Campaign - ECM Replacement: Overview
Service ActionCircular (UPDATE III)
Code: ZR
March 1996
Subject:
1996 Model Volkswagen Golf, Jetta, GTI, Passat and Cabrio Vehicles
Replace Engine Control Module
Dear Volkswagen Service Manager:
We wish to inform you of a service action program involving 1996 model Golf, Jetta and GTI 4-cyl, Passat 4 and 6-cyl and Cabrio vehicles. The affected vehicles are within the vehicle identification number range as shown.
This Service Action affects vehicles according to the following priorities:
1. Vehicles in dealer inventory
2. Customer vehicles with a complaint
3. Vehicles in dealership for maintenance or repair work
Problem Description
It is possible that if an affected vehicle idles for an extended period of time after cold-start in a region with low ambient temperature, the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light) located in the instrument panel may illuminate because of an overly sensitive ECM (Engine Control Module).
Remedial Service
Replace ECM with the latest version control unit.
Please note that some vehicles within the affected VIN range may have been corrected either at port facilities or at the factory. Therefore, it is imperative that you check the V-Crest system for the open" ZR code prior to commencing work on any of the affected vehicles.
Please ensure that ECM's are being replaced in vehicles in your inventory without delay.
Retailed Vehicles
Owners of previously retailed vehicles will not be requested to return their vehicle to their dealer for the update. Instead, these vehicles are to be updated during the next upcoming maintenance or repair service.
Parts Supply
Based on your vehicle inventory, replacement parts are being automatically shipped to you. Therefore, please refrain from ordering parts for your inventory.
Note:
Emergency units am available for owner complaints.
We request that you do not deliver a vehicle without first checking/replacing the ECM unless you do not have a replacement ECM immediately available.
The part number for the latest version control units are as follows:
Golf/Jetta, GTI (4-cyl) : 037 906 259 X
Passat (4-cyl) : 037 906 259 C
Passat (6-cyl) : 021 906 259 B
Cabrio . 037 906 259 B
Note:
Only replacement ECM's, part number 037 906 259 X, will have a core value. Cores must be returned within 60 days of invoice or dealer will be charged for corn value.
Parts Return
All removed engine control modules must be properly tagged/packed and returned in the original shipping box - immediately following the repair - to your facing parts depot.
Note:
Parts are to be returned via Federal Express "Economy." Please enter on Fed Ex airbill "bill to" account number 1746-8788-9.
Replacement Time/Reimbursement
To ensure proper payment, be sure to enter correct reimbursement data into the system only for VIN's showing the ZR code in the V-Crest system.
Data Entry Procedure
Golf, Jetta, GTI (4-cyl)
Passat
Cabrio
The system automatically enters the appropriate labor and part number for the above listed codes.
Important:
You must enter total of $7.00 in Sublet Labor field for Washing/Vacuuming vehicle where applicable.
Program Verification
It is important that you check the V-Crest system for the "open" ZR code prior to performing the work. Volkswagen will not reimburse you for duplicate repairs.
Owner Notification
If the owner brings his or her 1996 model OBD II equipped vehicle to your dealership for maintenance or repair service, kindly explain the importance of the following operating instructions, contained in the Owner's Manual:
"Do Not Let Your Vehicle Stand and Warm Up
When the engine is idling, it takes a very long time to warm up.
Moreover; during warm-up, both engine wear and exhaust
emissions are very high. There tore, be ready to drive off
immediately after starting the engine and avoid high speeds."
Owner Satisfaction
To aid customer satisfaction as well as minimize inconvenience, you are urged to service a customer-owned vehicle with MIL illuminated at the scheduled appointment time and make sure that the vehicle is returned to the customer washed as well as cleaned inside.
Service Help
If you have any questions regarding this program, please feel free to contact me at (810) 340-4850 or John Von Hollen at (810) 340-4858.
Dealer Personnel Information
Please provide a copy of this communication to every person in your dealership who has campaign-related responsibilities.