2001 1.8 turbo transmission shot/questions?

[Woodstock]

My son and I both own Beetles. His is a 2001 1.8 turbo, and the dealer says it needs a new (standard) transmission and water pump. (It was towed in, we took no chances drivnig it in) I bought it certified pre-owned in October, from another VW dealer. (Who NEVER put it inthe computer, so the repair will wait 7-10 days to even begin while THAT gets done!)

But my question is, when this repair gets done, should we do the belt and tensioner repair as well? Car has 68,000 miles. I know it is usually done same time as the water pump anyway. Will it save me any $$ to do it at the same time?

Anyone experienced with certified pre owned major repairs? Should I expect this major repair to go thru without a hitch? (Of course the belt is not under that same warranty)

Thanks!

[Oyveychris]

It's a good idea to do the tensioner/dampener assembly while you are in there. It wouldn't be fun to have to pay to have it replaced in the near future.
Those items are prone to failure, mine went bad at 55,000 miles.

[mezonesxbox]

I would go ahead and do that too, in order to prevent any more trouble with the water pump. Too bad you have to get a new transmission. I guess thats part of the "VW life-time transmission".

[Woodstock]

I am OK with new transmission aslong as I am not paying for it.

I am wondering IF 20 year old son DID something to cause the failure, but he is acting innocent. He wants to do the belt and tensioner himself, but I am not letting him do it. Not while car is under VW warranty.

[Woodstock]

Just a followup, the 2001 Vortex Blue 1.8 beetle FINALLY is ready to be picked up tomorrow. It took a week for VW to get the car registered properly as a certified pre owned vehicle. Then another week to get and install the new transmission, water pump, and some turbo valve thing. They did the belt and tensioner for the price of the parts, which was cool! (About $150-- ok so it's THEIR price on the parts, but still free labor)

We pick him up tomorrow. My yellow bug Woodstock misses his big Brother Stitch.

[Stinkbug]

please post some pictures when you get it