Are Mk3's Any Good?

[Richard gal]

Currently have a 54 reg MK2 and seem to have all the common problems, the latest is the seizing up wiper spindles, ( Only VW could fit a wiper system that needs regular rebuilding/lubrication every 3 years when most cars wipers go to there grave without a problem).

 

The question is are there any regular faults with the MK3's yet, and are any of the 1.8 diesels up to the 130hp VW 1.9TDI, or would i need a 2.0TDCI? (Need the power for towing)

[h11gxy]

Currently have a 54 reg MK2 and seem to have all the common problems, the latest is the seizing up wiper spindles, ( Only VW could fit a wiper system that needs regular rebuilding/lubrication every 3 years when most cars wipers go to there grave without a problem).

 

The question is are there any regular faults with the MK3's yet, and are any of the 1.8 diesels up to the 130hp VW 1.9TDI, or would i need a 2.0TDCI? (Need the power for towing)

hi, we have mk3 galaxy 2.0TDDCI 56 plate we are experiencing a vibration from the engine during gear change, Ford does not know what it is???????????????????????????

[julesbyghia]

Currently have a 54 reg MK2 and seem to have all the common problems, the latest is the seizing up wiper spindles, ( Only VW could fit a wiper system that needs regular rebuilding/lubrication every 3 years when most cars wipers go to there grave without a problem).

 

The question is are there any regular faults with the MK3's yet, and are any of the 1.8 diesels up to the 130hp VW 1.9TDI, or would i need a 2.0TDCI? (Need the power for towing)

 

Main issue for me is the heating anc cooling, not good enough for the size of the car! otherwise they drive beautifully and we tow a huge caravan with ours.

[Neily]

Hi Richard,

don't know much about the 1.8, but I would (and did) go for the 2 litre TDCI for towing. You didn't mention what van you've got or it's weight, but I have a TA Swift and can't fault the Gal's towing performance - it's superb. Even in 6th gear with cruise control on it copes with motorway gradients effortlessy. MPG is a bit disappointing, but it's a big-ish caravan to pull around. In comparison though, I personally think that the VW 1.9 diesel is quieter and less harsh than the ford TDCI unit.

 

General faults? I've heard about software and electrical issues here and there and the air con is still dodgy. Also bear in mind that no spare wheel is supplied with the car. For me as a caravanner, that was a major issue which I resolved by finding my own spare. Have a look around the forum and see others' comments.

 

HTH and good luck.

 

Neil

[Richard gal]

We tow a 25' (total length) lunar which is about 1350kg fully loaded, my current 130 hp tdi is happy with it, but suspect i would need the 2.0l to be at laest at good.

 

How have you got round the spare problem? is it a space saver? and is it in the car or caravan?

[Neily]

My

[dave21]

has any one ever thought of fitting to rear hatch (like a landrover) would have to have metal frame fabricated ???????????????????????????????

[Neily]

Hi Dave,

yes, I thought about it but there's a lot of work involved plus some major issues such as the spare wheel would obscure rear vision, the number plate would have to be relocated, heavy-duty door struts would have to be found from somewhere etc. Plus, and I stand to be corrected on this, I don't think the rear door has enough rigidity / inherent strength to cope with the weight of a bracket and wheel, and there are probably insurance 'vehicle modification' issues involved.

 

Not trying to shoot ya down in flames mate - I considered it too. :)

 

Neily