Whistle sound from GTI engine... Water Pump Failures

[Mk6 GTI]

Hi Guys,

I have noticed this whistle sound coming from the engine.. is this the same for all GTIs?? its not super loud but i can def hear it!


Thanks..:confused:

[99gti]

A common problem with the GTI's - this thing that looks like a snail attached to the exhaust tends to make such sounds...

Is it the turbo perhaps your hearing?

[MIRSAD]

Hi Guys,

I have noticed this whistle sound coming from the engine.. is this the same for all GTIs?? its not super loud but i can def hear it!


Thanks..:confused:


Are You talking about this one?

http://www.vwwatercooled.org.au/f112/mk6-gti-rattle-upon-acceleration-39156-17.html

Different descriptions ... probably same noise ... If You look through that thread You can find some answers as well as recording of that noise.

[STV4SYT]

Haha, this is funny, that noise is the Turbo.....

Means its a good noise not a bad noise.

[iBoost]

No, there's definately a problem. You should just give that GTI to me right now so I don't have to wait any longer. ;)

[Corey_R]

lol - yeah - that's probably the turbo you're hearing! If it's not the turbo, then it's the wastegate rod as per the thread that MIRSAD mentioned, and then I can merge this thread into that one :)

EDIT: Actually, I noticed the OP already posted in the rattle thread, two minutes before posting here.... so which is it man?

[jessv3]

I doubt he is talking about that, a whistle and a rattle are to 2 distinctly different noises.. The turbo on my Mk5 GTI is quiet loud and its just standard, its audiable with the windows down or if your driving next to a cement wall/ tunnel.. I was surprised by this as i had driven a few other 2.0tsfi (in an audi A3) and there was no turbo sounds.. Is this normal? even my g.f noticed the noise one night..

[Mk6 GTI]

Hey Guys,

No the rattle is seperate.. I can definitely hear that!

I have never owned a turbo so im not sure. I noticed it when i parked in the garage and the car was at idle.. A whistle sound.. I hope its normal! :|

[Axis]

lol - I'd suggest it is the turbo. My MKV is the second turbo I have owned and the turbo whistle is more pronounced than in the S15 I had. I find it most noticeable when slowing down (ie - pulling up to an intersection)

[MkVIGTI]

Do you have a kettle in your car by any chance?

LOL

Mk 6 GTI, u sure the car was idling and not turned off after a drive? I haven't noticed any whistling sound but when I turn off the ignition the fan stays on sometimes to cool the turbo

[Mk6 GTI]

lol - I'd suggest it is the turbo. My MKV is the second turbo I have owned and the turbo whistle is more pronounced than in the S15 I had. I find it most noticeable when slowing down (ie - pulling up to an intersection)

at idle also?

[Axis]

Nah not so much at idle. I don't think there's enough airflow through the exhaust headers to spool up the turbo at idle... (that statement is stretching my limits of engine understanding by the way)...

[wdong]

Hey Guys,

No the rattle is seperate.. I can definitely hear that!

I have never owned a turbo so im not sure. I noticed it when i parked in the garage and the car was at idle.. A whistle sound.. I hope its normal! :|

this could be the noise of the air inflow to your turbo, especially when u are driving at low speed, the engine is not at fully running, but the GTI's turbo actived at 1500prm, so the engine noise could not cover the noise of turbo, when you are driving in tunnel or beside the noise isolated wall, the feedback of air wave sound could be louder due to the limitation of the space to spread the engine(turbo) sound, so u can hear it louder than normal. in a narrow space u can always hear ur car's engine sound louder than a open space.
that's my guess, point out me if anything wrong. :P

[trueman]

had a TD prado once, my wife thought she could hear a siren everytime she drove it ....lol!

[Mk6 GTI]

LOL

Mk 6 GTI, u sure the car was idling and not turned off after a drive? I haven't noticed any whistling sound but when I turn off the ignition the fan stays on sometimes to cool the turbo

Ohh guys do u really think I'm that ignorant?? Seriously lol

yes the car was on, and yes I was in the garage while it was in park with the hand brake up lol do u hear the turbo whistle at idle isn't question?? Simple yes or no from some1 who has a mk6 gti. I'm just curious lol thanks :)

[GTICam]

Yep, I have the same noise on my GTI and asked the service department about it. Apparently it's the camshaft actuator, and apparently the noise is a normal characteristic of the engine...
Cam.

[thelairster]

I can confirm that whilst idling in a quiet space I can hear a very high pitch, like 14-18kHz, slightly oscillating noise coming from the engine. I'm sure the cars general quietness makes it worse. I have to stop noticing these things :P

[Mk6 GTI]

cool, thanks for your help guys!

[Mk6 GTI]

Just another question.. if you have the stereo off can you really hear the turbo as you accelerate? Its loud with me.. dont particularly like the sound :| Sounds like an ford falcon LOL

[nau]

dont know how falcon sounds but yeh you can hear the turbo nice deep sound ....
ig you not sure thats normal go to the dealer and test drive what they have :)

[G-rig]

EDIT: Actually, I noticed the OP already posted in the rattle thread, two minutes before posting here.... so which is it man?

Rattles, whistles and farts.. Who needs a stereo.

[Mk6 GTI]

Haha indeed. Well my rns 510 doesn't work anyway lol arhh!
Anyway I wouldn't say it deep.. It's more like a 'whine' as rpm increases..

[GTICam]

Yep, I have the same noise on my GTI and asked the service department about it. Apparently it's the camshaft actuator, and apparently the noise is a normal characteristic of the engine...
Cam.

FWIW. I've just clocked over 5000km in my GTI and the whistle appears to be gone... Perhaps the part of the camshaft actuator that was causing it has worn in / worn out / fixed itself. All aspects of the engine seem normal (except for that annoying resonant buzz at 2400 to 2800 rpm). When it was making the noise, you could hear it above the engine/exhaust noise at idle and low revs.

[G-rig]

+1 the whistle being the turbo.

[Highlander]

Do you have a kettle in your car by any chance?

We didn't get our kettle. Are they dealer gifts?

[MkVIGTI]

just heard this 'whistling' sound the other night, seems like it's common?

[johnvw]

Hi all,
Just received the golf Mk6 gti petrol, beautiful.
Have any other owners heard a whistling like noise ( dry alternator bearing), from the front of the engine, between the throttle body and alternator.
Took the car for the 1500 Klms check up and the tech thought he would have to check with VAG. He checked another Gti and found a similar noise. No Mil`s or change to performance.
Regards John

[Corey_R]

Search is your friend. I merged your thread with this one. There are several suggestions/answers in here, besides the "its your turbo" answer :)

[walbjj]

yep, i got it as well, i got derek to have a listen, he said take it to vw. i got it booked in tomorrow, and ill mention the camshaft actuator, see what they say.
ill report back

[johnvw]

Many thanks Corey_R,
I have searched many times to no avail, I really did not thinh whistling Mk6 would get anything.
Full marks to this site and Forum members
Regards John

[walbjj]

ok, they have pinpointed it as the PCV valve. its venting into the air, and not back into the system, causing the whistling noise. they ordered a new one, should be a few days.
my mate who is the service manager at audi mentioned that this was common for the a3, and the mk5 had this issue with the older engine, not so common with the mk6 and the new engine.
will see if changing it solves the noise

[johnvw]

Interesting ...., Walbjj,
The Service Dept rang me today ( initial service yesterday), they want my Mk6 Gti possibly for a few days.
Perhaps there is more to this whistle noise,
I tried to isolate the noise with a tube to the ear, the noise is louder between the throttle body and alternator front of the engine.
I will report back in a week, hopefully.
Regards John

[johnvw]

To all the whistlers,
Took the Mk6 Gti in today, seems a new water pump is required ( remember the dry bearing comment).
Nothing in stock, waiting for the pump to be shipped out ( very strange, this model has been out for a while now). I will post again if any further is discovered.
Regards John

[walbjj]

water pump? well, ill see how changing the pcv valve goes, but my mate who is an audi service manager, said that the pcv is very common for the audi engines, and he suggested that the noise symptoms sounded similar to what i described. the vw guys said this as well after listening and having my car.
ill report back, but water pump is different to what i been told

[team_v]

water pump? well, ill see how changing the pcv valve goes, but my mate who is an audi service manager, said that the pcv is very common for the audi engines, and he suggested that the noise symptoms sounded similar to what i described. the vw guys said this as well after listening and having my car.
ill report back, but water pump is different to what i been told

Any update on this one?

[walbjj]

Still waiting on the part from Singapore, they said 2 weeks abit over a week ago so might've next week.
Strange thing is, why don't they have the part locally?
My Audi service manager said it's either so rare a fault they dont keep it in stock or it's so common they have run out. He tends to lean to the latter as he does a ton at his dealership.
As an aside, he said he has 3 warranty dsg replacements of the complete gearbox a week for the next 6 weeks. I said thank god I didn't buy a dsg, he agreed

[JPanDAX]

It is interesting to hear of your service managers comments re: DSG Walbjj.

3 complete replacements on warranty of DSG units per week for the next 6 weeks - that is 18 units over six weeks, and that is only one workshop I am assuming and only one workshops current programmed service load !!!

I am wondering are these the 6 speed DSG or the 7 found in the polo?

Also who and where are all these people who are having warranty issues, have they been posting on this forum, as I don't seem to see any complaints about the DSG, let alone issues ... well ... other than the occasional person who ends up with a lemon - which does happen as we all know or have heard.

I have a DSG with only 500km on it. Still in the run in stage, so have been keeping it below 3/4 revs (about 4000) max and definitely NO launches.

I wonder if these problems, if they are the 6 speed DSG in the R and GTI are being created by people using or overusing launch control or a design defect.... Interesting to know..

JP

[walbjj]

I'm referring to the Audi dsg that r being replaced. Vw I'm not sure
He was telling me that the normal labour rate is $176/hr but warranty is $136/hr so they get paid less, and the book lists a dsg repair at 4 bookable hrs but it takes them about 6.
He used to be the BMW service manager at rushcutters bay but was offered more money and it's closer to home but he said that BMW in general have less issues. He also said if it was his money, he would buy Japanese if u want less headaches

[JPanDAX]

OK no problem. Not sure what the difference is between the Audi and VW DSG.

6 hours work in 4 hours, lower rates, don't make any money!!!! I guess a repair shop is not going to tell everyone they are making a mint on all the work they do as that would put customers in a position to be more likely to ask for a better price or deal, since they (the repairer) is doing so well... Not saying the guy is lying, but most people in business tend to cry poor to their customers - generally! But hey - I don't know anyone who wouldn't take a a job that was a decent job, paid more money and was closer to home... good choice to him!

Yeah, you can buy plenty of Japanese headaches these days... but you get the plastic and poor fit and finish to boot! I think many people on this forum have probably owned both Jap and German by now and know the difference, that is why most of them are now in a VW, Audi etc

Mate - I like your planned *** upgrades and your colour choice.. thing will be a white jet when your done! Nice! :-) I really want to go the APR path, but I am just too concerned about the potential warranty effects or void issues. But mate as soon as that warranty is up I think I will be going down the APR path and some other mods, wont worry me much by then as I will be well over the NEW stage.

Anyhow as for the DSG, I hope it is only the Audi that has the problem, not the VW's, though as I mentioned earlier I haven't really heard of anything or seen any cluster type issues being raised on the DSG on this forum. Everyone, including myself loves the DSG and I must say I have been a stable manual driver for the past 20 years or more, but the DSG converted me... no regrets at all and each to their own preferences.

Cheers

JP

BTW - I hope your issues get solved soon!

[walbjj]

I'm not doubting that euro r a better car to drive, that's why I chose this over another jap car, I wanted something "nice". But what he is referring to and me as well is outright reliability. No one can argue that jap cars give less headaches on avg. But again I took a chance on owning a nice car with the chance Of potential dramas later.

I actually didn't like the dsg, that's why I didn't buy the polo gti which was my first choice but I'm happy with my choice of the golf gti. I got the colour I wanted and I'm slowly building it how I want. I'll see how this Pcv thing turns out

[team_v]

I'm not doubting that euro r a better car to drive, that's why I chose this over another jap car, I wanted something "nice". But what he is referring to and me as well is outright reliability. No one can argue that jap cars give less headaches on avg. But again I took a chance on owning a nice car with the chance Of potential dramas later.

I actually didn't like the dsg, that's why I didn't buy the polo gti which was my first choice but I'm happy with my choice of the golf gti. I got the colour I wanted and I'm slowly building it how I want. I'll see how this Pcv thing turns out

Let us know how it goes.
I heard the same noise when i was driving today and our cars share the EA888 engine.

[eskimo]

Got same high pitch noise on a brand new gti mk6, had one water pump replaced, which fixed the issue for a few weeks
Now it's back and was told by the dealer that another water pump and expansion tank needs to be replaced now. Part coming from Singapore which is another 3 weeks wait, I guess survey forms a good for something

[walbjj]

Hmmm, wonder why they say water pump. The mechanics at European autotech thought it might have been the water pump or some sort of pump but they put the stethoscope on them and no noise came from those parts in my car. That's why Derek told me Togo back to the dealer.
I'll see how this Pcv goes if it ever comes in stock

[johnvw]

Eskimo,
I am a little concerned about your double water pump replacement.
I have had the call, parts have arrived, water pump to be fitted Monday, stay tuned.
Interestingly the whistle has gone or is not as detectable as previous. I am about to install a Catch Can so I really do not want to have to take the Gti back again ( for obvious reasons).
I will report the service outcome.
**** Just where is the water pump located, as before the whistle was more prominent front of engine between alternator and throttle body.
Regards John

[eskimo]

Hi John,

Yeah i thought that the new water pump would definitely fix it, as this issue is not so common. even on the overseas forums many experienced this problem on low km's. A couple of them mentioned that they also had to go onto a second water pump before the problem was fixed, which was a surprise to me at the time. My car is going back into the dealer in about a week. so we'll see what the results are after that. I'm not quite sure exactly where the water pump is located. On the first replacement pump, when the noise came back, it was not as loud. I'm hoping that they just fix this issue, as its becoming a pain to keep taking it back to the dealer. Takes the fun out of owning a new car. I'll keep you posted with my outcome.

[walbjj]

im actually concerned that ur service guys r saying its a water pump, yet my guys said it was the pcv valve.
guess ill find out on monday when i pick up the car

[eskimo]

Let us know walbjj once you have picked up your car if it was the pcv valve or water pump

[walbjj]

Ok Pcv installed and it didn't do bugger all. They say it's the water pump. Bloody idiots. It's like they r guessing what it is and hope it works. Anyway booked next week.
What's the bet it goes away and comes back?

[Corey_R]

Well you know... they probably ARE guessing at what it is. Though, you'd have it's a well educated guess based on experience.

It's no diff to a lot of industries. Like with computers. You have a fault, it could be a few components, and if the "diagnostics" don't come straight out and say it's the 1 part which is faulty, you just have to change the most likely to see if it resolves it. Then change the next. And if necessary, the next...

No different to visiting a doctor for a lot of illnesses.....

[walbjj]

Fair enough, but it's always annoying when u take ur car in once to get it diagnosed, then again toget the "part" fixed, then again to fix the "actual" problem part. And inthe cases above, it may not resolve it. And then what are the chances that 3 years down the line, it happens again.

[Corey_R]

Yeah - I guess the problem is it's just not possible for every dealer to stop every part, so they need to get the parts in (though it'd be nice if more were stocked in Australia rather than singapore etc). So even if they were stocked in Australia, you'd need to elave your car for 3 days etc to have the best chance of it being resolved.

[johnvw]

Hello all,
Gti is back from Service Dept.
+ + + AAA to walbjj, let me recap.
Gti went in for 1500klm 'service', notified service of whistling noise. Noise confirmed, service want my car possibly for a whole day, appointment made. Car left at 8.30, received call at 2.00, pick up car, fault is water pump, nothing in stock.
Received call, parts in, appointment required. Rang service, Monday 18th will be o/k ( a little surprised that I could be seen so early ), checked that techs will be available ( again cautious ), asked how long is allocated for pump replacement, 4 hrs, o/k I will wait ( now I do not have to take two cars over, 1.25 hrs each way).
Turned up today 8.30 and settled in the 'waiting room'. I could see my car standing lonely by the fence, have I been forgotten ??
10.00 service informed me they want my car overnight.....F/O.
Now what happened ??, did they over book ? ( remember I was cautious), are they not quite sure and want to 'play', is 4 hours not long enough for the replacement. Needless to say I left very pooey.
I have not heard the noise for a little while now, it may return. I VCDS the car, no DTC found, no pending DTC, took some advanced readings of water temperature and other areas. I will contact my mechanic for verification of results and get his advice about the noise, if it returns.
As far the Service Dept is concerned, I will not be back. I may have to choose another Service Dept as I do not think my Vw/ Audi tech may be allowed to perform warranty work.
Very disappointed with this lousy service
Regards
John

[walbjj]

Yeah, they said it will take a day, so altho it's booked for 4 hours, it might take 6 actual hours. My mate that's the Audi service manager says warranty work affects his budget as it's at a cheaper rate plus some jobs take longer than the bookable hours
John, I see ur in bankstown, so I'm not sure which dealer that is.
Bill buckle service have been good so far, plus it's only a 10min walk from work

[eskimo]

Sorry to hear that from both of you. I should of mentioned that when I got my first water pump replaced they had the car for 3 days. They said it's a big job as it normally takes half a day to pull it apart.
Mines going in for the second water pump replacement on monday with the expansion tank replacement this time
So well see how it goes after monday.

[johnvw]

Dear eskimo,
I just knew 5.00pm was too early, but anxiety just got the best of me.
Regards John

[walbjj]

ok, car was dropped off at 8am, drove past at 230pm and the car was outside, so i assumed it was done.
went back at about 3ish and the car had been worked on.
havent had a chance to give it a good drive yet, but so far i cant hear anything. ill let u know later, otherwise ill be calling them up tomorow for this expansion tank deal

ok, went for a longer drive. the whistle noise is not as evident, its not noticeable at all when im idling in the garage when before it was like a alarm.
however, when i turn off the ignition, i can hear the feint sound of it whirring to a stop, obviously the water pump slowing down. will this get progressively worse and louder as time goes by, well, as shown before with another member, most probably, but ill come to that bridge if and when it does, but right now, i can check that off the list

[eskimo]

Ok here's my update. Took the car in this morning for the second water pump part no vw06h121026ba and they also replaced the expansion tank cap vw3b0121321, it was just the cap not the whole tank, drove it around today and it appears the whistling is gone. Hopefully this is the last of it. Will see how it goes for the rest of the week, but I have a feeling that I can cross this one off as well now

[Bug_racer]

FYI :

Bad engine whine [+video] - VW GTI MKVI Forum / VW Golf R Forum / VW Golf MKVI Forum / VW GTI Forum - Golfmk6.com (http://www.golfmk6.com/forums/showthread.php?p=286725)

Heads Up: Failing TSI Water Pumps - VW GTI MKVI Forum / VW Golf R Forum / VW Golf MKVI Forum / VW GTI Forum - Golfmk6.com (http://www.golfmk6.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4872)

[Corey_R]

Thanks Bug_racer. Hehe - a nice heads up from APR there.

So Arin said that the water pump has been superseeded by 06H 121 026 AF, by that was back on 3rd April 2010. On page 3 of the thread, skully states that his dealer told him 06H 121 026 BA is the latest version as of 18th April 2010. eskimo had part 06H 121 026 BA installed too, so we'll presume that this is the latest version and is the solution to this problem.

Here is a direct link to the video (http://s35.photobucket.com/albums/d162/phillycheez5teak/?action=view&current=IMG_0160.mp4)

[johnvw]

Hi All, It is all very interesting. My noise is more of a high pitch whistle than that heard on You Tube. I do remember removing the coolant tank lid and topping up ( I wonder........).
Could a very unskilled VCDS owner scan and identify the water pump part No.????
Regards John

[JPanDAX]

I noticed a very high pitched whistling type sound coming from my GTI MK6 recently. It has gotten a little worse I am sure. I am only at 1000ks travelled. I decided to go to my local VW dealer today and they had a look at it. The tech used a length of rubber pipe to check around the water pump area and we confirmed that this was the issue. They said they have not had any MK6's come in with this issue until now, however it was a known issue with the MK5's.

Anyhow after the check this was confirmed by lifting off the resevoir lid and releasing the pressure the sound stopped immediately thus confirming the sound and issue is only there when there is pressure in the pump system, lines etc. I was told I can drive the car for the time being and there is no issue with safety etc.

I am now booked in for a replacement under warranty next week I am assuming at this stage, depending on how long the pump takes to come into stock.

I also noted that they had a MK6 R on site being repaired. It's motor had been removed totally. Apparently it is some guys R that the motor was brought in with a knock. It was found that the bearings had gone. Apparently they did a scan of the ECU and there were one or two corrupt files that indicated that the car had had an aftermarket ECU upgrade and the guy had tried to remove or clear the upgrade. So VWA have refused warranty. The guy is apparently taking VWA to court over the matter. It was noted to me that the car looked like it had been tracked/raced/given a hard time (flogged) as the tires were in pretty bad condition and the exhaust tips were well stained.

Just another reason I think I will be refraining from any aftermarket ECU upgrades until after warranty. Not worth the risk on such a potentially expensive exercise IMO.

Anyhow - I will post re the outcome of the water pump upgrade. BTW the sound comes from the front RHS of the engine block area, down low, where the pump is of course. It is a high pitched whistling, almost like the car alarm but not as loud. Nothing like the sound from the video links posted up here that I saw, unless it eventually ends up sounding that bad over time if not repaired!!!

Once again - Hats off to this site for providing a means of sharing issues and information about the cars we all love. Very helpful!

Cheers

JP

[walbjj]

it doesnt come up on vagcom as being an error. no fault codes were thrown when i had the noise.
basically, its just a high pitched whine/whistle.
after driving around all day, no sound
the vw workshop made mention that they were replacing the waterpumps with newly designed ones, as mentioned above

[JPanDAX]

Yeah I got the impression that VW are aware of this issue and have a redesigned pump. This was an issue with Mk5s. I'm hoping that they are ordering this new pump with revised bearing design for my car.

Update 28/7/11 - Dealer called today, they need to order the pump and it will take 10 working days.....


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[johnvw]

Hello to All the (whistlers),
Thank you for the water pump location info. After lots of probing I finally found him.

HORROR HORROR HORROR I have the 06H121026BA installed ( is this really the most recent upgrade ???.

WHAT were they going to replace it with ????
The whistle has not returned, SHOULD I be happy ?????

There must be more to this, any TSB available
Regards John

[walbjj]

been driving around the past week since i got the new pump. no whistle. im happy

[eskimo]

Good to hear walbjj, I can also report, after the 2nd waterpump replacement and driving it for a week, the whistle sound is gone.
I guess this issue for me can be closed now.

[JPanDAX]

My pump is now in. Getting in changed over on Monday. They need the car for full day.

Will update on how it all goes.

[johnvw]

Hi all,
Glad to hear the problem has been resolved ( HOPE ), But why did my ....BA water pump whistle when that is the model which is being replaced in your cars.
Maybe GOOD ..BA`s and BAD ...BA`s , I do not think this problem has really been resolved.

Regards John

[eskimo]

Mine required two of the same latest water pump part no, so there are good and bad batches with everything

[Mi16 Man]

Could this 'whistle/whine' also be associated with the chain that drives the camshafts? I've never owned a car with chain driven cams so would be keen to hear, no pun intended, if the noise can be compared to the water pump noise.

Do others get a slight 'whine' on cold start up?? Would be a brief half-second only when the car is dead cold, seems the chain is dry until oil pressure builds and the chain gets bathed in oil.

[walbjj]

i doubt it, no whistle since i got my water pump replaced, and that was 2 weeks ago and ive driven about 700km

[JPanDAX]

Yep had pump replaced and no whistling since, see how we go.

They also polished the front windscreen for the speckles in the sunlight and it seems a bit better now.


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[JPanDAX]

Well today I noticed whistle again!!!!!!!!

I released pressure at reservoir and it stopped. Will monitor and see if it persists. If so will be getting that done AGAIN along with the rattle clip fix.

Has anyone else had their whistle fixed and then it return???


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[johnvw]

Dear JPanDAX,
Interesting you should mention relieving the reservoir cap. I did not have a problem until I topped up the coolant. That is when I noticed the whistle. You can read my previous post, I have not had the water pump replaced and the whistle has not returned.
I wonder if removing the cap has some temporary reaction in regard to the whistle. Strange I agree, but we will have to wait and see.
I still believe that there is more to this than just swapping a current w/pump for another current w/pump, I mean surely they are not like capacitors with massive tolerances.
Regards John

[slam]

I started noticing the same whistle a few days ago (my GTi is only 2 weeks old, now with 500km). After reading some of the above entries, I released the pressure in the reservoir and it stopped immediately.

JPanDAX, how soon did the whistle return after you released the pressure?

[walbjj]

take it to the dealer to get warranty on it

[dood]

I've read about the squeal problems on the 118. Does this only happen on the DSG or does it also occur in the manuals? I've noticed a soft whistle/squeal sound on a manual I'm considering. Only happens in 1st and 2nd gears below 3000rpm and you can't hear it if the radio is on. Not sure if this could be the water pump issue or is just the normal sound of the turbo.

[Corey_R]

Does it stay on if you turn off the aircon?
Some members have confused the recirculation fan sound with a engine bay noise.

[dood]

air con was off but fan was on low setting.

[kaanage]

I've read about the squeal problems on the 118. Does this only happen on the DSG or does it also occur in the manuals? I've noticed a soft whistle/squeal sound on a manual I'm considering. Only happens in 1st and 2nd gears below 3000rpm and you can't hear it if the radio is on. Not sure if this could be the water pump issue or is just the normal sound of the turbo.

Since you mention 118's, are you sure this isn't the water pump/supercharger clutch issue?

[dood]

tyhat's what I'm trying to determine. Is the waterpump issue specific to the dsg model or does it affect manuals too? What are the characteristics of this problem?

[JPanDAX]

Slam - have not had chance to drive much lately but in the last couple of short trips I have not noticed the whistle since I released the pressure at the reservoir cap. I will keep an eye on it to see if it occurs again.

Dood - according to VWtechs it is the water pump and don't believe it is specific to DSG or manual. You will know you have the problem as it is quiet a high pitched, noticeable sound!

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[slam]

Thanks JPanDAX. I've only done one 10km trip since releasing the pressure, and I haven't noticed the whistle either.

Dood, mine is a manual and JPanDAX's is a DSG so yes, it affects both gearboxes.

[MIRSAD]

Hi,

GTI MY12, 850 Km, whistling noise started today:(

[MIRSAD]

http://s853.photobucket.com/albums/ab95/mirsad99/?action=view&current=IMG_0689.mp4

This is quick iphone recording of the high pitch noise on my MY12 GTI.

not sure is it easy noticeable because of engine noise.

[Mi16 Man]

http://s853.photobucket.com/albums/ab95/mirsad99/?action=view&current=IMG_0689.mp4

This is quick iphone recording of the high pitch noise on my MY12 GTI.

not sure is it easy noticeable because of engine noise.

That is certainly a high pitch noise....does the volume get louder with engine revs?

[MIRSAD]

That is certainly a high pitch noise....does the volume get louder with engine revs?

Not sure - have not tried

First time noise appeared last night (oil temp was 101 C) and I noticed it when I was parking.
In the morning (engine cold) I released the pressure at the reservoir cap (not much coming out).... and after 4km driving noise was back - oil temperature less than 95C (that is when I recorded it).

I assumed when releasing the pressure first time - engine was cold and pressure was reinstated to "normal"... by driving it small distance (4km) pressure still reached whistling level....
so second time I released pressure while engine was still warm... when cooled down pressure in the reservoir was below "normal" (not coolant level below Min) .... if it make sense

After that I did more than 100km different driving conditions... oil temperature reaching 100C... no whistling ... my thinking - to reach whistling point pressure must start building from below normal... but it is still just thinking

I am still going to contact VW dealer.

[JPanDAX]

Update......whistle is definitely back and is getting worse. Took it in to dealer and they have ordered new pump (again). Install should be late this month as well as the waste gate rattle clip at same time. I asked about the pump and they confirmed that the one they installed last time was the newer version. So not sure what is happening.

Still same deal - release pressure at reservoir and whistle stops for a while. Hoping this second time will fix it once and for all. Any one else had problems after second pump replacement?????

Will update when done.


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[slam]

Hi JPanDAX,

Do you mind telling me which VW dealer you've been dealing with? I will refer my dealer to them if they haven't come across this water pump issue before.

[JPanDAX]

Slam - Southern Classic Cars in Wollongong. They seem pretty good so far. I didn't buy through them, they are just my local dealer (5 minute drive from home) but they seem keen to help!



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[nickSFC]

Slam - Southern Classic Cars in Wollongong. They seem pretty good so far. I didn't buy through them, they are just my local dealer (5 minute drive from home) but they seem keen to help!


Interesting... i'm the reverse :)

Bought from them, but Barloworld Mascot is my closest dealer.

I'm stopping in there tomorrow to try and see if i can get the wastegate clip installed, but I've also heard this whistle a few times. However i'm not really sure of the conditions where it occurred, so i can replicate it for them on the test drive. Hopefully they'll know what im talkin about.

[johnvw]

Hi All,
Great to hear VW are replacing the water pumps BUT has anyone indicated just what is causing the problem.
I mean a number have already been replaced and the noise has returned, ... what happens after warranty.
Anyone have a good VW contact who may be able to identify the noise ( not just replace the item ).
My noise has not returned and water pump not replaced ( fingers crossed ).
Regards John

[buzuki]

theres no point replacing them atm. Later cars after a certain engine number already have a revised pump from factory, and it still makes the noise.

Vw aus are hounding germany to get a fix. But they are finding it difficult to come up with a resolution atm.

The current fix unfortunately will still show the problem again after some time.

It happens when you get back on the throttle from say 1800rpm to 3000rpm.

To test in a manual. CLutch out rev the car noise will be there, clutch in and rev and noise will be gone. DSG has to be driven to reproduce

[johnvw]

HHmmmm,
And after warranty will we soon be forgotten. This issue MUST be followed up.
Regards John

[JPanDAX]

Johnvw - noticed you had posts on US sites. Mention of DV. Did you check yours, was that the problem.?

I am finding that once I warm the car up and especially when I give it a bit of gas it starts to whistle consistently without fail.


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[johnvw]

Dear JPanDAX,
Interesting and sad to hear the problem is being experienced by other forum members. Sorry but I am an ar.e, I think the DV is diverter valve and has something to do with relieving pressure from the turbo ( I said I was an ar.e).
I first became aware of the whistle when my wife drove up under the carport, unusual noise I thought. Flipped the bonnet, tried to isolate the noise and posted the thread. WHAT was interesting was that I had previously removed the lid and topped up the coolant container. Shortly after, the noise did not return and all has been o/k since. I did confirm the water pump is of the most recent design (BA), from memory.
In my case the noise was only hear at idle ( just before turning the engine off) and was isolated at the water pump, no other regions of the engine contributed to this whistling noise, WHAT happens when the car is driven is another matter. I doubt anything could be heard over the engine noise anyway.
My greatest concern is warranty, as we plan to keep the car forever ( I have not told my wife as yet) and I have just fitted a loverly 42 DD Catch Can from Carformance ( I trust VW will understand I am only trying to enhance the longevity of their engine. I guess we will see.
Best Regards
John

[Sir_GTI]

I had the low coolant alarm come on in the car 6 months after purchase, refilled and never happened again. i did have to top it up weekly though, and at first service I mentioned this. It was checked and nothing found, but asked to keep an eye on it, return in 6 months and let them know how it went. Never had an issue after the service with coolant levels.

I then had this issue appear about 10 - 11 months after getting the car. A dry bearing squeel under hard acceleration, nothing at idle or normal driving. I took it to Derek, and low and behold it was dead quiet, nothing ..... :facepalm:

I decided to live with it, and have VW look at it at the next service.

Now, it has just stopped, and I have not heard it since. I was so used to it, I just learnt to ignore it, but now it is not present at all, and hopefully stays away.

I will get the W/P checked at its next visit to VW in 2 weeks, just to be sure.

[JPanDAX]

John - I do hear this noise at idle or when driving. The engine does need to be warm for it to occur and the whistle seems to be more pronounced after giving the car a good run when it is a bit hotter under the hood. I have not noticed a change due to change in speed or revs etc. Will pursue this with the dealer.


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[slam]

Got my water pump replaced under warranty on Friday last week, the whistle hasn't returned so far.

[slam]

Got my water pump replaced under warranty on Friday last week, the whistle hasn't returned so far.

Further to my last post back on 26th Sep, the whistling noise has just returned. Has anyone else had the same experience?

[JPanDAX]

Yes as per my earlier posts. Had pump replaced some time ago and whistle came back, still waiting for another replacement now!!!


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[slam]

Yes as per my earlier posts. Had pump replaced some time ago and whistle came back, still waiting for another replacement now!!!


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JPanDAX,

When the noise returned with your second pump, was it there everytime you drive the car (when the coolant is hot), or was it intermittent?

I heard the noise when I got to the office this morning, but it wasn't there this evening after my trip home. Exactly the same trip - just the opposite direction - same distance, similar driving time, so I assume the coolant temp and pressure in the system would have been similar as well.

[JPanDAX]

I put my car in today to have the waste gate clip installed - finally. While I was dropping it off I mentioned that my whistle sound is now gone. It just seemed to disappear on its own. Anyhow, so after one water pump replacement it came back, but not is gone and has been for some time. I told them not to bother with replacing the WP with the one they ordered in for me.

They told me that VW has instructed dealers not o replace WPs any more to fix the whistle as it will go away on its own in time after the pump settles in or beds in.

Fair enough! I will just be glad not to have that atrocious and embarrassing ricey rattle every time I accelerate.

Cheers

JP


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[slam]

Hi JP,

How many times did your whistle noise go away and come back before going away for good? Mine is back again, and has been there for the last 4 days now.

[walbjj]

After replacing mine, it has not come back. Done almost 6k km with replacement pump

[T Go]

Ahhhhhhh sh*t.....
I've got the high pitch whistle sound....

Is there a general consenus on whether a new water pump is being fitted now or not? Or if they're saying to leave it?
As I've got mine Blufinned, I want to try and avoid the dealer if need be....

Thanks guys.

[walbjj]

Just take it to ur dealer and tell them that you have a high pitched whistle noise. They will either acknowledge the fault as its occurring at such a common rate, in fact, it's known internationally as USA owners refer to it as well. Having a tune shouldn't be an issue as I had my whistle before my dp, intake and tune installed, and when I took it to get the new pump put in, I had all my mods installed. Nothing was said

[Mi16 Man]

Is there an associated smell of coolant coming from these lesser pumps? Strange, am not losing coolant yet it 'stinks' whenever the car gets warm. You can even smell in traffic.

[rayw]

My GTI is less than 1000Km
going in for warranty repair for the water pump whistling sound
not happy :(

[walbjj]

My GTI is less than 1000Km
going in for warranty repair for the water pump whistling sound
not happy :(

Mine started at 500km, got it replaced around 1500km and I've now clocked over 17k km with no issues.
It happens. Just get it fixed and see how it goes

[rayw]

Mine started at 500km, got it replaced around 1500km and I've now clocked over 17k km with no issues.
It happens. Just get it fixed and see how it goes

thanks
that is reassuring :)
I have a faulty light switch that was not picked up at delivery as well
I was begining to doubt the german engineering
or I am simply unlucky
Hopefully this is the last time i am taking it back to the dealer

[endless_01]

just got my gti my12.5 last week and today ive heard this dreaded whistling sound

not even 500km's yet

any word on what the situation is regarding fixes? still best to take it back to the dealer for a replacement water pump?

thanks for any help guys, much appreciated

[SChan]

just got my gti my12.5 last week and today ive heard this dreaded whistling sound

not even 500km's yet

any word on what the situation is regarding fixes? still best to take it back to the dealer for a replacement water pump?

thanks for any help guys, much appreciated

Hi,

Take it to the dealer, they will replace it under warranty. This is a common fault with GTI's. I got mine replaced within a month from the date of delivery!

Cheers,

[mfl]

The waterpump on the GTI has starting leaking again, just after being replaced less than 30k kms ago, the original water pump was replaced at just over 15k kms and now the pump has started leaking again at 43k (its been pressure tested and no squealing noise), so just to add to the list of failed a/c compressor, turbo leaking oil ( 3 visits to get the dealer to fix that), rattling waste gate and too many rattles and squeaks.

At this rate its getting almost as bad as my old Commodores.

[jrgti]

Sorry to hear about the incidents. I probably would have taken the car to another dealer earlier. Just can't trust the mechanics at some dealers.

[mfl]

Sorry to hear about the incidents. I probably would have taken the car to another dealer earlier. Just can't trust the mechanics at some dealers.

Actually I have been to two different workshops belonging to the same dealer and to replace this water pump I will be taking the car to another dealer, see what happens.

[walbjj]

Actually I have been to two different workshops belonging to the same dealer and to replace this water pump I will be taking the car to another dealer, see what happens.

i got mine done under warranty at bill buckle no problems and its been fixed for over 23k km.
i basically drove in off the street, they listened to it, booked me in a few days later, replaced a part, which turned out to be a completely wrong part that had nothing to do with the water pump. i drove off that arvo and called them up that afternoon and said its still there, they rebooked me.
i did some research and told them its a water pump issue, they said that might have been their second diagnosis, and had ordered the part. they replaced the pump and its been good since.
bill buckle. mind u, i dont service there tho, but they seem pretty decent, just not the price

[mfl]

, i dont service there tho, but they seem pretty decent, just not the price

thanks, will keep that in mind, just need to get the car back from the panel beater, so I can take it to have the water pump replaced. the GTI not having a good run ......

[mfl]

just an update, the dealer confirmed water-pump needs replacement, but none in Aus at the moment, 10 day back order to get part, so no car for 10 days...

[xenogear]

sorry to bring up an old thread guys,

i bought a brand new gti about 3 weeks ago, less than 600km on the car and the noise has started identical to that mentioned in earlier post.

just wanted to see if the replacement water pump fixed the pitch noise problem permanently for you guys?

i noticed some people have had multiple water pump replacements, wondering if VW have brought out a proper revision?

[mfl]

sorry to bring up an old thread guys,

just wanted to see if the replacement water pump fixed the pitch noise problem permanently for you guys?

i noticed some people have had multiple water pump replacements, wondering if VW have brought out a proper revision?

As mine, never made a noise I can't tell you, but the 2 week wait for the water pump, was explained by the dealer as they had to wait for a revised model wp as VWA had instructed them to stop fitting the old model they had in stock. Whether or not it fixes the problem only time will tell.

[walbjj]

As mine, never made a noise I can't tell you, but the 2 week wait for the water pump, was explained by the dealer as they had to wait for a revised model wp as VWA had instructed them to stop fitting the old model they had in stock. Whether or not it fixes the problem only time will tell.

i have a 2011, bought new around june 2011. whistle popped its head around 150km. replaced the pump at about 1200km and im at 35k km now and hasnt come back

[mfl]

i have a 2011, bought new around june 2011. whistle popped its head around 150km. replaced the pump at about 1200km and im at 35k km now and hasnt come back

Luck of draw, probably comes into it as well. Mine is a 2009 build. The 1st water-pump was replaced in 2010 at 15k and the 2nd wp at 45k in late 2012, the 2nd wp being the revised design. Done 51k now car going well, but then the new manifold helps.

[xenogear]

thanks for the response guys, appreciate it