A ‘Haldex’ system is present on the majority of small- to mid-sized 4WD VAG-group vehicles; utilising an oil pressure-activated clutch coupling system on the rear differential to allow the car to instantly switch from FWD to 4WD as the ECU determines conditions require.

As a result, the owner can benefit from the economy of a front-wheel drive vehicle during everyday driving conditions, and the performance and handling benefits that come from a 4WD car when the going gets tough.

Because the Haldex system is rather complicated in its nature – using specific oils, relying on high tolerances and generating a build-up of friction particles over time, it’s imperative that it’s kept in only the very best of conditions thanks to regular services being carried out.

HALDEX SERVICING

Unlike previous Haldex-equipped vehicles, modern-day performance-focused MQB cars feature an in-pump strainer to remove friction particles generated from the rear differential’s clutch plates.

These strainers demand even tighter servicing intervals than earlier cars that feature a filter (Ecotune recommends at least every 10,000 miles), with the units becoming blocked far more quickly and easily, often leading to complete pump failure if left untreated.

Ecotune’s workshop team offer Haldex services for just £99 on all MQB-platform vehicles.

WHAT’S INVOLVED?

The procedure involves removing all old oil from the Haldex system, before removing the pump and strainer entirely. These units are given a deep clean to remove any grime that’s collected, before being re-installed onto the car with brand new official VW seals and bolts.

The Haldex chamber is then re-filled using official VW Haldex oil (a specialist non-lubricative liquid that ensures satisfactory friction between the clutch plates), before the car is fired up and primed using VAG-COM software for use back on the road once more.

BOOK YOUR HALDEX SERVICE

The Ecotune workshop team has witnessed countless examples of MQB cars with as little as 10,000 miles on their odometers that have accumulated a significant build-up of residue on their Haldex strainers.

It’s because of this that we cannot recommend enough booking your vehicle in for regular Haldex services here at Ecotune. It’s likely to save you hundreds of pounds on replacing a new pump further down the line.

Haldex services cost just £99 at Ecotune. 

Please phone our team to book your car in today: 0141 882 4669.