Oh god not another looking for car thread...

[Prosthetic]

Yeah. So here is my situation, I am 17 and turn 18 in December. Shortly after i turn 18 i want to move to central Florida where i will attend college. I am getting my license the I turn 18 since I have bigger better things to focus on right now. But I'm going to need a car that isn't to expensive, reliable, decent gas mileage, but something that is big enough to carry my stuff on my move. I will probably have a u-haul trailer also. With my desk and stuff so I really don't want something with a wimpy engine, because I will most likely have a lot of stuff.

And it has to be comfortable and have a cd-player and such cause I'm not about to drive 3k miles with no music and no comfort. So total price range about 13-14k max. I was thinking of a VW Passat of some kind. Not to sure at this point.

I live in the Bay Area of California, area code 415 just for extra info.

 

[High-Test]

Erm.. How old are you willing to go?

Let me make my standard fare suggestion(s).

Mercedes-Benz W124.

Any vintage, the 94-95s are prettier and quicker, but some think the motor isn't as "bulletproof". If you want Roomy, the Estate is the way to go. My 1995 "320TE" (E320 Estate) carried almost everything I had from Kansas City to NDSU, with the exception of a TV and a small shelf/drawer table. I haven't done a voyage quite as long as yours, but I have put 11,500 miles on mine since august. Apart from a few paint chips and a wiper motor, mine hasn't flinched.

Pros:
Practically bulletproof.
Can be had cheaply (under 7500 tops, I think)
I6 has plenty of grunt to do the job. (especially on the highway)
Roomy. The Wagon especially. I believe the trunks on the sedans are pretty big as well.
Mileage is good for a car of its size(and age). I get around 22 mpg at eighty-five miles per hour. It goes up to around 25-26, below eighty.
It's Rear wheel drive, that's always good, right?

Cons:
It's a Mercedes, parts are more expensive. Most everything can be done at an independent mechanic for FAR cheaper than the MB dealer.
No cupholders. This isn't an issue for me, but for some it could be.
Only three wiper speeds.
Many won't have a CD player. (Mine came with an aftermarket Unit)

The Passat is an excellent idea as well. 👍 YSSMAN and the VeeDub people know far more about them than I do. But even with the VW, you'd sufffer from "German auto part syndrome" that causes inflammation of part prices.

Or a used Dodge Magnum or a Malibu Maxx, those could be had for around 13k by now, I think.

 

[Prosthetic]

Erm.. How old are you willing to go?

Let me make my standard fare suggestion(s).

Mercedes-Benz W124.

Any vintage, the 94-95s are prettier and quicker, but some think the motor isn't as "bulletproof". If you want Roomy, the Estate is the way to go. My 1995 "320TE" (E320 Estate) carried almost everything I had from Kansas City to NDSU, with the exception of a TV and a small shelf/drawer table. I haven't done a voyage quite as long as yours, but I have put 11,500 miles on mine since august. Apart from a few paint chips and a wiper motor, mine hasn't flinched.

Pros:
Practically bulletproof.
Can be had cheaply (under 7500 tops, I think)
I6 has plenty of grunt to do the job. (especially on the highway)
Roomy. The Wagon especially. I believe the trunks on the sedans are pretty big as well.
Mileage is good for a car of its size(and age). I get around 22 mpg at eighty-five miles per hour. It goes up to around 25-26, below eighty.
It's Rear wheel drive, that's always good, right?

Cons:
It's a Mercedes, parts are more expensive. Most everything can be done at an independent mechanic for FAR cheaper than the MB dealer.
No cupholders. This isn't an issue for me, but for some it could be.
Only three wiper speeds.
Many won't have a CD player. (Mine came with an aftermarket Unit)

The Passat is an excellent idea as well. 👍 YSSMAN and the VeeDub people know far more about them than I do. But even with the VW, you'd sufffer from "German auto part syndrome" that causes inflammation of part prices.

Or a used Dodge Magnum or a Malibu Maxx, those could be had for around 13k by now, I think.

Thanks a lot. The Merc does sound tempting, considering the fact that there are a ton of them around here. Same with the Passat. A used Magnum and Malibu may be harder to find a good one but not impossible.

And what about Volvo 240's? Anyone? I used to get a ride in one which had leather interior, and I found it very comfy.

 

[High-Test]

Thanks a lot. The Merc does sound tempting, considering the fact that there are a ton of them around here. Same with the Passat. A used Magnum and Malibu may be harder to find a good one but not impossible.

And what about Volvo 240's? Anyone? I used to get a ride in one which had leather interior, and I found it very comfy.

No problem.

Hahahahaha!! Dude! Over the summer I was looking for a new car, and I wanted a Volvo 240 soo badly! But I couldn't find one in good shape for a decent price. (I found one that I could swear was built YESTERDAY, but the guy wanted limbs for it) The W124 won out in the end, as I personally liked its ride and interior better.

The 240s are fantastic cars, and have an almost cult following. They're somewhat hefty.. 28-2900lbs, and they have all of 114 horses. If you find a turbo, I think it's around 140-150. A 240 is easier to find with a manual than the mercedes, if that's something that really matters to you. They're definitely comfy. I test drove a 745 and a 245, and they both had a good feel to them. The 240 seemed a tiny bit squirrely, but maybe because it's a very nimble car for its size and weight. The quirk factor definitely helps. There's something about a Volvo 245 that just brings a smile to my face. I can't figure out what it is. They look really cool with the stock alloys and chrome center covers. 👍

Both the Volvo and the Mercedes are extremely reliable vehicles. I think Either way you'd win.

If you're on the older Volvo note, try looking for a 940. They can be had with turbo and the eggcrate grille...

My friend had a 940 Turbo, but she had to pass it on to her little brother. I hope Matt realizes he's driving a rocketship..

 

[Thirdeye]

Subaru Outback or Impreza Wagon. Lots of room for your move, and decent gas mileage to boot. If you don't care for or want the wagon style, the Subaru Legacy sedan and the Impreza Sedans are also very nice looking, and very good cars.

 

[Perfect Balance]

Hold on, you have 14k to spend on a car, and your criteria includes "not too expensive"?

You can buy BRAND NEW car for that much money (depending on what it is)

And a VW passat is probbaly not a good choice if you're looking for reliability. Some people might claim otherwise, but I can name at least 5 people off the top of my head who had major problems with their jetta/passat/golf.


I agree with thirdeye though, great choices, but add legacy to the list.

 

[Diablomonkey]

Toyota Corolla FTW!
or some kind of Toyota. If you take care of them they will live forever.

 

[YSSMAN]

I agree with Perfect here... If you're willing to spend $14K, there are some newer cars that you could get into that could handle the job. Maybe not the power part, but certainly the reliability/fun to drive/good looks/etc factor.

As far as the Passat is concerned, what generation were you looking at? I assume you'd be diving into a B5 or B5.5 version of the car, and personally speaking, I'm more impartial to the B5.5 models. They looked quite a bit better, and post-2003, were screwed together a bit better (Just like the Jetta and Golf). However, like always, you've gotta be cautious and know what you're getting into. If it breaks, it will likely be expensive... But otherwise, running costs are usually pretty low.

I think the only real alternative to the newer wagons like the Passat would be the Subaru Outback, maybe something like a Chevrolet Malibu Maxx. I'd stay away from the Maxx. Thats saying a lot coming from a GM guy...

===

Question:

What about the Honda CR-V or a Toyota RAV4? They'd likely be able to carry your stuff and otherwise be "reasonable" vehicles any other time...

 

[backspace]

Buy a Honda something or other, bring it somewhere to get get maintenance done, aside from regular servicing, leave it alone. Save the rest of the money.

Seriously. You've got at least double the amount of money you really need to spend and all your worried about is a CD player. Why is this a hard decision?


And why do W124's seem to be the greatest things since sliced bread lately? That fifth gear video really didn't impress me.

 

[Diablomonkey]

Do you realize what I could do with 13-14K???
I could have a fully built drift car. Yeah I would have to do all the work my self but still like mentioned above that is a lot of money and you can get a lot of car for 8-9K now a days. Be sure to buy a used car preferably one that still has a warranty. Like I said above TOYOTA!!!! you wont regret it.

 

[Prosthetic]

No problem.

Hahahahaha!! Dude! Over the summer I was looking for a new car, and I wanted a Volvo 240 soo badly! But I couldn't find one in good shape for a decent price. (I found one that I could swear was built YESTERDAY, but the guy wanted limbs for it) The W124 won out in the end, as I personally liked its ride and interior better.

The 240s are fantastic cars, and have an almost cult following. They're somewhat hefty.. 28-2900lbs, and they have all of 114 horses. If you find a turbo, I think it's around 140-150. A 240 is easier to find with a manual than the mercedes, if that's something that really matters to you. They're definitely comfy. I test drove a 745 and a 245, and they both had a good feel to them. The 240 seemed a tiny bit squirrely, but maybe because it's a very nimble car for its size and weight. The quirk factor definitely helps. There's something about a Volvo 245 that just brings a smile to my face. I can't figure out what it is. They look really cool with the stock alloys and chrome center covers. 👍

Both the Volvo and the Mercedes are extremely reliable vehicles. I think Either way you'd win.

If you're on the older Volvo note, try looking for a 940. They can be had with turbo and the eggcrate grille...

My friend had a 940 Turbo, but she had to pass it on to her little brother. I hope Matt realizes he's driving a rocketship..

I will look into 940, all the Volvo's I have been in have been great cars. Same with Mercs, and most VeeDubs Thats why I want to look into those cars. And cars from this time seem to last forever.

Subaru Outback or Impreza Wagon. Lots of room for your move, and decent gas mileage to boot. If you don't care for or want the wagon style, the Subaru Legacy sedan and the Impreza Sedans are also very nice looking, and very good cars.

Problem is with the Prez, is that insurence for a 18 year old would be a bitch. I love them, but I think I will be paying to much for them.

Hold on, you have 14k to spend on a car, and your criteria includes "not too expensive"?

You can buy BRAND NEW car for that much money (depending on what it is)

And a VW passat is probbaly not a good choice if you're looking for reliability. Some people might claim otherwise, but I can name at least 5 people off the top of my head who had major problems with their jetta/passat/golf.


I agree with thirdeye though, great choices, but add legacy to the list.

Thats what I was thinking, thats why I'm asking! I totally forgot about the Legacy. I think that just about the nail on the board for what I want.

Toyota Corolla FTW!
or some kind of Toyota. If you take care of them they will live forever.

Corolla's are to small. I like them, but there small.

I agree with Perfect here... If you're willing to spend $14K, there are some newer cars that you could get into that could handle the job. Maybe not the power part, but certainly the reliability/fun to drive/good looks/etc factor.

As far as the Passat is concerned, what generation were you looking at? I assume you'd be diving into a B5 or B5.5 version of the car, and personally speaking, I'm more impartial to the B5.5 models. They looked quite a bit better, and post-2003, were screwed together a bit better (Just like the Jetta and Golf). However, like always, you've gotta be cautious and know what you're getting into. If it breaks, it will likely be expensive... But otherwise, running costs are usually pretty low.

I think the only real alternative to the newer wagons like the Passat would be the Subaru Outback, maybe something like a Chevrolet Malibu Maxx. I'd stay away from the Maxx. Thats saying a lot coming from a GM guy...

===

Question:

What about the Honda CR-V or a Toyota RAV4? They'd likely be able to carry your stuff and otherwise be "reasonable" vehicles any other time...

I really want to stay away from SUV's because I may take the car to the track for some fun, and roll would probably be horrible. And the Maxx, I'm not to fond of the styling. And the fact that I have heard some iffing things about them.

If I have some major problems with the car I can always call up my dad, because he majored in auto engineering, and he knows a lot about engines. He can defiantly figure out the problem. If not I can always take it to a garage.

Buy a Honda something or other, bring it somewhere to get get maintenance done, aside from regular servicing, leave it alone. Save the rest of the money.

Seriously. You've got at least double the amount of money you really need to spend and all your worried about is a CD player. Why is this a hard decision?

And why do W124's seem to be the greatest things since sliced bread lately? That fifth gear video really didn't impress me.

No CD player isn't needed, but it highly recommended since I will be driving 3k miles, but I can always buy my self one, and put it in.

Do you realize what I could do with 13-14K???
I could have a fully built drift car. Yeah I would have to do all the work my self but still like mentioned above that is a lot of money and you can get a lot of car for 8-9K now a days. Be sure to buy a used car preferably one that still has a warranty. Like I said above TOYOTA!!!! you wont regret it.

13-14k is a lot, but my dad has had a good paying job for the last 30 years. So I do have room to work with. And I come here because, me nor my dad aren't to up to date to whats a good buy and not.

Toyota's are great cars, but there really isn't one that will have enough room.

 

[Rotary Junkie]

A Ford Probe or Mazda MX-6 wouldn't be bad if you can find one that's been well taken care of. I know of one first-gen that looks as if it just rolled off the showroom floor despite having 160k+ miles on the clock, all from the Michigan daily grind, and it runs like new as well. Of course, it has the V6 and a stick, with the clutch only recently dying in it.

If you can find a low-mileage first-gen LX, go for that. Doesn't matter if it has the 2.2l four or the V6, the four will knock down great fuel economy while still being plenty quick, the V6's power is just gravy. I'd say to avoid the GT which has the turbo 2.2, just because they are more likely to be beaten to **** by the owners.

EDIT: Well, of course, you did want a lot of space, but the Probe can swallow a good bit of stuff with the rear seat bottom cushions removed and the seatback folded down (dead flat surface FTW!). I can pretty much guarantee that you won't be disappointed by one that's been maintained well, as they don't handle bad, they're comfortable for both front-seat passengers (rear seat legroom is lacking, so I say to keep the rear seatbacks down and call it a two seater) with good seats even on the base models, and the car's light enough to be quick even with 'only' 120hp in the four cylinder.

 

[GT Pro]

If he has up to 14k to spend, why should he resort to a Corolla? He most likely isn't an A-to-B driver and the Corolla is the perfect example of that. Yes, Toyota's are indeed a reliable breed but don't be that boring.

 

[Casio]

If he has up to 14k to spend, why should he resort to a Corolla? He most likely isn't an A-to-B driver and the Corolla is the perfect example of that. Yes, Toyota's are indeed a reliable breed but don't be that boring.

But I'm going to need a car that isn't to expensive, reliable, decent gas mileage, but something that is big enough to carry my stuff on my move.

Fits are Corolla pretty well. And they aren't that bad. It's as reliable as any old Volvo will be.

 

[Jim Prower]

Decent mileage, torquey engine, bulletproof...

First-gen Chevrolet S-10?

Pros:
Reliable, bulletproof, torquey V6
You want cheap? There's a perfect example at a dealer near my house for about $4,000. That's on the high side.
Easy to find parts for, be they OEM, or speed parts. cheap, too.
Hauling stuff to college is a breeze with a bed. It's not like you're hauling your friends to college, too, right?
Mileage better than a fullsize, go 2wd Regular cab for best.
It's an FR.
You can modify the hell out of it. Smallblock V8, Turbo V6...and it's a fairly light vehicle that can be easily lowered and stuck with sports springs and shocks. with your budget, you could buy it, take it to Florida, and build it into a fairly unique track machine.

Cons:
Comfort's a problem, but the ride's not too harsh, if I remember my grandpa's S-10. Load it down and it'll be even better.
Only two seats in the recommended model. (You could get a Blazer, though...)
Probably no C.D. player. One of the later first-gens ('92 or so) might have cupholders, don't remember. ah, well, an aftermarket head unit's cheap.
Not sure about fuel mileage, but it cant be much worse than the big Merc, right?
Finding one that hasn't been abused...might be a problem, but most have held together very well over the years.
It is a truck, not a car.

Tips:
Look for the bigger V6. Anything else is so underpowered that you won't get any better mileage.
Look for '91-'93 models, since they're typically in better condition. You CAN get a newer one if you want, but they're really not all that much better for your price. they don't even look as good.
These are from the days where people actually used their trucks as, well, trucks. Look for signs of excessive wear.

There's a S10 Blazer owner on the forums who I'm sure could tell you more...

((Aside, how can you afford $13-14K so young?))

 

[Tornado]

There's a S10 Blazer owner on the forums who I'm sure could tell you more...

I have been called, so a few things:

Mileage better than a fullsize, go 2wd Regular cab for best.

Mileage in mine is practically identical, if not worse, than a full size. The 4.3 was a good torquey motor, but it was a thirsty one (the only S10 motor that wasn't was the Iron Duke, and that was trash). I've read stories of owners doing V8 swaps and then getting better mileage.
Granted, mine has bigger-than-stock tires on it, but still.

You CAN get a newer one if you want, but they're really not all that much better for your price. they don't even look as good.

They have better seats, but much less usable space. I'd spring for a last-of-the-1st-generation model if I was going to get one.

 

[ROAD_DOGG33J]

Honda Accord Wagon or some sort of Subaru wagon (possibly WRX)

 

[backspace]

If he has up to 14k to spend, why should he resort to a Corolla? He most likely isn't an A-to-B driver and the Corolla is the perfect example of that. Yes, Toyota's are indeed a reliable breed but don't be that boring.

Did you read his description?

• 
  comfortable

• 
  isn't to expensive

• 
  reliable

• 
  decent gas mileage

• 
  big enough to carry my stuff on my move

• 
  CD player

Sounds more like an A-B car then something he's going to autoX.
Why spend 14K on a car if those are your requirements, and your soon to be in college?

 

[YSSMAN]

Because you can? Thats my guess...

With AutoX in the picture, I'd say that limits the wagon question to a select few vehicles:

- Pontiac Vibe GT
- Toyota Matrix XRS
- Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T Wagon (likely would be my choice, IF you can find one post-2003 for a decent price. You can also find VR6 models out there as well.)
- Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Wagon
- Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon
- Honda Civic Si (the hatchy one)
- Malibu Maxx SS (I'm still a bit weary, but by God that 3.9L is strong!)

...Yeah...

There are a decent number of choices out there, but a good number of them are going to be very different styles of vehicle. Anything "sporty" is likely to have a four-pot, so that would make heavy duty hauling nearly out of the question. Crank up the power, and you're going to start losing a lot of that sporting potential. The Volkswagens likely have the best balance in that area with the optional VR6 models, but I'd likely gravitate towards the 1.8T because of the fuel savings and the overall flexibility of the engine. That is, if you are buying a 2003+ model. Anything older and I get very scared of those engines very, very easily.

On that note: Boost controller + exhaust = instant WIN on the 1.8T... Very small modifications can do a long way on that engine, and furthermore, if you're really into tuning it for AutoX, you've got a wide range of options with the Jetta over the Passat. Suspension, wheels, tires, exhaust, turbos, intercoolers, etc... I've seen some wicked models in my day, but of course, that requires even more $$$MONEY$$$.

Volkswagens aren't cheap. They aren't always super-reliable. But I'll be damned if they weren't some of the most soulful cars on the road, every one of them with a mine of their own...

 

[Rotary Junkie]

YSSMAN, you missed it. backspace was saying that it sounds more like something he's NOT going to auto-x.

 

[YSSMAN]

Ah, my apologies then...

However: I still stand by the declaration of support on the Jetta Wagon. The good ride/handling trade-off is unmatched, nab yourself a GLX VR6, and you'd be in like Flinn...

 

[Thirdeye]

I dunno if someone mentioned it yet, but the Honda Fit would also have a lot of room, and they're reliable and you could find one for 13-14k lightly used. Another car I'm very partial to is the Nissan Maxima, and 2nd gen Altima (like the one I used to own, but you could get one for way less than 13-14k).

 

[Philly]

First, I have to question your desire for a big car. True, you will have to carry all your stuff for college, but unless you have to carry all of your furnishings because your college doesn't provide it for you, you will probably be pretty miserable. Dorm rooms are small. You don't want a lot. I still have a good portion of my stuff sitting untouched in my closet unused. You could probably fit everything you need in a Honda Fit. I would still recommend a hatchback though.

Cars I would recommend:

• Volkswagen Passat
• Volkswagen Jetta
• Subaru Outback
• Mazda 3
• Mazda 6
• You can find a Mercedes/BMW/Jaguar in questionable shape
• Or do what every kid in Michigan does and get a Grand Prix.

 

[Thirdeye]

Mazda3 would be a great choice, good call on that, forgot about it.

 

[Rotary Junkie]

Ford Probe. With 14k to spend, you better be able to find a damn nice one.

Or get one made perfect, for that matter.

 

[Bram Turismo]

Toyota Corolla FTW!
or some kind of Toyota. If you take care of them they will live forever.

Finally someone brings it up 👍

If he has up to 14k to spend, why should he resort to a Corolla? He most likely isn't an A-to-B driver and the Corolla is the perfect example of that. Yes, Toyota's are indeed a reliable breed but don't be that boring.

Boring?

This guy is about to buy his first car, and the last thing you need when going to college is an expensive car. In my opinion a mid-90's Corolla is about the best thing you can buy, ok, it's small, but it's extremely reliable, and it so easy to use. We've been driving Toyotas ever since my parents got their DL's so I think I've got enough reason to state they're reliable cars

A perfect first car is something that actually drives, easy to use, small and light, cheap, and if something goes wrong, you can learn how to fix it yourself, without too many costs. Japanese mid-90's cars are perfect for this 👍 You ever compared a 90's engine to for instance an engine of a Golf V? You cannot even see it without removing this pointless plastic cover...

Toyota or Honda, those would be my bets 👍 And the more money you save, the more you can use afterwards


On reliability of Passats, I don't know the difference between US and EU Passats, but there's nothing wrong with VW's reliability as far as I've heard people talking?

 

[Tornado]

I think for a first car the last thing he wants is a insurance/repair pit that any Subaru or Volkswagen would be. Not everyone is as crazy as YSSMAN.
I also wouldn't want a Corolla. Get a base level Civic instead. Or throw caution to the wind and buy a Contour.

 

[Gil]

If you have 14,000 in hand to spend. It would make a a nice down payment on a Mazda 6 or a 3.
You'd owe about $3000 on a 3 and about twice that on a 6.
For that you get a brand new car that is fully warranteed, gets reasonable to very good fuel economy, and is very well equipped.

A standard 3 with a 2.0 comes with a CD changer, iPod hookup, steering wheel controls for audio system, cruise control, and a trunk that's big enough for about as much stuff as you want to carry, before you fold down the back seats. The hatch has even more cargo room, and all the same amenities. Plus it gets 30+ MPG.

The Mazda6 iSport Value Package leaves the lot for under 20 grand, with the same stuff that's on the 3 (except iPod dongle) plus the ability to play MP3 CDs (so you can concieveably have just over 3 gigs of music in your CD player at anytime on MP3 discs.)
The 4 cyl version is plenty powerful, gets 28 MPG, and isn't hard to look at.

You could also put that down on a VW, as they have 3 models starting in the $17,000 range...

 

[socomplayer2]

Yo, I am 2 weeks older than you and looking for a car too. I'm sure a lot of our criteria are the same. BTW are you a senior?

Some of my main choices
1. MKV VW Jetta or rabbit (I have driven both + a GTi)
2. 2001-2007 Subaru Wrx wagon (NOT sti)
3. E36 BMW 4door sedan (NOT m3)
4. 2000-2006 Dodge Neon
5. 1993-2002 v6 camaro/firebird t-tops
6. Nissan Versa hatchback

 

[YSSMAN]

No! Don't do the Versa!

I drove one last week and I almost fell asleep at the wheel. Maybe its because I wasn't in the "sporty" SL with *insert sporty thing here*, but I didn't like it at all.

===

Or do what every kid in Michigan does and get a Grand Prix.

We are a sick, sick people aren't we? But hey, they aren't all that bad...

---

I think for a first car the last thing he wants is a insurance/repair pit that any Subaru or Volkswagen would be. Not everyone is as crazy as YSSMAN.

I whole-heartedly agree. If you can afford it, and are willing to take the risk, I don't know of many cars that are as rewarding and create brand loyalty as quick as Volkswagen and Subaru.

Minor talking point: Subaru and Volkswagen owners are actually pretty similar, both companies have done studies about it, and talk about it pretty openly. Every time I look at either or, they usually ask if you've been looking at one or the other. Quite funny actually...

But yeah, you have to watch out for head gasket, wheel bearing and clutch issues with the more-current Subarus. Volkswagen problems vary by model and by year, but its usually rattles, broken buttons, and occasional turbo issues if they aren't maintained properly (that is, if you get a 1.8T model).

~~~~

On reliability of Passats, I don't know the difference between US and EU Passats, but there's nothing wrong with VW's reliability as far as I've heard people talking?

Depends I guess, but generally speaking the Passat fares much better overall than the Mexican-built Jetta and Golf. Its usually the general VW things, a few issues with the overall quality, and general maintenance issues if they weren't properly taken care of. The 1.8T is hit and miss before 2003 (mostly miss), but the VR6 and W8 engines are solid for the most part. Its just those damn interior issues. Window motor issues, as I recall, are a pretty common problem...

I always ask if there is any paperwork to go with a Volkswagen, its good to see what kind of repair history the car has. Its usually not a matter of IF it will break, but usually WHEN it will break... And furthermore, HOW BAD it will break.

But if you're actually, seriously considering a Volkswagen (or a Subaru) you should know what you're getting into. I always hear people bitch and complain about the cars, and then I'll ask if they've had one before, and they'll usually say "No."

If you expect it and understand it, it won't piss you off as much. But that being said, before my Jetta decided to "die," it was wearing on my patience...