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Water guzzler?

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 6:07 pm
by hallie123
I topped up my water bottle about 2 weeks ago then yesterday the warning light came up on the dash so i checked the bottle again and it was about an inch under minimum!! theres no sign of any leaks that i can see.. are all gti's this thirsty? any feedback would be great!!

Re: Water guzzler?

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 7:01 pm
by alexperkins
The GTIs have a 7L washer bottle due to the headlight washers

Make sure you are properly filling it up

The headlight washer seals have a habit of blowing, so look for wet patches under the wheel arch corners on the bumper.

Re: Water guzzler?

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 8:38 pm
by 6n2stan
I guess you mean the header tank for the cooling system as you mention a warning light?

The radiator is prone to leaking but it isn't obvious. Look through the blades of the cooling fan and see if there are any red stains. The trouble is when the engine is hot most leaks evaporate and leave no clues.

The alternative is to get your cooling system pressure tested at a garage. This will cause the leak to show up but with a cold engine so it can be found.

Re: Water guzzler?

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 9:19 pm
by alexperkins
From a cooling point of view, thermostat housing and water pump are common leak areas

Re: Water guzzler?

Posted: Thu Jul 18, 2013 10:14 pm
by hallie123
Yeah its the cooling system i mean, il have a look at the radiator tomorrow, if i cant see anything il have a pressure test done and hopefully find something!

cheers guys!

Re: Water guzzler?

Posted: Thu Jul 18, 2013 10:20 pm
by hallie123
Oh and just another quick question, under heavy braking or bumpy roads the brake pedal feels really hard/rough/grindy and vibrates, i know the abs is probably kicking in but it feels disgusting under the foot, any explanations as to why?
(when i say heavy braking its more like a bit more force than usual not ridiculous foot to the floor pressure)

Re: Water guzzler?

Posted: Fri Jul 19, 2013 9:13 am
by 6n2stan
It could be worn brakes or warped discs?

Re: Water guzzler?

Posted: Wed Jul 24, 2013 10:46 pm
by hallie123
Not long changed the discs and pads on the front :/