THREE YEARS AND 93,000 MILES: My Report, Part 1

I'm a bit of a road warrior and have driven nearly 93,000 miles in my GTI's first three years. In my report, I'll tell you what's been good and what has failed. Spoiler: The Mk7 GTI has been great, but normal wear and tear has happened. I've also suffered some self-inflicted problems that are no fault of Volkswagen. However, there have been some VW problems, too.
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Mods to the car and links to items mentioned in this video (all links go to my blog, most are shortened):
APR Programming with Downpipe and Intercooler - wp.me/P7YnQB-dP
RSR Clutch w/DMF by HS Tuning - wp.me/p7YnQB-su
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Group 48 AGM Battery - wp.me/p7YnQB-1ev
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Various Accessories - stealthgti.com...
Cabin Blower Replacement Video - • Mk7 GOLF/GTI BLOWER MO...
Wheel Repair by AWR - wp.me/p7YnQB-zy
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#stealthgti

[@StealthGTI]

Major points of clarification: My clutch did NOT fail at 15,000 miles. In fact, it did not fail at all. It slipped ~15k after tuning my car. I replaced it preemptively. The majority of the issues I detail in this video are either self-inflicted, petty, or both. Also, OBDEleven is a diagnostic tool that plugs into the OBD2 port: obdeleven.com/en/. Part 2 of this video is now published. It includes the footage of the suspension, exhaust, and other items that show the condition of the chassis and underbody: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qWPbYmCPbtCtnKM. Thanks for visiting.

[@ghostinthemachine76]

StealthGTI The oil you thought was leaking from the diff that turned out not to be - smell the oil, gear oil has a distinctive smell. Your worn bolster - I lower myself into my car using the A-pillar. It prevents contact with the bolster. And I have a cover on the driver’s seat.

[@StealthGTI]

@@ghostinthemachine76 Thanks for visiting.

[@davel1898]

Which APR stage 1 tune are you running? Is it the low torque? Did you replace with an OEM clutch or something else?

[@StealthGTI]

@@davel1898 - Sorry to have missed this. YT doesn't notify me of replies, only initial comments. I found this by accident. Anyway, I'm running APR Stage 2, their initial release at the time of this recording and now their "final release" with slightly less torque down low and slightly more power up top. See my APR video for details. As for the clutch, I'm using an "RSR" kit by HS Tuning. I have details in my "20 Questions Volume 2" video. Take Care.

[@bobmoore20]

@@StealthGTI hello, I have a 2014 GTI. How do I know if it is a MK 5, 6, 7? I believe it is the most standard version available.

[@dorkultra]

I love long term reviews on these cars

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks! Glad I stuck with the GTI and KZbin long enough to do one. I'll work on an undercarriage video next. Thanks for visiting! -Scott

[@willmercier2852]

This is one reason that drove me to purchase my mk7 gti, too many people discount VWs as unreliable when they're actually quite solid if you maintain it.

[@StealthGTI]

@@willmercier2852 - Maintenance is KEY. Sure, there are some cars that can be driven with total neglect. But they're also boring. There isn't really THAT much maintenance to do. What do people expect? NO maintenance? HAHA!

[@faliray4889]

Thanks for making this video. Ive been interested in buying a VW for years but all the negative comments discourage me.

[@StealthGTI]

@@faliray4889 - VW certainly are not cars that tolerate neglect. But my experience is that the car takes care of you if you take care of it. I may be proven wrong someday. I'll jump ship if that's the case. ;-)

[@tymac3306]

This dude is meticulous,..I am impressed.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks! Sometimes my attention to detail can make the videos a bit long-winded. I leave a lot on the cutting room floor. Thanks for visiting. -Scott

[@AJ-xm4xc]

He must be an engineer.

[@StealthGTI]

@@AJ-xm4xc - Nope. Just engineering-minded, I guess.

[@Bluegrassriver8]

@@StealthGTI Probably some influence from the U.S. Coast Guard time, too. Appreciate your service in our smallest military branch.

[@StealthGTI]

@@Bluegrassriver8 - I appreciate your comment. Thanks for visiting.

[@AudiophileTubes]

My 2003 MK4 GTI VR6 is 17 years old now, and is built like a tank (built in Brazil, no less)! Original clutch and chains, no leaks ever. The only thing that needed replacement was the engine radiator fan, and the coilpacks (which were a general recall when the car was new). This is the most reliable car i've ever had by far, and a blast to drive!

[@StealthGTI]

That's great to see. I felt the same about my 1998 Jetta TDI. It was very reliable until rust set into the front strut towers. The 450,000-mile power train lives on in a B4 Passat somewhere in TN now. Thanks for visiting.

[@K03sport]

in some ways I regret selling my 04 Gti 1.8t. 15years/140k miles and it had usual car stuff. leaky rusted downpipe (replaced by TT 2.5" DP, sunroof, falling headliner, sticking calipers, but other than that it was nearly flawless and fun; never chipped

[@cyyem7721]

VW / AUDI eating coolant. Yes, yes they do.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting.

[@stevewalker6340]

My A4s were terrible for eating coolant.

[@Kevin_MK7RSR]

Hey stealth! Yep, me too. Coolant magically disappears every 5k Miles or so.

[@chasek4605]

2015 Mk7 60,000 miles now, approximately the same coolant consumption. Strangely comforting to hear others observing this too

[@waltherziemerink]

mine also did then we realized I had a defective EGR cooler. now no more coolant loss

[@dpodkuik]

Advice to other owners, always inspect upper timing cover for oil leak on 15-17 Mk7s. Nearly $2K repair - labour is $1200 and the kit was $599. Great video!

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for that note. I've never inspected that area. I suspect it will come up on a forthcoming "wellness visit" with my mechanic. He might spot things that I don't know to look for. Take Care, - Scott

[@mammutty1]

I already have at 120K kms

[@gabevillarreal96]

Great video! Excellent details! I bought my 2001 VW Jetta 1.8t 5 speed manual brand new with 3 miles on it! Arrow Silver with grey cloth interior and a sunroof with the monsoon sound system. I loved that car for 7 years and 125k before I sold it. Sunroof never gave me an issue but everything else did! I also had a stage 1 flash of my ECU and it was an absolute blast to drive. I had a lot of trouble with my ignition coils constantly going bad. Same with my spark plugs. Replaced the clutch once with a heavy duty one and it was fine after that. My issue was how much time it was in the shop over 7 years. From electrical gremlins to check engine lights it was non stop! It was an absolute blast to drive but based on my experience i simply dont trust the brand. I've owned a maxima since for 7 years and 130k with mo problems at all and currently own a 2015 Honda Accord V6 Coupe that has been flawless. VW made fun cars but until they get with the program with their quality control and manufacturing quality as well as assembly quality....I can go back. Just my experience though.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I, too, sometimes consider jumping ship. My GTI and my wife's 2018 Jetta (low miles) have been great cars. I'm considering an SUV as a third vehicle. The "VW nut" in me says to get an Atlas. But my diehard reliability, capability, and build quality tells me that my needs may be better met with a 4Runner or a used GX460. We'll see.

[@gabevillarreal96]

@@StealthGTI You get a strong vote for the 4 Runner here! Lexus not a bad choice either other then the horrific gas mileage! But neither will let you down. I've heard many horror stories about the Atlas. In fact there is a guy on KZbin who documented his story of his wife's Atlas that was eventually lemon lawed. They ended up with another Atlas because she really liked it and wasn't deterred from the experience. Either way best of luck with your current VWs and any future vehicles that you choose to purchase! Cheers!

[@wilsonramirez5956]

Previous MK6 model owner: the issues I had: radiator replaced, water pumped replaced and 2 ignition coils replaced, this was all before 36K miles. That being said, this was all covered under factory warranty. Around 50K the auxilary fan went bad. Around 60K replaced the rear brakes. Later, around 70K they had to take apart the motor because of some oil leak. I fought that one hard because the car was not leaking oil, before I had dropped of the VW service department. Around 80K, due to the carbon build up, I had to get that cleaned. That was not cheap. That being said, it was still a fun car. I had it from 7K - 105K miles. 5 years, the transmission, motor and turbos were still going strong.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@gar237]

The windshield replacement was from a Chinese factory. It is pretty impressive that their quality has improved dramatically in the past decade.

[@StealthGTI]

The Chinese products are known to be cheap because consumers want cheap stuff. BUT Chinese plants can and do produce high quality stuff when it's specified. Take the bicycle industry, for example. A lot of fine bicycles come from China. Quality is there, if it's demanded. Thanks for visiting.

[@WhiteBoardFinance]

@@StealthGTI 100% correct. Bad perception of products made in China because of that. Some BMW motorcycle engines are made in China.

[@P00katube]

You can thank NAFTA for the glut of Chinese made junk exported into the USA

[@supersurfer1]

Your iPhone and Android made in China

[@erikgonzalez2278]

Gar I have those FUYAO Chinese windows on my l Chevy Cruze so there's not bad.

[@amazingvidguyz]

Its great to hear it from an owner rather than a dealer / seller. Thanks for the videos !

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting!

[@andgate2000]

My golfs gearbox died at 70k mls......my girlfriends polo gearbox died at 60k mls. Plus heaps of other issues. We both bought Toyota’s.

[@DR61411]

andgate2000 What year?

[@StealthGTI]

Sorry to hear that. Was there a reason shared? DSG or 6MT?

[@ineedacar]

Appreciate your video. I'm getting close to 50K on my 2016 6MT and have found it to be very problem free. Tires at 35K, battery at 40K, a cracked windshield early on, and that's it. On rare occasion, the Apple Car Play can be glitchy after taking a phone call. Brakes still test well, zero leaks, and I'm not consuming any noticeable coolant. I did find that the dealer's 10K oil interval was too long and the car used 1.5 quarts on at about 9,000 miles...I shortened the intervals thereafter, but noticed no consumption after the "break-in" oil was replaced. I'm 6'3" and adjusted the way I enter as well, but luckily no noticeable bolster wear yet.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@mojodaniel]

Love this video. Car's amazing. Owner knows how to keep his GTI in good shape.

[@StealthGTI]

Thank you!

[@The_moss]

I have a 2015 white gti se only things wrong with it are the tire sensors randomly comes on about once a week. The sun roof cover snags a little bit. The door does the click after a few months. other then that It runs like new only have 40k miles on it

[@UmutCanArslan1]

Such a useful long term review. Thanks for your valuable feedbacks 👍

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting.

[@jcsrst]

You are my new source for GTI info. Thanks for making the time to do these videos!

[@StealthGTI]

Glad to help! Thanks for visiting!

[@DartFrogSystems]

Great video, my Mk7 GTi started drinking coolant at the same rate as yours. Dealer found the water pump and theromsat housing were leaking and fixed it under warranty. I understand this is a common fault so could be related to your leak. Quick pressure test and checking under the car with the shield removed should help confirm if this is correct. Great video 👍

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for the note.

[@Lead_Bacon]

Thermostat housings are notorious for leaking on all 2 liters and 1.8. Try to get a aluminum one if they make it for your car, it shouldn’t leak after that

[@kevinhobbs1832]

Thank you for this video - I have been researching GTI data and am considering buying a certified 2017 model and it is awesome to see a detailed review after some pretty serious miles. Thank you Sir - and thank you for your service.

[@StealthGTI]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for visiting.

[@vornamenachname5589]

Nice Video & car. I own a Golf mk4 for almost 20 years. I bought it new from VW and it is the best and most reliable car i've ever had. had some mercedes' too. Wish you much more fun with your GTI. Greetings from germany.

[@StealthGTI]

I appreciate that. Thanks for writing.

[@robk1003]

Really good review. I've had a Golf 1.5 in the UK through my work for the last 3 months. In that time, I've covered 8000 miles. I find it really relaxing to drive. It's so quiet compared to my previous car which was diesel.

[@StealthGTI]

Nice. I find driving to be relaxing, too... driving in the rural areas, that is. Thanks for visiting.

[@JAnx01]

I don't find newer diesels to be noiser than petrol engines of the same power at all.

[@GUITARTIME2024]

@@JAnx01 they get slowly noisier

[@dylandetails361]

Love this car. I've always appreciated it. Everyone always says these cars are unreliable, but you seem to have had fairly normal experiences with any car with this kind of mileage. Plus, as a detailer, I really appreciate how nice your engine bay looks 👍

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks, Dylan. In truth, the engine bay is dirty by my standards. I need to hit the crevices with a brush and vacuum out the pockets in the intake manifold. I'm curious to see if the intake manifold cover I bought will keep debris out of those crevices, as well as hiding them.

[@one2yipyip]

Love the content!! Thank you so much for your vids with the resonator, I've finally solved my droning problem too haha and congratz with the 3 years anniversary :)

[@StealthGTI]

I appreciate the compliment! Content is slow on my end, in part because I'm not continually modding the car. Now that AGE is catching up, perhaps I'll have more to say. HAHA! Take Care, - Scott

[@andrewmeer1678]

Hey shipmate! I was on the uss Abraham Lincoln! Thank you for your service and sharing all this info.

[@StealthGTI]

Very cool! I was in the band at ABRAHAM LINCOLN's commissioning ceremony. The Navy wanted it on Lincoln's birthday. The local Navy band didn't want to freeze in February; so, our little Coast Guard Training Center band played. And, yes, it was COLD. HAHA! Thanks for visiting.

[@SteenHolm134]

13:51: "It's kind of a little condom for my armrest, I like it"... Nice one and a good idea!

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting!

[@SteenHolm134]

@@StealthGTI Thank you! In a world (KZbin) of stupid videos, it's nice to watch a grown up tell about his experience with the Golf. By the way, your car looks very nice! -is it Reflex Silver or Tungsten Silver?

[@StealthGTI]

@@SteenHolm134 - Thanks for the kind words. My car is Reflex Silver.

[@SteenHolm134]

@@StealthGTI I just signed the papers on my "new" car! Golf 2019, High Line (SE in US?) Reflex Silver with 18" Durban alloys.... I can pick it up next thursday! Watching your videos while waiting, thanks!

[@StealthGTI]

@@SteenHolm134 - Congratulations! I bought a set of Durbans to use as "winter wheels." I powder coated them in gun metal gray since they'd closely match my gun metal gray Nogaros. Then I quickly found a great deal on another set of Nogaros. I'm going to put the Durbans on my daughters 2015 Golf. She's happy about that. Thanks for visiting.

[@fayco1]

Oh man I’m so excited I’m getting one this year and it’ll be my first ever car from a dealer.

[@StealthGTI]

Congratulations! Thanks for visiting.

[@filthyneutral5801]

Same !!

[@zombieceg]

Great all around car I have the 2016 dsg.

[@fullsendit-5441]

Me tooo I’m soo fucking excited

[@michaelsmith9308]

I loved the console condom :) The only delivery issue I had was the front hood locking mechanism ws not sitting correctly, two minute adjustment and NO problems:) Since 2010 the VW GTI has been greatly improved and reliable-FINALLY!

[@StealthGTI]

Glad to read about your longevity report! Thanks for writing.

[@chengzhong5342]

The glass manufacturer is FuYao, which is a Chinese company making car park in US, and it also has a documentary about its conflict between union and company, good stuff, people keep saying Chinese made sucks, but not in this case, it has better quality and cheaper price than almost every other US company, great Video

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for the note. I've seen the documentary. It can be a little divisive, I imagine. But, the glass is a quality product without a doubt! Thanks for visiting.

[@Fmandan77]

I'm working on a review video of my 2013 GTI as I just passed 100K miles. I completely feel what you meant about the dead skin on the arm rests. It's my main complaint about my car! I've actually considered replacing all arm rest material with vinyl or leather. Nice review.

[@StealthGTI]

Get the arm rest condom... it works! ;-) Thanks for visiting.

[@Moondoggy1941]

I liked how he said that his daughter did the work on her own car.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing that. She started as a general service technician at a shop. She had just enrolled in a heavy diesel repair school and had a plan. Then she decided to join the Marines. For now, she's learning how to work on aircraft tugs, power generation equipment, and I think hydraulics. She wants to learn jet engines, too. We'll see how that goes. Thanks for visiting.

[@derrickwilliams2903]

Coolant issue is very common. It happened on my 2012 GTI, my 2016 Golf, and I'm sure it will happen to my 2018 Tiguan as well. I have never found any leaks. I also noticed the weak VW factory glass. All of my VW's have had cracked windshields before 100k. I would definitely stick with the factory oil pan. I lowered my Golf with sport springs at ~20k and never had an issue 90k miles later.

[@StealthGTI]

That's good news. Thanks for sharing.

[@jerryrawlings8885]

Coolant issue is the water pump common problem.

[@lindsayclubb]

Interesting and refreshingly honest video. I'm an Englishman and have a 4.5 year old Ford Focus with 90,000 miles on the clock ... had a leaky offside driveshaft seal and , like you , a cracked windscreen. For the last 50,000 miles, every once in a while, the car lets out a little moaning noise which baffles everyone as to the cause but gets no worse nor more frequent. I have to say that after its monthly clean the car looks as good as brand new, inside and out. I used to run Audis but became exasperated with the number of faults I had ... whilst your VW GTi seems to be doing pretty well this has confirmed my view it may be best to stick with Ford for my next car. Thanks for posting this.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting.

[@James-vb8rb]

I also have a 2017 sport trim 6speed. Mine will be three years in March 2020 and I'm sitting at 41k miles right now. Very cool to see the report on your car after so many miles. Mine was stage 1 for about 5k miles but recently put it back to stock to preserve the clutch, which I'm thinking might be on its way out. Anyway, great video, looking forward to more!

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for your kind remarks. See you next time!

[@ncotton100]

This was really clear and informative - great video!

[@StealthGTI]

Thank you.

[@arneldobumatay3702]

That was great presentation! A man who admits his own faults. It's not always the manufacturer's. And done in a calm, cool, collective way. I've just subscribed.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks! I try to keep things honest. I learned long ago to not get too excited over things. It's part of the reason I never did any "reaction videos" as I tuned the car. Even if I was impressed, it hardly shows on my face. That makes for boring video. HAHA! Thanks for visiting.

[@Miamivice74]

Not a GTI but I own a Scirocco and plan on keeping it forever! Great video👍

[@StealthGTI]

I hope to keep mine for a very long time. But you never know with the complicated electronics in today's car. We'll see. Thanks for visiting.

[@Zoolookuk]

This is exactly the same color and configuration of the MKVII I had. I traded it in when I went to a Tesla Model 3, but I really miss it. They're such great cars. I had the Eurodyne Stage 1.5 flash - turned it into a monster. Great review, I enjoyed watching.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for your kind remarks. Take Care!

[@johnwayne7476]

In high school my best bud had a diesel VW Rabbit. It was a interesting ride. The gearshift felt broke - it was fine. With me riding his top speed with air conditioned on was 45 mph on level road.without air 55 mph. If alone he claimed 63 mph “ givin her all she’s got “ . It was normal. Low power cars. He did manage to almost get his license taken while driving it. On the WVA Turnpike he got clocked going about 80 mph . Down the biggest longest mountain at the bottom. Beckley mountain. He was trying to make up time he lost at 30 mph climbing the same mountain in 2 Nd gear. We jammed Sammy Hagar , “ I cant drive 55” it was true comedy. Glad to see they are better 30 years later. Nice little road machine now, or appears to be to me.

[@StealthGTI]

Ugh! I cannot imagine needing to pinch my pennies to the point of wanting to drive something so slow today. HAHA! Thanks for visiting.

[@Revedance2002]

Moment I started watching, I was waiting for you to make a comment about the dropping coolant levels. All MK7 suffer from quality control water pumps, that either fail through the double 0 connector or the actual plastic gets heat cracked. You can check this if you see any dried coolant , usually dries flaky red, on the middle or lower block. I replaced mine at 35k with the revision parts, coolant level haven't dropped since))j.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing. Did you get the metal part that I've read about? Or just an updated VW part? -Scott

[@Revedance2002]

@@StealthGTI I didn't' think the metal billet pump justified the cost, especially since the revised version seems to hold just fine. I would just call VW and they'll give you the latest revision part number, then try to find the best deal either through amazon or ebay vw part wholesalers. You'll need the waterpump, thermostat housing and double 0 Connector... All in all about a $350 job if you're replacing yourself. Just be aware if you replace the belt too it's a reverse thread, but if the belt doesn't look bad then don't replace it unless you absolutely have to as it's nightmare to remove, with many horror stories.

[@StealthGTI]

@@Revedance2002 - Thanks for that. I'll keep it in mind.

[@98vwgolf]

diesel geeks have the BEST steel pans. most of these problems I have with my mk7 Golf r as well.

[@StealthGTI]

I agreed back when I was a dieselhead. Now it seems he's only stocking plates for the Mk4. Thanks for visiting.

[@supercooled]

That's a lot of miles for 36 months. I'm about to turn 91,000 KM after 64 months.

[@StealthGTI]

I'm a driver. What can I say? :-)

[@StealthGTI]

@Blair Aquilia - Very nice! Someone posted a simple comment elsewhere, "You drive too much!" Really? Who determines that? I drive to where the job is, but don't prefer to live there. Isn't freedom great? ;-) Thanks for sharing your mileage. -Scott

[@occckid123]

@Blair Aquilia I drive 100k miles a year. My altima is less than 3 years old with 230k miles.

[@EveKitty08]

@@occckid123 That sure is a lot of miles... are you saying that you drive around 275 miles a day for every day of the year? Yikes!

[@occckid123]

@@EveKitty08 exactly

[@rrschd]

Finally someone who’s talking about coolant. I have to be honest, I didn’t check my engine bay for like a month and while I was toping up the screen washing solution I noticed the level was pretty low. Went to service they checked if something is broken or some cracks in some tubes... NOTHING. And now I just add a little bit once in a while

[@StealthGTI]

I have a gallon of G13. I need to read to see if it's premix or if I need to add distilled water to dilute. I wasn't worried at my first top-off. BUT, if adding is the new normal, then I need to ensure it's mixed properly. Thanks for visiting.

[@YasumotoUS]

Thank you for putting out this video. There's plenty of [great] new car reviews on youtube, but 3 years and 90k+ miles, not so much! The encountered warranty issues all seem reasonable and the owner-created problems are good to know about.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for the note. Yes, many of the Mk7 related videos I watch center around mods, performance, or racing. My mods are fairly standard, as is my performance levels. I stopped racing cars in 2010. Some of my mods are unique and unpopular. So, my videos get relatively low play time. But THIS video apparently has given the community something they want. Who knew a video about a geriatric GTI would be so popular? I'm working on "Part 2" now. The oil leak discovery added more content than expected. So, I have more to share. Thanks for visiting.

[@YasumotoUS]

@@StealthGTI Keep in mind that 2017 mk7s are coming off of leases and are still in the band of fairly new used cars to pick up. Speaking for myself, i'm really curious about the truths, myths and realities of VW ownership, especially regarding the GTI. I like to own my cars for a *long* time, so the long-term ownership experience is highly valued. Best of luck with your next 100k! :)

[@StealthGTI]

@@YasumotoUS - Thanks for the comments. I hope to give regular reports as the car gets older. Thanks for visiting.

[@seancain7305]

Thanks for your film. Currently have a '08 Mk5 GTi with 180k & my wife runs a '12 Mk6 GTi also with 170k... so good to know how the MK7 holds-up

[@StealthGTI]

My early research indicated that the Mk7 engine addressed all of the shortcomings of the previous 2.0T's. Time will tell if they did a good job. Thanks for writing.

[@roberthunter6433]

Looking at a MK6 11'-12' with under 70k on it? I only hope to get another 100k out of it with proper maitnace. Is yours still holding up?

[@spinnetti]

wow... I put on like 3k miles a year; would take me till retirement to get that many lol

[@StealthGTI]

HAHA! Yeah. My wife's car is that way, but 5k/year. That one will get the full benefit of VW's long 2018 warranty. Thanks for visiting.

[@dominicfong6341]

I see you love your GTI so very much sir despite all the shortcomings, wished I could do that.

[@StealthGTI]

Most of its shortcomings are self-inflicted. The rest are small issues or normal wear and tear. Thanks for visiting.

[@PLr1c3r]

I see you love your Scotty Kilmer so very much sir despite all his shortcomings, wish I could do that.

[@markfrancis1511]

I also was going to install the metal oil pan but decided to do the aluminum skid plate instead. I love it. Not only does it protect the oil pan, it protects the other plastic parts that can get damaged by heavy snow etc.

[@StealthGTI]

I may wind up going that path later. We'll see. Thanks for writing.

[@swingbag12]

My brother turned me on to this video....I watched it before but never seen the alternate ending..I currently have a mk7 tdi that I love so much but I'm afraid to go gti and regret it...im glad to see your an ex tdi owner as well and is happy with the switch

[@StealthGTI]

Excellent! Thanks for sharing your story. Perhaps you have room for both? Take care.

[@morgs9494]

My GTI also had the pucks still installed when I received it!

[@StealthGTI]

Yep. The PDI "techs" probably turn over frequently enough that VW cannot keep them trained, even for something so simple.

[@amazingvidguyz]

​@@StealthGTI VW isnt the best place for a VW ( in my opinion ) ! A good independent specialist is what you need, even for a new car , you should not have problems with your warranty as long as genuine parts are used.

[@StealthGTI]

@@amazingvidguyz - I had an independent specialist selected before I even found my car. My car has been to the dealer only for early warranty work and a few simple tasks that I found them convenient to do. :-)

[@TubesWidener]

Hi, my wife has new Passat B8 few months ago, how to look for those puck? Where are they exactly and what happens if they are not removed? Thank you

[@StealthGTI]

@@TubesWidener - If you jack up the front wheels, you'll have better access to the struts and the boots that cover the strut shaft. Lift the boot from the bottom to expose the shaft. If you see blue plastic things, you probably have pucks. If you see a steel shaft, then you probably don't. If the car rebounds over speed bumps without harshness, they were probably removed. Thanks for visiting.

[@lucienl9465]

Amazing review. Thanks for pictures and detailed explanation. Keep this up! And maybe 2022 MK8 gti 😉

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks! I appreciate the comment. I already have footage from my undercarriage inspection. I'll shoot additional video and hopefully will have a good video soon. This weekend is out because I'll be on a road trip. Maybe before Thanksgiving. -Scott

[@maxims8121]

You can buy the MK8 even earlier in Spring 2020

[@StealthGTI]

@@maxims8121 - Not in the U.S. Thanks for writing.

[@davidlindsay8937]

I dunno man, if you’ve seen those mk 8 videos they are all high tech and heavy on the electronics. I really like and want something more easy to do self maintenance on.

[@StealthGTI]

@@davidlindsay8937 - I think nearly everything has more and more electronics today... and it's getting worse (better?).

[@stevedrawdy2532]

2016 Jetta 1.8t, 110k miles. Love seeing videos from other high mileage drivers. May do APR stage 1 tune soon.

[@StealthGTI]

Nice! Thanks for sharing. -Scott

[@polopowered]

May do = won't do. Yawn.

[@SI0AX]

@@polopowered Doesn't seem like a good idea with a turbo model at that mileage IMO.

[@liltayg53]

@@SI0AX at 110k why not

[@SI0AX]

@@liltayg53 Because some turbo engines may only last 100k if driven hard, before getting rings worn out and requiring a rebuild.

[@GawkGawkGliz]

This fella is a stand up guy.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting!

[@raccgti73]

I also am a proud GTI owner in Virginia. (Bought in California, Drove to Virginia due to PCSing in the Navy) So far for me I’ve gone through: - A water pump. - A headlight socket (of all things...). - Radiator Hose leak (just awful luck with the cooling system) - Front Bumper (due to a goose.). This car has been an absolute dream.

[@StealthGTI]

That reads like a nightmare! But, it's good to see past a few flaws and enjoy the car. BTW, I'm near Fort Eustis. Check out Virginia Beach MQB in FB if you have it. They have regular gatherings when the world isn't about to end due to pandemic. ;-) Thanks for visiting.

[@raccgti73]

StealthGTI I have no idea why that formatted so awfully. And I’m near VB! I live in south Norfolk. I’ll definitely check em out.

[@StealthGTI]

@@raccgti73 - No worries! Your formating, while odd, didn't bother me. By "reads like a nightmare," I was making a joke about reading your list of troubles. If you read through the comments on this video, you'd swear that VW's are junk. That's what many who feel their Asian cars are perfect seem to think, anyway. HAHA! Glad you're enjoying your ride!

[@Jushwa]

I like the arm rest condom idea a lot 😂

[@StealthGTI]

HAHA! My sense of humor is quite warped. Link for said condom in the video description. Thanks for commenting.

[@SamslamminCars]

Good review! I love how these and all Volkswagen’s drive/comfort. I’ll stick to Honda’s though.. much less issues and sunroofs never leak on them.

[@StealthGTI]

I think you're right about Honda's reliability. However, I don't think I can go back to anything with less than 300 hp after driving my Stage 2 GTI. HAHA! If I somehow become disenchanted with VW's, I'll find something. But I don't think Honda fits my desires. Thanks for visiting.

[@ttsscorpio2664]

Hyundai are better in my opinion but alr

[@jamesmedina2062]

StealthGTI The top Civic has over 300 horses even before any tuning

[@StealthGTI]

@@jamesmedina2062 - Thanks for sharing. The top Civic's styling is too overt for my tastes. Plus, it's $10,000 more than what I paid for my GTI.

[@noneyabusiness1359]

@@StealthGTI how much did you pay in tuning it up (downpipe, clutch, etc?)

[@garoarabian3017]

Thank you for saving the manuals.

[@StealthGTI]

HAHA! Yes! Thanks for visiting.

[@GearBoxTy]

My 2016 GTI (manual transmission) has 81,000 miles. The engine temperature control actuator was leaking coolant which was discovered during the 80,000 mile maintenance. We are replacing that and the water pump as a result. I have had to replace my windshield due to extensive pitting. My keys are on their third batteries. And, I replaced my battery around 60,000 miles. Great video!

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting.

[@corlettw]

Another Virginia VW guy! I'll be following you on your journey with this guy. I just got a MK6 GLI (my second GLI , along with a Passat V6 and another Jetta 2.0t FSI) and it's fantastic. You seem to an great job keeping up on your car. I'll be learning some useful tips from you on how to do this. Cheers!

[@StealthGTI]

Thank you for that. My next video publishes tomorrow at 2pm. Thanks for visiting.

[@michaelmustic6645]

I work for VW, the coolant loss is normal, the cap regulates pressure for the cooling system and vents at times and needs to be topped off.

[@StealthGTI]

That's interesting. You're the first to share something like that. Can you share anything about the venting, perhaps some online reading? The car looks pretty solid to me. Thanks for sharing.

[@osvaldo8393]

That’s never happened on my 2.5L And my VW has 140k miles

[@dwergmaster]

it may be common, but isn't normal for any car. Especially these kind of rates. cap regulates pressure and overpressure sends fluid to the reservoir. Underpressure then draws it back to the radiator. Coolant loss without any leak can come from evaporation, but this is always slow. The whole reservoir in 6 months means it goes to either the oil, indicated by a rising oil level, or the cylinders. Either is bad for an engine. If you say this is normal for VW engines, that indicates a quality issue. Not that this would surprise anyone, VW has built quite the negative track record over the past 10 years regarding engines..

[@StealthGTI]

@@dwergmaster ​ - To be clear, I don't lose the entire reservoir in six months. I lose about 3/4", which is about a 20% or less. Sure, it may not be normal in your book. But I felt it was worth noting that my loss is not as terrible as you describe.

[@dwergmaster]

@@StealthGTI Ah I thought you mention 3/4th quarter.. In my understanding, that's 75%. Still not sure what " indicates? Litres or some freedom unit? 20% is still quite a lot though, not only in my book ;-)

[@schuylerlacelle5712]

Thank you so much for this video. I now have the confidence to buy a GTI.

[@StealthGTI]

You're welcome. I think you'll like it.

[@nickrendell4300]

Wow you do some high mileage a year!!!!

[@StealthGTI]

Yes. I enjoy driving, especially if there's no one else around. :-) Thanks for visiting.

[@brianiswrong]

Never owned a VW product,but I have subscribed😲 I like your laid back style and descriptions😃

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for your kind comments! New video at 2pm EST today.

[@robinleach2390]

I’ve had my 2008 MkV Gti now for 11 years. Air con broke after 8yrs. Nothing else has broken. Same pads and disks even as it’s a low mileage car. Same battery in the remote key. Same bulbs. Changed the belt after 6yrs and the tyres after 7. Fantastic car.

[@StealthGTI]

I seem to get about a year out of each remote battery. The keyless start remotes do a lot more "talking" than others. I think a year is good. The car is great. Thanks for visiting. -Scott

[@minhajuddin1769]

10:25 some wind deflectors on the windows should sort that out, plus they look good in my opinion.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing. Do you have them, too? I've considered them, but hestitate since I can be too pragmatic at times. HAHA! -Scott

[@minhajuddin1769]

StealthGTI have a look at these: www.micksgarage.com/d/wind-deflectors/Volkswagen/Volkswagen-Golf/GOLF-VII-2012-Onwards/products/3195142-10585/front-and-rear-heko-deflectors-for-volkswagen-golf-vii-2012-onwards

[@imalexodell]

I have them and they are a gift from above. I opted for the in channel weather tech, and the wet arm is no more! Well worth the hundy or so they cost.

[@StealthGTI]

@@imalexodell - Thanks for sharing.

[@rjjii1980]

If I liked the way they looked I'd go that way, but I just don't unfortunately.....

[@hhvxsueus9771]

I have a 2016 jetta and everything is fine

[@StealthGTI]

Awesome! I enjoyed my three Jettas over the years. The GTI was a great change for me. Thanks for writing.

[@Carlos-yz5kz]

So you replaced the factory clutch at like 30k? That seems really low for such a big job..

[@subie0455]

It's because he was tuned. The stock clutch is only good for stock power.

[@StealthGTI]

The additional 100 lb-ft of torque at the low end and towing took its toll on the clutch. Thanks for visiting. -Scott

[@maynarddrivesfast804]

The clutch in the Mk7 is known to be weak. It'll slip with an APR stg1 and aggressive driving. The DSG on the other hand, will hold 400+ lbft of torque.

[@cdpgbc-mw2kz]

@Liam Ross : The clutch that comes with the car is intended for the engine which it comes with. If you tune the car, etc, then the factory clutch will not last as long. I have 170000 kilometre on original clutch in my VW. My brother in law has even more, on his. Not to mention, some people have no idea how to drive a manual and ride the clutches to no end.

[@RedondoBeach2]

@Liam Ross My 2004 GTI has 131,000 miles with the original clutch still installed. The clutch is doing fine. No issues. I believe it will reach 150,000 miles.

[@BleezyD]

I have a '15 Autobahn 6spd manual and just hit 75k after 6 years. Ive had COBB stage 1+ with an RSR clutch since 15k miles and have had zero issues.

[@StealthGTI]

Sweet! Thanks for sharing.

[@gdennis2816]

I have a 2015 with 66k and the stock oil pan with no issues. I recently experienced the vaporizing coolant. I added a little bit of distilled water and all good for now. I also have the same tires and I love them. Next time I will buy them in 235. thanks for sharing

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for writing.

[@DrJeckyloftheDunes]

Nice update. Love the detail you put into the video as well as the write up on the website. I have a GTI sport in Black with a manual. I found your website when I was still deciding between a Focus ST and the GTI. My only mods so far are winter wheels and tires.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing. It's always good to know that some are familiar with my website and that my efforts there are not a waste. ;-)

[@jamiepowell7337]

Great video on the Mk7 my 2016 GTI S had a few issues currently has 50,000 miles. 1. Factory tires worn out at 25,000 2. Front windshield had 3 rock chips in by 30,000 replaced at 35,000. 3. Headlights needed updated at 35,000 4. I do use some coolant every oil change 5. Changed plugs at 35,000 . Car has OG brakes, no Mods, runs good (only premium) & DSG has no issues.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@chadpurser]

New clutch at ~32k miles? That's crazy low mileage, right? Is that "normal" for a GTI?

[@StealthGTI]

Not normal at all. There's more to my story. "Part 2" explains more. Thanks for visiting.

[@josephcreed7]

My Mk6 Gti clutch lasted 100,000 miles on stage 1

[@StealthGTI]

@@josephcreed7 - Glad to hear it. However, it's worth noting that the Mk7 APR tune I had at the time outputs 38 hp and 40 lb-ft more than what APR advertises for the Mk6. The EA888 can easily overpower the stock clutch, especially on a cold morning with a trailer in tow, as was the case for me that day. Thanks for visiting.

[@josephcreed7]

@@StealthGTI I can imagine a trailer will cause the clutch to go a bit sooner. I will admit however the clutch began to slip once and a while around 75k, but it was the throw out bearing causing the issue. I just took it easy in first gear till 100k, just before I went to upgrade the clutch someone totalled it when it was parked. I had a Unitronic Stage 1 tune

[@lileagle11]

30k per year, damn i thought i drove a lot 😂

[@StealthGTI]

HAHA!

[@lAristides]

I did 45k in one year. I need to chill. Texas bound. Runs good but will fix her up

[@gravemind6536]

I did 48,000 miles in one year with my old Golf. A family relative who lived about 300 miles away got cancer and was dying so when I finished work I would go and see them at the weekend this went on for just over a year before they passed. I was doing nearly 1000 miles a week and the car kept going like clockwork. I sold it with 257,000 miles on the clock.

[@strangeskull]

I’m in the market so Thank you so much for this long term review!!!....I wish more people did these ! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@StealthGTI]

Thank you for your kind remarks!

[@tonychau1983]

Good time to buy a 19

[@juniobohol964]

You worried me when you said your clutch failed at 15,000 miles😁. I've been driving my 2007 Toyota tacoma 4 banger base with manual transmission for 13 years, 247,000 miles on it with still the original clutch. I'm planning to treat myself with a 2020 GTI se 6 speed manual and I'm keeping it stock. Good video very informative. Stay safe.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for the note. Please read the pinned comment at the top of the comment feed. In short, my clutch did not fail. I replaced it preemptively. Thanks for visiting.

[@juniobohol964]

@@StealthGTI Yes I read😁. That's what give me a peace of mind. I'm excited to get mine!

[@sparkplug964]

To change a clutch on one of these car at 30K is just poor reliability.

[@russblackburn2378]

Unfortunately it’s common with a clutch and stage 1 tune. Should be fine with that tune and DSG

[@StealthGTI]

In my case, I disagree. I had added over 80 hp and 100 lb-ft to the mix; AND was towing at the time. I didn't speak quite accurately about my clutch. It didn't FAIL, it simply slipped a little while towing a trailer one cold morning. I CHOSE to replace when I did. I could have driven more, maybe another 20,000 miles. I'm not sure. Regardless, I don't think it's reasonable to expect a stock clutch to last with everything I was expecting from my car. Thanks for visiting.

[@indahooddererste]

@@StealthGTI you might be right in that case but my collegue bought a GTD with DSG gear box and it made barealy 20.000km.

[@boss4330]

@@indahooddererste That's surprising. There are usually no problems with DSG transmissions on cars with a stage 1 tune.

[@indahooddererste]

@@boss4330 well i heard nothing good about it. a german car magazine made a 100.000km test with a mercedes a class and a golf mk7. the dsg gearbox had to be changed at 60.000 km with a lot of other stuff. the a class seemed to be the better deal.

[@xFlared]

30k: carbon build up on fuel injectors. Service depending on vw engine ranges from 1-2k. Meanwhile toyota/lexus 200k engine just started breaking in.

[@StealthGTI]

I use Top Tier fuels exclusively. I'm hoping that it helps to keep things clean. Thanks for visiting.

[@jasonhaye3457]

@@StealthGTI Just to add to you comment - I had a GLI with 280k miles on it and never had my injectors replaced or my values cleaned. But I did start using Top Tier Full exclusively starting around 60-80k when I want Stage Two flash. Top tier is what is best for a new age direct injection engines anyway.

[@StealthGTI]

@@jasonhaye3457 - Thanks for sharing.

[@robbalinski1606]

My mk7 has 40k miles on it and never had an injector replaced or valves cleaned.....so what your saying is just cooked up because you dont like dubs. Hell my old mk6 tdi had 200k miles and only ever cost me oil changes, 2 timing belts, 2 batteries, 1 accessory belt and tires in the 5 years i owned it not once breaking on me while i was drive all maintence done just because it was time to be done....because i maintain my vehicles. My old TDI's was the most reliable car ive ever owned.

[@michaelconverse5127]

Admiral Ackbar perhaps, but then you’d be stuck driving an appliance with odd styling and zero personality.

[@KrAzYKARL49]

I have a 2015 GTI with 34,000 miles. I installed an aluminum skid plate before steel oil pans were available. I kept my plastic oil pan and have had no issues.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing.

[@michaeljohnson-li5nn]

A member on the Golf R forum has fitted the plastic underbody tray from a Passat Alltrack. This unit gives slightly more protection than the standard tray. He did need to procure a few extra fasteners and two small brackets to complete this conversion. It certainly looks the business when fitted and offers much greater protection to the sump area. All the best from Nottingham, U.K.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing that. Some in the U.S. have fitted a similar tray from our Golf Alltrack... same concept. ShopDAP.com sells complete kits. Thanks for visiting.

[@77ledhed]

the cap on overflow does not look straight to me, make sure it clicks when fully tight..

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for that. I backed it off a hair since it was quite difficult to remove when I topped it off recently. I'll snug it a bit more.

[@coalieroller5663]

just leave the plastic pan alone, steel skid plate and change oil from the dipstick tube

[@StealthGTI]

Already changing the oil from up top. It's great. That's part of the reason I didn't discover my leak until it was quite a mess. HAHA! Thanks for visiting. -Scott

[@willmercier2852]

I see no reason to change my oil pan. Living in the Chicago area, I doubt I'll ever hit anything that causes damage. Plus, I don't want the hassle of having to do the gasket etc.

[@StealthGTI]

@@willmercier2852 - All is well until you hit a chunk of ice. What are the odds? Hopefully, very slim. That said, I wouldn't do it again.

[@PsychicMedium4747]

I had a 335i BMW, Mercedes C320, Infinti G35...NONE are fun like my 2019 GTI Rabbit. I had a Jetta GLI 2006 and that car was also amazing. These VWs connect with you like no other. I am VW consumer for LIFE. I love the premium interior quality, handling, little exhaust farts....just an overall amazing car. Watch this video....the GTI was defined as BRILLIANT in every way! Any for those negative people, every car brand has issues. My friend’s Lexus in and out of the shop and another friend had an Infiniti with countless electrical issues. VW owns the most powerful name plates from Porsche to Bugatti and I am very happy and satisfied with my Rabbit. It’s fast, beautifully crafted, and has German heritage and auto-bond handling ! kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYfamKl_pr2aaaM

[@StealthGTI]

Agreed! I think every car I get will always be "the best car I've ever had" because cars are constantly getting better. Still, the Mk7 was a huge leap forward for Volkswagen. Thanks for visiting! -Scott

[@PsychicMedium4747]

@@shaunsnyman5107 i love it....

[@evythefish21]

Shame how terrible the overall build quality is. Throw in the electronic issues and VW has chased me away, forever, and man was I a fanboy. Even sold them. While selling them delivered so many cars with issues. The engines failing, trans, and all of that beautiful interior detail just pealing off after a 3 year lease.

[@evythefish21]

@@shaunsnyman5107 not sure about little boys, but I am sure that they are junk.

[@PsychicMedium4747]

evythefish123 GTI was rated very high by every single professional car journalist. VW GTI is legendary and the wear and tear is no different from any other auto maker. I have friends with Lexus and other luxury brands that all have their issues. I love VW and they are the biggest auto maker on the world with the most power name brands in their family. I love my GTI. My Jetta I had for nearly 5 years and nothing fell apart.it had a high quality interior and very reliable.

[@victormtt6289]

thank u for your report, super useful for a future GTI owner.

[@StealthGTI]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for visiting!

[@proboxpepper6752]

My 2017 golf with 59k km or 37k miles has been great so far, no oil leak from plastic oil pan at all. I’ve thought about going for the steel pan but i just trust the rubber gasket on the plastic oil pan more that the RTV gasket.

[@StealthGTI]

Good to hear. For now, I'm going to try out a Tiguan gasket with my steel pan. It's by far the cheapest fix. If that doesn't seal it sufficiently, then I'll go back to the composite pan and then get a skid plate. Thanks for commenting. -Scott

[@proboxpepper6752]

@@StealthGTI Doesn't hurt to try it! By the way I love the quality of your videos and the content on your StealthGTI website, keep the videos coming! Have a great day!

[@StealthGTI]

@@proboxpepper6752 - Thanks for those compliments. I'm still no natural at talking to a camera, but I think I'm getting better. I'm also going to try settings other than the driver's seat. Inside the car is a great sound stage, but it has to be getting trite for viewers. I'll have footage from a garage in my next video, but I cannot talk to a camera and get any work done. So, I'll probably do a voiceover on that one. We'll see.

[@jamesmedina2062]

StealthGTI I broke the aluminum oil pan on my 1.8t Passat and when replacing it, the mechanics used Hondabond to good effect, no leaks there later

[@StealthGTI]

I had hoped to include the footage of the suspension, exhaust, and other items that showed the condition of the chassis and underbody. However, discovering the oil leak compelled me to comment on that, which made the video longer than expected. I will create another video about the mechanical condition of the car and share that next.

[@StealthGTI]

The response to this video has been great! I appreciate everyone stopping by and commenting.

[@woody555kl]

I remember having a halon extinguisher in the car many years ago 👍

[@woody555kl]

Just have a gasket made for the steel pan

[@yuanmengqu]

StealthGTI love your work, for the brand of replacement your front windshield. “FY” is fuyao glass. The made all OEM glass for Mercedes, BMW and VW, all most all made and models. This should be original parts without VW logo.

[@StealthGTI]

@@woody555kl - Thanks! I don't know that I could have a custom gasket made for the same $18 I paid for the Tiguan gasket I received recently. I hope to find out how well it works soon.

[@jsidhu88]

I work as a product development engineer. Fuyao actually provide a number of companies with OEM glass, including the one I work for. So your replacement is probably not aftermarket but just without VW markings to make it cheaper.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks! Somewhere within these hundreds of comments, I admitted that I used incorrect terminology to describe FY glass. I grew up under the mistaken impression that anything not offered by the automaker is "aftermarket." I learned this by shopping at an online auto parts store (name currently escapes me). Getting the FY glass reinforced the difference between OEM, OE, and aftermarket. I knew that FY is OE, but old habits die hard and the wrong words came out of my mouth. HAHA! Thanks for visiting.

[@JH-yv8be]

My 2013 GTI has a sunroof. Couldn't live without one. Don't have any of the problems you mentioned in this video. Also, no other issues with the car which is now almost 8 years old.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@caskieadam]

I have a 2015 GTI SE with the plastic pan and no issues at 86,000 miles. Great video.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for visiting.

[@dvatp]

If you're obsessive about the oil pan issue go look at the Wortec aluminum pan. The latest version is milled to accept a factory o-ring seal. Perk is that it adds oil capacity and improves cooling. Downside: cost. But the Wortec solution is still better than the skidplate because the skidplate is almost as expensive as the pan and you have to take the skidplate off every time to do an oil service or conduct any service inspections. I'd just as soon have an easy-to-access pan that makes oil changes trivial.

[@StealthGTI]

I wouldn't say obsessive. But I also don't want oil mist all under my car. I'm hoping the new seal will work for a long time. Thanks for writing.

[@fonzdj]

I have a red 2017 Sport and love it. Only 28K and no problems so far. Love the silver color on your GTI

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks. The silver looks great all the time, even when it's dirty. :-) Thanks for visiting.

[@tmorris413]

Awesome review 👍. I have not seen one by anyone else as good as this review. Very thorough! I have been tempted to try a new GTI or GLI and much appreciate the information you provided.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for your kind remarks! Take Care.

[@nplus1watches35]

Scott, I just wanted to stop by and say Hi. The all-knowing YT algorithm brought your review to my attention, and the Stealth part definitely caught my attention (from your StealthTDI days). We've gone on several NorCal road trips together and it's good to see you're still in the VW family. I still have the same TDI I had 23 yrs ago, lol. If I watch too many more of your vids I may have to break down and pick up a Mk7 or 8.

[@StealthGTI]

Welcome to the channel! It's been a LONG time! I'm curious to know if this is Norman, Peter, or someone who's slipping my mind. The Mk7s are wonderful cars! My daughter has a Launch Edition Golf. I kept my Mk3 for 20 years. I stopped driving it in 2014 with the plan to fix some rust issues around the gas filler while I drove a new 2014 Jetta. When I finally dug into it, I found a serious case of the dreaded strut tower rust. I sold the car in 2018 with 445,000 original miles to someone who wanted the engine and modified transmission for his B4 Passat. Oddly enough, after driving a Mk6, I had no idea how I ever felt safe in a Mk3! HAHA! Feel free to e-mail me through StealthGTI.com if you want to get back in touch. Take Care!

[@javim8104]

My GTI turned 5 yrs a week ago, I have about 75k miles on it. Only thing that has broken is the infamous water pump. Great video by the way.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks a lot.

[@exeuroweenie]

I gave my parents my '06 Golf(US Rabbit).13 years and not one mechanical issue or repair.The upholstery and headliner gave out,but it's probably the brutal local heat and sun.Bought another Golf last year.

[@StealthGTI]

That's excellent testimony. Thanks for sharing.

[@vomitkermit3446]

I have a 2015, first year of the MK7. Sunroof and all. 0 issues and complaints with the car. Everything is good, car has been super reliable. The MK7s are for sure one of their best cars. Still has the original battery, and all. Remotes have gone through 1 battery a year it seems. The clutches on these are just enough for the car, if you tune it you will need a clutch upgrade. Which isn't surprising since Stage1 is 80+ ft lbs of torque more.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing your experience. Take Care!

[@bustermv]

A great service to GTI owners. Thanks.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for the kind remark!

[@x240strongx]

Good to hear about the longevity of the GTI... I REALLY want to tune my '18 but afraid of the warranty no longer being honored. Stage 2 and that many ponies though sounds so enticing... So many stock camaros and stangs always trying to test me on the highway lol

[@StealthGTI]

A Stage 2 GTI is a pleasure to drive, that's for sure. It's probably going to get me in front of a judge someday, though. HAHA!

[@x240strongx]

@@StealthGTI ahhh man don't tell me that haha! I need winter tires in a baddddd way lol

[@Elaba_]

I bought my Seat Ibiza TDi 130 new in 2002. It always had pressure build up in the coolant reservoir and I had to top it up every month. It was the head gasket. A specialist replaced the head gasket (with pictures as proof) and the problem stayed the same. I don't want a car from the Volkswagen group anymore.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing. I don't know much about Seat. What are you driving now?

[@Elaba_]

@@StealthGTI Seat is a brand of Volkswagen. I have been extremely unlucky with the engines in the cars I have had the last 20 years.

[@jmr7river401]

I have a 2015 GTI S APR stage 2 with 80,000 miles, no leaks coming from the oem plastic oil pan. Thanks! will be getting a skid plate instead.

[@StealthGTI]

Very nice! Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@parhunter1]

Thanks so much for this. I am considering a 2018 GTI that was a demo car. It would be 35 yearsolder than the very first VW I bought, a 1983 Rabbit GTI. You're making me think I need to do this!

[@StealthGTI]

Very nice! If I was shopping today, I'd probably get a 2018 or 2019. Do some research on stalling issues with the 2018 with DSG (if you're shopping a DSG). I don't know if it's been resolved, but I recall some discussion about it at GolfMk7.com. Thanks for visiting!

[@soonerlon]

I'm glad to see someone having better luck with a VAG product than me. I owned a 2012 Mk 6 from Oct 2011 to Aug 2019 with 136K miles on the clock when I got rid of that thing. Here's the butcher's bill for my POS - 5 intake manifolds, 4 sets of fuel injectors, 3 water pumps, A/C compressor, A/C cooling fan, 4 batteries, high pressure fuel pump, 5 PCV valves, 3 sets of rear roll bar links. After coming from 23 straight years of bullet-proof Honda ownership, it was a discouraging experience. VW sales people and service personnel were total pricks. Being a aviation mechanical engineer, it was good that I was able to do virtually all of my own work. If I would have paid VW techs every time something broke on the car, it would have bankrupted me. The problem with VW is they use too much cheap brittle plastic in critical locations such as water pumps, engine balance shafts and even intake manifolds. And don't even get me started on their interior plastics! My issues really kicked into high gear after about 3 years of ownership. It is easy to see why VW sells 28K cars a month while Honda sells about 116K and Toyota about 165K a month. It boils down to reliability, dealer and manufacturer support and sadly VW fails miserably on all factors. Like so many other people, I'm one and done with VW....

[@StealthGTI]

WOW! What a mess... and a total turn-off to a brand. What are you driving instead? Thanks for visiting.

[@soonerlon]

@@StealthGTI I bought a Volvo C70 and absolutely love it. At 4400 pounds, its built like a tank with high quality high strength steel. When I look under the hood the engine has lots and lots of metal - in fact the only plastic items on the engine are airbox and intake plenum. When I mess around with it, it doesn't feel like the parts are going to break, because most items look to be over-engineered and made from good materials. When I bought it, I was very picky about my purchase and was able to get the complete maintenance records and after reviewing them, it never had an issue that would strand the owner. The only thing I have done so far is replace the brake pads and I put a vinyl wrap on the center console to jazz it up a bit. While it doesn't handle and hustle like my GTI, it has a phenomenal ride and seats that are nothing short of amazingly comfortable. My wife likes it so much, she has me looking for a gently used 1 to 2 year-old XC60. Good luck with your V-dub, especially since you're getting close to 100K on the clock - on my car after 100K that;s when things really started breaking. I have heard that the Mk7's improved some of the real problem areas of the Mk6's. However, that much plastic under the hood.... Bonne route!

[@WorksOnMyComputer]

Thanks for sharing and thanks for your honesty on all things to do with your car. Very informative.

[@StealthGTI]

Thank you!

[@jontownsend8090]

Im in the UK and own a GTD, very similar in many ways. The Nogaro wheels are a big issue for us here. They seem to become buckled quite easily. I have had to straighten 2 in 5 years of ownership, and that is having a different set of cheaper wheels with winter tires on. On mine, the driver seat bolster foam is becoming weakened. The main issue i am having is water ingres through the speaker adapters in the rear doors, water leaks down behind the door panel onto the rubber gasket and collects there, eventually running onto the carpet. I will give the GTD an overhaul in 2020, replacing the seat bolster, sorting the leaking rear doors, along with a few other minor wear and tear issues. Overall its been a decent car. This year i needed to replace leaky rear shock absorbers and the ac condenser, along with a timing belt as it was due for replacement.

[@StealthGTI]

Thanks for sharing your report.