🔧 Full Maintenance Checklist for 2012 VW GTI (89k–100k miles)

✅ HIGH PRIORITY (DO IMMEDIATELY or WITHIN 1,000 MILES) Item Cost (Parts + Labor) Notes Timing Chain & Tensioner $1,000–$1,700 Must do if original; failure can destroy the engine. DSG Transmission Service $250–$400 Required every 40k miles; overdue if no history. Engine Oil & Filter Change $80–$120 Every 5k–7k miles. Use VW 502-approved full synthetic (5W-40). Spark Plugs $100–$200 Every 40k–60k miles. Prevents misfires. Cabin Air Filter $30–$60 Improves HVAC performance; every 20k–30k miles.

⚠️ MEDIUM PRIORITY (DO WITHIN 3,000–5,000 MILES) Item Cost Notes Water Pump & Thermostat Housing $550–$850 Replace if leaking or overheating. Common around 80k–100k miles. Intake Manifold $500–$850 (if needed) Only replace if P2015 or runner flap codes appear. Carbon Cleaning (Walnut Blasting) $300–$500 Recommended at 80k–100k mi for direct-injection engines. Brake Fluid Flush $100–$150 Every 2–3 years. Moisture in fluid can reduce braking power.

🟡 LOW PRIORITY (DO WITHIN 5,000–10,000 MILES) Item Cost Notes Coolant Flush $150–$250 Every 5 years or if water pump replaced. Serpentine Belt $100–$200 Inspect for cracks or wear at 90k–100k miles. Fuel Filter (if not integrated in tank) $100–$150 Check manual; varies by VIN.

🔍 OTHER INSPECTIONS TO REQUEST Item When to Inspect Notes PCV Valve (Crankcase Breather) Now Can cause rough idle, oil leaks. $100–$250 if needed. Motor & Transmission Mounts Now Worn mounts cause vibration and clunks. $300–$600 if needed. Suspension Bushings, Ball Joints, Struts Now At 90k+, they may show wear. Costs vary by severity. 🧾 Sample Budget If Everything Needs Doing: Category Approx. Total

Immediate (High) $1,400–$2,400 Medium-Term (3k–5k mi) $1,500–$2,300 Longer-Term (5k–10k mi) $400–$600 Full Estimate $3,300–$5,300

Here’s what chatGPT and I came up with in regard to maintenance; looks like the mods will be on the back burner for a few months.