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Engine Failure at 530k Miles?

 
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efistho
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Post02-02-2009, 14:38    Subject: Engine Failure at 530k Miles? Quote

On January 25, 2009, the first chapter of this faithful companion's life came to an end. What was believed to be a piston failure was supposed to give our loyal friend a new heart and a little rejuvenation.

After starting the car in the morning, it didn't run smoothly. However, when parked in the evening, everything seemed fine.

After 200 meters, I stopped and checked the crankcase pressure by removing the oil filler cap. There was significant pressure there, which, along with blue smoke, is a good indicator of piston damage.

It's unbelievable that such an engine would give up at 530,006 km. icon_biggrin.gif

After disassembly and dismantling, there was a slight surprise. No damage was immediately apparent, and even the original head gasket appeared to be in good condition.

Pistons and engine components appear to be in excellent condition with no visible signs of wear, seemingly with only around 50,000 km (approximately 31,000 miles) on them.

"Running shoes with original soles and no scratches, all very clean except for minor leaks in the ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and signs of continuous use over the past 15 years."

A precise damage assessment will only be possible after further disassembly.

The reason for the disassembly was significant compression loss and the presence of compression pressure in the crankcase. Given the good overall condition, I'm almost speechless or at a loss for words.

Could such compression loss also be caused by faulty piston rings?

Why aren't there any scratches in the barrel liner?

I'll be disassembling it once I get my loaned engine stand back.

Best regards, efistho.



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Translated on 05-10-2026, 12:55.
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dieselmartin
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Post02-02-2009, 15:27    Subject: Engine Failure at 530k Miles? Quote

Your drive shaft is loose icon_smile.gif.

Were all four cylinders showing zero compression, or what were the readings?

m;
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... there was another T.

I don't know what the f*ck it was.


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matthiasTDI96
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Post02-02-2009, 15:50    Subject: Engine Failure at 530k Miles? Quote

My condolences.

Apparently, modern engines aren't as bad as everyone says icon_smile.gif. 500,000 km is actually quite a lot. Is it still worth it? Is the rest of the vehicle worth the cost of rebuilding the engine?


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vwSchrauber
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Post02-02-2009, 16:46    Subject: Engine Failure at 530k Miles? Quote

Quote:
After 200 meters, I stopped and checked the crankcase pressure at the oil cap. There was significant pressure there, which, in conjunction with blue smoke, is actually a good indicator of piston damage.


The amount it appears to be on the fill cap is often much more than it actually is. It would be much more interesting to see the liters per minute coming out of the KGE hose in the lower chamber.
selber schrauben - statt Werkstattpfusch


Translated on 05-10-2026, 12:59.
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efistho
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Post02-02-2009, 18:48    Subject: Engine Failure at 530k Miles? Quote

I have to admit that I didn't measure the compression.

A new engine is already there. icon_biggrin.gif

He's just going to add a few more details to it to make it more enjoyable.

I actually wanted to switch to AFN right away, but I couldn't find a suitable donor quickly.

The car is otherwise great and fully equipped. There's no reason to let this beauty die.

Best regards,


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bindpe
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Post02-02-2009, 21:27    Subject: Engine Failure at 530k Miles? Quote

Hi.

Well, 530,000 km isn't bad. I think a lot of PD drivers would be happy about that.
In which car was this part installed?
What specific engine repairs have you had during the vehicle's lifespan?

best regards
Peter.
Golf III TDI AHU 402Tkm
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Translated on 05-10-2026, 13:01.
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efistho
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Post03-02-2009, 10:33    Subject: Engine Failure at 530k Miles? Quote

It's a 35i GT variant with exclusive equipment.

The car is practically fully equipped, meaning it has features like leather upholstery with orthopedic Recaro seats for the driver, air conditioning, cruise control, multi-function display, etc.

"The engine has always been in good condition. It has had one turbo, one transmission, and one head gasket replacement. The clutch was replaced preventatively at 400,000 km. Two injectors have been rebuilt, and the timing belt has been replaced a few times. The pump cover was slightly leaking recently, but I haven't considered it a critical issue for now."

Best regards, and here are 2 more pictures without the seat.

efistho



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Translated on 05-10-2026, 13:02.
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Post04-02-2009, 18:34    Subject: Engine Failure at 530k Miles? Quote

My condolences!

Was für ein Motor ist denn gestorben? MKB?

(Your vehicle registration number does not match your place of residence according to your profile icon_wink.gif).


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efistho
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Post04-02-2009, 19:30    Subject: Engine Failure at 530k Miles? Quote

The engine is a 1Z.

By the way, the license plate is no longer valid, but the county still is.

Even though it doesn't quite fit the profile.

Best regards from WOB.


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