Golf Mk4 Juddering Issue

[motorheadman]

Hi,

I’ve got a 2002 VW Golf Mk4 GT TDi (130) and I’ve developed a major juddering under braking. I first noticed it last on the by-pass sections between roundabouts where I’d be braking from 70mph to join the roundabout and suddenly there’s this severe juddering / vibration. At first I assumed it was my brakes as they haven’t been changed for probably 40k miles. Anyway, took it to my local garage who confirmed the pads and discs needed doing but also the car needed two front wishbones. Had all that changed…juddering is still there.

However, I’ve found that it is really severe under braking on a left hand bend. It doesn’t do it on a right hand bend. Best way I can describe it is it’s like having the ABS kick in but its 10 times worse and shakes the whole front of the car. My local mechanic has checked everything that he would for an MOT but can’t pinpoint the problem and can’t guarantee he can cure it by changing various bits. He thinks it’s partly because it’s got a lot of mileage on it – (245k miles) but it’s been driving sweet as a nut until last week. I’ve asked him if it could be the Anti-roll bar but he said it was ok. I’ve also asked if he’d checked the engine mounts which he hadn’t. Does anyone think that an engine mount could be causing this or has anyone suffered similar symptoms???

Thanks in advance

MHM