General engine upkeep (not modifications)

[jacksosi]

Our 2008 GTI is approaching 100k. I have been looking after the bodywork, but are there any things I should be thinking about having cleaned/checked/replaced over and above those on the service schedule (which we stick to)?

I'm not thinking of modifications, just existing engine parts which may by this age/mileage be sub-optimal and impacting performance, and could benefit from some attention.

Would a main dealer computer check perhaps be a good idea (we currently use non-main dealer servicing)?

I don't have any specific issues, but just thought I'd ask 

[Clarkj93]

Probably the main things are:
Cam follower - preventative maintenance
Diverter valve - reduced power if on way out
Pcv valve -  reduced power if on way out

These are all fairly easy d.i.y mods if you fancy getting the tools out

[r5gtt]

Don’t bother with main dealers as they’re no better than a decent VAG specialist but recommend dealer parts such as pcv valve, 10/40 quantum oil and Genuine filters, including pollen filter once a year. Cam follower check but more likely replace once removed with oem cam follower.

[jacksosi]

Thanks...no chance of me trying any of these, it would no doubt go wrong and the mrs would kill me 

It's going in for a service next week, will ask them how much to change those 3 at the same time.

It's just a standard garage, non-VAG specialist, any risk there?
Any benefit of doing them at the same time as the full service, or no cross over?

Any ideas what sort of costs I should expect?
Parts look like:
Cam follower - £50
Diverter valve - £50
Pcv valve - £?? -> cannot see one for a Gti, only TFSI versions

Fitting?

Cheers

[Clarkj93]

I would say 2 hours labour to do those, could be 3 hours if they're having a slow day or busy picking their nose. I would use oem parts for all personally, I've used aftermarket bits before and they just don't last unless they're upgraded and more expensive parts.

A specialist should know exactly what to do, what to order and get cracking but a standard garage may scratch their heads a little so I'd probably be inclined to go to a specialist because I know they would use good quality parts and would do the job to the letter.

Doesn't need to be done at the same time no, won't make a difference to do it a month or so later.

For pcv valve.... awesomegti sell them with new gaskets for about 75ish. Likely similar price at main dealer.

[r5gtt]

Thanks...no chance of me trying any of these, it would no doubt go wrong and the mrs would kill me 

It's going in for a service next week, will ask them how much to change those 3 at the same time.

It's just a standard garage, non-VAG specialist, any risk there?
Any benefit of doing them at the same time as the full service, or no cross over?

Any ideas what sort of costs I should expect?
Parts look like:
Cam follower - £50
Diverter valve - £50
Pcv valve - £?? -> cannot see one for a Gti, only TFSI versions

Fitting?

Cheers

be careful who you let replace them cam follower as they could damage the housing if it’s over torqued.
Pcv about £67 from tps dealer a little more

[bobby_fodge]

there is a how-to guide on here somewhere for the cam follower, maybe search it out.

You only need a few tools to do it, it on top of the engine so it's easy to get at.

I'd go with a VW Specialist, they'd know exactly what you mean when you mention the above parts.

[pudding]

At 100K, the cam follower should definitely be replaced if not already.  It's also the mileage at which cam chain/VVT phaser wear start to rear their ugly heads. 

Not wanting to inject some fear mongery, but that end of the engine has the potential to cost major £££s if ignored, so listen out for any clattering and unhealthy noises.

The PCV, diverter valve etc etc affect the performance and drivability almost immediately, so are easier to detect than the above naughty b'stards.

I doubt you have too much to worry about on a standard car, but if looked after, these engines can do 200K easily.

Don't ask how I know about the HPFP/VVT end of the engine    That little lot is £700 worth.

[jacksosi]

Thanks all, I will get a couple of quotes and report back 

[jacksosi]

Try AMD in lakeside. They seem to have fair prices on their website, but never used them myself.

They gave me a decent quote actually, thanks:

·         Cam follower - £37.73 + vat
·         Diverter valve- £37.64 + vat
·         PCV valve - £46.64 + vat
·         Labour – £105.00 + vat.
= £272 all in

Just need to time it for a day when I need to do a lot of shopping over the road at the Lakeside mall