1991 Volkswagen Corrado
Introduction:
The 1991 Volkswagen Corrado is a sleek and sporty coupe that was beloved by enthusiasts for its handling and affordability. It was powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0L 16-valve inline-four engine that produced 134 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. The Corrado was available with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. While the Corrado was a popular car, it was not without its issues.
Engine
2.0L 16-Valve
- Head Gasket Failure: Premature failure of the head gasket, leading to coolant leaks, overheating, and engine damage.
- Solution: Replace head gasket and associated seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups.
- Solution: Repair or replace oil control rings and/or valve seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Leaking intake manifold gasket, causing rough idling and reduced engine performance.
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
- Clutch Failure: Premature wear or failure of the clutch, resulting in slipping and difficulty shifting.
- Solution: Replace clutch assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slippage: Transmission starts slipping under acceleration or load.
- Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut Mount Failure: Worn or damaged strut mounts, causing excessive handling and noise issues.
- Solution: Replace strut mounts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sway Bar End Link Failure: Failed sway bar end links, impairing vehicle stability and handling.
- Solution: Replace sway bar end links.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure: Premature failure of the alternator, leading to charging system issues.
- Solution: Replace alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Starter Motor Failure: Starter motor fails to engage or crank the engine.
- Solution: Replace starter motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Seal Failure: Leaking sunroof seal allows water to enter the interior.
- Solution: Replace sunroof seal.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Window Switch Failure: Faulty window switches prevent windows from operating properly.
- Solution: Replace window switch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Central Locking Malfunction: Central locking system fails to lock/unlock all doors.
- Solution: Repair or replace central locking actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 1991 Volkswagen Corrado is a fun and stylish coupe that suffers from some reliability issues. The engine and transmission are known to have a number of potential problems, and the electrical system can also be a source of headaches. However, the suspension and interior are generally reliable. The severity of the issues varies, and the cost to fix them can be substantial. Overall, the Corrado is a good choice for enthusiasts who are willing to put in some extra work to keep it running.