Just got my 2002 NB, a bit overwhelming!

[Bumblebeebug]

Found my2002 bright yellow beetle through Autotrader.com. 126k miles. Drove 3 hours to get it. It drove like a dream all the way home, the turbo is awesome! So the next day went out to run to the store, car doesn't want to idle w/o dying. Check engine light is on. Evens out after driving for a few minutes. But now runs very rough every time I start it. Also noticing battery drain if I leave it sitting overnight. Have been making sure I have everything turned off, whenever I park. I know its a used car so expected some issues. Just don't know where to start! Also rear spoiler is stuck in up position.

[Tesla]

Congrats on your Bug and welcome to the ORG! Mine is yellow too, not turbo though.
See if you can scan it at autozone ( it's free, people say) and that should get you started. Check spark plugs, wires and ignition coil. Replace fuel and air filter, clean MAF and ... just eyeball the engine and make sure all the wires and hoses are firmly connected and nothing is obviously wrong.
But first.... post some photos please

T

[Smileybug]

As Tesla said, get to an Autozone or equivalent and they should scan the car for free and tell you the codes. Make sure you get the actual code numbers and not just the description as the generic code readers can give the wrong information (the code should be a P#### code).

And while you're there, get your battery and alternator checked by them. Its free and quick.

Definitely don't start throwing parts at it until you get the code. You can post it here for advice if you like. Or you can search for the code at the Ross-Tech Wiki.

[Wingnut_rb]

does the spoiler still go down when you push the button under the dash?

[Evanrude]

<--- Could be coilpacks causing missfires ...

My 2002 1.8 T (also yellow) went to VW a week ago for the Coilpack recall (call VW and see if yours is covered, it might be your issue).

But, when it went for the coilpack recall, vw broke my Throttle body and mass air flow sensor somehow, and it caused almost the exact issue you are talking about.

Check with a local auto parts store, and they can hook up a scanner to your ODB port and check for engine codes, then list them here and we can help figure out a possible cause

Yellow Transformers Beetles.. only way to go man

[mloeks76]

[QUOTE=Evanrude;674799]<--- Could be coilpacks causing missfires ...

My 2002 1.8 T (also yellow) went to VW a week ago for the Coilpack recall (call VW and see if yours is covered, it might be your issue).


You can call the 800 number for VW America to check on the coilpack recall...that also solved some initial issues when I got my Turbo S.

Also, since you are new you prolly don't know about the dash button to manually shut down the spoiler. It's a little bit of a reach, but should be in the under the dash on the left side.