interior modifications

Although much emphasis is placed on the design of the exterior of cars, the interior is of no less importance. It is the part of the car that the driver as well as the passengers will spend the bulk of their time in and, as a result, is often ripe for improvement. Unfortunately, the Volkswagen designers have done so well a job that little is left upon which to improve on. Rather than adding, focus has been placed on replacing stock parts with OEM parts that are more ergonomical, or more aesthetically pleasing than their original counterparts.


16 x 6.5" oem 'rave' wheel (full size spare)

This particular modification came about as an opportunity to purchase visual improvement for the rarely seen cargo area of the car. During the summer months, this resides in place of the winter set up (consisting of the stock spare tire, floormat and cargo liner) simply to give people something to look at if the need arises (car shows for example). Please see the custom spare tire holder section for more details on how the wheel is kept in place.


aluminum struts for hood and hatch (oem)

Another modification to two parts of the car rarely seen by people, these aluminum struts lend a visually pleasing touch to the hood and hatch areas, in place of the stock, black ones. The front strut is found on certain Golfs and Boras (the European/international market name for the Jetta), while the rear struts are also found on the B5.5 Passat Variant. The part number for the hood strut is 1J0 823 359 C, and the hatch struts are 1J6 827 550 C (you will need to order two as they come seperately). Upon purchasing the rear struts it may seem like the strut ends are pointed the wrong way, but they can be rotated to point in the correct direction.

Tools needed:

  • Flat head screwdriver
  1. The stock struts rotate on bolts screwed into the hatch and hood mounting points, each of these bolts has a ball end. The struts are held onto the ball ends by metal, u-shaped clamps that grip the balls. These clamps need to be prised off with a screwdriver, but take care as this requires a bit of force and the screwdriver could slip and damages the paint. Make sure the hood/hatch is completely open when removing the struts! These are gas charged struts, and exert several hundred foot pounds of pressure!
  2. Have a helping hand support the hood/hatch while removing/fitting the new struts. After the clips are removed, simply pull the struts off the ball ends.
  3. Use something to wipe the ball ends clean as the new struts already have grease inside them. Push them until they snap into place, double check to be sure that everything is installed properly before finishing up.


audi tt deadpedal and pedal covers (oem)

These covers fit onto the stock pedals due to the fact that the Audi TT is (one of the many cars) built on the Golf platform. It is yet another improvement on an area that does not usually get a second look. The aluminum on the pedals give the footwell a sense of proportion, rather than the sensation of looming depthlessness that the lack of color causes. The total cost of the covers is approximately $100, and is available from Virtual World Parts and Accessories.

Following is the list of part numbers for the pedal covers and dead pedal:

  • Throttle: 8N1 721 647 B
  • Brake: 8NO 721 173 A
  • Clutch: 8NO 721 174 A 01C
  • Dead pedal: 8N1 864 777 A 4PK BASE (black rubber insert)
  1. To install the covers, simply pull the original ones off the clutch and brake pedals, the throttle pedal does not have a cover.
  2. Some owners have used a hairdryer or soaked the covers in hot water to soften the rubber. Use a small amount of WD-40, or a similar lubricant to get them to slip on easier.
  3. The clutch cover just slips on, but an amount of force must be used to persuade it to install properly. Be sure that the rubber lip around the inside edge of the cover fits snugly around the base of the pedal arm.
  4. The brake pedal cover has a nub that fits through a hole on the base of the brake pedal arm, make sure the nub goes completely through the hole. Again, be sure that the rubber lip around the inside edge of the cover fits snugly around the base of the pedal arm.
  5. The throttle cover simply goes over the throttle pad, since this pedal has no cover. Use a toothbrush and some warm, soapy water along with a damp rag to clean the throttle pedal of any dirt.
  6. The dead pedal is rather difficult to replace. The torx screw that holds the stock one in place must first be undone, before being removed by sliding it up and out. The stock dead pedal is held in place by the torx screw, and 3 "u" shaped hooks. Note how the side panel slips into the slot in the stock dead pedal, the Audi TT part has the same design. Pull the side panel outwards while slipping the Audi TT dead pedal in place, and replace the torx screw. Then wrestle the side panel into the groove, unless you can get the side panel out completely so you can manuever it around. Be sure not to put the side panel into the slot on the dead pedal before installing the pedal itself as the hooks will snap. Also, be careful with the side panel, it too has hooks that will snap if forced.


    custom spare tire holder

    The display for the 'Rave' spare wheel was orignally designed and built by a friend for his own GTI, which was consequently sold. It is designed with a base, made of plywood and 2x4 blocks, that fits into the spare tire well. The base has a belt for securing the tool kit, first aid kit and jackstand in place. What replaces the original floor mat is a thin plywood board that was measured to fit the exact dimensions of the cargo area, with a hole cut above the spare tire well. As a result, the 'Rave' wheel (with its tire mounted) sits on top of the base, while at the same time being partially recessed into the spare tire well. This helps keep the wheel from sliding around, while at the same time minimizing lost cargo room. All outwardly visible parts of plywood are covered by a felt-like material that is very close in texture and color to the original material found covering the inside of the cargo area.


    lupo gti shift knob (oem)

    This knob was sourced from the European market Lupo GTI, which shares the same shiftknob/boot assembly as the Mk. IVs. The part number is 6XO 711 118 R MCG, and is available from Virtual World Parts and Accessories. Please refer to the in-site step by step guide for help with replacing shiftknobs in Mk. IVs.

    As can be seen in the photographs below, the actual knob is black leather and the shift pattern is silver on a black background. This is surrounded by a bezel with dots and "GTI" printed on it, the "I" is red. The shift boot is a very dark shade of grey that matches the plastic parts of the dash in color, and the stitching on it is red which is in keeping with the motif that the sparkplug wires have in the engine bay. Custom door sills with matched font and color have already been made to match the badging and the knob.


    mercedes benz s-class trunk storage net (oem)

    This net fits perfectly (as described in the installation tip below) in the Mk. IV Golfs, and is great for keeping loose items from rolling around the cargo area. This will work in a Bora or Jetta as well, however will be less useful since the mounting points are much further inside the trunk. This part is called the "Trunk Convenience Net" for the W220 S-Class (found mounted length-wise in the trunk), and is available from Mercedes Benz dealerships. The part number has been removed from this site due to several complaints regarding it being incorrect, unfortunately that information was obtained from a parts catalog.

    To install the net first tip the rear seats forward. The loops at either end of the net fit around where the seat backs lock into place without the net keeping them from locking into place properly.


    "platinum"/"gold optic" aluminum interior trim (oem)

    The aluminum trim kit was chosen as it is more in line with the sporty character of the car, the original wood trim seems so dark and old in comparison. It just so happens that certain Mk. IV cars for the European market come with aluminum trim as standard equipment. Aluminum (as well as other materials such as carbon fiber) trim that sticks to the existing trim with adhesive is available from several sources, but this has proven not to be a solid or permanent solution as several owners have found out, and there seem to exist more complaints than praise of the stick on trim.

    The particular trim installed in this car is called the "Platinum" or "Gold Optic" trim (because of its goldish tint). There are two other options (not including the burled walnut wood trim) at the time of writing:

    The "Alu-silver"/"Aluminum Optic" trim: This has the same fish-scale/fan pattern as the "Platinum"/"Gold Optic" trim (see images below). The color of the trim is closer to a brushed aluminum, it is a white-silver with the fish-scale/fan pattern laid over it. (Color code: 2S2/MJQ)

    The 132kw/25th Year Anniversary Golf GTI trim: This trim is true brushed aluminum, there is no pattern at all on it. The shade of the color is the same as the "Alu-silver"/"Aluminum Optic" trim, minus the fish-scale/fan pattern. (Color code: 4J4/NPX)

    The "Platinum"/"Gold Optic" trim was chosen because I like a more subdued look, and it looks similar to carbon fiber. Photo number 2 below is probably the best representation of the true color and pattern of the trim. The pattern is similar to fish scales, or fans, as opposed to a mottled texture as it appears to have below.

    The color code for the "Platinum"/"Gold Optic" trim is 2B9-2ZS/FEM. The part numbers below have that color code attached to the end of the numbers.

    Part numbers of actual trim pieces:

    • Driver side door handle: 1J3 867 171 A FEM
    • Driver side door handle inner trim (black): 3B0 867 175
    • Passenger side door handle: 1J0 867 172 C FEM
    • Cupholder cover: 1J0 858 607 E 2B9
    • Center console bottom: 1J0 858 035 B/2B9
    • Center console, left side: 1J0 853 189 A/2B9
    • Center console, right side: 1J0 853 190 A/2B9
    • Climatronic surround: 1J0 907 047 L 2B9
    • Ashtray cover: 1J1 857 351 B/2B9

    Part numbers of required pieces:

    • "GLX" center console rack: 1J1 858 601 B
    • "Revision B" cupholder: 1J0 858 601 B

    Be very careful when installing the trim, especially when removing the existing trim. For detailed instructions please go to Roger Moore's site, there are detailed instructions in the Tech Section.

    However, there are no instructions in Roger Moore's site for removing the strips of trim bordering the center console, which is where most people run into problems. The trim has to be removed by pushing the entire strip downwards, it will unlock and pop out. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PULL THE TRIM STRAIGHT OFF, there are several clips on the center console rack which will snap if this is done.

    The ashtray is another difficult procedure, it must be removed and the socket disconnected in order to be able to get the cover off. To do this first remove the ashtray insert, beneath it is a single torx head screw, remove the screw and pull the ashtray up and out. The cover is clipped onto the rack which slides back and forth. Push the cover to the closed position and continue applying pressure so that the cover unlocks.


    removed center armrest

    This was originally done to accomodate the installation of the OEM Recaro seats as none of the European-spec GTIs come with one. The armrest makes shifting difficult for persons with long arms, as well as making the rear of the car relatively inaccessible. There is sufficient storage space in the glovebox and the door pockets to justify the need for another storage compartment in the armrest. Please see the armrest guide for help with removal or installation of the armrest assembly.


    "revision b" cupholders

    The "Revision B" cupholders are definitely a luxury, and the source of heated debate amongst VW owners who do not drink in their cars, and those who do. This mod was given the "Revision B" name, because the part number for the new cupholder is the same as the part number for the old cupholder, with the addition of a "B" at the end of the new part number. Part of the reason for modifying this car was to improve upon what could be improved, evidently the engineers themselves were not satisfied with the original cupholder design.

    MY'99.5-'00.5 owners who decide to get the revised cupholder must order the cover that is designed for the revised cupholder. The hinges/hook-up points have been changed from the old cupholder and the covers are not interchangable! The old design uses a hinge that runs along the top of the cupholder unit. The cover on the newer design attaches to two 'arms' on both sides of the cupholder unit. The part number for the new cupholder unit is 1J0 858 601B, and costs approximately $50.85.

    Unfortunately the part number for the new cover with the wood finish for the early GTI GLX models is not available because it is not known to exist. Apparently the wood tint was changed from the darker wood in the MY'99.5-'00.5 models, to a lighter color in the MY'01+. An alternative to buying mismatched wood colors is to buy the black cover that is found in the GL and GLS trim level cars. It is a matte black cover that actually matches the surround of the in dash storage slot, so it fits in with the rest of the center console. The part number is 1J0 858 607C, and the cupholder unit must be taken out to attach the cover properly. It costs approximately US$7, so not too much money is lost if replaced with the OEM aluminum trim.


    sunglass holder (oem)

    This is a great, low-cost idea for a first modification. It is also a bit of a secret because the existence of the holder for the Mk. IV Golfs/Jettas is not advertised anywhere by VW. The holder is often confused with the one found in the New Beetle and Passat, which does not fit in the Mk. IV cars as it is too long. As can be seen from the photographs below, the fit and finish is perfect, the holder has even got the damping that the grab handle does so it does not snap shut. The interior of the holder is trimmed with a soft lining, much like the headliner material, so there is no need to worry about scratching lenses or frames.

    The part numbers are:

    • Grey headliner: 1J0 857 465 Y20
    • Beige headliner: 1JO 857 465 3PT

    Installation is a three minute affair, the only tool needed is a Philips head screwdriver. The sunglass holder comes with the necessary mounting pieces, namely two Philips head screws. To remove the grab handle, pull it to the down position and at either end there will be the mounting points. Flaps cover the screw heads, use a fingernail or something else to pry open the covers. Unscrew the grab handle and screw the sunglass holder in its position.


    volkswagen premium rubber floormats (oem)

    A set of Volkswagen Premium Rubber Floormats was purchased with the amount of snow and rain the interior of this car sees. They are very functional and very dependable, despite being a little on the pricey side. They cost approximately $70 for a set of four.

    As of writing, there are something like 4 designs of mats, but the VW website is not very clear in explaining this. The mat designs that seem to be available are as follows: the ones with the big blue/white VW logo and the roundish/New Beetle-like silhouette pattern; a set with the large color logo and a tiled, square pattern; the Monster Mat collection, which have the car model name in raised rubber letters; and last of all, a set of completely black mats with the VW logo embossed in the rubber, these have a triangular pattern. The prices may differ for the front and rear sets as well as the designs.

    The ones bought for this car were the all black mats with the triangular pattern, which seem to be the most functional. They all have a high lip around the edges, there are clips that hook onto the posts for the original mats on both the left and right front mats. The rear mats have extensions that stick out under the front seat rails which keep them held in place.

    The part numbers are:

    • Front 1J1 061 501
    • Rear 1J1 061 511

    Color codes: Add these three digit codes to the end of the part numbers to get the corresponding colors.

    • Black - 041
    • Gray - 528
    • Beige is not an available color


    weathertech/macneil automotive products cargo liner

    This is a great product especially for people located in areas where every type of weather imaginable passes through. The winter before using this set up, the OEM floor mat for the cargo area got covered in of snow, water, windshield wiper fluid and spilled milk, amongst other things.

    Weathertech/MacNeil Automotive Products (MAP) was an easy choice because their ads can be found in almost every single major car magazine in print, a testament to what good advertising can do. The liner comes folded in a box, so the rubber must be allowed to reshape on a flat surface before being placed in the car. It is simple, visually neutral and very functional. Note that the Bazooka Bass Tube mounts are screwed into the side of the hatchspace, rather than through the cargo liner.


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