Faults:

A/C switch failed - A/C would not blow cold (warranty).

Door lock assembly on driver's side failed (warranty).

PCV valve failed - check engine light and bouncy idle (recall).

Intake manifold flap/motor failed - check engine light (recall).

Two coil packs failed - flashing check engine light/car towed (not warranty).

Thermostat failed - (not warranty).

Both outer CV boots torn.

Rear shocks worn.

The car burns a LOT of oil.

General Comments:

I have ALWAYS been a huge German car fan, and for years have exclusively driven and spoken great words about them, Volkswagens in particular.

That said, I've read many places that VWs tend to fall apart around 5/6 years, and unfortunately, given my experience as well as the experiences of other family members who have owned Volkswagens, it is an unfortunate truth.

I love the way my car drives, I love the way my car looks, and I quite honestly would prefer nothing more than to drive it into the ground. The fuel economy, the handling, the styling, the interior design (roomy AND well made), and the general "sense" of quality are top notch. However, the quality appears to be only skin deep.

However - everything on the car costs money - oil changes are almost 100 bucks (and it burns it anyway), timing belt changes are 1000-1400, and my thermostat alone cost $450 to replace. Germans can make cars that drive like no other, but if you really really want to drive one, you have two options - lease one and that way you'll avoid repairs, or buy one and roll the dice, because even independent shops will charge a lot to fix these cars. All of the engineering required to make them drive as nice as they do costs money, and honestly - I'm just not willing to pay it anymore. I've been quite up-to-date on the maintenance on this car - and it hasn't rewarded me back - so Subaru or Mazda, here I come.

Faults:

The DSG double clutch transmission makes a click sound when it returns to first gear.

The radio can't be seen at night without the headlights on. I work at night.

The blue-green lights on the instrument panel. They're too dim.

No lever to recline the front seats back. It has a knob you twist like a jar lid.

You can't turn off the daytime running lights.

Poor brakes.

A blind spot you can hide a bus in.

Paint chips easily.

General Comments:

The car is fun to drive. But it has an all or nothing philosophy when it comes to speed. It's either too fast or too slow during everyday driving. There isn't an in between or normal driving mode to it.

The fuel economy on the highway is actually worse than my Corvette. I know it's hard to believe, but it's true.

I bought this car because I needed something more practical. But I just wish I would have kept my Corvette.

General Comments:

A nice performance oriented car.

The finish could be a little nicer, and the stock radio is a little cumbersome to use.

Chipped, it'll make your passengers scream.

Maintenance is a bit high, but that's the price of owning a performance tuned car. The parts will eventually wear out, and you'll want to replace them before they fail. Follow the scheduled maintenance intervals and don't be stupid, and the car will last you forever.