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Model specific boards => Golf mk7 => Topic started by: Sootchucker on 23 December 2021, 14:45

Title: Servicing Questions
Post by: Sootchucker on 23 December 2021, 14:45
In years past, the service books for new cars used to tell you exactly what was required at each service, however I can't seem to find this information (especially since VW stopped providing service books).

I know somethings are pretty obviously i.e. year 1 Minor service, Year 2 Major Service, Year 3 minor etc., and that a minor service is basically engine oil and filter and a quick check.

But does anyone know definitely what the VW recommended maintenance interval is on the below please ? (for reference it's a DSG 230PS MK7.5 GTI with the older 6 speed box (not the new 7 speed)) and is it limited to time or miles ?
Thanks in advanced.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: madstaff on 23 December 2021, 15:03
Maybe have a look here in the service manual, it doesn't specifically list the intervals for the European market but should give you some idea.
 

https://www.dropbox.com/s/sw7num4cj38jehs/2017%20VW%20Golf%20GTI%20Manuals.zip?dl=0
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Yusee on 23 December 2021, 15:15
The difference between a minor and major service is- in my view- a bit vague.

This is the best resource I’ve come across to clarify what actually needs doing- and at what interval-

https://www.shopdap.com/blog/post/service-schedule-for-mk7-5-gti-2018-2019.html

Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: madstaff on 23 December 2021, 15:21
Air filter at 60K!! Id be doing that every oil change for what the cost of a filter is.

No fuel filter.

No cam belt, chain driven.

DSG/Transmission oil are the same thing, VAQ diff if fitted is 30k or 3 years IIRC.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Yusee on 23 December 2021, 16:34
Air filter at 60K!! Id be doing that every oil change for what the cost of a filter is.

Cheap and easy to do is one thing. Whether necessary is a different question entirely.

Actually, that’s what most main dealer servicing is- replace stuff that doesn’t need replacement at cost to the customer.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: golfdave on 23 December 2021, 16:50
I redid the ERWIN workbook service schedules to make them more understandable...

Here:-

https://www.golfmk7.com/forums/index.php?threads/vw-golf-mk7-all-versions-official-worldwide-maintenance-schedules.353704/


For the UK a petrol engine will be this (part 7):-
https://www.golfmk7.com/forums/index.php?threads/vw-golf-mk7-all-versions-official-worldwide-maintenance-schedules.353704/#post-7165488
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: watchdog on 23 December 2021, 18:34
From New, 28 December 2018 i took out a Inchcape 2 year service plan which included 2 services both for minor services, both of which i have received.
Just recently, i took out a further 2 year plan but this time direct with VW which included a minor service and a major service, one of which (Minor service) i have received just this week. The car is 3 years old on the 28th of this month which means its had 3 minor services in 3 years. I questioned this direct with VW asking if this was correct and should the car have received a major service at the 3 year service. I also asked them if they could confirm what's exactly included within the major service.
Their response confirmed the major service should be carried out at the 4 year interval based on my current mileage (18000 now) and would include;
Oil and filter change.
Replace Pollen filter.
Replace air filter.
Replace spark plugs.
Check Brakes.
Check/adjust/ tension all drive belts.
Check gearbox oil level.
Final drive level
Vehicle inspection including lights, instruments, bodywork, glass, locks, battery, coolant, suspension and exhaust systems.
Full vehicle road test and diagnostic check and full report.

Hopefully they will do all they say they will as 4 years for some of these items makes me a little nervous.


Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: skippy on 07 January 2022, 15:54
Hello folks,

Just continuing Sootchuckers servicing thread. Today I had my 2 year service on my MK7.5 GTI.

Please bear in mind my car has only covered 5.5K miles from new in that 2 years!  :shocked:

I was offered the almost standard A/C re-gas which I politely declined, but what did surprise me, they offered to do an engine oil flush prior to the main engine oil being refilled!

I declined this also, I have never been asked this before, but I would not expect a 2 year old car to need an engine flush to remove 'gunge' etc. Is this just another money spinner, much like the brake fluid (not offered BTW)!

Any of you folk been offered this 'service'?  The cost would have been £39.





 
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Aparat on 08 January 2022, 21:39
Any of you folk been offered this 'service'?  The cost would have been £39.
I have been offered this service before and told them to proceed with the flush .... :undecided:
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: skippy on 08 January 2022, 22:41
Any of you folk been offered this 'service'?  The cost would have been £39.
I have been offered this service before and told them to proceed with the flush .... :undecided:

What did they charge you if you don't mind me asking Aparat? My quote was £39, do you think there is any tangible benefit having this work done?
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Ashtons99 on 08 January 2022, 22:51
I redid the ERWIN workbook service schedules to make them more understandable...

Here:-

https://www.golfmk7.com/forums/index.php?threads/vw-golf-mk7-all-versions-official-worldwide-maintenance-schedules.353704/


For the UK a petrol engine will be this (part 7):-
https://www.golfmk7.com/forums/index.php?threads/vw-golf-mk7-all-versions-official-worldwide-maintenance-schedules.353704/#post-7165488

Dave
Do you know your way around the ERWIN database. I registered on it as Volkzwizard on his YouTube channel made it look pretty easy to use. I got to the point where it’s starts asking for money. I can’t find out how you progress from there, what you get, how you get it and whether the information is worth paying for

Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: joe6 on 08 January 2022, 23:39
Modern quality engine oils contain detergents and provided the oil is changed regularly - at least at service intervals - engine
flushes should not be necessary. If only doing lots of short trips then it might be worth considering every once in a while. My view is that it is another fad that dealers are cashing in on. Hence not all dealers are suggesting doing it.

I change oil and filter every 5000 miles or 6 months and tend to keep cars for at least 6 or 7 years and have never done an engine flush. The oil in the 11 year old mk6 gti (95000 miles) never gets very dark at oil changes intervals. At this age an engine flush is more likely to do harm by causing oil seals to leak.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Aparat on 09 January 2022, 00:23
Any of you folk been offered this 'service'?  The cost would have been £39.
I have been offered this service before and told them to proceed with the flush .... :undecided:

What did they charge you if you don't mind me asking Aparat? My quote was £39, do you think there is any tangible benefit having this work done?
They charged me 40 pounds for engine flush, injector cleaner, and air conditioning decontamination treatment as a part of a deal.

Like joe6 said. Can be beneficial when doing lots of short trips and that's why I did it once.
Since then I don't really do short trips anymore and do about 12-15k miles a year and change the oil every 15000km ( 9300 miles) so most likely won't do it again.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Adam T7 on 09 January 2022, 08:15
Any of you folk been offered this 'service'?  The cost would have been £39.
I have been offered this service before and told them to proceed with the flush .... :undecided:

There is a metallic filter in the diff - ask them if they clean it. I paid £95 for mine to be done (fluid change and filter clean) at local independent.

*Edit - I meant to reply to the earlier post on changing the LSD / Haldex Diff oil
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: skippy on 09 January 2022, 18:39
Many thanks for replies guys, I agree, I suspect it is just a bit of another money making exercise. I am under a service plan, so there was no actual cash to handover as part of my service, so no doubt another 'upsell', almost like - "would you like fries with that Sir"?

That said, maybe there is some benefit of doing an engine flush, but at 5K miles!  :rolleyes:

Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: P6GTD on 10 January 2022, 11:56
My car goes in for 3rd service this week at 22k and 33 months. Lots of short and cold driving so I am interested in the oil flush. My dealer is offering for £20 inch vat so it’s a “ yes please” from me.
If I was doing long fast runs as I used to I wouldn’t see as much need.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: clarky92 on 10 January 2022, 14:57
My car goes in for 3rd service this week at 22k and 33 months. Lots of short and cold driving so I am interested in the oil flush. My dealer is offering for £20 inch vat so it’s a “ yes please” from me.
If I was doing long fast runs as I used to I wouldn’t see as much need.

I'm interested in the oil flush aswell - 17k almost 3 years old and short journeys these days.

Are you having the PP Diff serviced aswell? I think thats recommended by VW at 3 years old, but not 100% sure.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Yusee on 10 January 2022, 15:13
So they charge around £200 for nothing more than an annual oil change and a poke around your motor looking for stuff to fleece you for, they then tell you that they don’t actually do the job properly and you need to spend another £20-40 for a “flush “.
The “ flush “ is doing nothing that couldn’t be achieved by getting the oil nice and warm before draining it, and if you’re really meticulous, perhaps flushing with a tiny bit of fresh oil.

Surely they’re taking the pi55.

I’d suggest doing the job yourself if you’re really concerned about preserving your engine.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: P6GTD on 10 January 2022, 16:39
Dealing with the last two posts in one:

Not planning to ask for diff service…..will leave it to them. Maybe next time?
I have a service plan so don’t expect additional expense other than…..

£20 is worth it for a flush. Espec as I am not changing the oil myself. Why would I get under the car in January for £20 anyway?



Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Yusee on 10 January 2022, 17:00
£20 is worth it for a flush. Espec as I am not changing the oil myself. Why would I get under the car in January for £20 anyway?

How do you know it’s worth it? They could be pouring urine into your engine for all you know 😂.

No offence meant, sir, it’s your money.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: jv on 10 January 2022, 17:23
Wouldn't they be giving the piss in that case?
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Yusee on 10 January 2022, 17:49
😂😂
They’re either giving it or taking it. Take your pick!
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Adam T7 on 11 January 2022, 14:55
Dealing with the last two posts in one:

Not planning to ask for diff service…..will leave it to them. Maybe next time?
I have a service plan so don’t expect additional expense other than…..

£20 is worth it for a flush. Espec as I am not changing the oil myself. Why would I get under the car in January for £20 anyway?

The LSD Service is a definite 3 year service item - if you are planning on keeping, I’d go for it.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: P6GTD on 12 January 2022, 17:50
On raising this my dealer assures me the diff service is included in the 4th service and I am in for the 3rd service tomorrow. The 4th service is apparently the first “major” according to them.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: P6GTD on 12 January 2022, 18:18
On the question of whether they are using the customer’s own urine to flush the engine, I think on this you either trust the dealer or you go elsewhere.
Whilst I never buy from this dealer……too expensive….. I use them for service and rightly or wrongly I do trust them to look after the car.
What’s the alternative?
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: P6GTD on 12 January 2022, 18:37
Just one final point in my dealer…..they didn’t offer me the flush, I requested it. So they are not upselling.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Yusee on 12 January 2022, 19:37
On the question of whether they are using the customer’s own urine to flush the engine, I think on this you either trust the dealer or you go elsewhere.
Whilst I never buy from this dealer……too expensive….. I use them for service and rightly or wrongly I do trust them to look after the car.
What’s the alternative?

Fair point- you should only do business with people you trust.

Apologies for my facetious remarks
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: P6GTD on 12 January 2022, 20:25
Haha…..no problem. I enjoy a bit of robust challenge.
It seems to me the ethics and trustworthiness of main dealers for most makes is not really consistent or good enough across the U.K. Frankly it’s not good enough and I shudder I think what crap the uninformed customers are fed.
The guys who look after my servicing consistently win VW dealer of the year for service.
The only problem is they regard this as a charter for shallow discounting on sales as I think they have always been able to shift every motor in their new and used stock.
Try as I might, after buying 5 consecutive Golfs elsewhere and trying to buy, but instead buying Audi A3s and a Vrs before that, I have never bought or sold with them.
But I kinda trust them nevertheless.
Nice to correspond with you Mr Yusee.
We are all pals on this forum.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Adam T7 on 12 January 2022, 21:03
On the question of whether they are using the customer’s own urine to flush the engine, I think on this you either trust the dealer or you go elsewhere.
Whilst I never buy from this dealer……too expensive….. I use them for service and rightly or wrongly I do trust them to look after the car.
What’s the alternative?

A decent independent with a good reputation can be worth their weight in gold - if you can find one👍
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Yusee on 12 January 2022, 22:14
Haha…..no problem. I enjoy a bit of robust challenge.
It seems to me the ethics and trustworthiness of main dealers for most makes is not really consistent or good enough across the U.K. Frankly it’s not good enough and I shudder I think what crap the uninformed customers are fed.
The guys who look after my servicing consistently win VW dealer of the year for service.
The only problem is they regard this as a charter for shallow discounting on sales as I think they have always been able to shift every motor in their new and used stock.
Try as I might, after buying 5 consecutive Golfs elsewhere and trying to buy, but instead buying Audi A3s and a Vrs before that, I have never bought or sold with them.
But I kinda trust them nevertheless.
Nice to correspond with you Mr Yusee.
We are all pals on this forum.

We are all pals- it is important to be able to speak your mind!

I think my scepticism about what they offer is precisely because of the poor ethics that many ( ?most) have.

It's quite possible that the engine flush they offer does confer some long term benefit ( though most owners won't keep their cars long enough to appreciate it) - but I won't take their word for it, because all too often they're trying to sell me something that isn't necessary.

@AdamT7- fully agree that the alternative is a good independent.

I got to know a very good BMW specialist about 18 years ago when I had a 3 series that had just come out of warranty.

I've continued to use him for servicing of all my cars since then (except my Golf).

He's a very good mechanic, he gives pragmatic advice- and most importantly- I can leave the cars with him knowing that only he will be working on them and that he'll give good honest advice.

Today, he got my 33 year old Peugeot through its MOT, with no advisories- so i'm feeling pretty pleased!
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Rob_benton on 13 January 2022, 07:04
Here’s a thought ……

Once you put the engine flush in, you are supposed to leave the engine to idle for a few (15) minutes to do its magic stuff.
I wonder how many technicians actually let the engine idle to its time scale when they are paid on their selling hours …?
I know my technicians would find it hard. The more work the cram in, the more they get paid.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: P6GTD on 13 January 2022, 08:46
There’s no way of knowing. However in a multi bay workshop they might be able to achieve that by doing other work on the car ( non engine) or working on another car for enough idle time.
Like everything else a garage does or doesn’t do to your car, the customer hands over a large degree of trust.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: joe6 on 13 January 2022, 09:21
Here’s a thought ……

Once you put the engine flush in, you are supposed to leave the engine to idle for a few (15) minutes to do its magic stuff.
I wonder how many technicians actually let the engine idle to its time scale when they are paid on their selling hours …?
I know my technicians would find it hard. The more work the cram in, the more they get paid.
Is the engine up to temperature when they start the flush process? Probably not for the same reason.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: clarky92 on 13 January 2022, 10:29
Another one to raise - aircon regas

Dealer has tried to get me to cough up for this on the two previous services. Aircon seems to work great, running all year round. Not seeing it as an item on the service schedule - https://www.shopdap.com/blog/post/service-schedule-for-mk7-5-gti-2018-2019.html

What's other peoples thoughts on this?
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: SRGTD on 13 January 2022, 11:15
Another one to raise - aircon regas

Dealer has tried to get me to cough up for this on the two previous services. Aircon seems to work great, running all year round. Not seeing it as an item on the service schedule - https://www.shopdap.com/blog/post/service-schedule-for-mk7-5-gti-2018-2019.html

What's other peoples thoughts on this?

It’s a recommended rather than a required service action a.k.a. a money making up-sell opportunity for the dealer. I’m of the opinion that if it isn’t broke, then don’t fix it.

However……….I read on seatcupra.net forum that if you intend buying the All-In warranty / servicing / breakdown / MOT product, then you might be required to get any o/s service actions completed before your car’s eligible for that product. The forum member over on seatcupra.net had an o/s air con service and had to get it done to meet Seat’s eligibility criteria for All-In. As the Seat and VW All-In products are the same in all but name, presumably VW’s eligibility criteria would be the same as Seat’s.


Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: willni on 13 January 2022, 12:02
Another one to raise - aircon regas

Dealer has tried to get me to cough up for this on the two previous services. Aircon seems to work great, running all year round. Not seeing it as an item on the service schedule - https://www.shopdap.com/blog/post/service-schedule-for-mk7-5-gti-2018-2019.html

What's other peoples thoughts on this?

How much is a regas at Volkswagen? Presumably around £120?

Last re-gas I had was ages ago and it was £50 and that was just for the gas. It's not a scam they do periodically need re-gassed, but if it's icy cold I wouldn't bother. Let alone who recommend it gets done in Winter?!
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Yusee on 13 January 2022, 12:09
Here’s a thought ……

Once you put the engine flush in, you are supposed to leave the engine to idle for a few (15) minutes to do its magic stuff.
I wonder how many technicians actually let the engine idle to its time scale when they are paid on their selling hours …?
I know my technicians would find it hard. The more work the cram in, the more they get paid.
Is the engine up to temperature when they start the flush process? Probably not for the same reason.

Does anyone have any evidence that an engine flush is improves engine performance or longevity?

Let’s assume they do it properly- engine up to temperature, idling for ? 15 minutes before doing the oil change.  ( and I’d be concerned that if not done properly it may cause more harm than good- by loosening the deposits and leaving them in the system).

I’d be interested to do it if there is proven benefit
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: SRGTD on 13 January 2022, 13:07
Another one to raise - aircon regas

Dealer has tried to get me to cough up for this on the two previous services. Aircon seems to work great, running all year round. Not seeing it as an item on the service schedule - https://www.shopdap.com/blog/post/service-schedule-for-mk7-5-gti-2018-2019.html

What's other peoples thoughts on this?

How much is a regas at Volkswagen? Presumably around £120?

Last re-gas I had was ages ago and it was £50 and that was just for the gas. It's not a scam they do periodically need re-gassed, but if it's icy cold I wouldn't bother. Let alone who recommend it gets done in Winter?!

VW appear to have removed the prices for air con service from their website but from memory, their published price used to be around £134.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: willni on 13 January 2022, 14:58
Here’s a thought ……

Once you put the engine flush in, you are supposed to leave the engine to idle for a few (15) minutes to do its magic stuff.
I wonder how many technicians actually let the engine idle to its time scale when they are paid on their selling hours …?
I know my technicians would find it hard. The more work the cram in, the more they get paid.
Is the engine up to temperature when they start the flush process? Probably not for the same reason.

Does anyone have any evidence that an engine flush is improves engine performance or longevity?

Let’s assume they do it properly- engine up to temperature, idling for ? 15 minutes before doing the oil change.  ( and I’d be concerned that if not done properly it may cause more harm than good- by loosening the deposits and leaving them in the system).

I’d be interested to do it if there is proven benefit

I think we're getting a bit to complicated now for a simple oil change...but let's continue what about adding a bit of Liqui Moly Cera Tec in to help reduce component wear which does have proven benefit behind it?

I'd assume the engine flush is just like throwing out a cold cup of tea, you empty it but there will still be a few drops in there and the flush is there to get those bits. But if your oil is thick and has metal fragments in it then you already have bigger issues.

So I too would be skeptical of an oil flush, mostly because we've seen old bmw's, merc's and volvos hit 1,000,000 miles and that was with just a simple oil change every 6-10k miles, no flushing, no additives, no octane boosters, not even premium fuel.

Just normal driving and consistent maintenance.

Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: Adam T7 on 13 January 2022, 15:41
Another one to raise - aircon regas

Dealer has tried to get me to cough up for this on the two previous services. Aircon seems to work great, running all year round. Not seeing it as an item on the service schedule - https://www.shopdap.com/blog/post/service-schedule-for-mk7-5-gti-2018-2019.html

What's other peoples thoughts on this?

How much is a regas at Volkswagen? Presumably around £120?

Last re-gas I had was ages ago and it was £50 and that was just for the gas. It's not a scam they do periodically need re-gassed, but if it's icy cold I wouldn't bother. Let alone who recommend it gets done in Winter?!

You should have Air Con all year round - the gas contains a lubricant that stops seal drying out and helps lubricate the compressor,  preventing leaks and helps reduce condensation.

I’ve had Air Con in cars for about 23 years and never needed a re-gas apart from a manufacturing fault causing a seal to fail.
Title: Re: Servicing Questions
Post by: willni on 13 January 2022, 16:15
Another one to raise - aircon regas

Dealer has tried to get me to cough up for this on the two previous services. Aircon seems to work great, running all year round. Not seeing it as an item on the service schedule - https://www.shopdap.com/blog/post/service-schedule-for-mk7-5-gti-2018-2019.html

What's other peoples thoughts on this?

How much is a regas at Volkswagen? Presumably around £120?

Last re-gas I had was ages ago and it was £50 and that was just for the gas. It's not a scam they do periodically need re-gassed, but if it's icy cold I wouldn't bother. Let alone who recommend it gets done in Winter?!

You should have Air Con all year round - the gas contains a lubricant that stops seal drying out and helps lubricate the compressor,  preventing leaks and helps reduce condensation.

I’ve had Air Con in cars for about 23 years and never needed a re-gas apart from a manufacturing fault causing a seal to fail.

I have it on all year round as well, but realistically you only notice a re-gas when it's in summer and you're using cold air.