Top 5 Failures of MK5 Volkswagen, (Jetta, Rabbit, GTI, Jetta SportWagen)

The MK5 or A5 platform car consists of the Jetta, Rabbit, GTI, and Jetta SportWagen.The MKV came out as a 2005.5 and finished up with about model year 2010. They had their share of common VW issues too. Today we are talking about their biggest failures from oil leaks, to doorlatches, Brakes, and airbag lights. I am sure I forgot a good amount of issues :)
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Join me today as we discuss:
~Failing MK5 door latches
~Failing MK5 rear brakes
~Failing MK5 soft touch
~Common MK5 airbag light issues
~Sagging MK5 headliners
~Rapid fire failures, oil leaks, CV boots, camshafts, wheel bearings
~and more
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[@jessicah3450]

Having owned 2 Volkswagens, an Mk4 and Mk5, I also think keeping the drains clean is important. I found the a/c intake under the plastic trim where the windshield wipers rest. I park my car in a garage, but I still pulled about a dozen handfuls of rotting leaves out from under that plastic trim. I can pry it up just enough to fit my small hands under there. Then I flushed warm soapy water through there until it drained out clear by the front wheel wells. That moldy smelly feet air conditioner smell was now fixed without just a deodorizer covering it up, I did run a deodorizer through the vents afterwards. It was the wet rotting leaves and all that gunk causing the moisture and the smell before it even reaches the vents or cabin filter. These cars also have leaky sunroofs, and I learned this trick with my Mk4 from an honest VW guy. The drain is a tiny hole and also gets clogged with dirt. Then water backs up until it eventually leaks into the car. So take a straightened wire coat hanger, and use it to dislodge the dirt in that drain, then again flush it with water and see where the water is draining, and flush it until it runs clear. I now clean all the drains that I can see on a regular basis when I do the wax/detail job on my Mk5. It's 11 years old and has no rust or leaks. I also wipe all of the weather stripping grooves out with a wet cloth, it's amazing how much dirt I get out of those tight spaces. I don't want moisture and dirt to be able to sit on my car and ruin seals or cause rust. I think a lot of the rust/leaking/smelly car issues that people are experiencing can be prevented by this. Flush those drains out and keep them clean. Clean all the trim and weather stripping that most people may overlook when washing their cars. It doesn't hurt to put a nice trim protectant on all of your weather stripping, just like you do on your bumper and more visible trim, to keep it from cracking.

[@invig2]

Good advice, I did something similar with the leaves recently, but I'll try the soapy water next.

[@NickBuenoo]

🎉🎉🎉

[@celicaGTST]

I know it's hit a few people, but the ABS failure on the 09 GTI, pretty interesting watching the cluster light like a Christmas tree haha

[@KnightWolf2012]

My '06 MKV 2.5L (about 140Km): 1. Door Problems: Praying this doesn't happen. 2. Rear Brake: Pretty sure I'm currently having this issue. 3. Soft touch peeling: Oh yup! (Apparently you can order a kit to replace them). 4. Air Bag Light: Had it go one on once after messing with VCDS (apparently from adjusting the passenger seat while coding another module), but not since. 5. Headliner Falling: Oh yup! Other problems I've had: Faulty wire somewhere in the throttle harness, which caused the resistance to jump all over the place & report incorrect throttle position - caused it to go into limp mode but no actual drivability issues. Apparently a pretty common issue, VW wanted like $500CAD to fix (complete harness), local VW/Audi shop traced the wire & ran a new one, with labour was about $300 (still costly to replace a bloody wire!). Coolant reservoir cracked causing leaking & overheating. Easy & fairly inexpensive fix. Right rear bearing needed replacing. MIL caused by intermittent cooling fan issue, iirc VCDS says something like 'stuck or jammed', yet they run fine. Guessing somethings caught or the sensor is going. Only seems to trigger when I run the A/C, if I clear the code & don't use the A/C there's no MIL. My biggest gripe: Rust forming at top of front passenger quarter panel above wheel well & around right number plate light. Have been fighting with VW over their so-call corrosion warranty. I opened the case over a year ago, they took all the pictures, at that time the paint on quarter panel was just bubbling, no chips & was clearly rusting from underneath. They kept screwing around & telling me to check back in a month for about 4 months. I forgot about it until this year & called again, apparently they've changed their policy & needed to retake the pictures (I call BS & they lost the pictures & never submitted it), by now that quarter panel had rusted so bad that the paint has chipped off, so they will no longer cover it. My trunk doesn't open & close consistently, and here the fun part - they told me they didn't get the pictures for the trunk, so they don't want to cover it. Then she told me it was caused by a "outside source". When asked to explain, they were trying to tell me it was caused by a rock chip. First off, if you don't have pictures, how can you claim that? Secondly, do VW's defy physics? The rock would literally have to be picked up by my rear tire, fly out under the car, then hook upwards and loop back around the bumper, then travel vertically to hit exactly beside the light. I plan on making a video in the next few days calling VW out on this one. Other than that, I love my MK5!

[@denzellsiem]

Thanks Dude!!

[@CharlesReiche]

I'm checking off items in my head as you list them. Yep, yep, check, uh huh, yes I had that one too.

[@danilochavarria7348]

i said check so many times my check engine light came on

[@PrettyfaceJ82]

I’m Glad I stumbled across this video! My first Jetta (2001) had an oil leak and a water pump issue causing an antifreeze leak. Now my 2010 Jetta has the same issues.

[@jfhistand7245]

I've got a 2006 jetta tdi. I've had a lot of the little issue's you've mentioned, but I enjoy doing a lot of my own repair work. It helps that one of my best friends is a mechanic. It's now got 266,000 miles on it and it runs like a top! It helps that it nearly always get over 40 mpg on every tank of fuel. I do want to completely redo the body work soon. It's getting rusty. I haven't had any cv problems yet. The axles are original.

[@lukgaroo]

Don't u ever blink?

[@HumbleMechanic]

+lukgaroo hahaha its funny how I never noticed that until someone pointed it out.

[@cebastienlarochelle8182]

He blinks when YOU blink!

[@dsedswe]

too funny, its just the eyebrows that move mate, still love his videos even if he is an alien :P

[@pericochief]

Crap now u got me staring at him

[@stillalive--]

I saw the video again because of this! Incredible! 😂

[@cstephenson3749]

I have to tell yo how much I appreciate your videos. I bought a 2008Jetta, my first VW, and it not only is very small, but now it has been in the shop for over a week, getting exactly the things you listed in this video replaced. I am sooo grateful that you made this video because now i know that the dealer is not making this 'long list of things that need to be fixed ' up. Being without a car for over a week has been hard. I am used to taking my Dodge(s) t the mechanic and getting it back a couple of hours later. I just hope that the small fortune I am pouring into the Jetta will be worth it and these are one time repairs. Thank you so much again, you don't know how much you have put my mind at rest. Please continue to make more videos. One of the repairs they are doing is replacing broken rear suspension springs. Please make a video on the cause of the rear springs breaking (How can springs 'break' if they are wrapped around something else?) and make a series of drawings for us mechanically challenged folks on how broken rear spring can make your tires flat. Thank you so much. Carla

[@Philzila702]

Doing my Condenser, compressor and dryer on my TDi this weekend lucky I have the CJAA motor :D Great Videos Sir happy I found you!

[@stillalive--]

My favorite in design, mk5 and mk7. I own a mk5 and you are right about everything. You missed the cluster display that shuts down with hot weather. And regarding soft touch buttons and controls it happened in the driving wheel too and from 10.000kms... And I never used creams nor gels nor rings nor bracelets... I spent a lot of time and money in all interiors... Roof linen, soft touch buttons switches and panels and handles and door linen as well all fel apart. Thank you for your video

[@Na7ure]

Brotha I absolutely love your videos. Thank you for your hard work

[@HumbleMechanic]

Thank you

[@Bobbobb6]

had my GTI for a year and a half now... pretty much spot on. Still love er though.

[@stevenmaginnis1965]

Trim along the headliners fell off on Mk4s too - i had to glue mine back on!

[@NathanPhilps1]

Hey Charles. Curious, where/what exactly did you caulk to sort out the Mk5 door rattle? Around the edge of the door card? Thanks, Nathan

[@jasonmagalich7088]

mostly spot on. currently have a rabbit with ac issue, sagging headliner, torn inner cv boot, door loom issue and ... sticky radio buttons. Sticky interior pieces were far worse in mk4 though. mk5 uses a harder plastic for everything but the radio knob and light switch.

[@larrygrippin3234]

One issue that has forced me to replace two Jettas is the transmission crapping out. I had a 2005.5 and a 2006. Both had transmission failures. The cost of replacing the transmission was such that it was more cost effective to put those funds towards just replacing the vehicle. My mechanic told me that the 2.5 engine in the Jetta was a fantastic engine, but it was mated up to a transmission that was just not very long lived. Really was a depressing situation because my wife and daughter absolutely loved those cars.

[@cmasupra]

I have a 2009 Jetta and haven't had ANY of these issues. However, I've had: 1) A bad weather strip on 1 door from brand new (dealership just replaced it under warranty after trying to re-glue it 3 times and failing) 2) 5-speed manual transmission problems (half the parts inside my transmission were replaced because of 1 bearing that tore apart) 3) An annoying rattle from a windshield air vent cover. I feel like either VW fixed a lot of the problems you described in later MK5 models or I got lucky with the number of issues (though not the severity of the issues).

[@jessicah3450]

I've gotten lucky with my '09 GTI too. The headliner's tacked up with $3 headliner screws, but I also live in Texas, so go figure that glue didn't withstand the summer heat. The rest of the interior is fine. Also that timing chain recall, I took care of right away, like a good owner would with any recall. Otherwise it's been normal wear and tear parts like brake pads, spark plugs (very easy DIY), and I got my serpentine belt replaced recently, but it was only just starting to show some wear. My theory is Germany doesn't have as hot of summers, so I've always made sure to keep the plastic and rubber parts clean and protected. I don't use Armor All though, that's what made my Mk4's plastic become sticky and soft. So *knock on wood*

[@BrettBernier]

#3 is real

[@acidbath666]

Hrm, had a few of these on my mkv gti. Adding to the list, Divertor valve failures until you get to the RevD version, DSG Mechatronic recall, pcv failure (upgraded to ECS's version).

[@HumbleMechanic]

+acidbath666 man how the hell did I forget those too. Good call!!

[@Nelbone]

Didn’t have any of these issues on my old MKV FSI DSG Wolfsburg Jetta. I was pretty meticulous with my maintenance. It held strong through 80k miles until it got totaled. 50k of it was stage 2. Window switches occasionally were finicky but the reset sequence always fixed it. Only issue I really ever dealt with was the inevitable carbon build up.

[@zeblackcat9398]

Yup, had that rear brake issue bad on my left side, it punched thru the pad and started grinding the rotor the whole time. But replaced the rotor, pads and caliper, and haven't had any issues yet. Still adore my bunny!

[@dynam1ke]

i was expecting dsg issues on this top5 list which i had encountered on my 07 mkV GTI Edition30 at around 50k km (31000mls). once i had this problem and did a bit of research, i found out that a lot of the early 6spd dsg boxes were faulty and had to be replaced. if i would have owned that car as a manual i'd probably still drive it, because other than that it was a great car to me...

[@rockytownsend6885]

Thank you for responding. You're videos are very helpfull and informative and aprieciated

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Rocky Townsend glad to help.

[@SkylineSanti]

Hey, really interesting video! Thanks so much, gained a lot of insight I didn't have about this gen. Was actually considering the idea of purchasing a 2010 2.0T Jetta MK5 for a comfy daily (and a little bit of Unitronic juice, because who can keep a car stock?). Would you still recommend one? I know the 2.0T is a pretty darn reliable engine, loads of fun too, but now I'm worried about the rest of the car XD

[@blackrose1961000]

hey humbleMechanic thank you for this great video i just purchase a 2007 Rabbit 2.5 automatic at 211080 KM is there any mechanical issues i may have to look out for. Is there a certain time the timing chain should be changed ?

[@johnallen4176]

I have had some of those issues with my 2004 Octavia. Door locks. Rear calliper sticks on, hand brake mechanism issues, both sides. Window regulators cable snaps, Bowden cycle cable set up, so far all have been changed.

[@pgdmed]

Hello, love your channel, I have a question for you. My 2005 2.5 jetta is blowing a little smoke from under the intake manifold driver side. No oil leaks anywhere that I can see. It did have the valve cover leaking but that was fixed last month and engine cleaned. I took it to a friend who noticed the smoke and said it smells like fumes not burned oil, coolant or gas. He pulled the oil dipstick out and the smoke under the manifold stopped and it started out the dipstick. He told me the pcv was bad. Could that really be the PCV blowing smoke out the oil dipstick? can you tell me where you think it may be blowing from under the intake? is there something else I should look for? Car runs perfect, no codes no over heating, no oil in coolant no coolant in oil. no oil loss, no coolant loss, no tail smoking, no nothing, really sound and great running car except that fume leak that gets in my car cabin and it driving me nuts. Thank you very much your help I greatly appreciate it.

[@kulluminati777]

I have had/have all these on my 2.5 jetta. Great video. I got one now no one in the comments has mentioned. I get a crank no start then after a few trys it starts and bogs and runs. Fuel pump maybe but then sometimes ill shut the car off and cant cut it back on. No power to the cluster or anything. I do a battery reset then its fine. Let the car sit for 2 min then all is normal. Also noticed a slow flickering of all the lights. My car is officially haunted 😂😂

[@ShonTseng]

Hi Charles! Nice video as always! I have a mysterious problem with my VW rabbit no one can seem to solve so far and hopeful you will have the answer! I know this is probably a long shot, but I'm desperate here, so I'm just gonna try it! Here it goes: I live in LA, and I bought a 2007 VW Rabbit couple years ago. And it overheated a couple times when it's really hot out in the summer. The first overheating happened when I was on the way to Vegas, second time happened when I was driving in local street. Both times happened when the outdoor tempareture was really hot, between 96 to 106 F. Also, the AC wasn't working properly, it worked sometimes and sometimes it blew hot air. I was able to make it work by messing with the temperature control when it's not too hot outside. But on a hot day, the AC would simply not be cold enough even when it's "working." (It blew "cooler" air but not cold.) I've been driving the car like this for a couple years and the overheating problem never came back after those two times. (The car was actually OK when I drove back from Vegas on that same trip. Of course I had the AC off on my way back.) Just couple weeks ago as the weather got hot again this year, I thought I would go get my AC fixed at a local mechanic shop. And the mechanic changed out the AC compressor, and the two belts while at it. Now the AC is blowing cold air! BUT, the overheating problem came back!! So I took it back to the shop and the mechanic tried to figure out what's causing it by swapping things out in the cooling system one by one till everything has been swapped out. But nothing helped! He swapped out the thermostat, temperature gauge, O-ring, water pump (the water flow is normal and the two fans are working fine according to him), flushed the system while at it and whatever he could think of that could've caused the problem. He even did pressure test on the engine to see if it was the head gasket, and the result seemed normal. After this first mechanic shop gave up. I took my car to another shop where they claim to have certified engineers for VW. I took my car there to see if it has an electrical issue. However, the computer read nothing except a code for a failed coolant sensor which they swapped out and still didn't help. While I though the overheating problem only happens when the AC is on, the shop told me they could get the car to overheat even with the AC on! Now the engineer there is suggesting me to let them look into the cooling system starting from the thermostat check up and I'll have to pay more for their labor of course which is not cheap. But If the thermostat wasn't it, he will have to keep looking and check on all the parts in the cooling system again! But I'm thinking, that's repeating what the first shop has done! The only difference will be this shop claims that their engineers are certified by VW. So is there anything else you can think of that might've caused this mysterious overheating problem? The dealer did recommended me a "Brake Vacuum Valve" replacement when I took my car in for an AC diagnose, but the first mechanic shop said it isn't leaking like crazy, so a replacement shouldn't be necessary. But i've read that leaking brake vacuum valve can cause overheating problem too. Or the radiator being too dirty? Or is there a chance that the ignition power supply is acting funny? Or anything else at all!? Please help me out here! I'm really desperate! Thanks a ton ahead of the time! If anyone on here has any suggestions, you are more than welcome to chime in!! Thanks a lot! Shawn

[@texasmagpie]

GREAT video! Now that you told us about these common issues, could you show us how to repair them?

[@joegladwin281]

Wow I was considering buying a used Jetta or Passat but after watching your videos I'm glad I searched mechanical problems starting with the transmission control module getting submerged in water due to a stupid hole plug? Why didn't they just weld in a cover piece of metal or would that not be enough to stop the leaks? I miss the old days when rust was the worst enemy of the old Beetles well that and the front ends that wore out prematurely. If only VW could get back that level of customer satisfaction Craigslist wouldn't be bursting at the seams with VW Jetta and Passats for sale. I know you love the new VW's but you're a mechanic so you don't get reamed the way unsuspecting car buyers do. It's a shame there are so many issues they're some of the best looking cars out there.

[@guitarman3100]

Yep swapped the headliner on mk5 gti along with all the soft touch looking like crap nowadays! Very accurate

[@rhkips]

Just about every car platform has common failures. It's not a matter of quality; it's a matter of reality. If we wanted cars that never broke, a stripped Carolla would be a $250,000 car and we'd only see changes once a decade at best. Identifying problem areas in vehicles that already exist is a great way to secure a reliable, long-lasting used car. :)

[@HumbleMechanic]

+rhkips BOOM!!!! I really like talking about them. It is fun to look back on all the issues a car had. Then I realize I forgot a ton when folks chime in. :)

[@djc6394]

Bingo! Headliner sagging on my daughter's 2007 Rabbit. Hub bearing failures - had to replace all four on my daughter's car. Right front smelled like old diff fluid. Brakes look good, but are kind of a PIA to service. Surprisingly, the CV boots were in great shape, so either they had been replaced in the past or VW improved the material vs. MK1-MkIII cars I've worked on in the past. Oil leaks - well, I've never had a VW that didn't leak oil somewhere. I do have a loud whine that sounds like a power steering pump failure. If that is the pulley for the alternator, I hope that is a simple fix. I assume that with a serpentine belt I just need to compress the tensioner to remove the belt and then can work on the pulley.

[@markomarkovski6809]

I have made autoscan with my program CARPORT on my golf 5, and I got DTC as follows: 00654 - Belt tensioner igniter (driver side) - intermittent, Upper limit exceeded, MIL on, static anad also poped up air bag control light on the dash. what could be the reason? I have readed on one forum that could be some yelllow conector with blue wire on the bottom of Pillar B. that I just need to press on it in better for solid contact. is this part of te commom issues with air bag conectors that you have adressed on this video?

[@GarenBlythe]

Thanks for all your help. Just got a 2009 Jetta 2.5L with only 15.5K miles. Drives great. Hope I don't run into too many of the problems you saw. Love the way it handles! Any thing I should be careful of or just drive and be happy?

[@sillydog2476]

Garen Blythe look up EGR issues. It's a valve cover/egr all in one I believe. Look it up Charles (Humble Mechanic) did a video on the 2.5L engine. Hope you are enjoying you car.

[@pavko718]

I own a 2008 (05/08) Rabbit since new and I've had the door latch twice now, the small radiator fan, ac compressor valve, CD changer and rear brake pads wore out before 40k while the fronts lasted over 100k. aftermarkwt pads dixed the issue. Just about done at 146k. No air bag issues yet. And yes, after moving to Florida my headliner started to sag. I think the foam under the fabric falls apart in the heat and humidity. Most recent problem is sparadic epc light and limp mode with speed sensor and throttle codes. I'd say for the miles and age, there hasn't been anything super expensive yet.

[@thecommoncarcrew37]

Ive had a problem with my Mk5 air bag light. It happened when I installed GTI seats. Should I re-wire everything or could it possibly be a vagcom fix?

[@craigmonteforte1478]

I love your channel and videos my first car was a 1975 Rabbit that had a carbeurator on it that i. Sold to buy a 81 fuel injected model with a blown head gasket i put a new head gasket on it and goy it running but i was too young and dumb to realize that the rings had rusted onto the pistons because of the coolant and water that sat on top of the pistons after the head gasket. Went so eventually the rings made the motor to spin the main bearings and score the crank ? That car always had issues with the Bosch fuel injection and my Dad had scrapped several Volvo wagons. And scrounged. And hoarded parts that. I was stripping to use in my VW , Volvo also used the Bosch. And supposedly. So did Jaguar according to a old VW mechanic we knew ? Ironically my Dads youngest brother my Godfather/ Uncle was a Air Force airplane mechanic in Vietnam, and when he got out of the service Because od all his Turbine training he landed a job with VW/ Audi because they. Were really. Heavy into Turbo charging thr cars as time went on my Uncle wound up becomining a turbine engineer and had a successful career as a Steam Turbine specialist and. Even Jay Leno wound up. Hooking up with my Uncle who Helped build a Turbine for one of Jays steam cars that Jay had found the blueprint drawings for it had turned out to be one of my Uncles career highlights although originally my Uncle thought it was one of his freinds trying to prank him. By talking like Jay Leno on the phone about wanting the part made eventually they did get to meet and Leno was Very cool about taking photos. And signing. Autographs as well as happy to get. The part made he wanted

[@joejohn4723]

I love your content on the gti!

[@keithpolo324]

Great info as always have 2008 2.5 Jetta won’t shit into fifth gear … do u have any videos on this

[@176988]

I had to replace my fuse box in the engine compartment, the connector on the bottom would wiggle loose. You would be driving down the road and everything would cut-out while highway driving. As soon as you hit a bump it would re-connect.

[@kirkwilson5117]

Very good insight, I am currently shopping, around. Older BMW Z3 330ci, or newer GTI.... Hmmm... Had a nice drive in a 2008 2.5 Rabbit... Still researching.

[@aaronhumphrey2009]

Check: Passat 2.0 turbo, Mazda 323-2 .4 with manual, Corolla sport w/ manual, Focus svt only.Honda Accord v-6. Avoid BMW's, mini's, older Hyundai/ Kia, Fiat/Chryslers. The Dart vr4 turbo is fast,fun, but also loud and unreliable.

[@Gunbelch]

i was wondering if you had any idea why my 2006 GTI would be blowing consent hot air out of the driver air vents both floor as well as dash vents

[@azizhachimi8744]

i bought my 2008 Rabbit (black) in 02/2012 with 21816 km on the odo (like new!) and, except a minor clutch issue in 12/2013, i have never had an issue with it! Ever!!! i change the oil every 15 000 km (full synthetic castrol) and put the gas in the tank...that's it!!! now it is 9 years old and has 81 432 km on it, but sill in a showroom condition (sleeps in a garage and benefits from a meticulous care: compound + wax every spring! i put a genuine 18 inch GTI rims set + a Michelin pilot sport 225 R 40 set on it + Led fog lights, rain guard visors made in germany, OEM GTI aluminium pedal set, genuine leather cover for the steering wheel from germany as well, smoked side indicators, ...(around 4000$ enhancements).....its drives like a charm and the 2.5 engine works like a swiss watch!!! i love this car!

[@jitengori9268]

Aziz HACHIMI similar story here. Have a 2008 Rabbit with 243000 miles and none of the issues that are being pointed out in this video. Guess I got lucky too!!

[@hockeyandsoccer4ever]

Aziz HACHIMI 09 Rabbit 135 000km not one issue so far. (Knock on wood)

[@PTMOFF]

The 2.5s are for sure absolutely indestructible. I know multiple people with 200k+ miles on theirs and they beat the snot out of them all the time and they just keep running

[@mager76]

i seem to get really lucky with my 08 Rabbit ive only had as much as sticky thermostat with the 2.5, however i do have a slight issue with my turn signal turning on the lane change feature turning on the left indicator but im signalling to turn right. Could this be a simple Replacement or is it a relay issue? it is temperamental but every time i take the indicator off and nothing seems to be in bad shape.

[@steve.mollart.9462]

Golf GTI mk5 brake master cylinder R/H drive. Wondering about the retaining bolts to the booster! They seem to be a 17mm nut with a spline type fastener in the middle, the cylinder mounting appears to be behind a bracket attached to the booster. could you please advise. Many thanks

[@PTMOFF]

Hehe, never had a soft touch issue with my Rabbit because all of my knobs and stuff are just gray plastic.

[@josercamacho6213]

Can you advise on a jetta 2008 2.5 engine vacuum pump . Removed pump cover due to oil leak resealed no leaks but now the pedal got hard after second pump. I started-engine with vacuum hose disconnected from the booster side and feel small amount of vacuum. Removed the pump and found some play in the vane and shaft. Not sure if the pump is bad or the booster? Please advise asap Thanks Jose

[@quarryfield]

We have the exact same problem with the drivers door. Is the door latch or the actuator the problem? Thanks..

[@Coolit2683]

2006 BRM TDI here... Yup, cams and lifters. Tho I bought mine at 300 000 km, and it came with the maintenance bill of the engine rebuilt with new cam and lifters at 170000km Also the headliner. Still love my good old TDI and hope to keep it for many years to come.

[@andrewpolitano]

Charles, is there a master TSB list for the 2.5 Rabbits that can be found somewhere?

[@andrewpolitano]

Mine experiences a HORRID falling headliner (since tacked up with a thousand or so thumbtacks so I can actually see out the rear hatch. Quotes for repair range anywhere from 500 bucks to 800 depending on the place) and disintegrating interior parts such as the shift boot and steering wheel, not to mention the plastic buttons in places and seats that don't ever seem to come clean. Last VW for me after years of buying them. Might go for a BMW next. All cars have issues but the ones I experienced on this one are just stupid little things that all add up to this huge nightmare of repairs. I truly think the MK6 and up is what people ought to shoot for if buying used.

[@volpswagen_marco]

In my 13 years working for VW.... I've seen and repaired all the failures you mentioned..... But never.... Never...never saw a MKv headliner failure lol. I've had tons of MK II golfs with that issue but never MKv . It's crazy how sometimes different regions can experience different issues.

[@HumbleMechanic]

+marcofx3 I really love hearing things like this. When I say I have never heard of something, people think I am nuts HAHA. Keep wrenching!

[@drizzt256]

mfx3 mine definitely has this issue. Sagging around the rear dome light and the front map lights.

[@drizzt256]

Theodore Marakas mine has almost completely come off. Our MKV has had a lot of problems.

[@REPOMAN24722]

I am in Australia and never seen it and it can get to 50 Celsius, that's 122 Fahrenheit for you yanks.

[@secondbest21]

I had that headliner issue with my 07 Rabbit. And it annoyed me how I had no idea why it happened. I was pissed...

[@guyaneseganster]

My MK5 Rabbit car alarm keeps going off when I lock the door (driver door). I have problems locking the door and sometimes the sunroof opens by itself but stops when I open the door. I believe that the door latch isn't working but could it also be harness too. Btw any suggestion on disabling the alarm, I really don't want it to go off every time I park my car.

[@Shamus71]

Some of these issues are common with BMW as well, especially door latches and peeling interior materials.. The Germans must use the same vendors for parts.

[@buckshotbarber8303]

Any idea what could be causing the fuel gauge to not read correctly. Currently looking to buy a 08 mk5 Gti with this problem. How much would it cost to fix?

[@sterlingbear6988]

Well thank you! My 2010 2.5 driver side door wont open unless I transform in to The Fonz and smack it right under the door handle? This never happened before I had work done on it at the dealership? Any suggestions? It has 49k miles.

[@BariumCobaltNitrog3n]

I have a 2008 Rabbit and it has the door problems, drivers unlock button now only sometimes will unlock the doors so I use the passenger button or the key fob, and the rear left door almost never unlocks, I have to open it manually from the inside by pulling the handle twice to let the dog out. Also the doors lock but I have to open and shut the doors firmly to set the alarm. Is this a mechanical thing or electronic? I also had problems with the windows closing when I turned the car off they would open back up. The dealer fixed that but stole my gps unit out of the car. Now the problem is it sounds like I have snow tires on dry asphalt, which I thought was wheel bearings but it comes from everywhere so I might have to duct tape a camera to each axle and drive around. Thoughts? One more thing: a noise on starting or shifting into reverse like putting a playing card into a fan that emanates from behind the glove box that stops after about 30 seconds, I think the air control unit or vacuum or most likely muffler bearings.

[@dominic0313]

You would get a kick out of all of my MK5 Jetta 2.0t issues: Timing belt snap 4 transmission coils 2 sets of brakes head gasket trunk latch failure air conditioner replacement new thermostat

[@mikaelneva6172]

The only 2 I can check off is the passenger airbag and the sagging headliner. My Jetta is also a used car w/ 108,000 miles but looks and feels great.

[@joshuaabernathy3661]

How reliable would you say the 2.5 5 cylinders in the mkv rabbits are?

[@stevenmaginnis1965]

Soft-touch peeling also happened on the MK4s - take it from someone who owned a 2000 Golf!

[@jessicah3450]

It sure did on my Mk4 Beetle, but I think the Mk5 interior is more durable. I have a Mk5 GTI, and the headliner sags, but that was a $3 fix with a few headliner pins. The stereo's bass/treble, etc got sticky when I put Armor All on them, so I don't use that stuff in my car anymore. Switched to Griots Garage interior dressing, and I haven't had a problem.

[@VLADABEAST]

I have hard shifting issues after a warm drive/driving fast. Pretty much only 1-2 gear. 2007 VW Rabbit with 102k mi. Any thoughts?

[@dgcustomauto5869]

Hi I have a 2005.5 jetta that the wipers don't work. I have been checking almost everything like the fuses, relays, switches in and out of the car the motor is just bought it and install it and still not working. Even check the transmission and everything. I don't know what alse try. Any suggestions? Also have a yellow steering wheel on dashboard that I know that is some issues with the steering wheel but before I do wrong I will like any suggestions for that to. I will appreciated

[@FortunateFew]

Great vid! Thanks

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Juan Martinez Thanks :)

[@josuegallardo2283]

I have a 2.5 automatic I recently did a transmission oil change and noticed a connector was leaking a small amount of oil, when I took off the transmission oil pan I noticed that the inner part of the connector was a harness that led to the transmission now do I have to replace my transmission or just the harness or how can I fix also I've had an issue of my car reving out of no where making me loose power mostly between 3rd going to 4th gear and for some reason sometimes it'll Rev a bit longer before switching almost all speeds like about two thousand rpm or more I tend to use the manual mode Daly is my transmission going bad or should I just stop driving on manual mode

[@cynharo4516]

I wanna get a 2009 vw rabbit automatic and it drives great! I’m just still apprehensive! 122,000 miles! Would the transmission already gone out if it was bad? Thx! :)

[@Jnice62108]

I have an mk5 rabbit 08. It has 150k miles. I was thinking about adding an intake and exhaust to get a little umph out of the car what would you suggest I look into before making such upgrades so I do not destroy the vehicle

[@TheModScientist]

just inherited a MK 5, seems like wiring problems are common too? air and coolant temp sensors?

[@hbmonkeyman]

Had 4/5 of these issues on my mk4 lol doors would never lock/unlock, peeling soft touch, side airbag failure and that super depressing sagging roof liner

[@brycedykes6406]

What is the most reliable Mk5 engine to go for? And what some things to loom for on the R32 other then DSG service history and brakes?

[@Markyboi29]

Okay so! Great video!! I have a 2.0T 2008 Jetta and you're pretty much accurate!! But I have a vibrating noise coming from the front end at low rpm. Once i get up to speed it goes away, moving off from a dead stop however or driving around in parking lots. Theres a very noticeable vibration noise. Anyone experience something similar to this? It's becoming quite annoying and i cant find it because it doesnt happen at idle. Only under load.

[@andresontiveros6207]

I have a 05.5 2.5l jetta and having two problems that you mentioned 1st. Door problem. It happens when I open the door, the door it self loses power after I open it less the 1/4 of the way. 2nd. Air bag light but I have used different obd readers and there is no codes but I have one problem that you didnt mentioned and it happens very frequently on the rear passenger side, there is a clunking noise and is very annoying because I've taken the car to many mechanics and they cant find the problem and also it never happens when I need it to happen

[@jhadorn1]

Are the radiator supports for the mk5 jetta, and Rabbit the same?

[@welileboysie1587]

hi I am looking to buy a Jetta TDI, but i was Looking at the mk5 2.0TDI, would you say the mk4 1.9TDi is a better built quality then the mk5? I had before a mk4 1.9TDI 81kw 235NM engine.. please advise

[@coltonsanford9759]

Also, are early 200’s VW TDI reliable? I’ve seen some in Europe last 500K Kilometers

[@neoincognito4481]

headliner starting to come up under driver visor area. always burns oil but it seems like adding some and keeping up changes has kept engine fine.

[@swansealoaf1999]

I have a 1.2 polo on a 6 plate it starts and runs well excerpt on tick over its a bit lumpy only when the car warms up any ideas

[@ed5779]

I have a golf 5 1.9 tdi and am experiencing shuddering whilst going up a slight gradient and applying the accelerator but only when I accelerate. What could it be? Thanks.

[@Druman19]

I've had my balance shaft seize, which caused the oil pump to stop working and broke the chain connecting it to the crank. I hear this is common. I took of the balance-shaft assembly and cut the balance shaft off to fix it rather than buy a new assembly.

[@jasonmorales7527]

How reliable is the 2008 2.5 Rabbit engine's with the five speed? Do I still have to change the timing chain and tensioners and how many miles do i have to change it?

[@Gumby1974]

Contemplating keeping my wife's 2008 Rabbit 2.5 or my 2008 Yaris as our high mileage car, both have 120,000 miles on them now. What car do you think will be most reliable higher mileage?

[@asztaloszoltan2001]

I am thinking of buying a mk5 golf gt (the 1.4 170 hp) are they good ? what should I look out for

[@janedonut1169]

Here's one that has everyone I talk to stumped. Have a 2010 jetta wolfsburg. Changed the headlight bulbs (both were out). After installing new ones, my DRL and headlight controls inverted. Headlights come on automatically when I turn ignition instead of DRL. When I turn on switch meant to turn on headlights, DRL lights come on, but it doesn't cut headlights, they also remain one.

[@dwight.bennett]

Charles, I'd like to hear more on advice to fix the headliner. It started a couple years ago for me, but its advanced more over this winter. Is there a way to fix it without pulling it out of the vehicle? At this point, the unglued area extends about 12 inches back from the console.

[@HeliconPath]

+Dwight Bennett Not really. Also, getting it out of the car is really finicky and there are some thin parts that are very easy to break. It's not an easy job.

[@siamean1]

I took mine to Mexico, 20 bucks, better than original.

[@gryan4833]

any comment on the MK5 engine wiring harness with chaffing of the wires in the engine bay ?

[@HumbleMechanic]

+G Ryan I feel like I have only seen 1, maybe 2 of those.

[@brianhogan584]

I have a Mk5 GTI that has 2 issues. cold start misfires aor a min then idles fine. And secondly my brake pedal goes down but does'nt return. the car sat for a while, and may have had a engine fire when they blew a rod out the side. I have replaced engine and now have he above issues. any help would be good. Thanks

[@E46325mod]

what do you think about the mk5.2 jetta 2.5 transmission? mine acted up yesturday and so the rpms would run up higher than what i intended it to. i would shift and it would rev up higher and then shift, i turned the car off and back and and the problem is gone..

[@MarkfromNewYork]

timing chain (2.5) , headliner, valve body, creaking sounds from front end, air recirculating door motor

[@henrickhooghoed5850]

i really need your expert advice. I own a 2010 mk6 golf with a 2.5l engine. Recently iv been noticing a inconsistent tapping or knock noise. It comes more from the right side of the engine. (when looking into the engine bay "right"). some days i won't hear it some days it will continue to tap away. the car has 170k kms not miles. anybodies help will be appreciated...... im freaking out a little bit.

[@MrBooyahmofo]

I have nearly every issue you listed! How do you know you have a timing chain issue on the 06 gti?

[@jessicah3450]

Call Volkswagen, there was a massive recall and class action lawsuit. They can check if the tensioner has been replaced to the updated type.

[@jokerscape]

2004 mk5 gttdi bkd engine had porous or cracking cylinder head issues i’m currently praying this isn’t the issue with mine and the coolant is disappearing elsewhere.(strange thing is if I open reservoir cap 9/10 it comes back ???) Slight murky water colour (yes i’m currently running water not coolant as it’s easier to keep an eye on water colour change) got the Vw coolant ready to go back in when I figure out the issue.

[@35057]

Will always have a MKV soft spot since it was my first newest VW and first turbo 4 I ever owned.

[@drakeorion94]

oh the rear brake thing happened to me on my golf...dealer wanted $2000 to replace the rear brakes and cable!

[@jessicah3450]

Every time I go to the dealer, they want $1-2k for the repair. They start going down if you start getting second opinions, hesitate, etc. Cut my last bill in half. I used to have an honest VW repair shop here and it was such a blessing.

[@lilwopaho]

I have a 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit 2.5 and in the tips and advice booklet is says that in the fuse box for the headlights it's f47 or f48 with a 40 amp fuse. But I have no f47 or f48 it only goes into the twenties. Also one of the 40 amp fuses I have no power to it when I test it everything else in the box has power except for that one 40 amp fuse but the fuse isn't bad because I switched the fuses and it didnt work so I'm not sure what's going on going on . Maybe no power in box to that fuse?

[@Helo735]

If I find the harness under the seat is broken for my side airbag, will the light go out if the issue is fixed? Or do I have to fix it and then have the code cleared?

[@jasonharrison25]

Aaron S need to have the code cleared

[@dillydave13]

I have a MK5 Jetta. I have had just about all these issues. I had the harness replaced today in the drivers door lol.

[@lelandmason5760]

My grandma has a 2005 Jetta and yep 😂 every single one of these things. Thanks man good vid as always!

[@s00p3rman]

I haven't heard anyone mention the Drive by Wire Throttle issues. my 07 Rabbit 2.5, had the wires replaced pretty early due to a traction/CE light and limp mode. Just now I have it again and the wires look pretty bad. This time I'm going to replace them with better wire and run them through 1/4 inch fuel hose for protection.

[@BrianMartin2007]

225,000 on my 2007 Jetta 2.5L (BGP engine). Got the transmission issue and I’m well past the recall mileage, but still drivable. Had the radio replaced when still under warranty because of nothing but digital static while playing any CD, replaced high speed fan, one idler pulley, coolant reservoir, one sticking caliper. Needs valve body replaced or new transmission installed. Only oil leak is at the vacuum pump which I may delete. Original parts; Wheel bearings Alternator AC system Radiator Water pump Fuel pump Always fed proper oil & nothing but high quality premium grade fuel (with an APR tune which I LOVE. I really love my 5-cylinders of fury so much I bought a 2013 B7 Passat with the slush box and the 5-Cylinder. Though the stock radio in my Jetta sounds a LOT better (one of the low-line radios), I do like having steering wheel controls in my Passat...may have to do a retrofit with a new steering wheel on my Jetta with the steering module upgrade lol

[@Kbuckway2222]

Humble mechanic have you ever seen a transmission slip then you take the key and restart it and it clears up but then comes back?