Volkswagen Jetta 2005 TDI

[dxkj]

I was looking at the turbo diesel jetta as an option for the long commute I will be starting shortly, and everything looks good, I like the car, but I've heard some issues about reliability.

I have a few other options such as an Accord or Camry in that price range, but based on the mileage I will be putting on it, its looking to be about 50-60 a month cheaper in gas to drive the jetta TDI.

 

[ironcrotch]

Yeah I've been looking into getting a diesel also. A few people I know that drive diesel VW's have had relatively good luck with theirs. I'm sure if you keep it maintained properly it should be relatively hassle free. But if something needs to be replaced expect it to be expensive.

 

I think the (1.9l?) TDI by VW is generally a very reliable engine. The problem with VWs that you've got to watch out for is electrical/mechanical issues. There used to be a problem with the 'shelf' that holds up the windows (called a window regulator) - it'd break, and the window would go slamming down into the door frame. People have also had issues with the VW alarms and other assorted electrical equipment in the vehicles.

I'm speaking about the MKIV Jettas...the MKV Jettas may be different.

 

[Pliablemoose]

Originally posted by: jumpr
I think the (1.9l?) TDI by VW is generally a very reliable engine. The problem with VWs that you've got to watch out for is electrical/mechanical issues. There used to be a problem with the 'shelf' that holds up the windows (called a window regulator) - it'd break, and the window would go slamming down into the door frame. People have also had issues with the VW alarms and other assorted electrical equipment in the vehicles.

I'm speaking about the MKIV Jettas...the MKV Jettas may be different.

Yep, MAF sensors are pretty fragile, current diesels are not as durable as the legendary diesels of old, because of more sensors & more sophisticated engine control systems. Wife's 02' TDI Golf has ~70k miles on it, & it's starting to become troublesome...

 

[eLiu]

so diesels are getting less awesome?

I had a 1985 Mercedes 300SD turbodiesel...that thing was built like a tank & you couldn't kill the engine if you tried.

200k miles w/o any problems

 

[ScottMac]

Diesel fuel around here is ~US$0.10 more than premium gas. That's supposed to come down soon, but it's been up there now for the better part of the year.

Other than that, you may want to check out VW Vortex and see what the folks thre are saying.

It's general board (automotive, of course) but they have a specfic forum for VWs, then lists for each of the various types of VWs (all of 'em - international).

Generally a great place for all things VW.

Good Luck

Scott
('05 Touareg V8 )

 

[AnitaPeterson]

If you want a car that uses regular gasoline, is very economical and is "bigger on the inside" than on the outside, try the Toyota Echo.

Some people diss the body design, but it's a Toyota, it's actually made in Japan, and the gas mileage is the lowest you'll find in this part of the world. I ran 700 Km (435 miles) on a single tank of gas, this summer... and the most gas I ever had to pump in it was 39 liters (10 gallons), after I've been running on empty for a while.

 

[dxkj]

Originally posted by: AnitaPeterson
If you want a car that uses regular gasoline, is very economical and is "bigger on the inside" than on the outside, try the Toyota Echo.

Some people diss the body design, but it's a Toyota, it's actually made in Japan, and the gas mileage is the lowest you'll find in this part of the world. I ran 700 Km (435 miles) on a single tank of gas, this summer... and the most gas I ever had to pump in it was 39 liters (10 gallons), after I've been running on empty for a while.

That thing is a death trap, its so small it would get absolutely crushed in a wreck


That being said, hey its cheap

Any more input on the un-reliability of Jetta? The new jetta has done really well in safety and features, and has insane gas mileage... only thing im not sure about is owning it after the warranty is up.

 

[Stifko]

changing the timing belt on a TDi is expensive, like over $1000.oo I think.

Fred's TDi site has great forums.