2 Quick Question Please

[gabe18t]

Hi Everyone

My first question is how many miles go by until you have to change the water pump/timing belt. I got a 98 with 120k and i dont remember ever replacing it

And my second question is the only real problem i have is when the car is cold and i change gears (auto) there is a huge lag... Can i do anything to fix it?

Thanks ahead of time

[Lmhansen]

Timing belt should be replaced between 60 and 90K.

Not sure what you mean by "huge lag". Do you mean the time it takes when you change from reverse to drive, or when you're driving for the car to automatically change from gear to gear?

[gabe18t]

ok so i should probably get the timing belt and water pump replaced soon.

When i change from R to D there is a lag nad when im shifting from 1st to second gear automatically when its cold is slipps

[my99vdub]

VW.com has maintenance schedules online here - pick your year, model, mileage (ha-ha, I have to tone down the mileage for my nB cuz the schedule only goes to 100,000 miles and my Bluenote is at 116,000!!)

[Deserion]

Transmission needs the fluid and filter changed.

[mrchaotica]

Originally Posted by gabe18t

ok so i should probably get the timing belt and water pump replaced soon.

Nah, it's no biggie as long as you don't mind spending $2000 or so replacing bent valves and such.

I don't know about the 2.0, but on the TDI it's essential to replace the tensioner and rollers in addition to the water pump and belt itself. There's also the issue of plastic vs. metal water pump impellers and 60K vs. 100K belts, so people are usually advised to buy a complete kit from a reputable dealer. Maybe it's the same for you gasser guys?

If I were you, the very next place I drove the car to would be the shop. And if you do manage to get it replaced before it causes head damage, buy yourself a lottery ticket.

[05yellowbeetle]

the water pump on my '98 went out at 60K, so I would do the timing belt/water pump asap, even if you did it before, you are pretty close to needing it again, if not, you are on borrowed time.