VW diesel engines/vehicles

[jengusnubs]

I have been interested in VW diesels for some time but haven't had the money to purchase one.

From my understanding the gas milage is better, but the initial cost to purchase the vehicle is higher. Is this true?

How does the maintainance on a diesel compare to a gasoline engine? Are they more expensive or different to work on?

I have done most of the work on my older cars, but these were all gasoline engines. I have replaced parts like starters, alternators, fuel pumps even a transmission or two. I am wondering if diesels have any different considerations.

Also, how many miles can you generally get on a diesel if driven respectively. Not that I drive resepctively. Hehe!!

Are there any models or specific 4 cylinder diesel engines you suggest?

Cheers--Dan

[JulianM]

I've got a 1999 1.9TDI that I get about 5.5 litres/100km which I think works out at just over 50 miles per gallon. This is pretty reasonable. VW's have always had a good rep in Europe for MPG. Yes the Diesal is more expensive to buy initially but in my experience is pretty reliable and good for 200k miles if properly serviced.

In the states with all the long straight roads you'll beat this easy!

[airic]

I have a 98 jetta TDI, maintenance is a bit higher due to the fuel filter changes, timing belts, and intake cleanings. The savings is in the MPG for sure. It can annoy when taking long road trips, because you don't have to stop for gas as often, and you get tired of driving and have to stop somewhere other than a gas station.

[jengusnubs]

Thanks for your Reply Airic,

I was wondering what is the cost of replacing a timing belt. And how frequent do you have to change it? If the timing belt brakes while running the car will it hurt the engine?

Also How much does it cost to change the fuel filters and clean the intake? How often do these items have to be changed or cleaned?

Sincerely,

Dan

Originally Posted by airic

I have a 98 jetta TDI, maintenance is a bit higher due to the fuel filter changes, timing belts, and intake cleanings. The savings is in the MPG for sure. It can annoy when taking long road trips, because you don't have to stop for gas as often, and you get tired of driving and have to stop somewhere other than a gas station.

[airic]

Timing belt is suggested at 60,000, and the tensioner and belt is around $100. The AHU is a zero clearance engine, so if it breaks while running, your valves get smashed, unless you are lucky. It is around $500 to have the dealer change it, when I was looking.

I think the dealer gets around $300 for a intake cleaning, and it should be done at least every 75k. Part are around $20 if you take it off and clean it.

Fuel filter are around $25 and should be changed every 20,000 miles.

Hope it helps

[airic]

Timing belt is suggested at 60,000, and the tensioner and belt is around $100. The AHU is a zero clearance engine, so if it breaks while running, your valves get smashed, unless you are lucky. It is around $500 to have the dealer change it, when I was looking.

I think the dealer gets around $300 for a intake cleaning, and it should be done at least every 75k. Part are around $20 if you take it off and clean it.

Fuel filter are around $25 and should be changed every 20,000 miles. 1/2 hour to install and prime

Hope it helps