[Chop Shop]

Originally Posted by Shim

In 2012 I bought my wife a 2011 TDI Jetta (mk6 Golf) Sportwagen, certified pre-owned with 55,000 miles to replace a truck for commuting and hauling lumber. No major problems. VW’s TDI has some known problems that I think are also common to other engines. Overall reliability is about average compared to all cars on the road. The variable geometry turbo charger is neat technology.

On mine EGR system did need to be cleaned out recently due to carbon buildup on the flap/valve. Italian tune-ups might have prevented this, but my wife drives very lightly. Engines with direct injection are more susceptible to carbon build up than cars with port injection.

Because the exhaust gas recirculation system sends air with water vapor upstream of the turbocharger, there can be condensation in the air-to-air intercooler (charge cooler), particularly in cold weather. If that sludge gets pulled into the engine, there can be real problems. It can also freeze enough to block the airflow, people call that intercooler icing and it will prevent starting. I haven’t had this problem. A catch-can might solve it.

The diesel particulate filter (DPF) will eventually fill up and need service. The regen cycle freaked me out the first time, and now I know how important it is to not park on grass.

There was a company that made a bypass/delete solution for the DPF and EGR that also improved fuel economy, but bro-trucks rolling coal have ruined diesel tuning for everyone now that the EPA is on the case.

Fuel economy in the winter is in the low 30’s due to short trip length, typically 15 miles. Summer is around 42. I bet that some combination of engine block heaters would greatly improve fuel economy, but my wife won’t let me modify her car like that.

The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) can fail without warning while in use, leaving you stranded. I haven’t had this problem, and carry a cell phone to mitigate.

VW has a reputation for bad electrical systems, but I haven’t had any problems.
The sunroof has a reputation for leaking due to drains getting clogged. I haven’t had this problem.

Special oil is needed at oil changes, quick change places don’t have it and it’s about $90 each time at the dealer. My local VW specialist charges $85. Accessing the air filter is a pain, requires a screwdriver for approximately one million screws. Taking things apart in the cabin requires special torx screwdrivers. Otherwise simple electrical modifications require software changes using VAG-COM / VCDS.

Diesel car forums are great.

The TDI engine is reputed to have great torque, but I think it is merely adequate, just enough to make performance bearable for what it is. If you want a peppy car then look at the Golf GTI or Jetta GLI, which would also have a less floaty suspension.

Let's hope I have the same type of luck if I end up getting this car. Anything specific I should look for when I take the test drive?