2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI 1.9 turbo diesel from North America
Summary:
Unexpected and unacceptable repairs
Faults:
From 0 miles to this date, the trans has a short power loss on takeoff. Also, had a noise (rattle) from the trans at under 900 RPM, that was the result of the flywheel failure that should be covered by VW at 60,000 miles; repair cost about $3,000.
Alternator clutch pulley failure at 100K, which the dealer needed $1,200 to repair, and I did it myself for $110.00 (pulley, not the complete alternator).
Rear wheel bearing Rt/Lt at 175K. Dealer cost $1,700, and I did it myself for $260 with a Timken bearing (512319 part). Do not use VW OEM; others have had them go out after less than 40k.
CV joints replaced by a dealer in Grand Rapids, MI, who did a very good job. The original dealer elsewhere would be my best reason to never buy VW for my next car.
Driver's side mirror fell off (96K) due to corrosion of the aluminum on the folding joint, and the other side is on its way out also now at 180k.
Had to replace the hood due to corrosion on a seam. However, VW covered the cost under a 10 year paint protection program.
One good thing, it's still on the original front brake pads at 180K.
General Comments:
This Jetta has very good handling, and very good MPG in all road conditions with the TDI diesel motor. The interior is very good with no problems. Heated seats ++++.
The VW dealer will tell you that this car can go 400+K, and I think it is possible and a good selling point. However, the flywheel failure in the TDI diesel will be a major problem for VW on returning customers. A reasonable person will not accept a major drive train failure like this. VW needs to do the right thing and recall the dual mass flywheel.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 19th February, 2013
20th Feb 2013, 13:20
Sorry, you mentioned a dual-mass flywheel; just to confirm, is your car a manual or an automatic? (the car specs column says it's an automatic)