1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet problems

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1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet

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Common 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet problems

Volkswagen Cabriolet 1985: Common Problems

The Volkswagen Cabriolet 1985 has been reported to have several common issues, based on complaints from owners. This article will discuss these problems in detail, providing valuable information for those who own or are considering purchasing this classic car.

1. Reverse Gear Failures and Noise in Manual Transmission Models

One of the most common problems reported by Volkswagen Cabriolet 1985 owners is reverse gear failures and noise in manual transmission models. Six people have reported this issue, indicating that it might be a significant concern for those who own or plan to own this car. This problem can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out synchronizers, damaged gear teeth, or insufficient transmission fluid levels.

2. Coolant and Oil Leaks

Another common problem with the Volkswagen Cabriolet 1985 is coolant and oil leaks. While the exact number of reports is not specified, it is mentioned as one of the top Volkswagen Cabriolet problems. Coolant and oil leaks can be caused by various factors, such as damaged gaskets, worn-out seals, or corroded hoses. These leaks can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed promptly, as they can cause overheating or low oil pressure.

3. Misfire Issues

Some owners of the Volkswagen Cabriolet 1985 have reported misfire issues, which can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out spark plugs, damaged ignition coils, or faulty fuel injectors. For example, one owner reported a misfire issue with their 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet, which has the 1.8L engine, despite having all new plugs, wires, distributor, rotor button, and cap. This issue can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.

4. Difficulty Starting and Running Rough

Another common problem with the Volkswagen Cabriolet 1985 is difficulty starting and running rough. One owner reported that their car has a hard time starting, requiring them to pat the gas and keep turning it over until it starts, and then runs rough until revved up to about 3000 RPM. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as a dirty or clogged fuel filter, a weak battery, or a faulty ignition system.

5. Small Miss at Gear Changes

Some owners of the Volkswagen Cabriolet 1985 have reported a small miss at gear changes, which can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out synchronizers, damaged gear teeth, or insufficient transmission fluid levels. This issue can lead to poor performance and reduced fuel efficiency.

6. Engine Running for a Few Seconds and Then Quitting

Another common problem reported by Volkswagen Cabriolet 1985 owners is that the engine runs for a few seconds and then quits. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as a faulty fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter, or a weak battery.

In conclusion, the Volkswagen Cabriolet 1985 has several common problems that owners should be aware of. These issues can range from minor inconveniences, such as a small miss at gear changes, to significant concerns, such as coolant and oil leaks. Addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the longevity and reliability of this classic car.

1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet engine

When did they stop making VW Cabriolet?

2002

Cabriolet versions of the fourth-generation Golf and sixth-generation Golf were produced between 1998 and 2002 and 2011 and 2016, respectively. Overall, more than 770,000 Golf cabriolets were produced over a 37-year period – all at the Karmann plant in Osnabrück, which recently ceased production of the Porsche Boxster.

How much horsepower does a 1986 VW Cabriolet have?

A 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder, 90-hp engine and 5-speed manual transmission were standard on the front-wheel drive Cabriolet, and a 3-speed auto tran was available.

Is a VW Cabriolet a rabbit?

Rabbit Convertible is what the Golf Cabriolet was called in North America from 1980-1984. This model had two trim levels: Rabbit Convertible and Rabbit Convertible L. The L was supposed to receive upgraded options such as cloth sports seats and alloy wheels.

What is the top speed of the VW Cabriolet?

Performance

0 - 40 kph2.3 s
60 - 100 kph (5)10.6 s
80 - 120 kph (6)14.9 s
Est. 100 - 140 kph10.1 s
Top speed197 kph (122 mph)

When did VW stop making the cabriolet?

Volkswagen will cease production of the T-Roc cabriolet in 2025, ending a 75-year tradition of internal-combustion-engine-powered convertible models at the German automaker.

How much horsepower does a 1986 VW Cabriolet have?

A 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder, 90-hp engine and 5-speed manual transmission were standard on the front-wheel drive Cabriolet, and a 3-speed auto tran was available.

Is a VW Cabriolet a rabbit?

Rabbit Convertible is what the Golf Cabriolet was called in North America from 1980-1984. This model had two trim levels: Rabbit Convertible and Rabbit Convertible L. The L was supposed to receive upgraded options such as cloth sports seats and alloy wheels.

What is the top speed of the VW Cabriolet?

Performance

0 - 40 kph2.3 s
60 - 100 kph (5)10.6 s
80 - 120 kph (6)14.9 s
Est. 100 - 140 kph10.1 s
Top speed197 kph (122 mph)

1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Cabriolet problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Steering problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet.

1999-04-08

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-07-01
  • VIN: WVWCA0156FK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: POWER STEERING BELT LOCATED TOO CLOSE TO WHEELS, ALLOWING WATER TO SPLASH ONTO BELT FROM WHEELS, CAUSING BELT TO FAIL/STEERING TO LOCK. THE STEERING HAS LOCKED SEVERAL TIMES WHEN DRIVING THROUGH WATER DUE TO THIS PROBLEM, ONCE RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT.
1997-08-22

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-01-01
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ELECTRIC CABLES BETWEEN ALTERNATOR/BATTERY WERE CONNECTED TO HOT WATER PIPES GOING TO WATER RADIATOR. DUE TO EXTREME EXTERNAL SUMMER TEMPERATURE IN SOUTHERN SWITZERLAND, ELECTRIC CABLE CARBONIZE, CAUSING VEHICLE TO MALFUNCTION. *AK
1997-04-02

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-01-01
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE ELECTRIC CABLES SITUATED BETWEEN ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY WHERE THEY ARE CLAMPT TO HOT WATER PIPES CARBONIZE, RESULTING IN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILURE AND STALLING. *AK
1995-09-25

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-01-01
  • VIN: WVWCA0152FK
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILS TO OPERATE WHEN FIRST STARTING VEHICLE, CAUSING HEADLIGHTS/DASH LIGHTS TO DIM UNTIL REACHING SPEEDS GREATER THAN 5 MPH.
1995-07-30

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1993-01-01
  • VIN: WVWCA0159FK
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: PREMATURE METAL FATIGUE OF FRONT END. *SKD
1995-07-04

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-12-01
  • VIN: WVWCA0159FK
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: FRONT END METAL FATIGUE. *SD

1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet.

1987-04-14
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: FUEL PUMP, LOCATED INSIDE FUEL TANK, COULD SEIZE DURING HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES BECAUSE OF AN EXTREME FINE MESH FUEL FILTER RESTRICTING THE FUEL FLOW.
  • Consequence: FUEL SUPPLY TO ENGINE WOULD BE PARTIALLY INTERRUPTED,RESULTING IN STALLING.
  • Remedy: INSTALL A MODIFIED FUEL PUMP AND FILTER.
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