speed with 52K on it and it has been nothing but carefree driving.
-Replacing an ignition coil is almost unheard of these days. I have to wonder: "Did it cure the problem?" "What was the problem?"
-The Air Flow Mass wire should have been covered by the warranty.
-Power window problems are a known entity which is under recall/warranty.
-A cracked oil pan? Sounds fishy to me....
-Engine light may come on if you do not screw the gas cap in all the way (give it 2 clicks)
-I assume you bought it used? Did you research the car before buying it? i.e. CARFAX?
You ask what to do. My suggestion, at this point without more detail, is to take it to a dealer or reputable repair center next time something happens. Meanwhile, change oil frequently, wash and wax it 3 times a year and don't let anyone else drive it!

Cheers! LHH

[johnpflytac]

all 6 ignition coils have been replaced over 3 visits to the shop in my 2002 24v VR6.

[johnpflytac]

you think that is fun wait til the wiring shit starts popping up!

[johnpflytac]

I have had a completely new wiring harness, door sensors and instrument cluster replaced on my 2002 bought new with under 40K on it! (After the other problems were taken care of.)

[lionheartedhero]

My advice to you would be the same as to Amyee - sounds like you are getting ripped off. Find someone else who will tell you the truth..

[bigblackone]

Yeah ... coil packs have been a problem on vw's ... not sure about their recall status.

MAF's are under extended warranty ... get ahold of VWOA and they'll let you know how to get reimbursed for it.

Same goes for the window regulators ...

Cracked oil pan seems reasonable since many aftermarket skid plates are available ...

As far as engine light malfunction . I would be hesitant on them just dismissing the light as a malfunction. Many times the light will go on and there will be no other outward symptoms. I'd try and get a second opinion.

unfortunately, I think the price you pay for driving a fun car is less reliability than say a toyota or honda ... IMHO .. if one wants a reliable vehicle and really isn't a car nut to begin with, I'd stay away from VW ...

That said ... I'm keeping mine for a while yet