2001 VW Cabrio Head Gasket

Jonesy · Joined: 10 May 2011 Posts: 27 Location: Rathdrum, ID

I need to replace the head gasket in my daughters cabrio. Any suggestions or things to watch for or things I should also do while I'm at it? It has only 103,000 miles but started to leak. Any special tools? parts or just plain suggestions greatly appreciated. Thanks for the help.

Troy Hobbs · Joined: 05 Aug 2003 Posts: 766

I'd do the timing belt too, maybe the water pump and other belts while you are there. Make sure to use the correct coolant, no green stuff!

dukebradbury · Joined: 13 Oct 2009 Posts: 185 Location: Spokane 5-mile

Jonesy,

What year is your Cabrio? Probably has the 2.0L ABA motor.

What is your head gasket leaking? Oil or Coolant? Make sure if it is oil that it isn't from your valve cover gasket--very common on ABA motors. If it is coolant, double check the coolant flange on the left side (drivers side) of the cylinder head--another common problem.

I agree with Troy. Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump.
When replacing the cylinder head gasket, replace the head bolts--they are torque to yield and must be replaced every time you loosen them. You will also need a upper intake gasket.

Make sure you straight edge the cylinder head. If an overheating situation caused the leak, warpage of the aluminum head is very possible. Be very careful when removing coolant hoses that are attached to the black plastic hard lines. They are very fragile and can break easily

Jonesy · Joined: 10 May 2011 Posts: 27 Location: Rathdrum, ID

You.were right on. Not the head gasket at all. It was the flange. Running like a champ now. Got it back together a few days ago. Thanks for.the advice.