The Volkswagen Cabrio is one of those vehicles that has the fuel pump mounted in the tank. The pump for its 2.0-liter engine must be replaced as a complete unit. Like many foreign models, however, the vehicle is designed so you can access the pump from the car's rear compartment. You don't have to worry about siphoning fuel out of the tank and removing the tank from the car to change the pump. You still need to take care of the fuel pressure beforehand.
Open the fuse box inside the car and remove the No. 28 fuse. Open the fuel filler cap, then start the engine. It should stall immediately. Shut off the engine.
Push on the front edge of the rear seat cushion to clear space for the cushion's mounting bolts. Remove the bolts with a small adjustable wrench, then lift the cushion up and remove it.
Unscrew the three access screws for the fuel pump cover with a small Phillips screwdriver and remove the cover.
Disconnect the two fuel lines from the fuel pump unit, pressing the tab on their quick-connect fittings. Take note of how the unit's flange is aligned and make alignment marks on the flange, retaining ring and body with a marker.
Unscrew and remove the retaining ring from the pump unit. This may require a large set of pliers.
Pull the fuel pump unit out of the tank. Tilt the unit while it is slightly over the tank to drain the fuel from the reservoir back into the tank.
Clean the surface of the fuel tank with a rag and acetone.
Insert the new fuel pump unit into the fuel tank, making sure the unit has a fresh seal on the flange. Tilt the unit as you insert it to avoid damaging the float, and line up your self-made alignment marks.
Screw the retaining ring back into place and tighten it.
Connect the fuel lines, making sure you don't mix up their fittings on the pump flange. The fuel supply line has a black mark and the return line has a blue one.
Replace the fuel pump cover on the car body using its screws.
Reconnect the rear seat cushion using its bolts.
Reinstall the No. 28 fuse. Replace the fuel filler cap.
