GolfGTIforum.co.uk
Model specific boards => Golf mk7 => Topic started by: Sootchucker on 17 April 2015, 11:58
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Just been over to the darkside (aka the Audi-Sport.net form), as they quite often have some good titbits, (VCDS coding for instance) that suits the MK7 as well as the A3.
I noticed there's quite a sizeable thread where at least half a dozen people have had their AC condensers (that sit low down in front of the radiator behind the front grills) punctured by stones rendering the AC system completely US. This usually (in the case of Audi anyway) results in the dealers saying this isn't covered under warranty and hence a bill to replace of up to £800. This is on cars that are literally only months old with just a few thousands miles on them.
some people have managed to get a 50% "good will" contribution, but that seems about it. I've just had a look on my GTD and like the A3, the condenser is pretty vulnerable and not protected in away way.
Has anyone had any issues on the MK7 with similar occurrences yet i.e. should we be worried ?
I ask as a work colleague of mine with a MK6 GTD has had exactly the same thing with his AC not working which was diagnosed as a sone hole in the condenser leading to a leak of all the refrigerant. Luckily, he got an independant garage to sort with a pattern part but it still cost over £350 !
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Haven't heard of a MK7 Golf having this issue, but it does seem a common complaint for the S3 - more open grille?
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yes its been discussed several times - I believe there is a stone chip guard fitted to other countries specs but not sure you can buy it here.....
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In this part of the world the problem is less stones (we don't have to grit roads in winter) but insects. The condenser being so exposed means it gets hammered and it's tough to get at to clean. I expect at some point my AC will be compromised because the thing is covered. Chip guard may help here too
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I've had numerous cars over the years take a whack in the AC cooler.
Story is always the same, the manufacturer tells you to poke off, its no more their fault than a stone through your windscreen.
Whereas the mechanics always tell you "well, yeah, this model of car is very prone to it because of the design of the front end".