1998 Volkswagen Beetle In 5th gear the engine shakes

1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
99,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • MANUAL
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FABRINI88
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Hi, what would be a reason for this behavior:

When driving my car and shifting through the first 4 gears everything seems normal, but when going to 5th the engine shakes, like it's coughing. It's worse if I go at low speed, at higher speed it´s a little better but it's still very noticeable.

I was thinking maybe a spark plug is the problem, but it's weird that only on fifth it happens, while on gears 1 to 4 it seems to run normal.

thanks for any input!
Aug 19, 2009 at 7:25 PM
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DUBTECH
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 159 POSTS
Sounds like you may have a minor misfire. Because of the taller gearing the engine is working harder in 5th gear, making the problem more noticeable.

Are you getting the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illuminated or flashing on the dashboard?
Aug 31, 2009 at 1:07 PM
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FABRINI88
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  • 4 POSTS
Yes the MIL Lamp is on (not flashing), actually it has been on for the last 2 year every time I take it to the shop they check it and they say it's the oxygen sensor.

I agree, maybe now it's a misfire. I'll have it checked out.

Thanks!
Aug 31, 2009 at 1:31 PM
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