1990 Volkswagen Transporter

Volkswagen Transporter (1990)

The 1990 Volkswagen Transporter was a popular choice for families and businesses alike. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The Transporter was praised for its spacious interior and versatile seating configurations. However, it was also known to have several common issues.

Engine

• 2.1L Diesel Engine:
  • Timing Belt Failure: The timing belt is a critical component that synchronizes the timing of the engine’s valves. If the timing belt fails, it can cause catastrophic engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Fuel Injection Pump Failure: The fuel injection pump is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine’s cylinders. If it fails, the engine will not be able to run.
    • Solution: Replace the fuel injection pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 1.9L Petrol Engine:
  • Head Gasket Failure: The head gasket is a seal between the engine’s cylinder head and the engine block. If the head gasket fails, it can cause coolant and oil to leak.
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Manual Transmission:
  • Gearbox Failure: The gearbox is a critical component of the transmission. If it fails, the transmission will not be able to shift gears.
    • Solution: Replace the gearbox.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 3-Speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter is a fluid coupling that connects the engine to the transmission. If it fails, it can cause the transmission to slip or shudder.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Struts: The front suspension struts are responsible for absorbing shock and providing stability. If they fail, the vehicle will handle poorly and may be unsafe to drive.
  • Solution: Replace the front suspension struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator is responsible for charging the vehicle’s battery. If it fails, the battery will not be able to power the vehicle’s electrical components.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain: The battery can drain prematurely if there is a parasitic draw on the electrical system. This can be caused by a faulty component or a short circuit.
  • Solution: Find and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust: The Transporter is prone to rust, especially in the undercarriage and body panels.
  • Solution: Prevent rust by applying rust-proofing treatment regularly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction: The climate control system can malfunction, causing the vehicle’s heating and cooling system to not work properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the faulty component in the climate control system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Rattle: The dashboard can rattle due to loose components or poor fitment.
  • Solution: Tighten or replace the loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The Volkswagen Transporter is a versatile vehicle with a spacious interior. However, it is known to have several common issues that can be expensive to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before purchasing a used Transporter. The severity of the issues varies, but some can be costly to fix.