TDI Messages: May 1, 1997 to August 31, 1997

TDI Message entries from May 1, 1997 to August 31, 1997:

Anyone have information regarding the arrival of the diesel
Jetta in California? My '85 with 275,000miles wants to be
replaced.
Sullivan <sullivan@csuhayward.edu>
Hayward, CA USA - Friday, May 02, 1997 at 17:20:52 (PDT)
How does one take delivery in Europe? Where the heck
are the USA Golf/Jetta tdi?

Alex Caltabiano <tdi@webtv.net>
Long Beach,, CA USA - Saturday, May 03, 1997 at 05:34:47 (PDT)
Bought my TDI last year. So far never have had a problem other than the trunk lock. Absolutely worst tank was 41 mpg. This was achieved in almost total stop and go traffic with the air conditioner on. Best tank was 55 mpg with continuos 80-90mph cruising this winter on a snowy trip through the midwest.

The TDI is no longer stock and I've made a few performance upgrades. It will now do 0-60 in just about 10 seconds flat versus the original 11.3. But its rollon acceleration is vastly improved. I would estimate its now pushing around 100-105 hp, up from its original 90 and so far fuel economy has not suffered.

This is one of the best cars I've ever owned diesel or not.
Tim <wavshrdr@bellsouth.net>
Atlanta, GA USA - Saturday, May 03, 1997 at 06:32:01 (PDT)
I just want to Know 1 thing, When in the hell will I be able to buy a
Golf/ jetta/passat TDI with an automatic transmission? I will drive thousands of miles if I need to.
Michael a Munsch <TURBODMAN@MSN.COM>
El cajon, CA. USA - Monday, May 05, 1997 at 00:18:34 (PDT)
I've got a 110 hp Golf TDi (It's "Dragon Green").
It's really a fantastic car (motor), nearly as fast as a Golf GTi, but the fuel consumption is better!
Ids van der Leij <idsvdleij@compuserve.com>
Kesteren, Gelderland The Netherlands - Thursday, May 08, 1997 at 14:14:49 (PDT)
We are looking at trading ower 92 Passat (gas) for the 97 TDI Passat. The cost is about 30,000 and I am wondering if it is worth the cost. I would like to have the Jetta but VW has delay its release and the dealer does not know when it will be release. He said that it looks like they will have to give back deposits people has left for the Jettas and Golfs. With me putting 100km a day on the Passat; so the trade-in value drops very fast. So that is why I'm looking at websites like yours to get so input about the TDI and see if it is worth the cost or if I should look at the other desiels. Your website is great.
Gary Mulready <pilot@interlog.com>
Brooklin, Ontario Canada - Saturday, May 10, 1997 at 12:24:04 (PDT)
I am interesting for golf TDI 94 or golf gtd 93, if you now
where could i buy it please e-mail me.

thenk you!!!
Tomaz Pirman <Tomaz.Pirman@guest.arnes.si>
Ljubljana, Slovenia - Saturday, May 10, 1997 at 23:31:29 (PDT)
Since VW's TDI introduction in Jettas and Golfs was delayed, I'm guessing VW will not be introducing the automatic in this country anytime soon. Does Canada receive diesel offerings from VW before the USA? I thought I saw that TDI Passats were available in Canada as earl as 1995. I also heard that Audis with the TDI were seen in Canada, even in automatic form. I can't seem to find a definitive source for what is available in Canada, and whether it would be feasable to bring one back to the USA (may not be so hard with NAFTA). Any suggestions or answers?
Robert Dalton <robert.dalton@noaa.gov>
Sterling, Va USA - Sunday, May 11, 1997 at 09:01:47 (PDT)
SMOKING TDIs OR CHECK ENGINE LIGHT

VW has recently put out a notice to all dealerships to coorect the
excessvie smoking problem that some of you TDI owners have experience.
The recall calls for replacing the ECM unit, this is the module that
reads all the environmental settings and controls fuel injection etc.
They will also replace all four injectors. Basically your TDI
was running a little rich, thus excess smoke. Since I have had
this procedure performed on my 1996 TDI I have not been able to
detect any diesel smoke, it is running extremely clean and fuel
efficiency is still climbing up. Don't let your dealer tell you
anything different. VW may be a little reluctant to do this to
every car since the total bill was around $1,300 USD.

Good luck.

Despite this small convenience, this is by far the best car on the
road for the money. No one can match its fuel economy and performance.
Nathan Tennant <ntennant@ctron.com>
Merrimack, NH U.S.A. - Thursday, May 15, 1997 at 08:32:18 (PDT)
Just talked to my local dealer.

TDI production for Jetta's began on April 28/97 .

First units are shipping to Canada where there is already an established diesel customer base.
My car, which has been on order for 13 months, will probably be produced in the next 2 weeks.

The dealers get updated every Saturday regarding status of current orders.

Will keep you posted.
Grant Lindsay <glindsy@netbistro.com>
Prince George, B.C. Canada - Thursday, May 15, 1997 at 18:24:00 (PDT)
I own the 96 vw passat tdi. after one year and 25k miles,
I have decided that I will never own a gas powered car
again. THe TDI is great. i average 43 miles to the gallon.

On one day, I decided to visit my friend in Phoenix Az.
SO I left La JOlla CA at 6 am, & arrived at my friends
front door around 11 am. Total miles was 375.
On a few occasions, through the deserts of Az, I
actually had the cruise control set at 95 & 100 mph.
The TDI just purred right along with the RPM's just over
3300. The best part, was that I was able to drive from
La Jolla to Phoenix and back to La Jolla on single tank
of fuel.

I look forward to a Passat TDI Syncro Wagon availaable
the states soon.

Thanks for the opportunity to allow me to share my story.

Pete Tentler
Pete Tentler <tent999@flash.net>
San Diego, ca usa - Tuesday, May 20, 1997 at 20:21:23 (PDT)
picked up my passat tdi on 5/19 drove from ft.wayne, in to charlott, nc. good test for the passat. pouring rain, night driving, through mountains. excellent car. much more power than i expected. very quiet. put over 1500mi on the car in 2 days, very comfortable. avg fuel econmy was 50.2 mpg. i purchased the passat tdi with a sunroof and abs brakes. very well put together. also own a 1996 jetta gls. previously owned a 1988 jetta carat put over 100,000mi on the car the only repairs were a water pump at 50,000mi,one battery, eight tires, and routine maintenance. vw builds a great automobile. i fully expect the passat tdi to be the best car i have owned. after spending 24 hours in the car in the past couple of days i can not find even one item to complain about (except the lack of a glove box)...
ken taylor <ktaylor658 @ aol>
ft.wayne, in, usa - Wednesday, May 21, 1997 at 19:59:45 (PDT)
Great page... I have one note however... My wife and I ordered a Passat TDI 4 weeks ago after several test drives. As a former Peugeot Diesel owner, Turbo and non-Turbo, I have always appreciated diesels. The TDI however is truly a leap in technology!! There are several other european mfgrs that have made significant progress with diesel as well, such as Peugeot, Renault and Fiat. I drove last October a Renault diesel and was amazed!! The TDI however, is by far the quickest and fastest of the bunch. However, there still seems to be some problem here in the US with them. As stated before we order our TDI 4 weeks ago and are still waiting for it. It seems that all TDIs are on hold (as of 5/19/97) due to emission problems. VW is working on getting these cars corrected and there is likely to be a recall of the models currently on the road. After seeing and "smelling" the vehicle, I don't see how this is possible, but you got to remember I'm in California where emmissions are a way of life. I expect to get our Windsor Blue model sometime in June. Waiting is sooooo hard to do. My wife and I are really looking forward to it. I'll let you know if I hear anything else on it. Thanks.
paul fountain <71650,2075.compuserve.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Friday, May 23, 1997 at 07:53:56 (PDT)
Great page... I have one note however... My wife and I ordered a Passat TDI 4 weeks ago after several test drives. As a former Peugeot Diesel owner, Turbo and non-Turbo, I have always appreciated diesels. The TDI however is truly a leap in technology!! There are several other european mfgrs that have made significant progress with diesel as well, such as Peugeot, Renault and Fiat. I drove last October a Renault diesel and was amazed!! The TDI however, is by far the quickest and fastest of the bunch. However, there still seems to be some problem here in the US with them. As stated before we order our TDI 4 weeks ago and are still waiting for it. It seems that all TDIs are on hold (as of 5/19/97) due to emission problems. VW is working on getting these cars corrected and there is likely to be a recall of the models currently on the road. After seeing and "smelling" the vehicle, I don't see how this is possible, but you got to remember I'm in California where emmissions are a way of life. I expect to get our Windsor Blue model sometime in June. Waiting is sooooo hard to do. My wife and I are really looking forward to it. I'll let you know if I hear anything else on it. Thanks.
paul fountain <71650,2075.compuserve.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Friday, May 23, 1997 at 07:54:27 (PDT)
I am waiting for a Golf TDI. But have REAL reservations about VW reliability. Most of the surveys give VW a poor rating for reliability. I wonder if the Mexican VWs are worse then the European ones, and if the Golf TDI will be imported from Europe.

BTW..wasn't it great for VW to advertise on "Ellen".
Scott Winn <scottwinn@radix.net>
Silver Spring, Md USA - Sunday, May 25, 1997 at 19:25:37 (PDT)
Very informative Fred. You unfortunately gave me all the info
I required. Unfortunately because I recommended the Golf TDI to
a friend and found through your page that it is not available y
yet. This looks like a repeat of the 2.8l engine story of the 80,s.
The TDI engine has got my interest for the future. I own a
Jetta GTX 1990 which is probably the best VW I've owned since
78 after a 78 Scirrocco, a 79 Scirrocco (225K Kliks) and an
87 Golf GTI 16V.
Keep the info central going. We depend on you.

Martin
Martin Lavoie <jmlavoie@synapse.net>
Orleans, Ont Canada - Monday, May 26, 1997 at 17:39:36 (PDT)
Maybe someone can help me out. I'm trying to find a TDI
wagon to purchase in the area of northern N.J , N.Y city
metro area or eastern P.A . Perhaps you have seen a new 1997
on a dealers lot.
Thanks
John @
cdjrich@nac.net
John <cdjrich@nac.net>
N.J U.S.A. - Monday, May 26, 1997 at 19:14:22 (PDT)
I want to know what can be done to up our US cars to the European
horsepower (output)?

I currently have a VR6 GTI and need more economy both in milage
and overall cost.

I want to put nice wheels, neuspeed springs & bar, possibly
Blistien shocks so I need power.

By the way, I'm going automatic this time due to leg problems.

Let me know what you guys think!

Todd
Todd <trad@worldnet.att.net>
Daytona Beach, Florida USA - Tuesday, May 27, 1997 at 16:06:52 (PDT)
I'm doing some emission reduction testing on diesel engines and see the TDI as the latest and greatest. My trouble is finding an engine to run my tests on. If anyone reads this and can give me some info on obtaining an engine please call (302) 999-8083 and ask for Kevin. Thanks. We may be able to make this great engine a little better with your help.
Kevin Callaghan <kcallaghan@del.net>
Wilmington , DE USA - Wednesday, May 28, 1997 at 06:58:11 (PDT)
Just put a deposit on a '97 Passat TDI. Looking for any information that anyone could share. I have always owned VW's but know little about this Passat.

Thanks.
MWright
M/wright <mwright@newbedford.k12.ma.us>
Rochester, Ma US - Thursday, May 29, 1997 at 07:34:54 (PDT)
Does anyone know what the base price would be for a 97 Passat TDI with a sunroof? Buying one and not sure if I am getting a deal or not. Thanks
mwright <mwright@newbedford.k12.ma.us>
Rochester, Ma US - Thursday, May 29, 1997 at 10:12:12 (PDT)
We are trying to purchase a TDI. We gave up on finding a wagon rather quickly, but we would still like the optional anti-lock brakes. Our dealer tells us that we will not find a care equipped with ABS. Does anyone know if this is true?
C.Jenkins <cjenkins@rbvdnr.com>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Thursday, May 29, 1997 at 15:57:58 (PDT)
We just purchased an ABS equipped TDI sedan. We had to drive six hours to the Twin Cities to find it. The dealer insisted that all the recall work had been done (ECM and injectors) but there was no documentation to prove it. Does anyone know the exact date of VOA's recall, the recall number or anything else like that? We would like to make sure that VOA covers the work if it becomes necessary later.
C.Jenkins <cjenkins@rbvdnr.com>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Saturday, May 31, 1997 at 11:32:19 (PDT)
picked up my passat tdi on 5/19 drove from ft.wayne, in to charlott, nc. good test for the passat. pouring rain, night driving, through mountains. excellent car. much more power than i expected. very quiet. put over 1500mi on the car in 2 days, very comfortable. avg fuel econmy was 50.2 mpg. i purchased the passat tdi with a sunroof and abs brakes. very well put together. also own a 1996 jetta gls. previously owned a 1988 jetta carat put over 100,000mi on the car the only repairs were a water pump at 50,000mi,one battery, eight tires, and routine maintenance. vw builds a great automobile. i fully expect the passat tdi to be the best car i have owned. after spending 24 hours in the car in the past couple of days i can not find even one item to complain about (except the lack of a glove box)...
ken taylor <ktaylor658 @ aol>
ft.wayne, in, usa - Sunday, June 01, 1997 at 18:26:43 (PDT)
For Sale: 1996 Green Passat TDI Wagon with only 5,000 miles! For more info, please email me at imgenfm@aol.com
florian menninger <imgenfm@aol.com>
new city, ny usa - Monday, June 02, 1997 at 20:17:15 (PDT)
I have 16k on my 96 Passat TDI Wagon and Zero Defect thus
far. The car is great for carrying the family (including
6ft. kid in back). I drove Saabs for 25 years but got
priced out of that market. This sure is a giant step from
my old 84 Rabbit smoker.
Bob Penigar <pencom@alltel.net>
- Friday, June 06, 1997 at 15:57:12 (PDT)
6/13/97 Spoke to VoA representative today who said that
production of all new Passats had been stopped and that
no more new '97 Passats would be shipped this year (i.e.
what is on dealer lots is all there is). This is due to
the changeover to the new model. Shipments of the new
model are supposed to begin in late August, meaning that
we should see the cars on dealer lots in mid to late
September. These will be the new body style based on
the Audi A4 and will be '98 models. No word on whether
or not there are any changes in the running gear.
Bob Grant (pygrant@root.indstate.edu)
Bob Grant <pygrant@root.indstate.edu>
Terre Haute, IN USA - Friday, June 13, 1997 at 10:46:02 (PDT)
Our Passat TDI sedan now has 2,400 mi. and has proven
itself to be a great choice. Diesel costs $1.06/gal. here,
so annual fuel costs are now quite low for us.
I have noticed minor irritations. Has anyone replaced
the cheap steel wheels with alloys? I am curious about
costs and if there is significant improvement in acceler-
ation, braking, and handaling. Also, I am very irritated
that VW charges $16.50 for an oil filter--what a rip-off!
Does anyone know some sort of method to get better access-
ibility to the oil filter? When changing the oil, it is
very difficult to get the oil filter off due to the number
of hoses near it. I can't tell if it is easier to get to
it from below or above.
Jim Anderson <janderson@mfgaustin.com>
Cedar Park, TX USA - Friday, June 13, 1997 at 11:37:23 (PDT)
I've got a Golf Diesel. I'd love to get my hands on a TDI Golf wagon. If only they'd sell 'em in Canada. We've been gipped. I guess I'll just have to wait patiently.

BTW The page is great....
Alphons & Shannon
Sudbury , Ontario Canada - Sunday, June 15, 1997 at 16:50:43 (PDT)
When is the Jetta TDI coming out to the Canadian market? Any vibes on the price?
Jason Tower <jtower@recycltech.com>
Toronto, Ont CANADA - Monday, June 16, 1997 at 09:58:49 (PDT)
I have been driving my VDI Passat since Febr. 96 and cant seem to find where i can file for the rebate for owning a deisel powered auto.
Can you help?
I love the car.I have been driving VW diesels since 1978 (this is my 4th:
1978 Rabbit 78,000 miles -needed bigger trunk
1981 Jetta 450,000 miles,sold it to a friend and he put about 100,000
more miles oni
1986 Jetta - still have it 146,000 miles and still going strong
19996 Passat have 15,000 miles on it and have driven it over 120 MPH - Love it

Thanks,Bob Lohr
ccsi@golnet.com
Bob Lohr <ccsi@golnet.com>
Tampa, FL USA - Wednesday, June 18, 1997 at 14:43:26 (PDT)
Your page is great, so much information. I'd love to get an Audi Quattro Station Wagon with the 5 cylinder TDI and the six speed gearbox.
As far as I know Volkswagen's first direct injected diesel was a 1.4 l, 4 cyl. engine offered in the Brazilian Saveiro (sort of a Golf with a PickUp box) which is strange since Brazil outlawed diesel cars.
I got to see a couple in Argentina that had been smuggled in. They were from 1989.
I also got to see an AUDI 80 with a semiadiabatic direct injected dual fuel engine, the ELCO. It could run (as every diesel) with diesel and with vegetable oil, but this engine had been optimized for soybean oil.
Volkswagen has an interesting history with diesels. In 1982 Volvo launched the world's fastest diesel, the 760 GLE TurboDiesel, it could accelerate from 0 to 90 km/h in 13.1 seconds. It was a turbocharged, intercooled inline 6 cyl. engine built by Volkswagen, though VW never used it in their cars.
As far as i have seen, the engine is great but it has some trouble when lower quality diesel fuel is used.
I am hoping the Golf StationWagon will be offered soon in the USA, if not I'll have to settle for a Passat SW.
Sincerely,
Alejandro Lalor
Alejandro Lalor <al46@cornell.edu>
Ithaca, NY U.S.A. - Wednesday, June 18, 1997 at 20:09:04 (PDT)
Would like to Purchase a new Passat Wagon (1998)TDI Can not find one.
Art Campanella <artmel@juno.com>
Broomall, PA USA - Thursday, June 19, 1997 at 11:56:52 (PDT)
Nice page, makes me want to own a TDI powered car.
David Lubell <david.lubell@johnabbott.qc.ca>
Hudson, Quebec Canada - Thursday, June 19, 1997 at 18:29:55 (PDT)
Great web page, i'm a diesel engine maniac too !
Hope to get my hand on a tdi golf someday
do you think it's hopeless in Canada ?
Richard Rocheleau <richard.rocheleau@tr.cgocable.ca>
Trois Rivières, Qué Canada - Thursday, June 19, 1997 at 20:29:11 (PDT)
Do you know were I can see some pictures of the new Golf ?
GD Brown <gbrown7791@aol.com>
England - Thursday, June 19, 1997 at 12:31:26 (PDT)
I want a Golf TDI.
Kevin Wolford <wolfke1@aol.com>
Washington, D.C. USA - Friday, June 20, 1997 at 14:48:50 (PDT)
In response to Jim's note above:

The initial oil filter in the Passat TDI is a special heavy-duty
unit that is specified to be not changed until 5000 mi. (to catch
all initial break-in debris). If oil is changed prior to that, this
filter is to be left in until next change.

Also my 5000 mi VW service covered oil/filter change at no charge.

The important aspects of oil in TDI are quality of oil (Turbo-rated) and
frequency of change (5000 mi max.). Unless you are exposing car to more
than average dust conditions, this is what diesel experts are
recommending.

TDI owners may want to concider trying Stanodyne's Performance Diesel
Fuel Additive and the K&N high flow air filter. The TDI is so efficient
that it does respond to improvements in air/fuel quality. I was able to
encourage another 3-5 mpg out of my '97 Passat TDI with these additions,
so they really pay for themselves and improve performance! I am
currantly getting 45-46 mpg (combination town and open road) and I don't
baby the engine at all; this car is to be DRIVEN! More info on these
products can be gotten from Diesel Injection Service on the web.

So far the car is a dream, combining efficiency and performance in a way
that I have never seen.

Rich

Rich <strack@postoffice.ptd.net>
Stroudsburg, PA USA - Saturday, June 21, 1997 at 04:34:14 (PDT)
I'm driving a 1982 Audi 5000 turbo diesel automatic and love it -- 33.7 mpg since new, including a lot of around-town driving. But parts are getting hard to find.

I want a Golf TDI or a Passat Wagon TDI, and I want the 110 hp engine (OK, actually I want the diesel racing engine, but you can't have everything...). The USA is last to get the interesting VWs, but it gets what it deserves. This is a country of gasoline engine gas-hog morons in a diesel world.

Fred Jackson <fnj@world.std.com>
N. Eastham, MA USA - Sunday, June 22, 1997 at 16:34:10 (PDT)
Interesting page!
TDI...currently am driving a 1989 VW Jetta Diesel, almost perfect. Saw photo Golf Synchro Wagon TDI..now that's perfect! 110 HP, even better. Where and when, VW page has no e-mail, typical.
Vincent <kelley@memes.com>
Bellingham, Wa USA - Monday, June 23, 1997 at 10:35:05 (PDT)
VW has email on their WEB SITE. Go to www.vw.com, select "What's New". The bottom of that page has email to comment on web site. But, I have asked other VW questions this way.

QUESTION: what is the advantage (except gas mileage) over the Golf TDI and the Golf GTI or VR6?
Scott <scottwinnn@radix.net>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Wednesday, June 25, 1997 at 10:16:41 (PDT)
Whoops...wrong email address above.
scott <scottwinn@radix.net>
- Wednesday, June 25, 1997 at 10:18:05 (PDT)
COOOOL! I'm a Passat TDI owner and a loooong time VW
and Porsche nut. See my other e-mail. Also, do you know anyone
who makes a die-cast or plastic passat model (1996 US model)?
Rob Quarles <quarlesr@concentric.net>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Wednesday, June 25, 1997 at 16:56:25 (PDT)
I have a question about the low sulfur content diesel fuel
that is sold in Canada and in the US , it have been said that
it may cause premature wear on the Bosh diesel injection pump, because
the pump is lubricated by the fuel itself and sulfur act as lubricant.
I have heard of such case of pump troubles and it seem that
VW of Canada had sent letters to recent owners of diesel VW to
encourage them to put an additive into their fuel tank .
It is called a Diesel fuel condionner for low-sulfur fuels.
I Presently drive a 92 Golf diesel and driven diesel VW for
11 years now and always used conditionner and automatic tranmission oil
as lubricant in my fuel.
Is this an issue for the TDI injection system ?
Because is seem to still use a mechanical injection pump
controled by electronics. Anyone knows about it ?
By the as anyone seen a TDI Golf in Canada ?

Diesel Fan and future TDI Owner : Diesel Power
Richard Rocheleau <richard.rocheleau@tr.cgocable.ca>
Trois Rivières, Québec Canada - Wednesday, June 25, 1997 at 18:59:31 (PDT)
Can't wait for the TDI Jettas to arrive. I'm planning to get rid of my 1990 TD Jetta for a 1998 TDI Jetta at that time (if they ever show up). Currently get 55 mpg but look forward to better gas milage and performance. Previously I owned a 1984 diesel Jetta that gave 58 mpg on the highway, but could pass nothing but a gas station.
Mark <mjones@ngl.ca>
Fredericton, NB Canada - Thursday, June 26, 1997 at 06:48:28 (PDT)
Well..
very good...
But in here, finland, we don't have VW Golf TDI engine! @$£$£@$????

Juha Kuusisto <Juha.Kuusisto@sci.fi>
Nokia, FINLAND - Thursday, June 26, 1997 at 07:46:06 (PDT)
THANK YOU FOR YOUR INFORMATION. I AM IN ABOUT THE SAME SITUATION AS YOU. I AM GETTING REPLACING AN 85 ARIES WAGON, AND AM GOING TO BUY A 1996 PASSAT TDI. I FOUND THAT YOUR WEB PAGE WAS REALLY HELPFUL. HAVE YOU HAD A GOOD EXPERIENCE WITH YOUR VEHICLE. WILL FINALIZE THE DEAL NEXT WEEK. YOU NEED TO HAVE A PICTURE OF YOUR GIRFRIEND FOR A COMPLETE HOME PAGE. THANKS AGAIN FOR YOU INFORMATION
BRETT BESSER <BBESSER@OSHA-SLC.GOV>
SALT LAKE CITY, UT USA - Friday, June 27, 1997 at 13:57:15 (PDT)
I have a Passat TDI I bought last November. Love the car. Speed limits down here are 75 MPH. Getting 49 GPM. I have noticed that I'm starting to get white smoke we I back off and come to a stop. As soon as I move out ,the car blows out a cloud of smoke. Alot of smoke. The smoke smells like fuel. The oil level is normal. Engine is running smooth and at temp. Any clue as to the cause? Stuck injecter?,Clogged filter? Car has 25,000 on the clock. Alwas serviced every 3,000. Any info helpful.
Thank's
Rob
Robert J. Summerhill <dyno-mutt@wizrealm.com>
Edgewood, New Mexico U.S.ofA. - Saturday, June 28, 1997 at 17:06:14 (PDT)
Hi Fred,
great homepage! My name is Dirk Tegethoff and I live in
Germany. Because of the long distances which I usually
have to drive I took the only reasonable decision in my case
- to buy a Golf TDI!
Details:
* Golf GT TDI, built 1995, 90 hp
* tornado-red, sportive design
* 78.000 km´s in 2 years (minor technical problems only)
* fuel consumption 4.5 - 7.5 litres/100km (depends ;-])
* personal speed record 120 mph (honestly!)

A fantastic car: robust, sportive and economical.
I really love it. A couple of days ago it got seriously
damaged in an accident. My god, it looks terrible. But I
want it to be completely repaired. Boy, am I looking forward
to starting over again with my TDI in 2 weeks hopefully!

Thanks for your homepage, and all the best to you and all
the other people enjoying their TDI,

Dirk Tegethoff
Dirk Tegethoff <Dirk.Tegethoff@t-online.de>
Trebel, Lower Saxony Germany - Sunday, June 29, 1997 at 12:04:04 (PDT)
What is intercooler ?
Tomaž Šèavnièar <tomaz.scavnicar@siol.net>
Škofljica, 1291 Slovenija - Monday, June 30, 1997 at 11:08:38 (PDT)
Fred
There Here!!
Congresional VW in Rockville Md. has a Shiny new Black with a
Grey Interior 1997 Jetta TDI it is listed for 18500.
It is a very nice looking car.
But I am unable to purchase one right now as I too
couldn't wait any longer and bought a real nice
1991 Jetta Eco-Diesel it is a great car also.
Thanks for your page as I have been following you for about 18 months now
Tom Walker tomo@erols.com
Tom Walker <tomo@erols.com>
Kensington, Md USA - Monday, June 30, 1997 at 17:58:48 (PDT)
I have a 96 Passat wagon TDI which was smoking until it went in for the work on the ECM and injectors in June
Now It`s running like new. Thanks for the great website.
If it wasn't for this page I'd still be looking in the rear view mirror and wincing after every shift.
Howell Williams <bouchasy@ere.umontreal.ca>
Montreal, pq canada - Wednesday, July 02, 1997 at 09:26:59 (PDT)
I own an '84 Rabbit GTI.
Nathan Lawrence <nate@trilobyte.net>
Tooele, UT USA - Wednesday, July 02, 1997 at 10:27:32 (PDT)
Thanks for this web page.
John Dillard <JDill49917@aol.com>
Wichita Falls, TX USA - Thursday, July 03, 1997 at 05:18:27 (PDT)
Thanks for this web page.
John Dillard <JDill49917@aol.com>
Wichita Falls, TX USA - Thursday, July 03, 1997 at 05:18:39 (PDT)
Best Page on the Net! Lots of useful info.
I have a dragon green Golf TDI (90 hp). I think about refueling when there is 1000k on the trip meter! That's a bit over 5 litres per 100k city or highway.
I drove the car once and had to have it. So much useable power down low.

The Australian version has air cond, twin bags, power steering and mirrors but not power windows. Front disks only and these are solids not ventilated as most cars with similar performance have. Seats are not so comfortable on a long trip but the performance makes up for that!

Great car but 20 more HP would be nice!

Happy Golfing

Gordon Calcino <gordon.calcino@health.gov.au>
Canberra, ACT Australia - Friday, July 04, 1997 at 06:27:00 (PDT)
I purchased a 1996 TDI Passat 15 months ago...flawless performance (45 mpg)....last week my "Check Engine" light came on which prompted a visit to the dealership and the replacing of a $900 emissions monitor. Fortunately the auto was a few miles beneath the 24,000 warranty benchmark. Apparently, another TDI had recently encountered the same problem. Any information concerning the aforementioned? Thanks....
Dr. Terry Mattson <tmat@rconnect.com>
Iowa USA - Saturday, July 05, 1997 at 08:34:29 (PDT)
I will die if I don't get a 4Door Windsor Blue Golf-TDI With a
sunroof to the good old USA. If there is anybody that has any
information on how I can do that please help.I am driving a
72 Bug and its about squshed.
Id be willing to go to Canada If that was the only way.
please somebody help.
Thanks:)
VW or death
Mark Meier <Gang3d@aol.com>
scottsdale, az USA - Sunday, July 06, 1997 at 06:10:08 (PDT)
Do not have comments on TDI but do have comments on 93 Golf
Turbo Diesel 5 speed with air that I just purchased used.
This car is great. Plenty of power, not noisey, comfortable
and great on gas with better mileage than you have posted
on your TDI report.
This car is winner.
Second turbo volks I have owned and the other one was a dog.

Good luck waiting for the TDI to come to North America.
Wonder what they are waiting for.

signed,
Tom Simmonds

Thomas Simmonds <tdsimmo@ibm.net>
Toronto, ontario Canada - Sunday, July 06, 1997 at 07:25:48 (PDT)
When, when, when will VW get TDI Jettas to the States? I like the introduction of a 110hp TDI... I feared the 90hp would be underpowered.
My 91 Jetta GL is still going strong with 143k miles, but the 45+ mpg of the TDI excites me :-)
tg.
tom
charleston, sc USA - Sunday, July 06, 1997 at 18:46:33 (PDT)
Since I have been relying heavily on your web site for information
regarding the TDI I thought that I would fill everyone in on what I
have learned.
The Jetta TDI is available in the U.S.A. because I bough one last Thursday
(July 3rd). It's Sitting in my garage right now.
It is a Black 1997 Jetta TDI. I wanted a Windsor Blue Jetta
TDI and had placed an order back in December. Once the Jetta TDI went into
production at the end of April, all orders were pulled back
by VW and the Dealers were told tha each dealer would only
get one jetta TDI for the time being and the factory is only
producing Black Jetta TDI's. One of the TDI messages on this site from a
gentleman around Rockville Md. kind of verifys this.
So I suggest that anyone out there who is seriously considering buying a
Jetta TDI better act fast when it comes in.
I havn't had a chance to drive it much yet but I will keep
you informed on its performance. The EPA rating on the window sticker
is 40 miles per gallon in the city;49 miles per gallon on the highway
Al Thomas <althomas@bellatlantic.net>
Pittsburgh, Penna. U. S. A. - Monday, July 07, 1997 at 19:38:57 (PDT)
NO MORE SMOKING!!!!
I just had the fuel injectors and EC module replaced under
warranty on my (January) '96 Passat. I have now driven it
several hundred miles and it only smokes on hard accelera-
tion(as would be normal.)
I have also installed a K&N air filter and use the Stana-
dyne additive. The power increase is noticeable, especially
at higher RPM's.
After 31,000 miles and 18 months of ownership, I am very
happy with this car. I'd buy another!!
Ken S. <hoosh@geocities.com>
Portland, OR USA - Wednesday, July 09, 1997 at 12:53:55 (PDT)
Great to find so much info regarding TDI technology! I'v made a test drive with a Golf TDI last week and it was quite an experience! It's a great car and it feels like driving a GTI!

Would like to hear from other Golf TDI owners. I have to decide quite fast on buying a used TDI.

Regards,
Theo.
Theo Redelijkheid <rcstheo@worldonline.nl>
Sliedrecht, ZH Netherlands - Saturday, July 12, 1997 at 08:23:44 (PDT)
After waiting for 2 years and reading this page faithfully
for 9 mos, I finally drove a Jetta TDI at University VW
in Seattle last weekend. The price was right, the color was
perfect, the engine was all that it should be environmentally
and economically--and it was LOUD, quite unlike the Passat TDI
and gas-powered Jettas I'd driven.

I was incredibly disappointed, but never having experienced
the ecodiesel, I don't know how to evaluate the experience.
I bought at '96 Jetta GL the next day at a good price. When
my daughter finishes college in 3 years I'll probably buy
the new Passat with a TDI engine.

Sorry to pass along what seems to be bad news. I am curious
about other people's reactions after driving the Jetta TDI.
Loren Lutzenhiser <llutz@wsu.edu>
Pullman, WA USA - Wednesday, July 16, 1997 at 19:32:51 (PDT)
Fred:
I love the TDI. I've owned a new 89Jetta, 90Corrado G60, 91Passat16V, and now a 97PassatTDI. Now have 10,000 miles on the engine, started using 15/50Mobil 1 synthetic oil. Fuel economy has been improving, hammering it on the Interstates at 75-80mph, I get about 45mpg. If I take it a little easier at around 70mph, I will get a little better than 50mpg. As far as performance, great top gear torque better than the 16V and nearly as good as my 93BMW325is. The advantage is I don't downshift like i used to with the 16V and with the 24V 325is. The TDI pulls great down to about 1700rpms, whereas the 16V and 24V are dead down there. The downside is that is runs out of stream at 4500rpms which is about 70mph. I'm a 3rd gear 40-80mph person for freeway entrance ramp acceleration and two lane road passing. The 16V and 24V are smokin from 70-80mph and are in there power curve. I'm considering the 98Passaat TDI, 110hp vs 90hp in the 97 models. Great web site, I'm a self-employed fluvial geomophologist, hydrogeologist and climatologist, went to UW-Madison for the BS and MS. Send me a message if you have any questions. Cheers, Jeff.
Jeff Anderson <ja-aes@execpc.com>
Port Washington, WI USA - Thursday, July 17, 1997 at 14:24:24 (PDT)
I want to congratulate you on your page, specially about the TDI engine info.
I am also an enthusiast of this technology, and my dream car used to be a VW Golf Tdi also... Now, it's a Audi A3 tdi (110hp).
As I cannot afford none of this cars, I have to be happy with my '89 VW Golf GTD, and I am!. Here in Portugal, the comsumption of a car is very important, as a liter of gas costs about 1 USD and diesel is 30% cheaper. The succes of the tdi engines here is huge, although cars are very
expensive. A Golf tdi (90hp) costs about 31000 USD!

Here are some informations you may not know:
- The first tdi engines in Europe were Fiat (Croma tdi), and Rover
(Montego tdi) both in the late 80's. VW and Audi first proposed it's 1.9
tdi 90hp in 1991 (Audi 80 and Golf III). Presently Rover, VW-Audi, Renault
and Mercedes have tdi engines.
Most European constructors are starting to propose direct injection diesel
engines. Next year, BMW is going to substitute it's excellent 2.5 and 1.6
tds engines with tdi's. Peugeot, Opel, Saab, etc, are all working on the
same purpose;
- In the introduction to the Audi A4 tdi to the press (two years ago),
here in Portugal, different journalist drove the car from Lisbon to
Brussels (2200km) with only one tank of diesel! Of course the average speed
was very low (~75km/h);
- In another introduction of the Golf tdi 90hp, other journalist drove the
car for 300 km with an average consumption of 2.1 l/100km (very slowly) and
6 l/100km (going very fast with air conditioning on);
- The new tdi engine with 110hp is much powerful than the 90 hp and the
average increase in consupmtion is 0.5 l/100km. In urban driving, it can be
even lower than the 90hp. In this moment, all the cars in VW-Audi group can
be bought with this engine;
- Audi has recently released its new 2.5 V6 tdi engine. It has all the new
technology (variable-geometry compressor, etc.) and it has 150hp, although
Audi says it can easily get more 20 or 30hp. The first model with this
engine is the heavy-weight Audi A8. It reaches 220 km/h and goes 0-100 km/h
in 9 seconds, wich is not bad for a 1600 kg car... It's average consuption
is only 7 l/100km. The VW-Audi group has already announced that the engine
will be available for the A4 and A6 models;
- This engine is very exciting, as the previous 2.5 tdi was already very
good. The previous Audi A6 only spent 6 l/100km average, wich is, in terms
of power/consumption ratio, even better than the 1.9 engine;
- There are still no news of this engine being installed on a Golf or a
A3. In my opinion, this can be possible, because the V6 engine is much
smaller and lighter than a "lined" cylinder. If this comes to happen, this
car would be the fastest and soberest diesel-powered car in the world;
- Finally, VW-Audi have projects on another two tdi engines: one small
three-cilinder for small urban cars (objective: average consupmtion below 3
l/100km), wich is to be released before 2000; and a big 8 or 10 cylinder to
the Audi A8 (objective: the fastest diesel car ever).

Keep up the good work!

Nelson Quinta <dl3cp@crazy.fe.up.pt>
Portugal - Friday, July 18, 1997 at 07:37:58 (PDT)
This is me third VW and my family (Father and sister) have been driving these things for years. I love my car. I am planning to trade my 93, golf for the new TDI. Does anyone have any idea when the cars will be out???? Hey VW!!!

PLease supple an answer!!!
Peter Gruszka <pgruszka@usa.net>
vancouver, BC Canada - Friday, July 18, 1997 at 11:48:04 (PDT)
Hi Fred,
Just thought I'd drop you a quick note to tell you that we've just
bought a 96 Passat TDI Station Wagon. (From Wolfe Autohaus in White
Rock B.C.) It cost us $29,300 (Now that is "sticker shock"!!) We did a
check through the VW dealers network accross Canada and there are NO
Passat TDI S/Ws available (5 Sedans though)
So of course in the laws of supply and demand we had to pay top dollar.
But we are pleased to get one!
I have a set of 16" NZ wheels and will equip them with 205 45 16" tires.
It should look wonderful.

I'll keep in touch with drivers experience.

Thanks again for your focus on the TDI Fred.

Peter
Peter <thebiggs@axionet.com>
Vancouver, BC CANADA - Friday, July 18, 1997 at 23:13:41 (PDT)
Have driven 2 TDI Passats a '96 and '97. Drove the '97 several months ago and was very impressed. The '96 was also impressive but didn't seem quite as quick. Would love to have a Jetta TDI, hope the 110 hp version would be available in the next few months. Too bad that we can't get Jetta TDI with higher trim level, would really like heated mirrors, driving lights, and probably electric windows - but like the size of the jetta more than the Passat. Currently drive an '89 diesel Jetta with 146,000 miles - most expensive repair: a headlight lens. Will pass this on to my son after I get TDI Jetta. HAd one at local dealer last week but he wanted $3500 over sticker. No Thanks.
David Zajano <dzajano@mail.bcpl.lib.md.us>
Phoenix, MD USA - Sunday, July 20, 1997 at 07:17:24 (PDT)
I have a 97 Passat TDI Sedan. Amazing car. Nothing else has the combination of interior volume,safety,handling and economy.
I also have a stock 84 GTI, an 83 GTI IT car and an 88 Golf daily driver that is an ongoing project.

The TDI is another ahead of its time car. It will spawn another class of imitators just as the
Rabbit GTI did.

Al
Allen Ruid <mailto:VW_RUNNER%20@COMPUSERVE.COM>
Monona, WI USA - Sunday, July 20, 1997 at 19:36:57 (PDT)
Anybody know where I can find an auxilliary (spare tire well?) diesel fuel tank for a new Jetta TDI?
Frank Markus <fmarkus@aol.com>
Detroit, MI US - Tuesday, July 22, 1997 at 11:37:01 (PDT)
Fred,
I am a new Passat TDI owner and enjoy your web pages very
much. I am wondering if anyone out there has noticed if the
ride is different (stiffer, more harsh) in the TDI Passat
compared to a non-diesel Passat?
Thanks again. - John Bambini
John Bambini <john.bambini@jci.com>
Kentwood, Michigan USA - Tuesday, July 22, 1997 at 17:19:46 (PDT)
Great stuff! Just test drove a 1997 TDi Jetta from Martingrove Motors in Woodbridge.... I ordered mine already. Reliable sources say that they are sitting in Maple just waiting to be released!! Shouldn't be more than a couple of weeks....
Jason Tower <jtower@recycltech.com>
Toronto, - Wednesday, July 23, 1997 at 15:29:38 (PDT)
picked up my passat tdi on 5/19 drove from ft.wayne, in to charlott, nc. good test for the passat. pouring rain, night driving, through mountains. excellent car. much more power than i expected. very quiet. put over 1500mi on the car in 2 days, very comfortable. avg fuel econmy was 50.2 mpg. i purchased the passat tdi with a sunroof and abs brakes. very well put together. also own a 1996 jetta gls. previously owned a 1988 jetta carat put over 100,000mi on the car the only repairs were a water pump at 50,000mi,one battery, eight tires, and routine maintenance. vw builds a great automobile. i fully expect the passat tdi to be the best car i have owned. after spending 24 hours in the car in the past couple of days i can not find even one item to complain about (except the lack of a glove box)...
ken taylor <ktaylor658 @ aol>
ft.wayne, in, usa - Thursday, July 24, 1997 at 19:46:46 (PDT)
Great info here! Questions: are there any Passat TDI's (new) left for sale in the mid-atlantic region? Also, how are the bumpers on the 97 Passats? Any better than the old VW bumpers? I am trying to persuade my wife to take a TDI -- but our only other diesel experience was a used Volvo 240D that turned out to be a real dog. Can anyone compare the Passat TDI performance to a Volvo 240 D? Also, during the week our next car wil be driven in stop and go city traffic during the week -- is that a problem for a TDI?traffic

Jeff Day <jday@bna.com>
Kensington, MD USA - Friday, July 25, 1997 at 12:58:00 (PDT)
Hi,

The TDI jetta is now available here. Yesterday, My brother and me went to try it. We want buy it but After trying it. We were very disappointed. It very noisy like having the huge truck engine on your fairly luxurious car and the power driven is not very impress us, so we decide don't buy it.
Because if you compare the price 25000$ (after tax)/quality and the power you might say it not a good choice.

Have you tried it?
Claude

Claude Ah-ki <claude.ah-ki@arcm.ca.astra.com>
Montreal, Quebec Canada - Friday, July 25, 1997 at 13:49:57 (PDT)
I purchased a 96 Passat TDI Wagon on 7/24 and will take delivery of it on Wednesday 7/30/97. Is tech bulleitn 239702 the one which discusses the TDI smoking problem??? Can anyone confirm this for me???

Thanks

Jonathan Magsino <magsinoj@idx.com>
Jamaica Plain, MA USA - Monday, July 28, 1997 at 08:46:59 (PDT)
Great site. My 97 Passat TDI has 4500 miles in six months.
It's smoked a lot, check engine light came on alot in the spring -
seems to, at least coincidentally, be related to cool and humid
weather. Saw a message about an ECM unit recall. I've got
an appointment tomorrow to have that done. It took over two
months for dealer to get the parts in and they swear its not
really necessary, it just turns off that annoying check engine
light. Service guy said initially that I probably wasn't
driving the car hard enough. Eventually, he gave in and ordered
the parts. Hoping this corrects the excessive smoke and helps the
mileage. Best tank so far has been 44mpg and its usually
around 37 - 39 mpg -- mixed city and highway. Its nice to
read some good comments about the TDI here - so far I haven't
been thrilled with it. We'll see what happens after the fix.
Ted Fickes <fickes@lynx.sni.net>
Denver, CO USA - Monday, July 28, 1997 at 14:21:04 (PDT)
I recently saw some pictures of the new Jetta under testing.

I am interested in purchasing a TDi but will more than likely wait until the new car comes out.

Does anyone know when that might be?

Cheers

mnb
Mike Bennett <mikeb@ycs.ab.ca>
Hinton, Ab. Canada - Monday, July 28, 1997 at 15:20:27 (PDT)
I've been interested in the TDI since VW announced the new engine, but I've only got 131K Miles on my '91 EcoDiesel Jetta....hopefully in a couple of years.

Has anyone heard about restyling of the Passat/Jetta/Golf??

I haven't seen any of the TDI's in the St. Louis area, and have only seen one other EcoDiesel!
Charles McBrien <cmcbrien@iw.edwpub.com>
Edwardsville, IL USA - Monday, July 28, 1997 at 20:12:41 (PDT)
According to the march issue of CAR magazine, VW are
preparing a new generation of super diesels.
Does anyone now when this engine will be fitted into the new
Passat ?
Jone Dirdal <JONE.DIRDAL@KRV.KVAERNER.COM>
Stavanger, Norway - Tuesday, July 29, 1997 at 02:33:09 (PDT)
Bought my TDI 4 months ago and love it. 50mpg is the norm and the car has plenty of pick up.
Mark Howard <MBHoward@compuserve.com>
Calverton, NY USA - Tuesday, July 29, 1997 at 08:10:39 (PDT)
Hey kids. I just returned from a 5,700 mile trip through
4 Provinces and 10 States. My best tank on the trip was
54mpg. My worst was 39mpg which occurred while driving
through Montana, where there is no daytime speed limit.
I averaged between 90-100 mph through the state, slowing
for road construction and a lot of RV's and the like.
The car performed flawlessly. I now have 37,000+ miles
with no problems to report. Treat your car well and it will
return the favor!

P.S. What a thrill to pass a Montana State Patrol at
85mph and nothing happened!!
Ken S. <hoosh@geocities.com>
Portland, OR USA - Wednesday, July 30, 1997 at 18:42:25 (PDT)
I am considering buying a Jetta TDI within the next six
months, probably sometime in Dec, Jan or Feb and would
appreciate hearing from anyone about there experiences
purchasing and/or owning a Jetta TDI.
Raymond S. Armstrong <armstrrs@bellatlantic.net>
Deptford, NJ USA - Thursday, July 31, 1997 at 10:59:54 (PDT)
Finally test drove TDI Jetta. Quiet, lots of pickup (even with AC on, good low speed/high gear
pulling power. I believe the car live's up to it's reputation, too bad VW wasn't marketing TDI's
a little more positively in NA. The down side is the Jetta is badged 97 and selling for $27000 on the road.
The 98's will be here in 2 months so buying now means taking a double whammy of
having to pay full list and losing one years depreciation right off the bat. This kind of defeats the
economics of owning a deisel.

Brian Cherry <bcherry@user.rose.com>
Scarborough, ON Canada - Thursday, July 31, 1997 at 12:56:56 (PDT)
I'm glad to find this site since I am seriously considering
a VW TDI.
GregAdams <fcsaga@idt.net>
Atlanta, GA USA - Thursday, July 31, 1997 at 17:22:05 (PDT)
Spotted a New Jetta TDI at a dealer in Northern New Jersey this morning.I was on my way to work and they weren't open but the sticker said $18500 with air, stereo, and sunroof.I'll stop by on my way home and see what the story is on the arrival of the Golf.
Rich Demeter <richdem@frontiernet.net>
NY, USA - Thursday, July 31, 1997 at 18:43:17 (PDT)
I got to test drive a Jetta TDI today. With the lighter
weight it seemed much quicker than a Passat TDI. I did not
notice the noise problem others have mentioned. With the
availability of the Jetta TDI being what it is around here
(bad) the dealer I visited would not even consider any
kind of discount. Maybe I'm a tightwad, but I will not pay
sticker. As much as I love the car, I would feel ripped off
if I did. The dealer gave me the song-and-dance "These are
the only ones we are getting until March 1998", but from
what I can tell from calling VwOA, there will be a good flow
of cars in the near future. So I will be patient. This car
is definitely worth it.

Greg Adams <fcsaga@idt.net>
Atlanta, GA USA - Friday, August 01, 1997 at 20:51:29 (PDT)
I finally spotted a Jetta TDI.. last week driving up I-95 through the Carolinas. Couldn't spot the sticker price, but the car was, as advertised here, black.

tg.

tom
charleston, sc usa - Saturday, August 02, 1997 at 19:51:16 (PDT)
oh yeah.. the TDI was on the back of a truck with a few "other" Jettas and Golfs.

tg.

tom < >
charleston, sc usa - Saturday, August 02, 1997 at 19:52:57 (PDT)
I've been driving a VW Jetta diesel since 91. I've been
waiting for the TDI Jetta to come to the US for quite some
time. Finally it came. Now I see the van in your home page
ad and it really intrests me. I didn't know there was one available. If you have any additional info on them please
send it to the above email.
Thank You,

Bill
Bill Dennison <whdsid@1stnet>
Woodsfield , Ohio USA - Wednesday, August 06, 1997 at 08:46:53 (PDT)
I, like you have been waiting for the Golf TDI since I saw
the initial ads in 95. Also like you I couldn't wait any longer,my Tercel
died last year. I have just recieved a TDI Jetta and have not been disappointed
The people at Agincourt Autohauss have been extremely supportive during my wait even to the point of
giving me a Golf cl on a short term lease until my Jetta was ready (more than a year).
So far I only have about 700 KMs on it which has accounted for the first tank of fuel. I expect that both
the milage and the performance will improve as the motor breaks in and as I become more accustomed to driving
a diesel.
Grant Ewen <Gewen@vnet.ibm.com>
Toronto, Ontario Canada - Wednesday, August 06, 1997 at 15:44:05 (PDT)
Well, not bad.
5,012km in two weeks.
Sigh. I hate commuting...!
Well, the car is definitely a little noisier than the Passat TDI. Don't get me wrong - this is kind of like saying a hamster is noisier
than a mouse; the car is really very quiet! No problems AT ALL in the first 5,000km - I have only put 6 tanks of fuel in it. Yup, I'm getting between 800 and 1000 km to a tank, depending on how adventurous I feel on the local highways...!
The engine doesn't create much heat AT ALL - I did a 372km trip, and I could still place my hand on the cover that shrouds the engine block. The hood is cool at all times!
The heater in the car (it's July - like I really need it!) works like a treat. It has to CREATE heat, as there isn't enough in the engine compartment due to the efficient (and therefore cool) motor.
Only thing that I have noticed (not limited to TDI) is the spray pattern for the 97 Jetta is really weird. Okay, it DOES cover the entire windscreen (sorry, windshield for all North Americans!) but it ALSO put tiny droplets on the rear windows, and all the OTHER windows on the car.
Shiny car with thousands of teeny little "blotches" where the washer fluid dries... Grrr!

Still the only Jetta TDI in the area - I keep driving it onto VW dealer lots... the staff come running out every time!!!!

R.C.A. <rca@techie.com>
Canada - Thursday, August 07, 1997 at 09:32:40 (PDT)
be aware of corrosion, not a problem if you spray it ....
hakan ericsson <hakan.ericsson@karlskrona.mail.telia.com>
karlskrona, sweden - Friday, August 08, 1997 at 08:15:01 (PDT)
It's been about 5000 miles since I had TSB 97-02 performed on my '96 Passat TDI sedan to correct the smoking. I strongly urge anyone that still has a smoking TDI to check to see if this TSB applies!

Tech. Service Bulletin (TSB) 97-02 (supercedes 97-01 of Jan. 28, '97)
Date: Feb. 19, 1997
Subject: Exhaust Smoke, Intermittently Visible
Models: Passat with engine code 1Z, 1996, Turbo Direct Injection (TDI)
Condition: Visible smoke from exhaust system when accelerating (e.g., taking off from a stop or when shifting gears).

Replace Engine Control Module (ECM) with Part No. 028 906 021 GQ
Replace injectors 1,2, and 4 with Part No. 028 130 202P
Replace injector No. 3 with Part No. 028 130 202Q
Replace injector sealing washers Part No. 046 130 219A
Transfer ECM data via scan tool. Start engine, check for leaks, road test.

I picked up a couple of extra miles per gallon, and I stopped getting people flipping me off and honking their horns after getting gassed-out as I accelerated.
As usual, several VW techs didn't know their own product. "All diesels smoke". "What tech bulletin?". "First I heard of it". Even the VWOA customer service folks were behind the curve by about a month (They only knew of TSB 97-01).

Last year there were posts about some defective turbos being replaced prior to this fix, but I haven't come across a TSB that addresses it.
TSB 97-02 seems to be THE fix to get.

There were also some posts about this TSB disconnecting the injection of the fuel into the catalytic converter. No mention is made of this in the TSB, so it must be a function of the ECM on how much is injected. I have noticed that after starting the vehicle in the morning, that a slight stumble is evident while slowly cruising in first gear. After the first stop sign, I am slowly accelerating and shifting gears without a stumble.
Would like to know if anyone else with the fix has experienced this.

'96 Passat TDI sedan (Storm Grey)
Brent Claffey
Claffey Surname Organization
Brent Claffey <claffeyb@vitro.com>
- Saturday, August 09, 1997 at 10:02:55 (PDT)
A great web page. Have enjoyed reading about the frustration of others in trying to get information about tdi. Wife already has tdi and since I am a ex VW mechanic the job of servicing this beast is now my responsibility. I've written Robert Bently trying to obtain a service manual but they dont have them as yet.
If somebody knows where to buy this elusive book let me know.
Robert Kincaid
Austin, Tx
my address is robert.kincaid@MCI2000.com

Robert Kincaid <robert.kincaid@MCI2000.com>
Austin, Tx USA - Sunday, August 10, 1997 at 18:10:32 (PDT)
When will the Golf TDI be available in North America? What's taking so long?
Simon Wilson <simwil@ibm.net>
Ottawa, Ontario Canada - Monday, August 11, 1997 at 18:32:43 (PDT)
picked up my passat tdi on 5/19 drove from ft.wayne, in to charlott, nc. good test for the passat. pouring rain, night driving, through mountains. excellent car. much more power than i expected. very quiet. put over 1500mi on the car in 2 days, very comfortable. avg fuel econmy was 50.2 mpg. i purchased the passat tdi with a sunroof and abs brakes. very well put together. also own a 1996 jetta gls. previously owned a 1988 jetta carat put over 100,000mi on the car the only repairs were a water pump at 50,000mi,one battery, eight tires, and routine maintenance. vw builds a great automobile. i fully expect the passat tdi to be the best car i have owned. after spending 24 hours in the car in the past couple of days i can not find even one item to complain about (except the lack of a glove box)...
ken taylor <ktaylor658 @ aol>
ft.wayne, in, usa - Wednesday, August 13, 1997 at 18:27:10 (PDT)
Dear everyone,

I recently ordered a new Golf Rabbit TDi 110 HP, which has to arrive at the end of November. Meanwhile I' looking for as much information about the car as I can get. Up till now one question arose: the Golf I ordered will be equipped with 185/60 HR 14 tires and Orlando-alloys, which is presumably inappropriate, considering the enormous torque of the engine. Can anyone advise me about which tires I should order before my car arrives or is there anyone who has no traction problems at all with 185/60 HR 14 tires?
De Vos M <Michel.DeVos@rug.ac.be>
Gent, Belgium - Friday, August 15, 1997 at 02:52:52 (PDT)
Can anyone please advise if VW plans to release a golf TDI
in the 1998 model year. There are Jetta TDI's available but
the $18,000 + price tag is just too much.
John Stangenberg <bighead@frontiernet.net>
Maybrook, NY USA - Sunday, August 17, 1997 at 09:26:18 (PDT)
We just got back from a month long trip with our two month old passat TDI. We crossed Ontario and Quebec and then descended into Maine. We returned via a lengthy U.S. route. The car performed very well, especially at high speeds, although I found myself wanting a sixth gear at about 90 mph. With over 10k miles, we have seen no signs of the reported smoking problems.

Unfortunately, an 18-wheeler rolled into the front of the car during a traffic jam outside Chicago. I'm sad to report that the bumper is not very substantial (but what would be when put under such pressure?). Also, there is a significant design flaw in that the fenders are both damaged when the bumper is compressed. The repair bill will be in the multi-thousand dollar range.

I saw a TDI synchro wagon on the street in Madison, WI the other day. I didn't know this was available in the U.S. Has anyone else seen one or know where they are available?
Christian Jenkins <cjenkins@rbvdnr.com>
Madison, WI USA - Monday, August 18, 1997 at 10:27:43 (PDT)
When will they be available in USA? Canada?
Any news?
THanks
Peter GOodrich <pgoodrch@providence.edu>
Newton, MA USA - Tuesday, August 19, 1997 at 16:14:55 (PDT)
I would like to hear from any ham radio operators that
operate mobile HF rigs in the Passat TDI. I am interested
in knowing if there are any sources of bad electrical noise
(pump motors etc.) that cause problems on reception.

Thanks,

Chuck, W5UXH

Chuck Broadwell <cbroadwe@juno.com>
Socorro, NM US - Tuesday, August 19, 1997 at 18:46:44 (PDT)
I am a TDI driver myself looking for better performance and
a good serviced engine.

Doing oil service myself I experience only one problem that
I need to reset again the service interval indication under
control by the engine management system.

Does anyone know which codes and what protocol need to be
used?
Is this available in any book or maybe on the web ?

TDI driving is just fun!
Bruno VERMEULEN <bvermeulen@lucent.com>
GENT, Belgium - Thursday, August 21, 1997 at 03:42:34 (PDT)
It appears that the TDI engine will not be available in the
new Passat for some time, maybe next summer. Given that
anything could happen between now and then, I have e-mailed
VW in Germany and expressed my desire to see this engine in
the new Passat. I really do believe they are underestimating
the market for the TDI here in the US. They have shot
themselves in the foot so often with inept marketing that
I would not be surprised if they did not send us the Passat
TDI.

If anybody hears any different, please let me know.

Thanks.
Greg Adams <fcsaga@idt.net>
Atlanta, GA USA - Thursday, August 21, 1997 at 08:05:47 (PDT)
Hello there,

I am interested in getting more specs on the 1998 VW Passat TDI for the US market.
I am interested in knowing if the engine has had any problems in
the previous years i.e. 1997, 1996. I read on some news
groups, and in the media, that the engine emits black smoke
in lower gears.

This I know is a mechancial problem. Has VW done anything to
correct the problem? If so, what?

I have short listed the 1998 VW Passat TDI, and would like to have
as much info. as possible before I make a decision. Also, do you
have any info. on the tentative date for release?

Your response would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!
Dominic Pereira
Dominic Pereira <depereira@hotmail.com>
Falls Church, VA USA - Tuesday, August 26, 1997 at 07:26:24 (PDT)
Anyone have info on upgrading an A2 diesel to TDI? Please let me know. Thanks!
Tom Miller <tmiller@mail.multiverse.com>
Eastlake, Ohio USA - Saturday, August 30, 1997 at 20:55:47 (PDT)

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