Glow plugs, checking: Checking

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 9 other vehicles, including the 1999 Volkswagen Jetta, 1998 Volkswagen Jetta, 1997 Volkswagen Jetta, 1995 Volkswagen Jetta III, and 1995 Volkswagen Golf III. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Disconnect harness connector from Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor -1-.
NOTE: A "cold engine" condition is simulated when the ECT harness connector is disconnected, and then the ignition key is switched on for the appropriate glow period.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Harness Connector From Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor

Disconnect glow plug harness connector.
Switch ignition on.
Switch multimeter (Fluke 83 or equivalent) to 20 volt (VDC) measuring range.
Connect multimeter using adapters from VW1594 connector test kit, and check for voltage between:
- Cyl. 1 glow plug connector and vehicle Ground
- Cyl. 3 glow plug connector and vehicle Ground
Specification: Battery voltage for approx. 20 secs

If there is no voltage:

Troubleshoot glow plug system using wiring diagrams.
Erase DTC memory and re-create readiness code.

If voltage is OK:

Switch ignition off.
Disconnect glow plug harness connector.
Connect VAG1527B voltage tester to battery positive (+) terminal, using adapters from VW1594 connector test kit.
Connect voltage tester to each glow plug, one after another.

Fig 2: Connecting Voltage Tester To Each Glow Plug

If LED lights (glow plug OK):

Erase DTC memory and re-create readiness code

If LED does not light:

Replace glow plug.

NOTE: Remove and install glow plugs using 3220 hinged socket.

Tightening torque: 15 Nm (11 ft lb)