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Hatchbacks Volkswagen GTI Volkswagen GTI Maintenance and Repair
162 messages, Last post on Sep 12, 2009 at 2:45 PM
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Replying to: j14152 (Jul 21, 2007 8:13 am) The nightmare memories of my wife's 99 Carbio have been fading and I found myself considering a new 4-door GTI with the DSG. Thanks for the reality check. I must always always that even though they are appealing in many ways, VW's are junk. To quote "The Who" We Won't Get Fooled Again |
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Be warned: Back in 2000, I bought a new GTI which was nothing but problems: clutch went out at 40,000 miles, glove box hinge broke twice, power window went out three times (the same plastic retainer clip snapped each time), both headlamps and most other exterior bulbs burned out, CD player went on the blink, AC would stop sporadically, turbo valve malfunctioned, etc. I had all maintenance done at the dealership and never abused the vehicle. I got desperate when the dealer advised me that the part required to repair my inoperative window -- stuck in the down position for the third time -- would not be available for weeks due to inadequate supply, and they could offer no further assistance. (Guess they thought I could just tape some trash bags over the opening.) I had to call the regional manager, who forced the dealer to order the part. I finally got everything repaired and traded in for a 2003 WRX. After 100,000 miles (same clutch, same brakes, no significant problems), I traded for a 2007 Mazdaspeed 3 (a few electrical problems at the onset, but no big deal). The WRX and Speed 3 were a little more expensive, but far superior in performance and reliability. After I traded the GTI, I got a notice about a lawsuit regarding faulty VW windows for 1998-2002 models. This means that VW had known about the problem (a plastic, not metal, clip was used to connect the glass to the window motor) for several years, but did nothing until they were sued. The bottom line is that VW, at least in 2000, made a grossly deficient, unreliable vehicle which looked good in the showroom but did little else. Based on some of the posts here, it seems that little has changed. While enthusiasts (like the folks in the automotive press) will tout the brand's European flair, performance edge and creature comforts, these aspects will never compensate for the cost and frustration of VW ownership. No warranty will restore the hours spent waiting at the repair shop or rental office, and no reimbursement will provide a sense of confidence in the vehicle overall. It's a shame, since my GTI, at a cost of $21,000, could have been the best $22,000 car on the road. VW simply chose to skimp on functional parts while adorning the cabin for test drive appeal. So, potential VW buyer, my advice to you is to fully evaluate offerings from Subaru, Mazda or other reliable brands before buying VW. You should have confidence in your new vehicle, and reliability concerns can ruin all the fun. Good luck, and safe motoring. |
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Hi. I have a '97 GTI, and I've noticed that when I run the A/C for extended periods of time (over an hour or so) water starts to pool onto the floor on the passenger side. I'm wondering if anyone else has had this problem and/or maybe knows how to fix it? Thanks much! Amber
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Replying to: ambrocked (Jul 30, 2008 8:25 pm)
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Replying to: extech2 (Aug 03, 2008 3:11 pm) |
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Replying to: extech2 (Aug 03, 2008 3:11 pm) |
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Hello, I was on a road trip the other week in my 2008 GTI, and a tire came off of a truck and hit the front of my car. The only thing I noticed is the black lip part on the bottom that protects from rocks and whatever else, seems to have been pushed in some, and its sticking out of the front a little bit. Anyone know if this would cause a problem? I hardly even noticed it. What would be the cost of replacing it? Also, I need to do my 10k maintenance, what does that normally run people? Thanks! |
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| If you are considering a VW, take a long hard look at their reliability records. I purchased a '00 GTI GLS brand new in 2000 and was attracted to the looks of the vehicle, the terrific sounding Monsoon sound system, and the promise of "German engineering" quality. I was leery of the anemic 2yr/24K warranty, but the dealer assured me they'd stand behind their vehicle. Well, they did, for 2yrs. Very shortly after that, I've had many electrical issues (burned out bulbs, defective sensors, dead battery). The latest issue was a broken water pump, which led to severe engine damage (warped head, damaged valves). It turns out the water pump is covered under a 10yr/100K warranty, but only if the work was performed at the dealer. I had the car repaired at a more conveniently located place which has always offered me a ride to work or the use of a loaner car (which VW does not provide). $4700 later (including repairs, towing, etc.), VW would not even reimburse me for the defective water pump which caused all the damage. The quality of this vehicle has always been poor. The same year, I purchased a new Honda CR-V which I've had no issues with. VW has a great marketing campaign, and flashy brochures - but when it comes to quality and customer service, they will leave you out in the cold. | |
| Hello, i'm in the process of buying a GTI from a dealer that is fairly far from my house even though there is one about 1 miles away (got a better price). My question is, when it comes time for the free scheduled maintenance and/or warranty work, does it matter what dealer I take it to? | |
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