Originally Posted by
Teflon
If you ask five people this question you will get ten different answers, but here goes.................
We've 3 cars in the family with DSG, one of which had a fault straight from the factory and again subsequently. I'd still be happy to buy one again over an old fashioned slush box auto. The only thing better is an Audi Multitronic.
Yes, there have been reliability problems, especially with the earlier models and this has mainly affected the mechatronic control unit. With this in mind, don't buy without a full service history, including DSG oil and filter changes at the prescribed mileage. Unless it has been abused (of which there should be other signs) then your chances of getting a fault-free DSG are reasonable. Avoid re-maps, modded vehicles, fancy wheels, etc. It's a shame to tar all with the same brush but this generally indicates an owner more willing to drive with brio.
Whether to go petrol or diesel depends on how many miles you are going to do and what your prefered driving style is. If you like to hoon around then a diesel will never be quite as good as petrol, despite the views of diesel addicts with their remaps. Ditto for performance versus economy - as my old Dad used to say, "you can't have the penny AND the bun". With a username like oldfogey, I suspect a diesel might be up your street. There's no need to go all the way to 170 horses, 140 is just fine and it gives you more cars to choose from.
The 1.4 170PS turbo/supercharger was a super engine and I only bought a GTI in preference because I got a cracking deal. But they did have some early problems and you need to buy carefully. They are almost never mentioned on here with issues, which might be a good sign but is possibly an indication of rareity.
Diesel problems predominate over petrol, but I guess this is a reflection of population size rather than inherent weakness. The PD diesel engines in the Mk 5 do have some notable problems though and you should spend a little time looking here and on the Passat forum to familiarise yourself.
As with all cars, buying a 3+ year old Golf is more about getting a good 'un than about specific model. You should know what to look for. If not, pay the RAC or AA to look for you. Don't get misled by the old "if everything was a reliable as a Volkswagen" hype. They are as good as any other model, no better. The Seat equivalents are good and cheaper, but the trim is rather more plastiky and down-market.
