WAI 17780N Starter

Starter for Volkswagen and Audi Applications

The WAI 17780N starter is a 12-volt, permanent magnet gear reduction unit built for select Volkswagen Beetle, Jetta, Golf, and Audi A3 and TT applications. It uses a Bosch family design with a 1.1 kW power rating, 10-tooth drive, and counterclockwise rotation for the specified vehicles.

WAI builds this starter as a 100% new unit, using proprietary components and manufacturing processes to support consistent electrical output and long service life. The 17780N is a direct-fit starter option for multiple VW and Audi platforms, including 2000-2006 Volkswagen Golf, 2000-2005 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2000-2003 Audi A3.

Key Features

• Part number: 17780N
• 12-volt starter for electrical, charging, and starting systems
• Permanent magnet gear reduction design
• Bosch family configuration
• 1.1 kW power rating
• Counterclockwise (left) starter rotation
• 10-tooth drive
• Flange mounting type
• 100% new construction, not remanufactured

Fitment Details

• Fits 2008-2009 Volkswagen Beetle, N/A
• Fits 2005-2006 Volkswagen Beetle, N/A
• Fits 1999-2003 Volkswagen Beetle, N/A
• Fits 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, N/A
• Fits 2000-2005 Volkswagen Jetta, N/A
• Fits 2000-2006 Volkswagen Golf, N/A
• Fits 2004 Volkswagen Beetle, N/A, 10 Tooth
• Fits 2000-2003 Audi A3, N/A, Mexico
• Fits 2003 Audi TT Quattro, N/A, 5 Spd.
• Fits 2000-2002 Audi TT, N/A, 1.1kW Rating
• Fits 2002 Audi TT Quattro, N/A, 1.1kW Rating
• Fits 2000 Audi TT Quattro, N/A, 1.1kW Rating
• Fits 1999 Volkswagen Golf, N/A, w/2 Mtg Holes
• Fits 1999 Volkswagen Jetta, N/A, w/2 Mtg Holes
• Fits 1998 Volkswagen Beetle, N/A, Bosch, From 3/1998

What This Starter Helps Address

• Slow or weak cranking during engine start
• No-crank condition caused by starter failure
• Intermittent starting issues on VW and Audi vehicles
• Grinding or engagement problems related to worn starter drive components
• Voltage drop concerns tied to an aging starter assembly

Installation Notes and Tips

Confirm the vehicle’s year, make, model, tooth count, rotation direction, and mounting style before ordering. This starter is listed for specific Volkswagen Beetle, Jetta, and Golf applications, plus Audi A3 and TT variants, so matching the OE-style configuration is important for proper engagement.

Cross-reference part numbers include BBB Industries 17780 and OE-style references such as 0 001 121 008.

Quality Assurance

WAI states that this starter is manufactured as a new unit rather than remanufactured, with proprietary components and processes used to support maximum life and performance. That construction approach is intended to provide the amp output needed for today’s vehicles and consistent starting performance across the listed applications.