1992 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 1992 Volkswagen Fox problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Volkswagen Fox 1992, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Leaky Fuel Injectors: Owners have reported issues with leaky fuel injectors in the 1992 Volkswagen Fox. This problem can lead to fuel leaks, affecting the engine's performance and fuel efficiency. It is crucial to address this issue promptly to prevent potential safety hazards and engine damage.
- Starting Problems: Some owners have complained about the car not starting and only making clicking sounds. This issue could be related to the battery, starter motor, or electrical system. Proper diagnosis and repair are essential to ensure the vehicle starts reliably.
- Window Regulator Failure: Another common problem reported is the failure of window regulators. This issue can result in windows getting stuck in a closed or open position, impacting ventilation and overall comfort. Prompt repair or replacement of the window regulator is necessary to restore proper window functionality.
- Transmission Issues: Owners have experienced transmission problems with the 1992 Volkswagen Fox. Transmission issues can manifest as difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, or unusual noises during gear changes. Addressing transmission problems promptly is crucial to prevent further damage and ensure safe driving.
- Engine Troubles: Some owners have reported engine-related complaints with the 1992 Volkswagen Fox. Engine issues can vary from poor performance to unusual noises, rough idling, or stalling. Timely diagnosis and repair of engine problems are essential to maintain the vehicle's performance and reliability.
These common problems with the Volkswagen Fox 1992 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, timely repairs, and addressing issues promptly to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance and safety.
How reliable is the Volkswagen Fox?
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.
How safe is VW Fox?
For safety, the Volkswagen Fox features an advanced dual-stage crash structure, side airbags and front and rear anti-roll bars that help absorb crash forces. It also has electronic stability control to help prevent skids. The Fox also has a 5-star overall crash-test score, making it a safe pick for drivers.
How reliable is the Volkswagen Fox?
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 |
How safe is VW Fox?
For safety, the Volkswagen Fox features an advanced dual-stage crash structure, side airbags and front and rear anti-roll bars that help absorb crash forces. It also has electronic stability control to help prevent skids. The Fox also has a 5-star overall crash-test score, making it a safe pick for drivers.
1992 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:
- Steering problems
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
- Equipment problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Volkswagen Fox vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1992 Volkswagen Fox complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Volkswagen Fox.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-01
- VIN: 9BWBB2302NP
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE, EQUIPMENT, STEERING, SUSPENSION ALL FAILED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-10-12
- VIN: 9BWBA2308NP
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RECALL WORK DENIED ON THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM DUE TO SMELL IN VEHICLE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-12
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SUNVISOR ON DRIVERS SIDE HANGS DOWN, IMPEDING VISION. *DSH
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THERE IS A PLASTIC SPACER WHICH DISLODGES AND CAUSES THE SEAT TO MOVE BACK AND FORTH AND NOT TO STAY IN A LOCKED POSITION. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-02-01
- VIN: 9BWBB2302NP
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CV BOOTS FAILED 3 TIMES. *AK
1992 Volkswagen Fox recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1992 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.
Negative 1992 Volkswagen Fox car reviews
Positive 1992 Volkswagen Fox car reviews
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You've got yourself a very reliable car that handles well and saves you some cash on gas!
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Haven't had it too long, but it has been very reliable so far. I bought it with 165k and have used it to cross the Rockies and go off-roading. It still gets 35 mpg and has many nice features. While the interior may not be as nice looking as Japanese cars, it has held up MUCH better. =-)
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This car is the most reliable car I have ever driven. With 160k miles on it, it still runs as well as it did when we first got it. It's the perfect backup car. In the 120k miles we have put on it, we have only had two major problems: the paint faded and started to chip, and the radiator broke. Other than regular maintenance, there have been no other costs. It was well worth every penny.
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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.
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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.
Other years of Volkswagen Fox
Are you having problems with your 1992 Volkswagen Fox?
Garnet Herzog 2024-05-12
It sounds like you had a great experience with your first car! It may not have been the most thrilling ride, but it was definitely affordable and reliable. It's a shame that VW no longer produces this economical sedan.