Description

VNT17 turbocharger made by Melett for all VW TDIs with an ALH engine code. This turbo came stock on the European 150HP 1.9L TDI. It provides higher boost levels and lower EGT’s compared to the stock VNT15.
*July 2025 and January 2026 tariff notes: All VNT17’s going forward will be Melett made in the UK or Garrett factory reman.
Melett are made in the UK using all new components and the latest technology. Our sources in Europe state that they are the best quality turbos available for these applications and are superior to Borg Warner or Garrett, despite them not being well known on our side of the pond. They tune, install and operate just like a Garrett VNT17.

Meanwhile, when Melett is not available we will use Garrett factory reman. Garrett is out of compressor housings, they are using reman housings with all other parts as new as per usual. They are not requiring cores but they have to brand it as a reman because of the housing.
We often hear, “if they are remanufactured, why are yours more expensive than “X” competitor?” That is a good question, and it boils down to European law. Many of our competitors are using fully Garrett remans out of China. We have found those to be hit and miss for quality. We flew these in from Europe and paid the tariffs on them doing so, the data tags will say, “Made in UK” or “Made in France” as opposed to remanufactured in UK or France (or China). Historically on TDIclub France and UK Garrett facilities are known for being the most reliable sources for turbos. So yes the price is higher, but the quality is leaps and bounds ahead of the Chinese Garrett turbos.

Fits the Following:
1999.5-2003 VW Golf TDI
1999.5-2003 VW Jetta TDI
1998-2003 VW New Beetle TDI

Fitment Note: An adapter is required for the compressor side to mount up with a stock ALH intercooler pipe. The 1 3/8″ adapter is for vehicles with stock (1 1/4″) intercooler piping, while the 2″ adapter is for those with upgraded intercooler and piping.

Fitment Note: Some of the compatible vehicles built in 2001 and earlier will require this Turbo Bracket for proper, secure fitment.