2000 NB 1.8T - Engine randomly turns off

[mooosenix]

I have a 2000 New Beetle GLX (1.8T APH, 131k miles) with a problem I have no idea how to even guess how to diagnose.

The engine randomly shuts off occasionaly. The battery light comes on, and that's it. The power steering and brakes go dead. However, shutting the car off and turning it back on fixes the problem.

This seemed to start happening after I got an oil change 1k miles ago. I have not been able to identify a pattern, this happens with various electronics on and off, and different speeds (75mph to 10mph). It seems to happen maybe once or twice a day, tops.

Any clues on where to start looking?

Thanks!

[Oyveychris]

First guess for me would be a loose ground wire, or possibly a faulty ignition switch...

[yellow1.8T]

first when was the last time that you changed your fuel filter and spark plugs ???? also when it turns off is it on idle or are you stepping on the gas ?

I think you just need a tune up, spark plugs and fuel filter, check also air filter, and fuel inyectors cleaned or replaced depending.... good luck

[mooosenix]

Originally Posted by yellow1.8T

first when was the last time that you changed your fuel filter and spark plugs ???? also when it turns off is it on idle or are you stepping on the gas ?

Both. It has happened while on cruise, and idling.

I think you just need a tune up, spark plugs and fuel filter, check also air filter, and fuel inyectors cleaned or replaced depending.... good luck

I already plan on taking it in to get the water pump/timing belt replaced.

Also, the connections to the battery look good...

Thanks for the replies!

[jackfrost]

mine loved to do this, unplug the maf and see if that stops it, they are infamous with failure and thats one of the symptoms. you will get a check engine light but it will go away when you plug it back in if it doesnt make a difference.

[El Diablo]

Mine did the same thing, until I replaced the MAF. Hasn't stalled on me once since.

[fohveh]

I think you should unscrew the shround around the igniton switch and see if you have the infamous melted wire, it sure sounds like it. Its not much to do, I would do it just to eliminate that posibility.

[jazzcat]

if it is happening once or twice a day i would pay the 100 or whatever it is for diagnostics and take it to a dealership before you get into an accident..its worth it and would be less expensive in the long run