2008 Volkswagen Pointer

2008 Volkswagen Pointer

The Volkswagen Pointer was a small hatchback that was sold in Mexico from 2002 to 2010. It was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options.

The Pointer was available with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine rated at 115 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission. A 2.0-liter diesel engine was also available, rated at 105 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Pointer was praised for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and practicality. However, it was criticized for its lack of power and poor interior quality.

Engine

• 2.0-liter Inline-Four

  • Timing Chain Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or break, causing the engine to lose power or stall.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain and tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak. This can lead to rough idling, stalling, and reduced power.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

• 2.0-liter Diesel

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger can fail, causing a loss of power and increased emissions.
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Fuel Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The fuel injectors can fail, causing the engine to run rough or stall.
    • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Five-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The clutch can wear out, causing difficulty shifting gears or slipping.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Mount Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission mount can fail, causing the transmission to move excessively. This can lead to noise and vibration.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission mount.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

• Six-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to slip or shudder.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Control Module Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission control module can fail, causing the transmission to shift erratically or not at all.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension

  • Strut Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The struts can fail, causing the front end of the vehicle to bounce or sag.
    • Solution: Replace the struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings can fail, causing the front end of the vehicle to feel loose or unstable.
    • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

• Rear Suspension

  • Coil Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The coil springs can fail, causing the rear end of the vehicle to sag.
    • Solution: Replace the coil springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The shock absorbers can fail, causing the rear end of the vehicle to bounce or jolt.
    • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can fail, causing the vehicle to not start or lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to not charge. This can lead to the vehicle losing power or stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles can break or become loose, making it difficult to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replace the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The tail lights can fail, making it difficult to see the vehicle at night.
  • Solution: Replace the tail lights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC system can fail, causing the vehicle to not heat or cool properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the HVAC system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows can fail, making it difficult to open or close the windows.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Volkswagen Pointer is a reliable and affordable vehicle, but it is not without its problems. The most common issues are with the timing chain, intake manifold gasket, and fuel injectors. These issues can be costly to repair, so it is important to factor this into the cost of ownership. Overall, the Pointer is a good choice for drivers who are looking for a practical and fuel-efficient vehicle.