2004-2006 New Beetle TDI's had the DSG as the optional automatic. Certainly better than the 01M, but not without their faults. Mechatronics units fail. Dual mass flywheels fail early and regularly. There is an updated DMF available for them, and I have not heard of any of those failing "yet." And it is the only option for the DSG, unlike the manuals where you can swap in a SMF. Then there are the expensive fluid changes every 40k miles.

If she can drive a manual, and still wants to, she should get a manual. Simple and bulletproof.

04-06 models have the PD engine (code BEW) which is notorious for cam/lifter failure due to a poor design and improper oil use. Not a deal breaker, but something to watch out for and be informed about. Read up on Fred's TDI Page. TDIClub.com. VW TDI Enthusiast Community for more info.

 

She can still drive stick. But i'm not too sure if she'd want to still. She'd kill me for putting her age on here, but lets just say she's no spring chicken

She's at that point where she can drive a manual, but i think this would be the car she may decide to "grow old" with. I don't think she'd want to be past retirement age and still driving a manual, especially in the hilly stage of Alabama.

Thanks for your input Dzl. I think she may just pass on the TDI all together. But it was great learning about them.

I agree. Stick with the original diesel. 98-03 ALH engine with a 5spd. Again, bulletproof and probably one of the best options. The early '02 engines had early cam lobe wear, but at the timing belt change, change the cam. That's what I'm going to do when it's time for my next timing belt in 30k. Plus, if she's not mechanically savvy....I would get her a 2.0. There is a lot of specifics needed for a TDI. The wrong oil could be a huge no-no not to mention accidentally putting in GASOLINE in the DIESEL tank!!! Just something to think about. I'm glad she's considering a beetle though! Good luck. I'll keep my eyes peeled for something around here. Gives you guys an excuse to come to ATL then.

Thanks alot!

I'm not sure about the 2.0. I think the 2.5 would be a better choice for her for the money. 10k mile oil changes, timing chain, and decent power/mpg plus it has proved to be a very bulletproof engine, even when mated to the 6speed Automatic. But if she doesn't want to spend that much, then 2.0 for sure! I wouldn't want her to get the 1.8T and have to "deal" with the boost leaks, vacuum lines, possible sludge, or a few other 1.8T specific problems.

Looking at it though, seem like each engine from 98-05 has specific problems!

*The 2.0L could have an oil consumption issue and mostly came with the 01M Failomatic.

*The 1.8T could have sludge, vacuum line issues, and came with the 01M Failomatic until like 03 or 04 when it got the 5speed with Tiptronic.

*The TDIs as you've mentioned above, plus the 01M Failomatic

If she gets one, i'll try to convince her to go to Atlanta so we can show her how we roll! :roflmao: <-- just like that guy!

 

I agree. Stick with the original diesel. 98-03 ALH engine with a 5spd. Again, bulletproof and probably one of the best options. The early '02 engines had early cam lobe wear, but at the timing belt change, change the cam. That's what I'm going to do when it's time for my next timing belt in 30k. Plus, if she's not mechanically savvy....I would get her a 2.0. There is a lot of specifics needed for a TDI. The wrong oil could be a huge no-no not to mention accidentally putting in GASOLINE in the DIESEL tank!!! Just something to think about. I'm glad she's considering a beetle though! Good luck. I'll keep my eyes peeled for something around here. Gives you guys an excuse to come to ATL then.

 

The 2.0s that have the consumption issues seem to be the early AEG motors. The later motors I think are fine. And there are AEGs with no consumption issues, like mine

 

I have an 06 TDI and "knock on wood" I haven't had the cam issue with over 70k on the clock and haven't heard any strange noises either but there aren't as many cam failures in the BEWs as there are in the BRMs (above 2006). Either way you go, a NB is a good way to go

 

No cam issues and my mechanic looked the engine over at 90k miles - everything is fine. You only hear about the bad ones. Proper oil use seems to help a lot. You're well informed and that's all you can do - no guarantees when you buy any car.