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Messages - CrazyDiamond

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Technical / Crazy's Mk2 Jetta front-end repair build-log
Hey fellas! Chris here. This is going to be a repair/build log for my Canadian '89 Mk2 Jetta 1.6td (LHD). Putting this here because I'm bound to run into issues, and this community has been an amazing source of information! Plus, it'll be helpful for me to document & maybe someone will find it useful someday.

CURRENT STATUS: Parts Ordered

BACKGROUND:

Back at the end of November 2025, I was driving home, and the SUV in front of me suddenly stopped abruptly. Basically got brake checked (and unfortunately failed). That's a long story, and I won't get into the chain of events but...

I think the damage looks worse than it is. The engine didn’t stop when I hit them, but the alternator light came on. I shut it off immediately. Their bumper contacted my grille and hood. Grille is toast. Rad support bent. The radiator was punctured, and coolant dumped all over the road. The headlights are obviously ruined. And bent the hood and right fender. From what I can see inside… no extreme damage. It does appear the OEM airbox got punctured by the back of the headlight. Once the car is back in my hands, then I can get a better look and will update below.

And so the rebuild begins! The vehicle was branded, unfortunately, and the Ministry of Transportation here requires a structural safety, mechanical safety, and wheel alignment before I can get it back on the road. So it'll be tricky navigating the optimal way to do everything... as the car will need to be towed several times over the course of the repair and getting it back on the road. The intent is to do 90% of the work myself (some of this will be a first for me) and the remaining 10% will be paint or minor body work by a shop.

NON-RELEVANT BACKGROUND:
Spoiler (click to show/hide)

CRASH PHOTOS



TO-DO LIST

  • Strip off all damaged bits & assess for surprises.
  • Straighten out bent lip on the upper apron and inner wing.
  • Get new hood & fender painted. Replace. Along with side marker light.
  • (Final Step) Wheel alignment. Structural Safety. Mechanical Safety. Rebrand to rebuilt with MTO.

PARTS LIST
Spoiler (click to show/hide)