Volkswagen Repair: No Power on Acceleration, obd ii scanner, mass airflow sensor

Question
VW 1.9 SE TDi Year 2000.

Dear Don,
My golf is as sluggish as it gets. It never was the fastest car on the block but the last straw is having to alternate between 3rd and 4th gear on a piddly incline. I've changed the oil / filter and the air filter. The turbo isn't sticking and no warning lights come on. I disconnected the Mass Airflow Sensor and still no warning showed up which i think is odd. I dont want to take it in to a dealer until I've eliminated all I can. Is it possible to get the M.A.S tested if you think it might be the prolblem

Cheers

Chris  

Answer
Chris, thank you for your question.  Actually, if you are getting a “check Engine light” you can always have it checked by an auto parts store like Auto Zone or O'Rielly's (I think they have an OBD II scanner).  Sometimes, they will check it anyway if you are not getting any lights.  Not always will the MAS set off a light or even a computer code.  Additionally, if you have over 75,000 miles on the car, the problem can be the catalytic converter, especially if you have a hard time getting over 45 MPH.  You may also have a bad spark plug or wire.
Hope that helps