VW Golf MK2 Common Problems & Solutions: Complete South African Guide
Expert diagnosis and repair solutions for the most frequent VW Golf MK2 issues, with local pricing and parts availability in South Africa.
Researched by Craig Sandeman. Content based on VW Club SA forums and automotive expertise.
The VW Golf MK2 represents a significant evolution from the original Golf, bringing improved refinement and reliability. However, after decades of service, certain problems have become characteristic of this generation. This comprehensive guide covers the most frequent issues reported by South African VW Club members, complete with diagnostic steps, repair costs, and expert solutions.
Safety First
Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems. Use proper jack stands when working under the vehicle. If you're unsure about any repair, consult a qualified mechanic.
Carburetor Issues
Carburetor problems are among the most common issues in VW Golf MK2s, particularly affecting idle quality and overall drivability. Unlike the simpler systems in the MK1 Golf's carburetor setup, the MK2 often features more complex multi-stage carburetors.
Cutting Out and Idle Problems
Cars that need choke to run or die when choke is pushed back in often have base gasket leaks.
Common Symptoms:
- • Car cutting out unexpectedly
- • Needs choke to run properly
- • Low idle at 850rpm or lower
- • Dies when choke pushed back in
Primary Causes
- • Carb base gasket leak (most common)
- • Massive air leak under carburetor
- • Idle mixture too lean
- • Missing or damaged vacuum lines
- • Worn mixture screws
Repair Solutions
- • Replace carb base gasket (R50-150)
- • Turn out mixture screw gradually until smooth idle
- • Adjust idle stop to raise rpm to 980
- • Fix or replace vacuum lines (R20-50)
- • Consider complete carburetor replacement if issues persist
Multi-Stage Carburetor Problems
The 2.0L 8V engines often feature complex multi-stage carburetors that can develop specific issues:
Erratic Idling and Power Loss
Symptoms:
- • Erratic idling behavior
- • Lean power loss when second stage opens
- • Car stutters when clutch pressed
Solutions:
- • Adjust second stage opening timing
- • Check and adjust float setting
- • Replace vacuum lines systematically
Community Forum Discussions
Golf MK2 1.8 Carb Auto Cutting Out: https://www.vwclub.co.za/forum/viewtopic.php?t=216015
2.0 8V Carb Idling Issues: https://www.vwclub.co.za/forum/viewtopic.php?t=211890
Ignition Problems
Ignition system failures in the Golf MK2 can range from complete spark loss to intermittent starting issues. While some problems are similar to the MK1, the MK2 has its own characteristic faults.
Complete Loss of Ignition Spark
Diagnostic Steps
When there's no spark despite battery being charged and coil working:
- • Check green and white/yellowish wire to distributor
- • Test ignition module operation
- • Verify wiring harness continuity
- • Test distributor with known good unit
Common Solutions
- • Replace faulty wiring harness
- • Install different distributor
- • Adjust timing after repair
- • Replace ignition module if faulty
Cost: Around R350 quoted by mechanics
Ignition Switch Failures
A unique MK2 problem where the car won't start despite all other systems working correctly.
Symptoms
- • Car won't start consistently
- • Jiggling keys sometimes works
- • Starter and alternator ruled out
- • Intermittent electrical connection
Proven Solutions
- • Install start button as bypass (temporary)
- • Replace thick black wire from starter to battery
- • Use bigger spoon terminal on battery
- • Replace ignition switch/housing
Ignition System Diagnosis Tutorial
Step-by-step guide to diagnosing ignition spark problems in VW Golf MK2
Related Forum Discussions
MK2 No Spark Whatsoever: https://vwclub.co.za/forum/viewtopic.php?t=177007
MK2 Ignition Switch Problems: https://www.vwclub.co.za/forum/viewtopic.php?t=15547
Gearbox Problems
While sharing some similarities with MK1 gearbox issues, the Golf MK2 has its own characteristic transmission problems, particularly with gear selection and linkage adjustment.
Gear Selection Problems
Common Issues
- • Getting 1st gear when selecting reverse
- • Cannot select proper gears
- • Gear stick touching left side of stick box
- • Intermittent gear engagement
Root Causes
- • Shift mechanism needs adjustment
- • Worn selector lever components
- • Shift rod clamp bolt loosened
- • Linkage misalignment
5th Gear Selection Issues
A specific MK2 problem where 5th gear becomes inaccessible, often occurring after engine work.
Symptoms
- • Cannot engage 5th gear
- • Gear worked fine before engine work
- • Other gears function normally
Solutions
- • Adjust gear linkages precisely
- • Check pinch bolt tightness
- • Temporary fix: cassette tape in reverse gate
- • Realign lockout lever mechanism
Adjustment Procedure
Use 2 x 13mm spanners on the selector lever for precise adjustment:
- Locate the shift rod clamp bolt
- Loosen the bolt carefully
- Adjust shift mechanism to proper alignment
- Test all gear selections before tightening
- Retighten to specification
Related Forum Discussions
MK2 GTI Gearbox Problems: https://vwclub.co.za/forum/viewtopic.php?t=15720
MK2 5th Gear Problem: https://vwclub.co.za/forum/viewtopic.php?t=40234
Engine Performance Issues
The Golf MK2 introduced more sophisticated fuel injection systems, particularly the Bosch K-jetronic system, which brings its own set of performance challenges.
K-jetronic System Problems
The sophisticated K-jetronic fuel injection system can develop complex issues affecting idle and performance.
GTI Idle Fluctuation
- • Idle goes up and down erratically
- • Low power output
- • Heavy on fuel consumption
- • Problem persists after restart
Common Causes
- • Air leaks in K-jetronic system
- • Fuel pressure irregularities
- • Cracked breather pipes
- • Worn injector o-rings
Post-Rebuild Performance Loss
Engines that lack power after rebuilds often have specific system issues:
Symptoms
- • No acceleration after 4000 rpm
- • Very sluggish performance
- • Rich burning - petrol smell in exhaust
- • Slower than smaller engined cars
Investigation Points
- • Check 5th injector operation
- • Replace induction rubber pipes
- • Verify cambelt timing accuracy
- • Replace fuel filter
K-jetronic System Solutions
- • Check all breather pipes for cracks
- • Inspect injector o-rings and sleeves
- • Perform 4-gas analysis tune with lambda probe
- • Consider Caravelle fuel pump modification
- • Systematic air leak detection
Related Forum Discussions
MK2 Engine Problems: https://www.vwclub.co.za/forum/viewtopic.php?t=155656
Golf MK2 GTI Idle Problem: https://www.vwclub.co.za/forum/viewtopic.php?f=92&t=182197
Clutch Issues
Clutch problems in the Golf MK2 can be particularly frustrating, especially when they occur after component replacement.
Clutch Not Disengaging After Repair
A common issue where the clutch fails to disengage properly even after pressure plate replacement.
Symptoms
- • Won't go into gear when engine running
- • Acts like clutch pedal not being used
- • Clutch feels normal but not disengaging
- • Problem persists after pressure plate replacement
Likely Causes
- • Release bearing collapsed
- • Thrust rod worn or damaged
- • Flywheel not skimmed properly
- • Bush inside input shaft worn
Comprehensive Repair Approach
When clutch problems persist after initial repairs, a systematic approach is required:
- • Replace release bearing completely
- • Replace thrust rod and inspect for wear
- • Replace bush inside input shaft
- • Replace seal while gearbox is out
- • Skim flywheel and pressure plate mounting surface equally
- • Ensure proper alignment during reassembly
Related Forum Discussion
Golf MK2 Clutch Issues: https://www.vwclub.co.za/forum/viewtopic.php?t=187791
Electrical System Faults
While sharing some electrical issues with the MK1, the MK2 has additional complexity with its charging system and related components.
Charging System Problems
Symptoms
- • Battery going flat regularly
- • Alternator not charging properly
- • Electrical systems failing intermittently
- • Battery too small for system demands
Solutions
- • Test alternator output voltage
- • Check battery capacity and condition
- • Inspect charging circuit connections
- • Consider larger capacity battery
Systematic Diagnostic Approach
MK2-Specific Diagnosis Strategy
1. Start with System-Specific Testing
MK2s have more complex systems - test K-jetronic pressure, ignition timing, and multi-stage carburetor operation first
2. Check Interconnected Systems
Vacuum leaks can affect multiple systems - brake booster, carburetor, and emission control
3. Use Forum Knowledge Effectively
VW Club SA forums have extensive MK2-specific solutions - search by exact symptoms
4. Consider Generation Differences
Don't assume MK1 solutions apply directly - MK2 has different linkages, injection systems, and electrical layouts
South African Repair Costs (2025)
Quick Fixes (Under R500)
Major Repairs
Preventive Maintenance Schedule
Every 6 Months
- • Check K-jetronic fuel pressure
- • Inspect vacuum lines for cracks
- • Test ignition timing
- • Check carburetor float level
- • Inspect clutch pedal travel
Annually
- • Service K-jetronic system
- • Clean carburetor if fitted
- • Adjust gear linkages
- • Replace breather pipes
- • Check alternator output
Every 2 Years
- • Replace fuel filter
- • Service ignition system completely
- • Check clutch release bearing
- • Inspect injector o-rings
- • Test 5th injector operation
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between MK1 and MK2 Golf problems?
The MK2 introduced more sophisticated systems like K-jetronic fuel injection and complex multi-stage carburetors. While both generations share some basic issues like gearbox linkage problems, the MK2 has additional challenges with fuel injection systems, more complex electrical systems, and different clutch arrangements.
How do I diagnose K-jetronic system problems in my MK2 GTI?
Start by checking fuel pressure at the distributor head - it should be consistent. Look for air leaks in breather pipes and inspect injector o-rings. A 4-gas analysis with lambda probe is essential for proper diagnosis. Erratic idle often indicates air leaks or fuel pressure irregularities.
Why won't my MK2 clutch disengage after replacing the pressure plate?
This is often caused by a collapsed release bearing, worn thrust rod, or improperly skimmed flywheel. The bush inside the input shaft may also be worn. A comprehensive approach replacing the release bearing, thrust rod, and input shaft bush usually resolves the issue.
What causes my MK2 to cut out and need choke to run?
This is typically caused by a carb base gasket leak creating a massive air leak under the carburetor. The idle mixture becomes too lean, requiring choke enrichment to run. Replace the carb base gasket and adjust the mixture screw gradually until smooth idle is achieved.
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Written by Craig Sandeman
Automotive expert with over 15 years of experience in VW diagnostics and repair. Regular contributor to South African VW communities and specialist in classic VW restoration.
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