Hi, I'm a newbie. I thought I'd share my experiences of a 56 plate Passat 2.0TDI SE manual.

I bought the car new in September 2006 and generally like the car, but I've had to have two (yes TWO) new engines fitted.

The first replacement was in April 2007 at just under 9k miles due to a failed oil pump drive. The second was a few weeks ago after the car had covered just under 23k miles (i.e. the replacement engine lasted only 14k miles), this time due to a broken cam belt tensioner bolt.

In both instances my local VW garage did the work quickly and couteously under warranty, absolutely superb service. But ... I'm left wondering how long this (third!) engine will last. And the warranty expires in just over a year's time.

I've written to VW customer services to ask for an extended warranty for this engine but await a reply.

I've heard rumours on another general motoring forum about problems with the 2 litre diesel engine. Can the posters here shed any light on this issue?