Volkswagen New Beetle. Manual - part 2118

1999-2004 SUSPENSION

Rear - Golf, GTI, Jetta & New Beetle

APPLICATION

1999 GOLF, GTI & JETTA

Information in this article applies to late production 1999 vehicles. For Golf and GTI, the 7th and 8th characters
of the VIN are 1J for the late 1999 production vehicles. For Jetta, 7th and 8th characters of the VIN are 9M for
the late 1999 production vehicles. For early 1999 model coverage, see SUSPENSION - REAR (UP TO
EARLY 1999 MODELS) article.

DESCRIPTION

Rear suspension uses control arms and axle beam for stabilization. Control arms and axle beam are combined as
one unit. Major components are axle beam, coil springs, shock absorbers, stabilizer bar, stub axle and wheel
bearings. Brake drums or discs rotate on stub axles bolted to control arms. See Fig. 1 .

New Beetle, Jetta and Golf models manufactured after 1999 are fitted with a hydraulic bonded rubber bushing
which cannot be replaced. If the hydraulic bonded rubber bushing is damaged, rear axle beam must be replaced.
To aid in identification of models equipped with hydraulic bushing, a vibration damper is fitted to axle beam.

2003 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS

1999-2004 SUSPENSION Rear - Golf, GTI, Jetta & New Beetle

2003 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS

1999-2004 SUSPENSION Rear - Golf, GTI, Jetta & New Beetle

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Fig. 1: Exploded View Of Rear Suspension
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

ADJUSTMENTS & INSPECTION

WHEEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES

For Golf, GTI and Jetta, see SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES - FROM LATE PRODUCTION article
in WHEEL ALIGNMENT. For New Beetle, see SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL

2003 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS

1999-2004 SUSPENSION Rear - Golf, GTI, Jetta & New Beetle

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ALIGNMENT.

WHEEL BEARING

ON-VEHICLE SERVICE

WELDED NUTS IN AXLE BEAM

If the welded nut threads in the cross member are damaged, the thread can be serviced with Heli-coil thread
insert.

Servicing work may only be carried out once per thread. If servicing is necessary after this, the nuts must be
replaced. Observe the operating instructions of the VAS (VW) repair kit.

Have the thread repair checked by the responsible foreman or next person in charge. Correct any damage to the
underbody sealant layer. Only use the VAS repair kit listed in the for service work .

VAS THREAD REPAIR KIT

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

AXLE BEAM

Removal & Installation

1. Measure dimension a from the center of the wheel to the lower edge of the wheel housing. See Fig. 2 -

NOTE:

The wheel bearing and wheel hub are installed together in a housing. This
wheel bearing/hub unit is maintenance and adjustment free. Adjusting and
servicing is not possible.

CAUTION: When drilling, it is essential that eye protection be worn!

Thread

VAS Part No.

M10

6024

M12x1.5

6058

M14x1.5

6027

WARNING:

Do not attempt to weld or straighten the axle beam or the stub axle.

CAUTION: When removing suspension assembly, add weight to rear of vehicle to

prevent tipping due to change in center of gravity.

2003 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS

1999-2004 SUSPENSION Rear - Golf, GTI, Jetta & New Beetle

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Wednesday, December 14, 2005 8:56:44 AM

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Fig. 3 . Make a note of the measurement. This is necessary to tighten the bolts for the rear axle to the
bearing bracket.

Fig. 2: Measuring Vehicle Standing Height At Rear Wheel (Golf, GTI & Jetta)
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

2003 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS

1999-2004 SUSPENSION Rear - Golf, GTI, Jetta & New Beetle

Helpmelearn Repair Manuals

Wednesday, December 14, 2005 8:56:44 AM

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