Has anyone experienced any clutch problems? I have a 2006 VW Jetta TDI, which I bought new about 9 months ago. I have a little more than 17, 000 miles on it and the clutch came apart. $1,700 for repairs.

 

most likely who ever you bought it from was a complete idiot. that shouldn't happen unless they don't know how to drive

 

Only 17,000? Wow. I've never had a clutch go on my cars... altho' admittedly the longest I've gone with a car is 80,000 miles.

 

My clutch in 00 came apart in the trans, and it was only $955 for parts and labor. I bought the car at 76,000 miles and it came apart at around 108,000 miles or something. That's when I put in the light wieght flywheel, too. The person beforehand must not have known how to drive a stick, or just rode the clutch out all the time.

 

A5 2005.5, 2006 Jetta TDI premature clutch failure.
There is a known issue with Sachs clutch friction material.
Tech Bulletin 2016615 extends the warranty to 4 yrs/50,000 miles.

My 06 TDI clutch failed recently at 16,585 miles. Dealer initially estimated $1120 to repair; VWoA said this is is a wear and tear item, and as such is not covered by warranty. I found Tech Bulletin, and presented printed copy to dealer. Only then could dealer "find" the Tech Bulletin.
VW paid for clutch replacement, and rental car under extended warranty.

Link to Tech Bulletin:

http://www.myturbodiesel.com/images/pdf/vw_tb_30-07-01.pdf