Water guzzler?

[hallie123]

I topped up my water bottle about 2 weeks ago then yesterday the warning light came up on the dash so i checked the bottle again and it was about an inch under minimum!! theres no sign of any leaks that i can see.. are all gti's this thirsty? any feedback would be great!!

[alexperkins]

The GTIs have a 7L washer bottle due to the headlight washers

Make sure you are properly filling it up

The headlight washer seals have a habit of blowing, so look for wet patches under the wheel arch corners on the bumper.

[6n2stan]

I guess you mean the header tank for the cooling system as you mention a warning light?

The radiator is prone to leaking but it isn't obvious. Look through the blades of the cooling fan and see if there are any red stains. The trouble is when the engine is hot most leaks evaporate and leave no clues.

The alternative is to get your cooling system pressure tested at a garage. This will cause the leak to show up but with a cold engine so it can be found.

[alexperkins]

From a cooling point of view, thermostat housing and water pump are common leak areas

[hallie123]

Yeah its the cooling system i mean, il have a look at the radiator tomorrow, if i cant see anything il have a pressure test done and hopefully find something!

cheers guys!

[hallie123]

Oh and just another quick question, under heavy braking or bumpy roads the brake pedal feels really hard/rough/grindy and vibrates, i know the abs is probably kicking in but it feels disgusting under the foot, any explanations as to why?
(when i say heavy braking its more like a bit more force than usual not ridiculous foot to the floor pressure)

[6n2stan]

It could be worn brakes or warped discs?

[hallie123]

Not long changed the discs and pads on the front :/