Reviews of Volkswagen Sharan. All owner reviews about Volkswagen Sharan I restyling From idea to implementation

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Average rating: 3.22

Volkswagen Sharan 1.9 TDI

Year of manufacture: 1998

Engine: 1.9 TDI

Greetings. I have been the owner of my Sharan for three years now. Under the hood is a 148-horsepower pulley, tested on “drums” (stand). Factory power, before the firmware was 110 hp. Mileage 510 thousand km. I bought it in 2010 for 180 thousand rubles. A very strong feeling of tearing off the hands of the former owners is still present. I updated almost everything, original VAG turbine, starter, 120 amp generator. The racks are original in a circle. Casting from Audi A6. The interior is fabric and much more. The interior is quiet, although outside, the tractor rumbles. The diesel engine is pleasant in everything, especially in low-end traction; up to 2000 rpm it’s already a tank. Passengers are shocked by the throw, kickdown when the slipper hits the floor.

It was easy to check the history of the car, since there was only one owner before me. She provided all the invoices, where, how and when the car was repaired and serviced. I sold it because for further use the car required significant financial investments (replacing brakes, shock absorbers, timing belt, filling the air conditioner). In Germany, cars are often sold on the eve of expensive ones. routine maintenance. For example, replacing a Sharan's timing belt can cost about 1,000 euros, and it needs to be changed every 100,000 km. The Germans know how to count, which is why there are many Sharans on sale at an attractive price, but with mileages approaching 100, 200, 300 thousand kilometers. I was lucky, I had the opportunity to carry out repairs in Estonia, which cost me more than 3 times cheaper than local prices.

The ergonomics of the cabin are excellent; there are enough adjustments to the steering wheel and seat for any driver. All buttons and switches are easy to reach, convenient and understandable. I like the high driving position and good all-round visibility. There are many different sized glove compartments, which is very convenient. The purple backlight was annoying at first, but now I've gotten used to it. The interior is huge, with the possibility of transformation from a van with a cargo volume of 210x100x110 cm, to a seven-seater minibus with small trunk. Ideal for long trips with the whole family.

I was very pleased with the standard radio. On my previous car, the stations that I usually listen to were only found within 30-40 km from the city. On the Sharan's radio, 200 km is not a problem, but its antenna is like a small bee's sting on the roof, not like the four-meter telescopic antenna that was on the previous car. I didn’t even want to replace the original radio with a more advanced model, although at first there was such an idea. A very good and useful feature is heating the entire windshield. A few minutes and the windshield is clear, just brush off the water with the wipers. In general, I’m satisfied with the interior and its gadgets, perhaps what’s missing is rear parking sensors and such a convenient option as automatic detection burnt out lamps. Even my old 20 year old 124 Mercedes has such a system. It would be possible to do this in basic equipment turn it on, it costs a penny, but it’s convenient.

The mileage in six months is only 9 thousand kilometers. It’s too early to talk about reliability, but so far the car hasn’t let us down on the road. Fuel consumption is from 5 to 8.5 liters of diesel. It doesn't eat oil, although the turbine is a little runny. The oil I use is Motul 5W-30. I plan to change it every 10,000 kilometers. The suspension is a bit harsh, but you have to pay for the load capacity (more than 700 kg). There is nothing rattling in the suspension yet (pah-pah-pah).

Unpleasant sounds and vibrations come from turning the steering wheel while standing still. The forums suggested that the power steering belt and tensioner pulley need to be changed. I replaced it, but it turned out that this was not the reason. The power steering pump will be replaced next. If this does not help, then it will be replaced steering rack. Recent diagnostics have revealed another problem. The coolant heater does not work. It turns out that this is a common Sharan disease and manifests itself in the fact that the heating of the antifreeze occurs much more slowly. It does not affect the movement, but it will have to be repaired by the first cold weather on the principle that the car should be in perfect order by winter.

There is no rust, but there are many small scratches on the varnish. It will need to be polished. In principle, I am satisfied with the car. There have been no big unpleasant surprises so far. In terms of reliability and maintainability, of course, it is inferior to the 124 Mercedes, but comparing them is also not entirely fair, since they are from different classes and different eras. Moreover, the car is not new and some time will pass before all the sores that Sharan inherited from the previous owner are healed.

Good luck to everyone on the roads.


Advantages of the car

Plenty of space

Low fuel consumption

Disadvantages of the car

Lack of space under the hood increases the cost of repairs

The first generation Volkswagen Sharan was assembled in 1995-2000 in Portugal. The minivan was the fruit of cooperation with Ford. The German company was responsible for the transmission and power units, and Ford for the car body. The result is a nice, roomy van, but not without flaws. In addition to the Sharan, twin models were also produced: the Ford Galaxy and Seat Alhambra, which were almost identical, with the exception of minor stylistic differences and a slightly different engine range.

Unfortunately, the start of the Volkswagen Sharan's journey was not easy for the brand. In cars before 1998, armrests fell off, trim elements “unraveled,” and knocks and squeaks appeared while driving on bad roads. Unfortunately, the creaky interior remained a trademark of the Volkswagen Sharan, even after a thorough facelift in 2000. The minivan has undergone the greatest stylistic changes in the front part. His front looked like Volkswagen Passat that time.

The condition of the interior largely depends on the care of the owner. In well-maintained specimens, despite the plastic, not the best high quality, there are practically no scratches or cracks.

Volkswagen Sharan is a very comfortable and spacious car. 7-seater versions are usually richly equipped. The front seats are large and comfortable. You just need to get used to the steering wheel, which is very raised, like on buses.

On the second a number of Volkswagen Sharan passengers have a lot of space at their disposal. By today's standards, the rear seats are quite large and too heavy (23 kg). After restyling, the mechanism for attaching the seats to the floor was modernized. Previously, when installing chairs, pinpoint precision was required, otherwise the locking mechanism would fail. You should pay attention to this when purchasing - the chairs must be securely secured in locks.

In the seven-seater version of the minivan, two additional seats were installed in the trunk. Unfortunately, with seven passengers, cargo space is quite limited. If you remove the second and third rows of seats from the van, the trunk will accommodate up to 2610 liters of luggage.

Engines

One of the most interesting options power plant, which can be found under the hood of the Volkswagen Sharan - 1.9 TDI. The 130-horsepower version of this engine has unit injectors, a dual-mass flywheel and a variable geometry turbine. But concerns about possible malfunctions and subsequent repairs are covered by decent dynamics. "Decent" is the most accurate word to describe the capabilities of the Sharan 1.9 TDI. The 1.8-ton minivan accelerates to 100 km/h in almost 13 seconds. Due to the large frontal area and correspondingly decent drag, you should not dream of typical diesel savings. The average result is approximately 8 l/100 km.

A diesel engine has to work with “mechanics”, the gear selection mechanism of which lacks precision. You may be consoled by the fact that before 2000 the situation was even worse, and gear shifts were often accompanied by grinding noises.

The top of the line was the 2.8 VR6 with an output of 204 hp. Unfortunately, the engine is prone to overheating and head gasket damage. Problems also arise with the chain drive of the camshafts.

Typical problems and malfunctions

Transformation Opportunities Volkswagen interior The Sharan's options are almost limitless, making it quite versatile. Large volumes of internal space provoked owners to use a minivan to transport all kinds of cargo. The result is problems with the suspension. With frequent loads, the rear levers suffer. In the front suspension, stabilizer struts and steering rods are subject to rapid wear. Support bearings do not differ in endurance either. The consolation is the fact that thanks to the three Sharan-Galaxy-Alhambra twins, there are no problems with finding quality substitutes. Although the strength of the chassis has improved since the modernization in 2000, checking its condition should not be neglected.

The seven-seater modification of the Volkswagen Sharan is a version that must have air conditioning. The large glass area provides excellent visibility, but in the summer this results in third-row passengers without air conditioning system they just get baked. As a rule, the well-known “climatronic” is responsible for the comfortable atmosphere in the cabin. The climate is relatively reliable. If the air stops cooling, then most likely the air conditioner cooler located in front of the engine radiator has become leaky. It is worth recalling that using an air conditioning system from which “freon” has evaporated threatens to jam the compressor. The liquid circulating in the system along with the gas provides lubrication to the compressor. Ultimately out of engine compartment A loud metallic rumble will begin to be heard. Compressor repair will become inevitable. As for heating, in diesel versions an additional heater comes to the rescue.

When inspecting a seven-seat minivan, it is necessary to check the operation of the third row seat belts. They should extend without effort and retract easily. This is important because the Volkswagen Sharan EuroNCAP crash tests earned only three stars out of a possible five.

Volkswagen Sharan owners also encounter minor electrical problems. For example, the electric drive of the windshield wipers fails. In the case of electric windows, the reason for the failure is in the guides and mechanical part.

Conclusion

And yet, do not be afraid of the Volkswagen Sharan. It’s just that, given the many shortcomings, you need to be very careful when choosing a worthy copy!

Volkswagen Sharan is a popular D-segment minivan from the famous German automaker. From Persian the name can be translated as “carrying kings.” Produced from 1995 to the present day, today the second generation of the model is in production. According to the developers, the main target audience The 5-door spacious car is suitable for young middle-income families.

Historical background

At the turn of the 1980s-1990s, Europe was swept by fashion for family cars with a spacious single-volume interior - the so-called minivans. Many auto companies have entered the race for the promising segment. However, the development of a new class of cars requires large investment costs both for design and research work and for organizing production, which ultimately affects the final cost of the finished product. Two auto giants, Ford and Volkswagen, decided to join forces in this area in order to split costs in half.

The joint project to develop the Volkswagen Sharan and its twin brother the Ford Galaxy began in 1991. The plan was for both manufacturers to enter the minivan market segment of the European market, which at the time was dominated by Renault Espace. For this purpose, a joint venture AutoEuropa was created with headquarters in the town of Palmela (Portugal), located near Lisbon, where construction began assembly plant.

From idea to implementation

Having joined forces, the German and American companies distributed responsibilities for design work among themselves. Volkswagen was involved in the power unit, in particular the TDI and V6 engines. Ford developed the suspension and related elements. The overall design of the models was created under the direction of Greg M. Greoson, an American specialist working at the Advanced Design Studio in Dusseldorf (Germany).

At the end of 1994, the results of the partnership between the Volkswagen Group and Ford Motor Company were presented at various motor shows. And production of both models began on May 1, 1995. Subsequently, the Volkswagen Group developed a third model for the Spanish subsidiary SEAT brand, which had a common base. It was named “Alhambra” in honor of the architectural and park ensemble in Granada.

The characteristics of the Volkswagen Sharan and Ford Galaxy were similar, as they had a single platform. The external design also differed only in small details. There were noticeable differences in the interior design. The first generation combined the aesthetics of well-established Ford models Mondeo and Passat Variant. After restyling in 2000, each of the cars acquired its own personality. The Sharan, in particular, absorbed elements of the Passat and Jetta IV.

First generation

The production of the first generation started in May 1995. "Sharan" was consistently in demand. With a production volume of 50,000 units annually, about 670,000 cars were sold over 15 years of production. In addition to Europe, it was sold in a number of Asian countries, Latin America, and South Africa. Moreover, for each region, its own version was developed, focused on natural features and national preferences of buyers.

For example, powerful, comfortable cars are in demand in Mexico, so the 1.8-liter Volkswagen Sharan TDI Turbo (150 hp, 112 kW) with a five-speed gearbox was mainly sold here. automatic transmission Tiptronic gears only in Comfortline equipment. At the same time, both a turbocharged engine and a more economical 1.9-liter TDI with 115 hp were available in Argentina. With. The transmission was either a 5-speed manual or a Tiptronic automatic. The most popular was the Trendline package.

Design

Despite the fact that the appearance of the car did not seem to stand out from the rest, its recognition was still high due to the strongly sloping front end. The windshield, hood and even the radiator grille with head optics visually form a single plane. This improved aerodynamics and slightly reduced fuel consumption.

The interior of the Volkswagen Sharan does not amaze with its newfangled design, but all the elements are made in German pedantically and with high quality. The driver's seating and operating ergonomics are good. All the necessary keys and levers are at hand. The instrument panel, ventilation system and car radio are combined into a single compact unit, made in the form of a hemisphere.

Specifications

Volkswagen Sharan has a simple but reliable design. Rear suspension located on oblique levers, the front one is a MacPherson system. The most common types of transmission are 5-speed manual, but there are also modifications of 6-speed manual transmission and 4-automatic transmission. They are reliable and, as a rule, do not create problems for car owners.

The five-door body is the same for all modifications, but the number of seats can reach seven due to the installation of additional seats to the detriment of the trunk. The most comfortable is the six-seater Highline version. It has independent VIP-class seats with an individual adjustment system, armrests and the ability to rotate 180°. Dimensions: width - 1.8 m, length - 4.63 m, height - 1.73 m.

Drive type - front. Initially power line There were 5 types of engines. The weakest is the 90-horsepower diesel engine. But it is economical both in terms of fuel consumption and maintenance. Since 2000, in order to increase power, they began to be equipped with special expensive pump injectors, which are demanding on the quality of the diesel engine. Later, the line of units expanded to 10 models.

Characteristics of the 1.9L I4 TDI engine:

  • Power: 85 kW (114 hp) at 4000 rpm.
  • Torque: 310 Nm at 1900 rpm.
  • Volume: 1896 cm3.
  • Fuel supply: direct injection, turbocharging
  • Maximum speed: 181 km/h.
  • Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h: 13.7 seconds.
  • Fuel consumption per 100 km in the combined cycle: 6.3 l.

Of particular interest to this day are the all-wheel drive Sharan Syncro, equipped with the most powerful 2.8-liter engine in the line.

Restyling

In 2000, the Volkswagen Sharan was redesigned. Minor changes affected the bumpers, optics and body elements. However appearance generally remained the same. But the salon has changed. Instead of barrel-shaped, a little awkward dashboard, focused mainly on the driver, a slender two-section panel appears, stretching from the driver's to the passenger door. It still looks modern today.

The number of glove compartments and all kinds of niches for gloves, documents and various small things has increased significantly. The front seats have acquired pronounced lateral support. The headrests are high and reliable. Since 2004, the assembly of cars equipped with an on-board computer began. Of course he's not as cool as modern systems, but copes with its responsibilities. Also, more expensive and high-quality materials began to be used in decoration.

Second generation

In 2010, sales of the second generation of minivans began. If you compare the photos, the Volkswagen Sharan has become more elegant. It grew taller and wider by several centimeters. The design is based on the platform. Production takes place at the same AutoEuropa plant in Portugal. The weight of the machine has been reduced by 30 kg. Initial range gasoline engines includes 1.4-liter TSI (148 hp) and 2-liter (197 hp). The picture is completed by two 2-liter diesel engines TDI with 140 hp With. and 168 l. With. (125 kW, 170 hp). The rear doors now slide.

Of course, changes also affected the interior. On-board computer moved higher, and the instrument cluster was supplemented with a liquid crystal information display. In the 2015 models, a varnished wooden insert runs along the contour of the doors and dashboard, slightly enlivening the austere interior. The upholstery of the seats has been improved; leather is used in expensive trim levels.

Further cooperation

In December 1999 Ford Volkswagen sold its stake in AutoEuropa's assets after the manufacturer decided to independently develop a replacement for the Ford Galaxy. Auto giants disagree on what the dimensions of the next generation of minivans should be. At the same time, the assembly site in Portugal continued to operate.

The cooperation between the partners finally ended in 2006. The last Ford Galaxy left AutoEuropa's production lines at the end of 2005. The new generation was developed independently by a company from the USA, and production moved to the city of Limburg (Belgium). Thus, the Palmela plant focused exclusively on the assembly of the Sharan and Alhambra models.

By the way, the Volkswagen Sharan is not sold in the United States and Canada. This was originally due to an agreement between Ford and Volkswagen so as not to create competition Ford car Aerostar. Subsequently, the Germans signed an agreement with Chrysler to work together on the Chrysler Town and Country projects, which are more suitable for the North American market.

According to car owners, the car is a worthy competitor in the minivan market. It is quite reliable, with a long engine life. Moreover, on the roads you can still find first-generation models in good condition. Considering the prevalence of the brand, there are no problems with repairs and finding spare parts.

The car is easy to use both for a family and for transporting large items - the seats can be easily removed in a few minutes. The ride on the highway is smooth and comfortable. But the car is not intended for off-road use. Weak point are the landing gear and air conditioners of the first series. Drivers also note high consumption fuel for gasoline engines.

My golden hands, glory to the Almighty that he rewarded me with them. That's why I do the repairs myself. I try to use original parts. The price for them is one and a half, higher, but quieter. I changed the struts all around to hydro ones. Ball joints, CV joints, racks, tips, bones, cables, handbrake, and much more on the chassis, all original. I changed the turbine on the engine (it has the geometry), after re-flashing about 135 horses on the stand, drums,. In winter I took out a summer diesel fuel, which is sold under the guise of a winter one, because of this the pressure reducing valve waxes (sticks) and begins to bleed fuel back into the tank. There’s only one way out: screw up the injection pump, and then calmly start the engine. There are no kickdown functions on this year's car. But when I turned off the USR, broke through the catalyst and changed the mass air flow sensor to 037 (the original, by the way, this is on the VAZ2110,2114), the thrust increased noticeably. People, try not to change the mass air flow sensor, sometimes it is enough to wash it in alcohol (propyl, isopropyl, ethyl, methyl), while it is wet, put it in place and start the engine. The air flow will dry it. And you will see the difference in VASE, the value of air, I don’t remember the group, but most importantly you will feel it in the traction. The fifth door stopped closing; it turned out that the wires in the package, near the hinges, were broken. I disassembled the corrugation, there were about 10 wires, tinned the ends, soldered them, insulated them with heat shrink and... everything worked, the wipers and all the lighting equipment. You can tell a lot, but it’s better to go on Skype - mabus66661 General impression: Inertia, smoothness, grace, solidity and many other qualities of this car. About Sharan, we need to talk not about a minivan, but about a carriage. The steering control is very sensitive, especially at speed. The driving position is pleasant and visibility is excellent. Not a sedan (station wagon), but not a bus either. Although, when a VAZ 2110 and a VW T4 are standing next to each other, their size differs little from them. More precisely, sharan, between them! I like four swing doors, it’s easier with them. There is a problem with sliding ones over time (they sag, do not close well, access to the interior is limited). Installed on my car diesel unit AFN 1.9 TDI produced in 1998 with electronic fuel injection pump. People call such cars TRACTOR. But thanks to the presence of a fuel injection pump, I bought this car. Restyled cars (younger than 2001) already came with CDI pump injectors (they are more expensive and capricious). The electrics are easy to repair and much more reliable than those of cars of recent years (judging by other reviews, many criticize Sharanov’s). The chassis is like a tank, except for the A-pillars. I would install racks one and a half times larger in diameter, but the car still weighs about 2 tons. In winter for good review comfortable windshield heated (consumes about 30 amperes). About the interior, it is spartan, only the front seats are heated. There are oars in the back and electric lifts in front. Side mirrors on cables without heating, I like them (more reliable, lubricated and no electronics), these were on my Audi 80 B3.

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