Hi,
I'm looking to get a used VW Golf TDI, but I've been hearing bad things about the automatic transmission. My plan was to just look around and see what I find, but from what I'm hearing I think I ought to hold out for a manual. any thoughts?

 

Well, that depends on what king of driver you are. I have not heard any bad things about the automatic Vdubs. As far as which one to choose from.....Well....Let me give you an example: I am a car enthusiast, which means I want to get closer to my car as much as possible so I pick stick shift. If you are all about looks but no performance, probably automatic. If you are a tru driver and like speed, manual is the way. Ask yourself "What do I want to get out of my car?". There is your answer. good luck.

 

man, i am new to this forum and don't want to sound like a dick right at first, but who would ever buy an automatic car, regardless of model, etc and specially in a nice car like a gti.
with that in mind, i would definately say stick.

 

well some people dont like to constantly have to shift on a daily driver if they live in big towns, some people do. i know a few people who have to drive through town all the time and would rather have their daily driver be auto just for that reason, always starting and stopping and such. it all depends on what you want with your car. my .02

 

well easy realy do you like going for a nice carm drive = automatic
or a nice fast drive and carm = manual

 

I'm familiar with everything you guys just said, that was my understanding going in.... my question is because I'm having a tough time finding a Golf with a manual transmission. Automatics, however, I have been able to find quite easily. Factoring in all the issues of control, speed, etc., my question is really whether or not the automatics are more prone to engine problems, which is what I've been hearing. I'm trying to find out if it's true that the manual holds up better over time.

Thanks