Ducati Monster Forum

Kitchen Sink => No Moto Content => Topic started by: DrDesmo on June 26, 2009, 12:30:26 PM

Title: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: DrDesmo on June 26, 2009, 12:30:26 PM
Anyone have any experience w/ Jetta TDI's?  I'm looking at an '06, Package 2 (Leather, etc.), with 76k for $13,900 with a 5 speed.  Price is a little heavy for the miles, but I will do my best to get that taken care of  ;D

The TDI fan club seems to be pretty strong, just curious if anyone had any experience or thoughts  [thumbsup]

Cheers,
Adam
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: Popeye the Sailor on June 26, 2009, 12:37:12 PM
Mileage great, maintenance didn't seem terrible, but if you don't use the specific oils and parts, you're going to hate it (it doesn't respond well).


They chip well and with some minor mods scream and handle well. I would get one.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: NAKID on June 26, 2009, 12:42:30 PM
I've heard many good things and very few bad things (not enough to remember). I agree that the miles are a bit much for the price and year, but 76k on a diesel is nothing...
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: angler on June 26, 2009, 12:50:35 PM
I have two friends with brand new wagons.  They love them and they are fun to drive spiritedly.  I rented one in France.  It was the smaller version in the Polo.  It was a blast to drive for what it was.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: NAKID on June 26, 2009, 01:08:23 PM
The new ones are a bit different in their diesel technology.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: sno_duc on June 26, 2009, 01:27:03 PM
I've got a moded* 00 NB 1.9 TDI alh / 5mt with 120k on it.
*1856 turbo, PP520 nozzles, Koni FSD shocks and struts, aluminium skid plate, EGT and Boost gauges, VR6 clutch.........

This site should answer all your questions
http://forums.tdiclub.com/ (http://forums.tdiclub.com/)

Timing Belt- I don't know what the recomended mileage is to change the timing belt on the pd motor, on mine it was 60k. I put a 100k belt on. They're like Ducati's if the belt breaks you trash the motor. If you DIY you'll need a Bentley manual, a VAG-COM, metric tools, and 6-8 hrs. Remember some of the bolt are (STY) one time use and must be replaced.

Intake Manifolds- depending on how its driven. The intakes clog with soot from the EGR. When the power and fuel mileage go down it's time to pull the intake and clean it. Usually about every 80k or so, takes about 4hrs.

Oil- stick with a good diesel full synthetic. I only use Mobil Delvac 1 5w40. Check what is recommended for the PD motor.

Which tranny??

Yes I would recommend one. I get mid 40's mpg and I drive it like I stole it. [evil]
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: Tiffers on June 26, 2009, 01:31:09 PM
I started driving Jud's 04 TDI when I moved in a few years ago since I have a 36mi round trip highway commute each day; it made the most sense that I drive his car. As said, it is a 2004 now with 65,000 (yes, prior to me driving it, it had a 5mi a day round trip commute). No issues whatsoever outside of scheduled maintenance, here is what the service records say: (yes, I filed them and kept all)

1. window fell into the door when it was brand new; warranty
2. left headlight bulb went out when new; warranty
3. Regular oil changes (not sure about oil, but it got quaker state full synthetic per receipts, Jud gets that done for me).
4. 50k mile service. $637
5. New rear rotors and pads, also fixed rear caliper as it was malfunctioning to cause faster wear.
6. New Tires
7. Oil coolant pressure switch
8. air and cabin filters

We consider this a very maintenance free car as long as you change the oil and get the scheduled maintenance done. Next interval is 80k mi (550$) and 100k (1500$).

I'd say go for it.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: DrDesmo on June 26, 2009, 01:32:29 PM
Quote from: sno_duc on June 26, 2009, 01:27:03 PM
I've got a moded* 00 NB 1.9 TDI alh / 5mt with 120k on it.
*1856 turbo, PP520 nozzles, Koni FSD shocks and struts, aluminium skid plate, EGT and Boost gauges, VR6 clutch.........

This site should answer all your questions
http://forums.tdiclub.com/ (http://forums.tdiclub.com/)

Timing Belt- I don't know what the recomended mileage is to change the timing belt on the pd motor, on mine it was 60k. I put a 100k belt on. They're like Ducati's if the belt breaks you trash the motor. If you DIY you'll need a Bentley manual, a VAG-COM, metric tools, and 6-8 hrs. Remember some of the bolt are (STY) one time use and must be replaced.

Intake Manifolds- depending on how its driven. The intakes clog with soot from the EGR. When the power and fuel mileage go down it's time to pull the intake and clean it. Usually about every 80k or so, takes about 4hrs.

Oil- stick with a good diesel full synthetic. I only use Mobil Delvac 1 5w40. Check what is recommended for the PD motor.

Which tranny??

Yes I would recommend one. I get mid 40's mpg and I drive it like I stole it. [evil]

I'm asking here because all my TDI friends are fanatics about their TDIs.  ;D

Here's the car in question - not much for the color, but it has Package 2 (leather, heated seats, dual climate, XM) and is local!

http://nh.craigslist.org/cto/1220839920.html (http://nh.craigslist.org/cto/1220839920.html)

Cheers,
Adam
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: sno_duc on June 26, 2009, 01:44:49 PM
That looks like a sweet ride.

I say go for it.

Take it for a test drive, find the steepest longest hill on the inter-state in your area, slow down to 50 or so then stomp on it ( don't down shift ) in less time than it took me to type this you'll understand why TDI drivers are Fanatics.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ArcDeDucati on June 26, 2009, 01:51:47 PM
I say do it.  I used to be an avid VW guy since highschool before my ducati fix.  Still have an 87 Scrirocco 16v in great condition.  The new models are a little different technology, doesn't make that one any crappier though.  Diesel vw's will run for ever and ever, not to mention getting 40 mpg and still having balls. 
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ute on June 26, 2009, 04:31:53 PM
well i had a non turbo 1987 diesel ...had 580K on it when my wife had a guy pull out in front of her

gotta say best vehicle i ever owned great engineering min of maintenance just glow plugs air oil filter 1 starter 1 alternator

1 paint job

original clutch

1200km to a tank  would cruise all day at 150kmh


crazy great vehicle 
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: herm on June 26, 2009, 05:23:49 PM
not a huge fan of the new styling for the jetta.....but that little diesel is sooooo sweet.
i want a diesel rabbit someday.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: sno_duc on June 26, 2009, 05:37:29 PM
I was in München last month. Over half the cars are diesel. Why can't we get em on this side of the pond. [bang] [bang]
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: z0mb1e_DUC on June 26, 2009, 08:04:58 PM
Quote from: sno_duc on June 26, 2009, 05:37:29 PM
I was in München last month. Over half the cars are diesel. Why can't we get em on this side of the pond. [bang] [bang]

Um, EPA. 

Sad thing is, the motor that's in the Jetta we get Stateside isn't nearly as good as the one in Europe.  Much more balls, better mileage.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: redxblack on June 26, 2009, 10:12:20 PM
the only downside is the cost of replacement parts (unless it has changed dramatically from a few years ago). OEM VW is pricey compared to a lot of cars.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: derby on June 27, 2009, 05:13:54 AM
Quote from: z0mb1e_DUC on June 26, 2009, 08:04:58 PM
Um, EPA. 

Sad thing is, the motor that's in the Jetta we get Stateside isn't nearly as good as the one in Europe.  Much more balls, better mileage.

small part EPA, large part American misconceptions about diesel vehicles...
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: Tiffers on June 27, 2009, 06:32:03 AM
The only downside to our ownership was 5$ a gallon diesel last year  :o
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: sno_duc on June 27, 2009, 07:20:56 AM
Quote from: z0mb1e_DUC on June 26, 2009, 08:04:58 PM
Um, EPA. 

Sad thing is, the motor that's in the Jetta we get Stateside isn't nearly as good as the one in Europe.  Much more balls, better mileage.

It's also the cetane content, Europe diesel has higher cetane. The Audi's that race at LeMans are running a Synthetic diesel / bio-diesel blend, very high cetane.

The is a place in Houston that sells it.
http://www.hiperfuels.com/storename/highfuelsn/dept/81049/ItemDetail-10040586.aspx (http://www.hiperfuels.com/storename/highfuelsn/dept/81049/ItemDetail-10040586.aspx)
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: Greg on June 27, 2009, 01:02:21 PM
The TDI's are awesome cars, but like other diesels they can be prone to expensive pump/injector repairs. As an ex diesel injection mechanic I highly you buy a Racor fuel filter to protect those sensitive bits from water in the fuel.

Also try not to fill up at a station if you see the tanker truck there or just leaving, you don't want to fuel after all that crap is stirred up in the tank from a tanker delivery.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: herm on June 27, 2009, 03:01:50 PM
Quote from: SA_S2R on June 27, 2009, 01:02:21 PM
The TDI's are awesome cars, but like other diesels they can be prone to expensive pump/injector repairs. As an ex diesel injection mechanic I highly you buy a Racor fuel filter to protect those sensitive bits from water in the fuel.

Also try not to fill up at a station if you see the tanker truck there or just leaving, you don't want to fuel after all that crap is stirred up in the tank from a tanker delivery.

CRAP!! i just did this the other day.
wonder why i never thought of that before??
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: Greg on June 27, 2009, 04:14:29 PM
Most gas stations are good about keeping water out of their tanks and most trucks don't deliver much if any water, but occasionally they do and it's just best to be safe than stuck on the side of the road 2 miles later and then faced with a $1,000+ repair bill for injector pump and injectors.

;D
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ute on June 27, 2009, 04:43:41 PM
not sure if the new TDI`s have ir but my 87 had a water separator under the car  that you drained  every oil change 


and +1 on the fuel filter change every year
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: m9hundo on June 27, 2009, 05:21:39 PM
My mechanic told me to steer clear of VW's, high cost for repairs and they're a PITA to work on.  This was a few years ago, don't know about present.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: bevel on June 27, 2009, 08:38:30 PM
Dr, you know my stance on TDIs, since we've driven all over NH and MA in my 05 Golf TDI w/ 72k.

Get that Jetta and enjoy the constant 40mpg.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: Greg on June 28, 2009, 05:27:26 AM
Quote from: ute on June 27, 2009, 04:43:41 PM
not sure if the new TDI`s have ir but my 87 had a water separator under the car  that you drained  every oil change 
and +1 on the fuel filter change every year

The fuel filter/water seperator I'm talking about can be drained easily by a small valve on the bottom of the unit. Some of them also come with warning lights to let you know the filter is full of water, so that you can pull over and drain it real quick.

Again - highly recommended, and the best in the business was Racor.

http://www.thedieselstore.com/water/test.php?src=../Images/img/RAC120AP%2F0120AS.jpg (http://www.thedieselstore.com/water/test.php?src=../Images/img/RAC120AP%2F0120AS.jpg)
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: cyrus buelton on June 28, 2009, 08:01:51 AM
Quote from: m9hundo on June 27, 2009, 05:21:39 PM
My mechanic told me to steer clear of VW's, high cost for repairs and they're a PITA to work on.  This was a few years ago, don't know about present.

I'm guessing your mechanic is a Ford and Chevy and not an import car mechanic.


I had my garage mechanic replace the rear rotors/pads a month or so ago. Sure, he said make the beast with two backs about 100000 times while getting the caliper off, but it only took him about an hour to do both sides, and repair the drivers side caliper as the piston came unseated.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: bevel on June 28, 2009, 01:16:58 PM
Quote from: cyrus buelton on June 28, 2009, 08:01:51 AM
I'm guessing your mechanic is a Ford and Chevy and not an import car mechanic.


I had my garage mechanic replace the rear rotors/pads a month or so ago. Sure, he said make the beast with two backs about 100000 times while getting the caliper off, but it only took him about an hour to do both sides, and repair the drivers side caliper as the piston came unseated.

If you drop the $50 to get the Metal Nerd VW Brake Rewind tool (I picked mine up from TDIParts.com), the rear calipers are a breeze. Thing with VWs is that the piston doesn't push straight back, it has to be "rewound" into the caliper. The OEM and Metal Nerd tool both hook into the top of the piston, and twist it while pushing it back.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: NAKID on June 28, 2009, 01:26:59 PM
A lot of rear calipers have to be screwed back in. Go to your local auto parts store and they should be able to rent you the proper tool...
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: cyrus buelton on June 28, 2009, 02:58:57 PM
My mechanic has that tool.


The brake place wanted to replace the caliper as they said it couldn't be fixed and if you buy one new caliper, you need another one.

Um, make the beast with two backs you.

It took my guy about 15mins of make the beast with two backsing around with it to get the piston re-seated. It came unseated, which is what caused the pad to rub down as well as the caliper.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: sno_duc on June 28, 2009, 05:17:12 PM
Two words.  [bow_down]  Bentley Manual.
Best money you'll ever spend if you own a VW.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ducatiz on June 28, 2009, 06:11:38 PM
Quote from: z0mb1e_DUC on June 26, 2009, 08:04:58 PM
Um, EPA. 

Sad thing is, the motor that's in the Jetta we get Stateside isn't nearly as good as the one in Europe.  Much more balls, better mileage.

Not just EPA.  European diesel is around 50-55 cetane, compared iwth 40-45 here, and they've had ULSD for years so car companies have designed around it.  Get diesel to 50 cetane here and a better distribution network (i.e. don't like filling up at the truck stop) and you might have a chance. 

Plus, it's not EPA, it is CARB that is a pregnant dog to meet.  Jeep and Mercedes has diesels which are only 43-state legal...

Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ducatiz on June 28, 2009, 06:20:08 PM
Quote from: DrDesmosedici on June 26, 2009, 12:30:26 PM
Anyone have any experience w/ Jetta TDI's?  I'm looking at an '06, Package 2 (Leather, etc.), with 76k for $13,900 with a 5 speed.  Price is a little heavy for the miles, but I will do my best to get that taken care of  ;D

The TDI fan club seems to be pretty strong, just curious if anyone had any experience or thoughts  [thumbsup]

Cheers,
Adam

the 2006 is the PD engine -- the famous/infamous pumpe deuse.  I have an 05 model and I love it, but be RELIGIOUS about using the right oil OR ELSE your engine will grenade.

The PD engines are cleaner and get good mileage and good HP, but are the last of VW's attempt to use their old-style jets before going using MB's Bluetec. 

My 05 gets about 36 MPG in city driving and easily 50 mpg on the highway doing 70-75.  I imagine I would get better mileage if I didn't drive like an asshole.

When you get it:

1.  Change the fuel filter.
2.  Change the oil and filter. 
3.  Double check all the hose clamps.

First thing to go bad on the body is the rubber suspension bumpers, but they are not a big deal, they just get squeaky.  Spray them with some silicone lube or replace.

If the sun roof leaks, open it all the way on a dry day and use some vaseline on the rim.  gob it on and then close the window and wipe off excess.  End of leak.

These cars are mostly well made, but will have some quirks:

1.  Interior finish is so -so. Stuff will rub off.  Controls will break.  My seat release for the rear seat broke early on.  handle cost me $30 to replace.
2.  Cloth seats SUCK UP stains.  Have it shampooed and scotch-guarded immediately.  Trust me, you'll be happy you did.  First time you go to taco bell and fart on the way home, you'll be glad.  If you don't get scotch guard, then you'll have a perma-skid mark in the driver's seat.
3.  Monsoon stereo is actually nice, but no mp3
4.  Steering pumps go.  You'll hear it when you are turning at low speed, kind of a WHEEEERRRRRRR sound intermittently.  Not a big deal, have it replaced when you replace the accessory belt.
5.  Cam belt schedule should be observed religiously.
6.  Best oil IMHO is the Ineo Total Quartz, which is VW certified for the PD engine.
7.  Good tires go a long way.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: DrDesmo on June 28, 2009, 06:34:41 PM
Quote from: ducatiz-e on June 28, 2009, 06:20:08 PM
the 2006 is the PD engine -- the famous/infamous pumpe deuse.  I have an 05 model and I love it, but be RELIGIOUS about using the right oil OR ELSE your engine will grenade.

The PD engines are cleaner and get good mileage and good HP, but are the last of VW's attempt to use their old-style jets before going using MB's Bluetec. 

My 05 gets about 36 MPG in city driving and easily 50 mpg on the highway doing 70-75.  I imagine I would get better mileage if I didn't drive like an asshole.

When you get it:

1.  Change the fuel filter.
2.  Change the oil and filter. 
3.  Double check all the hose clamps.

First thing to go bad on the body is the rubber suspension bumpers, but they are not a big deal, they just get squeaky.  Spray them with some silicone lube or replace.

If the sun roof leaks, open it all the way on a dry day and use some vaseline on the rim.  gob it on and then close the window and wipe off excess.  End of leak.

These cars are mostly well made, but will have some quirks:

1.  Interior finish is so -so. Stuff will rub off.  Controls will break.  My seat release for the rear seat broke early on.  handle cost me $30 to replace.
2.  Cloth seats SUCK UP stains.  Have it shampooed and scotch-guarded immediately.  Trust me, you'll be happy you did.  First time you go to taco bell and fart on the way home, you'll be glad.  If you don't get scotch guard, then you'll have a perma-skid mark in the driver's seat.
3.  Monsoon stereo is actually nice, but no mp3
4.  Steering pumps go.  You'll hear it when you are turning at low speed, kind of a WHEEEERRRRRRR sound intermittently.  Not a big deal, have it replaced when you replace the accessory belt.
5.  Cam belt schedule should be observed religiously.
6.  Best oil IMHO is the Ineo Total Quartz, which is VW certified for the PD engine.
7.  Good tires go a long way.

Thanks!  [thumbsup]

Would you get one with 74k and no records, or find another example (or buy a new one.)

Cheers,
Adam
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: sno_duc on June 28, 2009, 10:56:24 PM
Quote from: ducatiz-e on June 28, 2009, 06:11:38 PM
Not just EPA.  European diesel is around 50-55 cetane, compared iwth 40-45 here, and they've had ULSD for years so car companies have designed around it.  Get diesel to 50 cetane here and a better distribution network (i.e. don't like filling up at the truck stop) and you might have a chance. 

Plus, it's not EPA, it is CARB that is a pregnant dog to meet.  Jeep and Mercedes has diesels which are only 43-state legal...



It's good that someone with PD knowlege posted up, I own an ALH so I know ALH's.

Yeah CARB has tunnel vision when it comes to NOx's even thou VOC's are worse as far as air pollution. Gasoline is volatile, diesel is not.  [bang]

If you back up a page or two I posted a link to a place in Houston that sells (GTL) synthetic diesel, 67 cetane  [thumbsup].
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ducatiz on June 29, 2009, 03:23:21 AM
I wouldn't turn it away.  Take it to a vw dealer and have them check it out esp the distributor pump, belts and overall health.  They are pretty sturdy.  Most people know about the oil reqs.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: cyrus buelton on June 29, 2009, 05:12:27 AM
Quote from: ducatiz-e on June 28, 2009, 06:20:08 PM
3.  Monsoon stereo is actually nice, but no mp3

Easy fix:

go old school and buy one of those cassette tapes with the headjack plug.

that is what I use in my Jetta

and +1 to the monsoon, that is a nice stock stereo.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ducatiz on June 29, 2009, 09:25:22 AM
Quote from: cyrus buelton on June 29, 2009, 05:12:27 AM
Easy fix:

go old school and buy one of those cassette tapes with the headjack plug.

that is what I use in my Jetta

and +1 to the monsoon, that is a nice stock stereo.


I did one better, I got an FM transmitter setup.  Plugs into the headphone jack just the same and broadcasts on whatever FM station is available.  Much better sound.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: cyrus buelton on June 29, 2009, 10:08:21 AM
Quote from: ducatiz-e on June 29, 2009, 09:25:22 AM
I did one better, I got an FM transmitter setup.  Plugs into the headphone jack just the same and broadcasts on whatever FM station is available.  Much better sound.

I've tried that method many times in the past. I don't care for it.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: NAKID on June 29, 2009, 10:13:12 AM
Quote from: cyrus buelton on June 29, 2009, 10:08:21 AM
I've tried that method many times in the past. I don't care for it.

I agree. With my old F150, I had the FM transmitter for my Sirius and it works decent as long as you stay in one geographical area. That being said, I got an adapter for the tape deck and the sound was much more consistent...
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: DrDesmo on June 29, 2009, 10:13:53 AM
Quote from: cyrus buelton on June 29, 2009, 10:08:21 AM
I've tried that method many times in the past. I don't care for it.

My favorite method for iPod integration:

http://blitzsafe.com/catalog/volkswagen/jetta/1999-2008/cat_492.html (http://blitzsafe.com/catalog/volkswagen/jetta/1999-2008/cat_492.html)

Cheers,
Adam
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ducatiz on June 29, 2009, 11:14:15 AM
Quote from: DrDesmosedici on June 29, 2009, 10:13:53 AM
My favorite method for iPod integration:

http://blitzsafe.com/catalog/volkswagen/jetta/1999-2008/cat_492.html (http://blitzsafe.com/catalog/volkswagen/jetta/1999-2008/cat_492.html)

Cheers,
Adam

maybe a dumb question, but the plug for the changer in mine is in the back of the car, do you put the player there too?
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: DrDesmo on June 29, 2009, 11:28:53 AM
Quote from: ducatiz-e on June 29, 2009, 11:14:15 AM
maybe a dumb question, but the plug for the changer in mine is in the back of the car, do you put the player there too?

Nope! It comes with an 8'-ish cord for the iPod, so you can tuck the interface box wherever is convenient and then have the lead for the iPod.  In my volvo, I have it come up next to the parking brake so I can keep it close at hand in its own little cubby area.

Cheers,
Adam
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: yotogi on June 29, 2009, 11:49:34 AM
+1 on the iPod adapters that go into the CD harness. Many of them will integrate with the controls on the stock head unit.

I had a 2001 Golf TDI and wish that I had never gotten rid of it. The TDI is just a fantastic engine and you really can't beat the fuel economy and the torque. Of course, I am still a little bias toward the 3.2 V6 in my R32 but can you blame me?  :)

If I were in the market for a car, a TDI would be on my short list, although probably in a Jetta wagon if I could find one.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ducatiz on June 29, 2009, 11:52:18 AM
Quote from: yotogi on June 29, 2009, 11:49:34 AM
If I were in the market for a car, a TDI would be on my short list, although probably in a Jetta wagon if I could find one.

here yah go

http://www.vw.com/jettasportwagen/tdi/en/us/ (http://www.vw.com/jettasportwagen/tdi/en/us/)

(http://www.dieselautoblog.com/Images/vw/vw%20jetta%20sportwagen%20front.jpg)
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ArcDeDucati on June 30, 2009, 08:47:35 AM
Quote from: ducatiz-e on June 28, 2009, 06:20:08 PM
the 2006 is the PD engine -- the famous/infamous pumpe deuse.  I have an 05 model and I love it, but be RELIGIOUS about using the right oil OR ELSE your engine will grenade.

The PD engines are cleaner and get good mileage and good HP, but are the last of VW's attempt to use their old-style jets before going using MB's Bluetec. 

My 05 gets about 36 MPG in city driving and easily 50 mpg on the highway doing 70-75.  I imagine I would get better mileage if I didn't drive like an asshole.

When you get it:

1.  Change the fuel filter.
2.  Change the oil and filter. 
3.  Double check all the hose clamps.

First thing to go bad on the body is the rubber suspension bumpers, but they are not a big deal, they just get squeaky.  Spray them with some silicone lube or replace.

If the sun roof leaks, open it all the way on a dry day and use some vaseline on the rim.  gob it on and then close the window and wipe off excess.  End of leak.

These cars are mostly well made, but will have some quirks:

1.  Interior finish is so -so. Stuff will rub off.  Controls will break.  My seat release for the rear seat broke early on.  handle cost me $30 to replace.
2.  Cloth seats SUCK UP stains.  Have it shampooed and scotch-guarded immediately.  Trust me, you'll be happy you did.  First time you go to taco bell and fart on the way home, you'll be glad.  If you don't get scotch guard, then you'll have a perma-skid mark in the driver's seat.
3.  Monsoon stereo is actually nice, but no mp3
4.  Steering pumps go.  You'll hear it when you are turning at low speed, kind of a WHEEEERRRRRRR sound intermittently.  Not a big deal, have it replaced when you replace the accessory belt.
5.  Cam belt schedule should be observed religiously.
6.  Best oil IMHO is the Ineo Total Quartz, which is VW certified for the PD engine.
7.  Good tires go a long way.

You sound like an old Vdub guy.  Everything you said is exactly what goes wrong with VWs. Nothing major, just things you should keep an eye on. I still own a 87 Scirocco 16v and it has the classic sunroof leak, so did my 94 jetta and 96 GTI. 

Always spend the money on tires.
Title: Re: Jetta TDI's?
Post by: ducatiz on June 30, 2009, 09:04:32 AM
Quote from: ArcDeDucati on June 30, 2009, 08:47:35 AM
You sound like an old Vdub guy.  Everything you said is exactly what goes wrong with VWs. Nothing major, just things you should keep an eye on. I still own a 87 Scirocco 16v and it has the classic sunroof leak, so did my 94 jetta and 96 GTI. 

Always spend the money on tires.

hahaha.. my first vw was a '71 squareback with the Jetronic EFI.  I took the brain apart and mapped it and put it on two 2716 eeproms so it was about 1/20th the original size.  the old efi setup was crazy simplistic.

this golf is my first one in a long time though, i've bounced between volvo and vw for many years.  i like vws, but you can't expect them to wear like a maybach.  they are cheaply but well made cars, and vw doesn't spend too much on the finish (well, the paint they use now is top notch as is their rustproofing) but the interiors are --well -- bottom middle of hte line. 

just treat it well and don't use aggressive cleaners inside.  soap and water go a long way.