Left Turn Signal

[thomdan]

The left turn signal on the 2003 beetle that I just purchased blinks about 4 times faster than the right turn signal - if the headlights are on, it doesn't blink at all (stays on). I changed the rear bulb, but it didn't help. Any ideas on what the problem could be?

[hako]

I'd check the bulb sockets and make sure the side contacts for the bulb is OK (thats the earth one). Ensure there is plenty of tension to ensure good contact. They can be a problem and are not the best design.. Good Luck.

[thomdan]

The problem was the left FRONT turn signal - bulb was burned out (must have been a slow burn out because it was blinking when all the left-turn signals were blinking really fast). I would not have found it if not for your help! I had given up on bulbs and was thinking in terms of the switch or an electrical problem. Now I know VW lights and Christmas lights have a lot in common.

FYI - I received my Vag-Com interface and ran a scan of all fault codes on the bug (it's my daughter's car - she just turned sixteen last weekend). This Vag-Com is awesome. The fault codes found are:

• 16502 (P0118) Engine Coolant Temp Sensor (just ordered tonight from Autozone). Must be a common problem because I scanned a 2002 bug for a guy I work with today and it had the same fault code.
• 17608 (P1200) Boost Pressure Control Valve. Autozone couldn't find anything on this but they were sure it was in the turbo. Before I take it to a dealer I am going to run a can of SeaFoam in a tank of gas to see if it solves the problem. Previous owner ran 10% ethanol blend (89 octane).
• 01330 (no P code) Central Control Module for Central Convenience. This one has me stumped and will probably have to have a dealer fix.
• 00595 Crash Data Stored (previous owner hit a deer).
• 01214 Crash Data for Belt Tensioner Stored.
• 00589 Airbag Igniter 1, Passenger Side (have a salvage air bag ordered, old air bag blew a hole from the deer).
• 00654 Seat Belt Tensioner Igniter, Driver Side.

I ordered the Bentley Shop Manual (on CD) for VW New-Beetles today. My wife bought a 2003 VW Beetle owner's manual off of EBay which should arrive tomorrow. I bought the 2003 bug (31000 miles; GLX, 1.8 Turbo, with the sport leather interior) for $11,000 knowing the above problems (or at least symptoms like the check engine light and rapid left-turn signal).

Thanks again for your help Hako! You are VW Bug Wise!

[CathyDad]

Welcome to the forum--I am fairly new myself, this forum and fellows like hako have been a wealth of both knowledge and encouragement. Hako gave solid advice on two problems for you. I found the blue light unnerving at first, too.
I have the OBDTool version of VAG-COM and enjoy it. It has already more than paid for itself. Bentley manual very good, not perfect for the amateur in all procedures.
I become more confidant every day with my fleet. My thanks to all.
My 2002 GLX 1.8 turbo was also a steal because of an airbag problem solved through this forum.