Sold the 2009 sportwagon bought a Prius

[attyjeff]

Bought a new Prius 2 weeks ago and surprised at how much I like this car. I miss the power a little but don't miss the .70 more per gallon. I will continue to be a member and will buy another tdi when some things change.

 

[D-Cell_Mekanick]

I don't blame you, good luck with the Prius!

 

[BroncoAZ]

Ugh, I hate all the prius models. Good for you if you like it though.

 

[Yoda]

I as well decided to do a little preventative trading in as well, however I went after a new Subaru Forester. I have been watching the resale value of my 09 TDi plummet and faced with the fact that the HPFP was probably going to die, Dsg was too damned goofy, and gas is a dollar cheaper per gallon than diesel- it seemed to be a no brainer.

 

[Ted Hurst]

We traded our 2009 also. Ours had coolant issues. Ended up trading for a 2012 JSW. I almost feel like we are doing the same thing over again expecting different results. Yes, feel free to quote me on that.

 

[DubFamily]

Congrats OP (I think? )

I drive 125 miles a day and after test driving a Prius there is no way I could survive in that car every day. But what matters is you like it; so if it works for you and gives you peace of mind then I say awesome!

 

[OldMan52]

We traded our 2009 also. Ours had coolant issues. Ended up trading for a 2012 JSW. I almost feel like we are doing the same thing over again expecting different results. Yes, feel free to quote me on that.

Hope you will be better off with a Prius. TDI CLUB is too much a great site for posting grievances about our car, and I'm afraid all this is giving the impression TDI's are bad cars compared to others. There does'nt seem to be as good sites for other manufacturers.
This site has plenty of complaints concerning Toyota Prius people should be aware before making a change. www.consumeraffairs.com/automotive/toyota_prius.html
A car is a complexe arrangement of thousands of parts, and is bound to have mecanical issues. May not be better elsewhere. I've had my share of trouble with my 2009 Jetta, but the cost is reasonnable considering the number of miles travelled. And mpg is nearly as good as the Prius. And I owned a Corolla 6 months and sold it. Maybe one day, I will go for a hybrid, but not now.

 

[tdiatlast]

attyjeff: I have great respect for the Prius, when it is driven in the appropriate environment. I know several very, very happy owners, and have recommended it to several people who are quite content with it.
Good luck with your change. As you already know, the Prius is about as far as you can get from the VW JSW experience, but if you're after reliable/MPG/uneventful driving, it's a great choice.

 

[chudzikb]

Completely understand, surprised more have not done the same? However, replacement is not exactly a drivers car. But, if you are good with it, that is what is most important.

 

[attyjeff]

Thanks and I will respond a little. I think the tdi is a great car so I'm not bashing it, I just think there are some issues that need to be worked out and this can be said for any car.
1) I drive 50,000 miles a year, After 2 weeks I have 1,600 miles on the Prius.
2) The ride seems better in the Prius, this might be because its new?
3) The milage is better in the Prius, BUT I agree it is close which says a lot for the tdi.
4) The space inside is really close, surprised me.
5) Diesel cost .70 more and then I added power source which cost more to add to every tank and it seems the cost to drive keeps going up.
6) The oil changes are the same every 10,000 BUT there is no fuel filter to change (so to speak, its in the tank but IF ever needed access is easy through the back seat, its designed to last the life of the car), even though I changed it every 20,000 and it wasnt a big deal to do on the TDI thats one less thing to worry about.
7) This car has all the controls on the steering wheel, phone, temp, nav etc and thats really nice with all the driving I do.
8) As much as I travel and talk business (hands free) on the phone I dont speed around, even in the TDI I set the cruise at 73-74 on the interstate and got in the right hand lane and worried less about stress.
9) A local person in Tallahassee and TDI club member bought the car. I hope he enjoys is as much as I did, but it had 156,000 miles on it and I wanted to try something different.
10) I have always been a "Prius Hater" it was so easy to do but after 10 years they have seemed to showed their worth and the "battery replace" cost scare is not a big of a threat as first thought. As a matter of fact a few friends that laughted and teased me when I first bought it are now talking different now that they have been in it.

 

[MPBsr]

Thanks and I will respond a little. I think the tdi is a great car so I'm not bashing it, I just think there are some issues that need to be worked out and this can be said for any car.
1) I drive 50,000 miles a year, After 2 weeks I have 1,600 miles on the Prius.
2) The ride seems better in the Prius, this might be because its new?
3) The milage is better in the Prius, BUT I agree it is close which says a lot for the tdi.
4) The space inside is really close, surprised me.
5) Diesel cost .70 more and then I added power source which cost more to add to every tank and it seems the cost to drive keeps going up.
6) The oil changes are the same every 10,000 BUT there is no fuel filter to change (so to speak, its in the tank but IF ever needed access is easy through the back seat, its designed to last the life of the car), even though I changed it every 20,000 and it wasnt a big deal to do on the TDI thats one less thing to worry about.
7) This car has all the controls on the steering wheel, phone, temp, nav etc and thats really nice with all the driving I do.
8) As much as I travel and talk business (hands free) on the phone I dont speed around, even in the TDI I set the cruise at 73-74 on the interstate and got in the right hand lane and worried less about stress.
9) A local person in Tallahassee and TDI club member bought the car. I hope he enjoys is as much as I did, but it had 156,000 miles on it and I wanted to try something different.
10) I have always been a "Prius Hater" it was so easy to do but after 10 years they have seemed to showed their worth and the "battery replace" cost scare is not a big of a threat as first thought. As a matter of fact a few friends that laughted and teased me when I first bought it are now talking different now that they have been in it.

You're comparison is similiar to mine when I traded in my 09 TDI for a 2012 Cruze 2LT RS 6M. Some here felt it was in their best interest to bash me.

Here is it a year later with 15,300 on the Cruze and very happy with it with no problems.

Still I miss the TDI and hope to buy another TDI one day when VW gets it's act together.

 

[CARTMATT]

Got out of my 06 at 200k into 13 Accord sport. Again diesel being $.70 cheaper it's mileage cost are the same, but much more piece of mind. Wish I'd known to dump TDI at 150k. Turbo, cam, egr, and many other things went. $4,000 in receipts doing everything myself. Loved the car, but being mobile office can't be down for repairs. Had nothing but problems with VW and they continue to have problems. Woulda loved to bought new Passat TDI, but I'm not paying thousands for premature issues VW won't recall or change. Still awaiting call from VW over paint issues, in October!

 

[slamhouse]

to each their own.

I turned down the prius as I wouldn't utilize it's potential in city driving as I drive 130 highway miles daily.

I get similar fuel economy and never worry of battery failure.

If I was driving in the city alot, then I might consider a hybrid vehicle.

Toyota has definitely gotten its act together with battery warranties and lifespans, I have two friends who's prius was totalled because the battery pack died.

 

[V-Rod]

Nothing wrong with trying something new. I would like to test drive a chevy volt for a couple weeks.

I just turned 150,000 miles today on my 06 Jetta TDI. 2 DSG services,glow plug timmer, 3 fuel filters, 10K oil changes. I change the oil filter every 20K, timeing belt serviced 102K, replaced rear brakes. Will be replacing front axil shaft.

Car still drives, shifts and looks like new and has no rattles. Not bad considering it sees 10 miles of gravel roads on every trip.

 

[Chris_H]

I'm (very) new to TDI, and very briefly considered a Prius V wagon before purchasing my JSW. However I just couldn't get myself to drive one. I took a short test drive in the Ford C-Max and thought it was okay, But I drive mostly highway miles so I don't think the mileage would've been anywhere near the 47mpg Ford has on the sticker. Looks like you have a stable of Porsches to get you through the times when the Prius isn't any fun to drive.

 

[artificer]

I've been debating with myself if diesel is worth it any more. The price of a new diesel car is comparable to a hybrid, and the mileage is similar. When we bought our 2006 Jetta 5spd diesel fuel cost less than gas. Now with ULSD, its the reverse with gas being cheaper. The big determining factor for me, however, is towing. 13k mile trip a couple of years ago with a small teardrop trailer still ended up getting 30mpg. Couple of weeks ago the car went on a 2500 mile trip, and half of it had the trailer loaded to 2,000lbs. Still 30+ mpg.

It doesn't take too many camshaft or hpop replacements, DSG servicings, or any of the other systematic problems the VW's seem to be having to make you stop worrying about the battery pack replacement cost if you want a hybrid to go 300,000 miles.

Michael

 

[CARTMATT]

I've been debating with myself if diesel is worth it any more. The price of a new diesel car is comparable to a hybrid, and the mileage is similar. When we bought our 2006 Jetta 5spd diesel fuel cost less than gas. Now with ULSD, its the reverse with gas being cheaper. The big determining factor for me, however, is towing. 13k mile trip a couple of years ago with a small teardrop trailer still ended up getting 30mpg. Couple of weeks ago the car went on a 2500 mile trip, and half of it had the trailer loaded to 2,000lbs. Still 30+ mpg.

It doesn't take too many camshaft or hpop replacements, DSG servicings, or any of the other systematic problems the VW's seem to be having to make you stop worrying about the battery pack replacement cost if you want a hybrid to go 300,000 miles.

Michael

Dsg, HPFP, cam and battery pack cost can buy a hell of a lot of gas in a non hybrid non Tdi! I learned you drive a TDI cause you like it, NOT to save money. My father in law learned that with his hybrid Tahoe, thing turned to a lemon at 80k.

 

[El Dobro]

I traded in my 2009 Jetta for a 2011 Prius and it was a trouble free car. The fuel mileage was always better than the TDI in the city and the highway.

 

[artificer]

Dsg, HPFP, cam and battery pack cost can buy a hell of a lot of gas in a non hybrid non Tdi! I learned you drive a TDI cause you like it, NOT to save money. My father in law learned that with his hybrid Tahoe, thing turned to a lemon at 80k.

My latest problem with the pump bolt and broken timing belt set me back about 45,000 miles worth of diesel. If I was driving a non-hybrid gasser, it would take upwards of 150,000 miles of driving to recover the cost.

I LOVE my TDI, especially with the new injector tips with 130% of standard fuel flow, even if it doesn't make straight financial sense.

Michael

 

[Jettaneeds]

Artificer,

Could you get a hold of me sometime so we can talk TDI's and your experiences with service in the Madison area? I live in Cottage Grove and work in Madison. Used Jason, Zimbrick, Courtesy and myself for the simple things. ghpechmann@yahoo.com

 

[attyjeff]

Well the good news is that this post is at least causing some discussion and not bashing by either parties. We all own cars for several reasons or brands that we like. I like Fords and looked at the fusion hybrid BUT they would not come off the price. And I'm glad I did not buy one. There are now several complaints that the 47/47 claimed by Ford is not true. Its more like 38/40 thats still not bad but does not meet Fords claim of 47/47. I can not lie. I was saddened to leave the TDI vw family but vw of america really needs to stand up for All of you and recall several issues. The hpfp. Window locks airconditioner RCV. Then with the cost of diesel as it is I just couldn't force myself to stay in the car. The car may have lasted 300,000 miles but I travel a lot and really need the thought that I don't have to worry about breaking down on the interstate

 

[MacBuckeye]

My 2009 hit 100K two weeks ago. Still runs like a champ! Still love the car.
No HPFP issues, no DSG issues. With that said, I am 98% driving more, 2% worrying less.

BTW... Santa brought me new TDi Monster Mats for Christmas! VW should put that in the 100K service reminder.

 

[OldMan52]

My 2009 Jetta: 85000 miles, $800 repairs in 4 years but no brakes, suspension, radiator, bearings, shock repairs. Most gassers have done plenty of maintenance in these areas. And 43mpg all time average doing plenty of city driving. In Canada, roads are rough, cracks, bumps, potholes. This car handles like a big car yet sporty. Comfortable ride...forget about the Toyota or Hyundai or Mazda. My girlfriend has a Nissan Juke...YUK! I'm not saying these are bad cars, but please try them thoroughly before you buy. I prefer walking than driving the Juke or my 2005 Corolla. But I'm always ready for a ride in my Jetta. TRY AND COMPARE BEFORE YOU BUY.

 

[Al_Czervik]

Bought a new Prius 2 weeks ago and surprised at how much I like this car. I miss the power a little but don't miss the .70 more per gallon. I will continue to be a member and will buy another tdi when some things change.

Congrats on the Prius. I have the same mindset as you when it comes to owning a TDI. I feel like you need really deep pockets to own a car in which a hpfp failure causes an 8K repair bill.

 

[jbright]

But I'm always ready for a ride in my Jetta.

74,000 trouble free miles on my '09 and I love driving this car every day. I have a nasty commute and the TDI still impresses the hell out of me. Comfortable, nimble, precise, powerful, efficient, enjoyable. I had to drive my wife's Toyota several times recently and it got the job done (I managed to pull some decent mpgs out of a V-6) but it wasn't fun. I spend a lot of time in my car and its worth a lot to have one I'm still excited about after three and a half years.

Edit: MacBuckeye, I also received TDI mats under the tree! Wore the "JETTA" one out.

 

[tdi54]

1) I drive 50,000 miles a year, After 2 weeks I have 1,600 miles on the Prius.
Are these mostly highway miles? If so, I don't get how Prius get better mileage on highway driving? Gasoline engines, no matter how advanced they are, will not come close to the fuel efficiency of modern diesel engines particularly at highway speeds. Gasoline engines’ fuel penalty also comes with very weak torque values they generate. So you’re losing on both ends with choosing Prius.
But good luck with your decision and hope Prius gives you trouble free driving experience.

 

[DriverJon]

I'm (very) new to TDI, and very briefly considered a Prius V wagon before purchasing my JSW. However I just couldn't get myself to drive one. I took a short test drive in the Ford C-Max and thought it was okay, But I drive mostly highway miles so I don't think the mileage would've been anywhere near the 47mpg Ford has on the sticker. Looks like you have a stable of Porsches to get you through the times when the Prius isn't any fun to drive.

FWIW... just read a Consumer Rpt article where they tested that Ford, and it did about 37 instead of 47. Provoked a bit ov a rant from the writer about how EPA numbers are starting to rise again on some cars, from what you actually get as a driver...

 

[OldMan52]

A very sad story

I'm still excited about after three and a half years.

Let me tell you a true story. My girl friend has owned gas VW for 12 years. She decided last she would go for a change and bought a 2012 Nissan Juke. Before buying we tried many cars and SUVs, andthe Nissan was the onee that really impressed us the most. Great vehicule, but now the Juke sits in the yard, because everytime we go for a ride, she prefers we use the Jetta. And after one year, she's now speaking of trading the Nissan for a 2013 New Beetle! Do you have an idea how many $thousands she will be losing thru depreciation!!! The problem is not the Nissan, it is the fact we still have the Jetta.
MORAL: you won't know what you're missing if you sell your VW. Not sure the savings in maintence and fuel cost (if any) are worth the risk. Maybe later I will get a hybrid, but not now. Toyota has plenty of complaints to solve right now.

 

[D-Cell_Mekanick]

Let me tell you a true story. My girl friend has owned gas VW for 12 years. She decided last she would go for a change and bought a 2012 Nissan Juke. Before buying we tried many cars and SUVs, andthe Nissan was the onee that really impressed us the most. Great vehicule, but now the Juke sits in the yard, because everytime we go for a ride, she prefers we use the Jetta. And after one year, she's now speaking of trading the Nissan for a 2013 New Beetle! Do you have an idea how many $thousands she will be losing thru depreciation!!! The problem is not the Nissan, it is the fact we still have the Jetta.
MORAL: you won't know what you're missing if you sell your VW. Not sure the savings in maintence and fuel cost (if any) are worth the risk. Maybe later I will get a hybrid, but not now. Toyota has plenty of complaints to solve right now.

Its the driving experience, I totally love my 2006 jetta.

 

[El Dobro]

1) I drive 50,000 miles a year, After 2 weeks I have 1,600 miles on the Prius.
Are these mostly highway miles? If so, I don't get how Prius get better mileage on highway driving? Gasoline engines, no matter how advanced they are, will not come close to the fuel efficiency of modern diesel engines particularly at highway speeds. Gasoline engines’ fuel penalty also comes with very weak torque values they generate. So you’re losing on both ends with choosing Prius.

My GenIII Prius always gets better highway fuel mileage than my '09 TDI ever did. For example, it's about 440 miles one way to my brother's house. The last time I went down there, the Prius got 61mpg going down and 56 coming back (strong winds the whole ride back). The best tank ever on the TDI was 51.