Misfire on Cylinder 2 (2003 Volkswagen Golf 2.0 engine)

Bob-the-Chemist
Sun, 21 Jul 2013 21:19:38 +0000
Maintenance/Repairs

So I’ve been having some problems with my Golf lately (2.0 L gasoline engine, 98k miles). It started with an engine coolant thermostat code. This was repaired by replacing the thermostat and housing. Shortly after this fix I began to get a misfire, especially on rainy and humid days. Checking other forums I discovered that this was probably the result of a bad ignition coil. The coil, spark plug wires and plugs were all replaced, but I am still getting a misfire. The idle is very rough so I’ve heard that it could be a bad fuel injector or faulty ground (though with the new components the other three cylinders sound cherry). The next step would be to purchase a “noid” test light and determine if the electronics to the injector are bad. I’ve also read that it could be a vacuum problem. There is a smell of unburned fuel when the engine is running.

Anyone else have this problem? How was it repaired? I’m quite good with the mechanical parts but lack the diagnostic tools, vacuum testers, multimeter and other such devices for performing complete screenings of the vehicle. Also, I can’t drive it out to the local auto parts store to read the new error codes anymore. Finally I’ve got a “Chilton’s” for the car but if there is a better manual available (better pictures, more descriptive instructions) I’d be happy to take suggestions there too.

6 posts - 5 participants