5 year cost of car ownership

[Cujet]

I have always kept vehicles well into the 200,000 mile/10-13yr mark. With the exception of ones that were crashed. And that 2006 Jetta TDI I had such a horrible experience with.

I've found that by the practical end of a vehicles life, I have a satisfaction that I got my money's worth out of it.

I've also found that about the 10 year mark, regardless of miles, plastic and rubber components, including suspension bushings, motor mounts, transmission mounts, etc, all start deteriorating here in S. Florida. At that point, it's not economical to chase the gremlins.

 

[blackman777]

I don't understand when Volkswagen TDI people say "these cars are so reliable". Or why Europeans consider it a premium brand. Ever since the pump-duesse models were introduced, I have read nothing but complaints (wearing cams, bad turbos, pumps exploding & incurring $8000 repairs). Even the NHTSA has opened an investigation.

It's one thing to say "I love my VW TDI" but something else entirely to stick your head in the sand & pretend engines are not dying. That's like lying to yourself.

I have a feeling the new Chevy and Mazda diesels will win over a lot of ex-VW people
.