1990 Volkswagen Fox problems
The Volkswagen Fox is a subcompact car produced and designed by Volkswagen of Brazil and sold in Latin America from 2003 until 2021 and in Europe from 2005 until 2011, where it was sold as the city car offering. The Fox was produced as a 3-door and 5-door hatchback. There is also a mini SUV version called Fox Xtreme (previously CrossFox) and a mini MPV/station wagon model called Suran, SpaceFox, SportVan or Fox Plus depending on the market.
Earlier use of the nameplate
Volkswagen acquired the rights to the name in 1969, by purchasing NSU. The original NSU Fox was a motorbike first seen in 1949, and Volkswagen had subsequently used the "Fox" name in some markets for special edition Volkswagen Polos. The Audi 80 produced in the 1970s also used the name Fox on vehicles sold in Australia and the United States. The Australian version was assembled locally by Volkswagen Australasia Ltd.
North America (1987–1993)
The Fox was a variant of the Voyage manufactured by Volkswagen do Brasil and marketed by Volkswagen in North America as an entry level subcompact from 1987 until 1993. Initially offered as a 2-door and 4-door sedan as well as a 2-door wagon, the wagon was discontinued in 1991 along with the 2-door for the Canadian market, the same year the 4-door sedan (as well as the 2-door, in the United States) received a mild restyling.
The Fox featured a longitudinal mounted 1.8L, 81 PS (60 kW; 80 hp) 4-cylinder gasoline engine, sharing components with the Volkswagen Golf — along with a 4-speed manual transmission for the standard 2-door and 4-door sedan and a 5-speed manual transmission for the "GL" sport model — an automatic transmission was not offered. There was no power steering available. The Fox had power assisted disk brakes in the front and drums in the rear. The Fox did not have an anti-lock braking system.
According to the U.S. EPA, the 4-speed manual transmission averaged 24 mpg‑US (9.8 L/100 km; 29 mpg‑imp) on the new combined driving cycle with the 5-speed manual transmission able to produce 23 mpg‑US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg‑imp) on the new driving cycle. Under the old test protocol, the Volkswagen Fox was able to produce 26 mpg‑US (9.0 L/100 km; 31 mpg‑imp) with the 5-speed transmission and 27 mpg‑US (8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg‑imp) with the 4-speed transmission.
Early models (1987–1989) featured the Bosch CIS-E also known as KE-Jetronic electro mechanical fuel injection, using an oxygen sensor to assist in fuel management. Later models featured (1990 – 1993) Bosch Digifant electronic fuel injection. In Canada, the Fox from 1987 to 1989 was offered with the simpler Bosch CIS fuel injection (K-Jetronic) without an oxygen sensor for the engine fuel management system.
Due partly to booming sales of the Passat, Jetta, Golf and the price of the Fox compared to other manufacturers at the time, the Fox faded out fast, making it a rare car - particularly so the facelift (1990 – 1993) models. Fewer were being produced for North America due to the lack of demand. Volkswagen also priced the car very low, to compensate for the ever more expensive German-made cars, and Volkswagen of America lost money on every Fox sold in the early years.
Originally, the Fox's squared off front end featured sealed beam halogen headlamps; after 1991 models received revised sheet metal with flush glass headlamps (MK2).
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Common 1990 Volkswagen Fox problems
The Volkswagen Fox, produced in the 1990s, is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Ignition wires may break down and cause misfires: This is the most commonly reported problem for the Volkswagen Fox. Ignition wires are crucial for delivering the spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders. When they break down, misfires can occur, leading to reduced engine performance and increased emissions.
- Leaky fuel injectors: Some owners have reported leaky fuel injectors, particularly in the 1996 Fox model. Fuel injectors are responsible for delivering the precise amount of fuel into the engine's combustion chambers. Leaks can lead to poor engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and the risk of a fire.
- Window regulators: Owners have reported issues with window regulators, particularly in the 2010 Fox model. Window regulators are responsible for moving the window up and down. When they fail, the window may not move or may move erratically, making it difficult to use.
- Whining and chugging: Some owners have reported whining and chugging noises, particularly in the 1989 Fox model. These noises can indicate problems with the engine, transmission, or drivetrain.
- Gears not working properly: Some owners have reported issues with the gears not working properly, particularly in the 1991 Fox model. This can indicate problems with the transmission or drivetrain.
- Electrical issues: Owners have reported various electrical issues, including problems with the battery, alternator, and starter motor. These issues can lead to difficulty starting the car or intermittent electrical failures.
- Transmission issues: Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, including slipping, jerking, and difficulty shifting. These issues can indicate problems with the transmission or clutch.
- Engine problems: Owners have reported various engine problems, including poor performance, increased fuel consumption, and difficulty starting. These issues can indicate problems with the engine, fuel system, or ignition system.
- Window problems: Some owners have reported issues with the windows, including difficulty rolling them up or down and leaks. These issues can indicate problems with the window regulator, window motor, or window seal.
These are some of the most commonly reported problems with the Volkswagen Fox based on complaints from owners. It's important to note that not all Volkswagen Fox vehicles will experience these problems, and the frequency and severity of these issues can vary depending on the specific model year and individual vehicle.
Is a VW Fox reliable?
It didn't matter to them that there were better city cars around because the Fox was roomy, reasonably refined and generally reliable. A decade after its demise, the Fox is still worth considering as cheap transport.
How many miles will a VW Fox do?
Performance
| Power | 54 bhp |
|---|---|
| Torque | 108 Nm, 80 ft-lb |
| CO2 Emissions | 139 g/km |
| Euro Emissions Standard | 4 |
| Miles Per Tank | 517 miles |
Why did VW stop making the Fox?
Due partly to booming sales of the Passat, Jetta, Golf and the price of the Fox compared to other manufacturers at the time, the Fox faded out fast, making it a rare car - particularly so the facelift (1990 – 1993) models. Fewer were being produced for North America due to the lack of demand.
What are VW Fox like?
The Fox is a comfortable city car. With a ride that's soft rather than sporty, it's more than capable of tackling speed bumps. The four-cylinder engine is relatively quiet, helping to make the Fox a good long-distance cruiser.
Is a VW Fox reliable?
It didn't matter to them that there were better city cars around because the Fox was roomy, reasonably refined and generally reliable. A decade after its demise, the Fox is still worth considering as cheap transport.
Why did VW stop making the Fox?
Due partly to booming sales of the Passat, Jetta, Golf and the price of the Fox compared to other manufacturers at the time, the Fox faded out fast, making it a rare car - particularly so the facelift (1990 – 1993) models. Fewer were being produced for North America due to the lack of demand.
How many miles will a VW Fox do?
Performance
| Power | 54 bhp |
|---|---|
| Torque | 108 Nm, 80 ft-lb |
| CO2 Emissions | 139 g/km |
| Euro Emissions Standard | 4 |
| Miles Per Tank | 517 miles |
What are VW Fox like?
The Fox is a comfortable city car. With a ride that's soft rather than sporty, it's more than capable of tackling speed bumps. The four-cylinder engine is relatively quiet, helping to make the Fox a good long-distance cruiser.
1990 Volkswagen Fox car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Fox problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Volkswagen Fox vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Volkswagen Fox complaints
The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Volkswagen Fox.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-28
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WIRES THAT CONTROL CAR BURNED OUT ON HIGHWAY, AND VEHICLE SHOOK AND KEPT CUTTING OFF. FUEL PUMP WAS NOT PUMPING FUEL THROUGH OUT CAR.*AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 9BWGB2300LP
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: LEFT TURN ONLY AND HARD ACCELERATION ENGINE WILL FALTER LIKE STARVED FOR FUEL. WILL OCCUR WITH FULL OR EMPTY FUEL TANK. REPLACED FUEL PUMP TWICE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 9BWDA0306LP
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: RECALL LOCATION.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL FILLER FAILURE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: OWNER TRIED TO PUT THE CAR IN THIRD GEAR AND THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER BROKE OFF. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 9BWGA2302LP
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: OWNER STATES WHILE IN THE GAS STATION HIS VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE, OWNER NOTES THAT FIRE STARTED IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE, HE BELIVES IT MAY HAVE BEEN THE FUEL PUMP. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-17
- VIN: 9BWDB22302L
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RECALL NO- 95V105000, THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM, NO PARTS ARE AVAILABLE. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-08
- VIN: 9BWDA0307LP
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FUEL TANK CRACKED, CAUSING A LEAK. PLEASE DESCRIBE .*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 9BWBA2300LP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DRIVING THE VEHICLE SAW UNDER THE DASH SMOKE, APPARENT ELECTRICAL SHORT, WIRING CAUGHT ON FIRE, VEHICLE COMPLETE BURNED. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 9VWGA0301LP
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HOOD FLEW UP WHILE DRIVING HIT WINDSHIELD TWICE. PLEASE GIVE MORE DETAILS. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-15
- VIN: 9BWGA2130XL
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN RECALL NO 95V105000, DEALER REPLACED HEATER CORE WHICH RUINED THE ENGINE. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 9BWGB2302LP
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE OIL LEAK DEALER FIXED IS STILL HAVING THE PROBLEM PURCHASED USED HAVING MORE PROBLEM . TT`
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 9BWGA2304LP
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PURCHASE CAR NEW REPLACED THE SPEEDOMETER HEAD TWO TIMES AND HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM NOW . TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-17
- VIN: 9BWBA2307LP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SHOULDER BELT NEEDS TO BE FASTEN TO START THE ENGINE. COPPER WIRES MOVED AND BROKE. TT
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-01
- VIN: 9BWGB2304LP
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HEATER CORE FAILED. *SKD
1990 Volkswagen Fox recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Volkswagen Fox.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
- Summary: IN THE EVENT OF A COOLING SYSTEM COMPONENT FAILURE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN, THE COOLANT CAN OVERHEAT CAUSING THE COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE TO RISE TO A LEVEL WHERE A LEAK IN THE HEAT EXCHANGER CAN OCCUR.
- Consequence: A LEAK OR FAILURE OF THE HEAT EXCHANGER LOCATED UNDER THE DASHBOARD CAN ALLOW HOT COOLANT TO ESCAPE AND CAUSE INJURY TO THE FEET OF A PASSENGER. HOT COOLANT CAN ALSO STEAM UP THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE TEMPORARILY IMPAIRING THE DRIVER'S VISIBILITY, INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A BYPASS VALVE KIT WHICH IS DESIGNED TO ROUTE EXCESSIVELY HOT COOLANT TO THE ENGINE WITHOUT FLOWING THROUGH THE HEAT EXCHANGER. DEALERS WILL ALSO INSTALL A PLASTIC COVER UNDERNEATH THE DASHBOARD ON THE PASSENGER SIDE TO ENSURE THAT THE PASSENGER IS NOT EXPOSED TO HOT COOLANT IN THE EVENT OF A LEAK.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL DISTRIBUTION RAIL ON THE ENGINE MAY SHRINK BEYOND THE CLAMP FORCE OF THE FUEL HOSE CLAMPS, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAN CAUSE AN UNDERHOOD FIRE IF THE FUEL COMES IN CONTACT WITH A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL RAIL AND INSTALL A NEW SPRING TYPE SELF-TIGHTENING CLAMP.
Positive 1990 Volkswagen Fox car reviews
Other years of Volkswagen Fox
Are you having problems with your 1990 Volkswagen Fox?
Avery Carter 2024-11-08
This was my first new car! At the time, it was the cheapest economy car available. Most of my friends drove Hondas and Toyotas, but I wanted to be different. I initially wanted the two-door wagon, but I got the Coupe instead because I couldn't drive a five-speed. I loved the way it drove. It was so easy to steer around, and it was so light that the 80 HP engine was enough. It was also very easy to maintain, and nothing ever broke down. The interior wasn't fussy and was simple, but that was perfect for me. The only regret I had was that I didn't buy the option of air conditioning. I learned to live without it, but it was sometimes very hard in the Southern California climate. I miss it a lot, and I wish I hadn't lost the car when another driver trying to beat a yellow light hit my car. I don't remember if it had an airbag, but it didn't go off.
Austin Langosh 2024-09-29
My parents gave me this car in 2003, and at first, I was disappointed with how old and worn out it seemed. However, after driving it for three months, I realized that it was more reliable and handled better than newer US Big 3 economy cars. Despite its age, the Fox has proven to be incredibly dependable with regular maintenance. It has been a fantastic first car and a reliable ride throughout my high school years. I am so grateful for this wonderful little car and it has inspired a great loyalty to VW. I would happily get another one.
Robb Stoltenberg 2024-02-28
Minor electrical problems may arise in these older VWs, such as noises and lights going off for no apparent reason. However, it is worth noting that at around 150,000 miles, the engine runs exceptionally clean and uses no oil. In fact, after 2,000 miles, the dipstick remains clean. A friend of mine even purchased a Fox with a broken odometer at 250,000+ miles, and he drove it for five years without any major issues until the transmission eventually started making some unpleasant noises.
Camren Spencer 2024-01-26
This is a fantastic car that performs well in any situation. Its small exterior dimensions and outstanding fuel economy make it an ideal city car, while its agile handling and spunky character make it perfect for backroads. The solid German build quality ensures comfort and reliability in any weather condition. The Fox boasts a roomy interior, even for taller drivers like myself, and the driving experience is like a go-kart. If you're looking for a reliable car, the Fox practically invented the word. I highly recommend it to anyone in the market for a good car.