VW TDI's

[shane_c]

Does anyone have any experience with VW TDI's? I had a 2000 Jetta 2.0 and it was awful as far as reliability went but it had a nice feel when on the road. I've had a few cars since then and am currently driving a 2004 Focus Wagon. I'm driving 82 km roundtrip per day (mostly highway) and am not impressed whatsoever with my mileage. I've had the car for about 1.5 years now and am thinking I'd like something else.

I've been doing a lot of thinking about the 2004-2006 Jetta TDI Wagon (5 spd) because of the excellent mileage they get which given the amount I drive per day would be a plus.

Does anyone happen to have a TDI from these years? How has reliability been? Do TDI's require any special maintenance to keep them going? Any other input about the TDI's would be appreciated.

[ricosuave]

Hi Shane,

As an owner of 2 TDIs (2000 Golf and 2003 Jetta Wagon) I can tell you that they are great for fuel economy. As with most VWs, reliability on some things can surely be a concern. I dont know a great deal about the 2005-2007 TDIs, the ones that use the PD engine, but I do know that it is critical that the proper VW spec oil is used from the get go with them. The 1999-2004 TDIs, like the ones I have, has a similar spec, but it is not near as critical as the PD ones. I assume that the 2007+ ones (still PD?) are the same as well.

If you are even somewhat handy, these cars arent too bad. Most people who buy VWs know that they will get nickle and dimed for dumb things, but that has a lot to do with where they take it for servicing, and how they treat it in general. Doing your homework on a lot of things in preparation is a good way to learn about these cars too.

I've had good luck with both mine, and avoid the stealerships at all costs. Most parts are available way cheaper online, and the service work (except for warranty) can be done at a number of good VW shops around town. Tunedub, is probably the best, but there are others too.

I dont know if you would consider older ones, but I thought this was a great deal, providing the history is known, etc
http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehi...AdIdZ128493122

I also know that the new 2009 sportwagons are great as well, and reliability from what I have read is good. Plus, the price is pretty reasonable for what you pay for others.

Its really satisfying to go a month or more without filling up, or to take a trip and go 1000-1200 km per tank. It does make the little things OK, as far as Im concerned.

tdiclub.com is an excellent resource for TDIs, but there is a TON of info there to wade through. I'd start with the FAQ section and go from there. The TDIs do require the special oil, regular timing belt and oil changes, but when treated right, it is nothing for a diesel engine to run for 500K or more. I bought our wagon at 200K, and it still runs like a top.

Also, local sites include clubveedub.com and eurodrivers.ca. You might find some info there too.

I think that all the wagons were built in Germany, the VIN should start with WVW is that is the case, and that is much better than the Mexican built ones.

Any other questions, feel free to ask.

[shane_c]

Thanks ricosuave! I will continue to think about it but will likely keep my Focus Wagon since it has given me no problems the last 1.5 years. As much as I want to get a TDI because of the great mileage and because I do miss the solid feel of the VW's, but I just can't seem to get past the questionable reliability and expensive labour/parts. I still have a sour taste in my mouth from my 2000 Jetta and it being in the shop about 30 times in the 3 years I owned it.

[Bill Bumface]

Wait for a couple years until you can pick up a used '09. I test drove one, and it is a great engine. It feels a lot faster than it is because of all the low end. The latest generation of Jetta/Rabbit (Mk V) seem to be having much improved reliability over the Mk IV's did. In a couple years you'll know if the new diesel has any major issues.