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New Spark Plugs: Benefits & Performance Boost

 
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Golfdriver
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Post19-06-2002, 11:31    Subject: New Spark Plugs: Benefits & Performance Boost Quote

Hello,

I recently bought a used Golf Variant TDI with approximately 170,000 km on the odometer. I was wondering if it might be time to replace the glow plugs? Which brand should I use – Beru or another manufacturer?

Thank you!!


Translated on 04-08-2026, 20:58.
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dieselschrauber
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Post19-06-2002, 12:09    Subject: New Spark Plugs: Benefits & Performance Boost Quote

Hello,

The glow plugs are only necessary for starting a cold engine in low outside temperatures. As long as you're not having any starting problems or noticing that half the cylinders aren't firing until several more revolutions of the crankshaft, new glow plugs are just a waste of money.
Regarding the lifespan of glow plugs, I don't have any experience with TDI engines yet; mine are all still working after 113,000 km. In my older 1.6D engines (which were not TDIs), about 3 out of 4 glow plugs usually failed around ~120,000 km.
But you only really notice it in the winter when the car struggles to start and your fingers freeze off while changing the battery.
In the "Tips & Tricks" section on the left-hand side of the menu, you'll find instructions on how to check the glow plugs. If one is broken... whether or not you should replace them all is a matter of personal preference. However, even with three out of four working, you shouldn't experience any starting problems (I personally chose not to replace the glow plug behind the fuel injection pump in one 1.6D because it was very difficult to access, and the car still started at -20°C).

Best regards, Rainer.


Translated on 04-08-2026, 21:00.
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Tortsch
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Post19-06-2002, 13:38    Subject: New Spark Plugs: Benefits & Performance Boost Quote

'My car wasn't starting as well when it was cold, so I had the glow plugs replaced after 150,000 kilometers on my TDI 90HP engine -> everything is okay again icon_wink.gif'


Translated on 04-08-2026, 21:02.
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D.
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Post20-06-2002, 21:04    Subject: New Spark Plugs: Benefits & Performance Boost Quote

Hello!

My Golf III Variant TDI with engine code 1Z hasn't been starting as well since last winter. Following the advice of a VAG partner, I had the glow plugs replaced when it reached 200,000 km. Unfortunately, that didn't solve the problem; they were still the original ones at that point.
Next winter, I think I'll try replacing the battery (it's X years old).

Best regards, D.


Translated on 04-08-2026, 21:03.
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Paule
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Post21-06-2002, 17:43    Subject: It can't hurt: Try it now! Quote

Hello.

I have four of them in my Caddy 1.9 diesel, and they don't work at all anymore.
function.

Even in winter, I would hang out with them because I didn't have anyone else to be with.
But I always had to make sure the battery was good.
Sure, it always took a little while to get it started.

If you decide to get new ones, would you sell me the old ones? icon_lol.gif


See you then.

Paule.


Translated on 04-08-2026, 21:04.
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