Hi, I currently own a 1997 1.8L gas engine Golf and am looking to upgrade to a 2002-2003 era Jetta TDI. I was hoping to get some advice on any questions specific to TDI engines or that particular era of Jettas that would help in my endeavor. Also, any other things I should look out for such as how often belts should be replaced, etc. I have never owned a diesel engine before, and my personal knowledge of working on cars only goes so far as changing my oil, tires, air filter, small things like that. Anything I should look out for or know about in the diesel engine would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

Welcome to the forum.

Well you can read the buyers guides Detailed model specific buying guide, new owner checklist, catch up maintenance, and quirks. The most serious problem is if the timing belt breaks which they do if there aren't changed at or before the recommended mileage.

Also make sure it has more than one key.

 

I used to own a 2002 TDI. Other than a coolant sensor, brake light switch, and window regulator, I never had any problems. My automatic transmission worked flawlessly, but if you google "2002 TDI transmission problems", you'll find there are a lot of people complaining of failed automatic transmissions. Of course, that is a non issue if you're planning to get a manual.

 

Thank you for the link to the buyer's guide, that is exactly the sort of thing I was looking for. Cheers!