Installing GPS antenna inside dash in the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta

When retrofitting a satellite navigation head unit to the car you can either install the factory GPS antenna on the roof which is a major job or install the GPS antenna in the area above the head unit where it receives a good view of the sky and minimal interference.

The install process is simple, using [...]

Rear seat noise (rattling, clicking and squeaking) in Volkswagen Golf

A common source of noise (rattling, clicking and squeaking) is the rear seat latches, when the seats move the lock mechanism moves around on the latch and makes a noise. You could try tapping them with a hammer from above to bend the latch slightly downwards but this doesn’t seem to fix the problem in [...]

Sanden PXE16 Air Conditioner Compressor Specifications (1K0820803)

Sanden’s PX series next generation swash plate compressors are variable controlled for maximum environmental benefit, these compressors replace the Zelex and Valeo compressors that are prone to early failures – Volkswagen Golf, GTI, Passat, Jetta and Eos Air Conditioner Compressor Failure.

The PXE16 has a minimum displacement of 4.9cc, a maximum displacement of 163cc,  maximum speed of 8500RPM [...]

Fitting GTI stainless steel seat inserts to the Volkswagen Golf GTI

Volksagen Golf GTI stainless steel seat inserts are available on ebay for around USD$25 for a set of two (search for “gti insert” or similar).

Fitting is easy, twist them slightly to make them sit flush in the handle, clean out the insert position in the handle with a suitable cleaner and apply some clear silicone [...]

Fitting the OSIR O-Rest Volkswagen Golf GTI RHD dead pedal/footrest

The RHD Volkswagen Golf GTI has a plain plastic dead pedal/footrest unlike the LHD models that get a stainless steel one to match the pedals. OSIR have a footrest that fits the Mark V and Mark VI GTI’s available for under USD$80 and is easily fitted with double sided tape to bulk out the rear [...]

Adding switches to the blank switch covers in the centre console of the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta

Installing switches in the center console to utilise the blank spaces either requires purchasing the optional switch for that location from Volkswagen however these are a momentary switch, have different markings on them (W for example) and connectors for the switch are not readily available or fitting an aftermarket switch which looks out of place. [...]

ESP with steering intervention on the Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Reveals ESP +

Revolutionary ESP with steering intervention as of 2005
July 26, 2004 3:26 AM
VolkswagenPress Release

ESP + Driving Recommendation

Revolutionary ESP with steering intervention as of 2005, first of all in the Golf

New generation of ESP helps the driver to countersteer specifically

From mid-2005 onwards, Volkswagen will be launching a new generation of ESP for the Golf [...]

Adding Interior Door Handle Illumination to the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta – Front

This guide is not yet complete – any information contained within has not been confirmed yet.

Parts required:

Suitable LED and resister for 12V operation.
000 979 009 (000979009) - Repair Wire (1 required for 2 doors or 1 required per door – see below)
I’m not sure if there is a spare ground on the controller or if an [...]

Adding Interior Door Handle Illumination to the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta – Rear

This guide is not yet complete – any information contained within has not been confirmed yet.

Parts required:

Suitable LED and resister for 12V operation..
000 979 018 (000979018) - Repair Wire (1 required for 2 doors or 1 required per door – see below)
I’m not sure if there is a spare ground on the controller or if [...]

Adding Door Warning Lights to the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta – Rear

This guide is not yet complete – any information contained within has not been confirmed yet.

Parts required:

1K0 947 411 A (1K0947411A) - Door Warning Light (1 per door)
1J0 971 972 (1J0971972) - Connector Housing (1 per door)
000 979 019 (000979019) - Repair Wire for Connector Housing (1 per door – 2 connectors)
000 979 018 (000979018) - Repair Wire (1 [...]