Volkswagen: 2000 Volkswagon beetle, volkswagon beetle, vacuum type

Question
I own a 2000 VW beetle and am having problems with the rpm's dropping to around 300-400 and the engine shuddering, like it wants to stall out when the electric fan turns on. The alternator is pushing out 14 amps and the battery checks out okay. The dealer is confused and said it may be something with the turbo. They replaced the PCV valve and said they hoped it would be the fix. Any ideas??

Answer
Hi Pete,

I'm surprised the Dealer did not run the OBD (On-board Diagnostic) system for you.

It gives error codes as to what sensor(s) could be malfunctioning.  This does not sound like an electric-related problem, but more of a vacuum-type leak or a MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor.

The OBD will give out the error code, and with that, indicate the fault in your beetle. Because you already brought the vehicle to the dealer, I would ask them to run the test for you as a courtesy.

You can than either choose to have them do the repair, or do it yourself.

Lots of luck, doesn't sound like anything serious.

Ron