PhthaloType
Go Kart Champion
Hey ya'll,
This summer I'll be looking to replace my current car ('12 Passat 2.5 SE), and I'm pretty much set on a MkVI GTI. I'm in the research phase now, and so far this site seems to be the best. I'm already on VWVortex, but the MkVI forum there is kinda dead. Here's what I've got so far:
Mandatory:
- Manual (half the reason I want a new car is I miss stick shift)
- 4-door
- "with Sunroof"
Really want, but can do without if everything else is great:
- 2012+
- "With Sunroof and Nav" (mainly just for the HIDs)
Color: Anything but red.
Budget: ~$18k
I'd love an Autobahn, but I'm not gonna pass up on other good cars to hold out for one.
Issues I've learned of so far:
- The infamous timing chain tensioner - I just finished reading the entire official thread. I think the DIY replacement is within my abilities, so I'm not too worried about getting an '11 or '12 if everything else is good with it.
- Rear main seal - How common is this really? I've read it can be caused by bad PCV, so can that be replaced as a preventative measure, or does it just go when it goes?
- Intake carbon buildup - I suppose I'd just deal with that as needed.
- Water pump - Same as above.
What am I getting myself into? :laugh: Say what you will about the 2.5, but at least it's super reliable. Are there any other common issues I should be aware of, or things to look for when shopping?
It feels great being able to voluntarily buy on my own terms and not be rushed to get something because I have to. That's how I ended up with my current car and I've never really been satisfied with it.
Thanks in advance for feedback!
This summer I'll be looking to replace my current car ('12 Passat 2.5 SE), and I'm pretty much set on a MkVI GTI. I'm in the research phase now, and so far this site seems to be the best. I'm already on VWVortex, but the MkVI forum there is kinda dead. Here's what I've got so far:
Mandatory:
- Manual (half the reason I want a new car is I miss stick shift)
- 4-door
- "with Sunroof"
Really want, but can do without if everything else is great:
- 2012+
- "With Sunroof and Nav" (mainly just for the HIDs)
Color: Anything but red.
Budget: ~$18k
I'd love an Autobahn, but I'm not gonna pass up on other good cars to hold out for one.
Issues I've learned of so far:
- The infamous timing chain tensioner - I just finished reading the entire official thread. I think the DIY replacement is within my abilities, so I'm not too worried about getting an '11 or '12 if everything else is good with it.
- Rear main seal - How common is this really? I've read it can be caused by bad PCV, so can that be replaced as a preventative measure, or does it just go when it goes?
- Intake carbon buildup - I suppose I'd just deal with that as needed.
- Water pump - Same as above.
What am I getting myself into? :laugh: Say what you will about the 2.5, but at least it's super reliable. Are there any other common issues I should be aware of, or things to look for when shopping?
It feels great being able to voluntarily buy on my own terms and not be rushed to get something because I have to. That's how I ended up with my current car and I've never really been satisfied with it.
Thanks in advance for feedback!