Your Choices
I'm looking at buying a Jetta come spring, and I'm curious about the reliability.
I had an 2002 SVT Focus, that was an absolute pile of crap to say the least, and I
really want to avoid making the same mistake twice. So I'm wondering what issues
to look out for, beyond the fuel pump issues that is.
Can't blame you being upset about the SVT Focus. I thought they were geat when they
first came out, but found out later that what you say turned out to indeed be fact!
We had a 2000 Kona model with a five speed manual (Was not available North of
the border) and it was one of if not the most reliable car I have ever owned!
And, I've had a few to say the least in the last 60 plus years!
Are you opting for one with a
DSG?
You will not be sorry as
there are no longer any problems that I know of in the later vehicles with DSG.
There were some minor concerns with some of the '09s, but there were factory computer changes (updates) available, and generally speaking, those people with '
09s that had those changes done are now happy.
Should you prefer a 6-speed MT, be sure to drive one on the highway as well as in city traffic,
as they are indeed geared rather high, and many here speak of not using
sixth gear at all while in town because it is such a tall gear.
Also,
do not opt for seventeen inch or larger wheels, as your tire choices are not
as plentiful, and larger wheels do cost you a little bit of fuel economy.
We
did not want a
Plano Roof either. Costly, and it is hard to keep the interior cool
in the summer because that factory shade does not keep the heat out.
Do not worry about all that you may read concerning the
HPFP problems.
There are a few to be sure, but not many we hear about of up in the
Great White North.
Seems that many believe that
your fuel is better than what we are getting down South!
Should you buy one, I would say, even though your fuel
may be better, it
surely would not hurt to have a good additve on hand before you buy, and add it
to your first tank to help with the lubrication of the HPFP.
There are several good ones available.
We prefer
Opti-Lube XPD and add it each and every tank. For only $1.40 to $2.00 per tank
depending on whether you use 1/4 or 1/2 ounce per gallon, it is easy to handle
and '
gives peace of mind' to most all of us who do use it.
At 22K miles since February 20, we could not be happier, and I believe that our
JSW will
turn out to be as dependable and even more enjoyable that was our
Kona Focus.
HTHs
D