Coolant loss?

[Rileyowner]

I've had an on-going problem from day one (December 2007) in regard to coolant loss with my Jetta TDI.

After several failed attempts by the dealer to fix the problem, I contacted VW Aus. Their involvement moved things along and yet another coolant pipe was replaced (fourth attempt). Since then, I have to admit that coolant loss has reduced significantly over the past 5,000 km.

However, I still had to top up the reservoir with around 2/3 cup of distilled water after 5,000 km. I have emailed VWA twice asking if this is normal and have received no response whatsoever.

So the question is - is this normal/is it acceptable? I know my wife's Mitsubishi Colt has not used a drop in 55,000 km and that's why I'm asking for your input.

[Stan]

doesnt seem normal, have you tried a new coolant cap?

[85Fuego]

Yes,

My Late 2005 2L TDI has a slow but steady loss over 3 years.
VW tested and said no observable pressure loss.
I suspect it may be the EGR which if im correct is watercooled.
Have a look at TDIclub

Am yet to get worried. None of my other cars 'leak' coolant without obvious signs ie leaks, oily oil cap etc.

Regards

David

[Dubdabest]

My 2006 Jetta TFSI uses up a bit of oil (common prob) but I don't think the coolant liquid level ever drop in the 3 yrs I've been driving it.

[Umai Naa!!]

I have seen a few cases of warped water outlet housings at the gearbox end of the cylinder head. They weren't an easy leak to find, either.

[Rileyowner]

Faced with VWA's failure to reply to my repeated enquiries, I contacted the RACQ and a European car specialist who used to look after my Range Rover/Discovery. Both sources confirmed that any coolant loss is abnormal.

The Jetta goes back for the fifth and final time in August. If that doesn't work it will be lawyers at 10 paces and lots of letters to consumer organisations.

Such a shame, the car's great except for this one (but potentially major) fault.

After hearing about the runaround I've had, a neighbour dropped the idea of a Jetta or Passat and has just taken delivery of a Mazda 6. Sadly, the Europeans still don't seem to get the customer service thing.