Two problems related to mass air flow sensor have been reported for the 2001 Volkswagen GTI. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Vehicle is in shop for replacement of catalytic converter and mass air flow sensor, both still under warranty because they are emission control. The culprit for the failure seems to be the coil pack has failed. The coil is not covered under warranty as the car now has 43,000 miles and is outside of warranty, cost is about $800. The coil pack failed and was replaced at 19,000 miles under warranty. Was told by dealer to expect to replace the coil about every 2 years. In addition had the drivers window clips fail twice and the window fell into the door, horn shorted 3 seperate times, the dealer finally replaced the relay the 3rd time it came in and that corrected it.
Ignition coil failed at 30 months. $636 repair termed normal maintenance by Volkswagen. Massive reimbursement program in process for failed coils on other model year Gtis and same model year with different engine, none of which helps you if you own a 2001 Gti vr6. Car has also suffered mass airflow sensor failure, 2 power window failures, 2 brake light switch failures with related inoperable cruise control, body weather stripping quickly developed holes, failed glove compartment light module, rear cupholder failure. I've lost count of dealer service visits.