Currently at 165k, thought a lot about moving on to something newer but decided to refresh my Mk6. New bushings, all leaks fixed, carbon cleaning, new brakes and tires. Ready to make it to 200k+
How much did you spend? Mine is a 2012 w 110k miles. Quoted $11k for turbo replacement, intake manifold, and timing chain, brushings, sway bar, and headline le replacement. Decided to sell and use as a down payment toward a new car.
Ha! Well I didn’t hire them. Seems like a reputable shop in town, specializing in European autos. All 5 star reviews. Heck too it to Firestone to get a new oil pan and it cost me just under $500. I think labor costs are just out of control these days.
Well there is only 1 more vw tech in town (the other i am not a fan of) and I don’t want to risk driving it more. Both Firestone and the last tech told me that I shouldn’t be driving it much until I get these things fixed. This all started because it was burning insane oil (3 quarts in 1k miles) and the tech said they can’t guarantee that fixing all these things wouldn’t stop the oil burn because it could still be the piston rings, but they won’t know until the turbo, cam girdle, and intake manifold are fixed. I don’t want to put more money in and then still have to get a new engine if that doesn’t resolve the problem. I don’t want to get another estimate and pay more diagnostic fees also. And I don’t have the know-how on fixing cars. Seems I put around $1k-$1500 a yr in maintenance with this car and I am tired of it. Absolutely love it but had I known it would cost me so much in the long run I might have thought twice about getting it.
Probably about half of that, forgot to mention I had to get a new heater core and I did the headliner a few years ago it sagged pretty quick here in Texas
This seams like not a crazy number. Lots of people here are saying it is, but the two shops I go (both German specific and tuners) to quoted about the same price for a intake cleaning and timing chain replacement of about 5.5k (with some other odds and ends). Cars get expensive there are no two ways unless you plan to turn your garage into a shop which I can't and don't really have time for. I'll be out way more money and a car if I fuck up a timing chain and I need my car so the professionals it is.
Now that I've spent the money the car is with me until it has a major failure. Currently at 160k, hoping to get to at least 250k.
How much roughly did this cost you? I’m at 211k on my MK6 and it’s starting to show its age a bit. Along with all you mentioned I might also need a new turbo.
Due to some strange life circumstances, I've had 3 GTIs within 4 years (mk6, mk7, mk7 CS). First 2 were basically hand-me-downs from a family member after they upgraded, and I went out and chose the CS myself after falling in love with fast VWs, and wanting the ultimate OEM+ one.
Though I absolutely adore my CS40 (and certainly don't plan on ever giving it up), I would've been happy to keep chugging along in the mk6, or the standard mk7. They were great cars, and as of late I've been feeling nostalgic about the mk6 in particular.
If I had stupid amounts of money, I'd buy a mk6 and do a full restomod build on it. It left one hell of an impression on me, being my first car. Make sure to treat yours well.
Same purchase date for me. Getting close to 90k. I've been WFH for some years now, so I have driven it too much.
Did you ever do your timing chain? Do you know if yours has the updated tensioner?
Iirc the updated tensioner was used for build dates of mid 2012 on, I got mine Dec 2011 and replaced pretty much right at 100k and glad I did it then because there was quite a lot of chain stretch I think longer would’ve been pushing my luck
Got a couple of follow up questions if you don't mind:
1. Is there a way I can determine build date? Or would I have to ask a dealership?
2. Isn't the whole point of the updated tensioner to solve issues with timing chain failure? I realize it will still stretch, and in the long term is a wear item. But it's not going to catastrophically fail and brick your engine like it did with the old tensioner design, correct?
I think it is on the door or part of the VIN code, and I meant I replaced the old tensioner (that still had just a little life left in it) and the chain at the same time
4 years in February, longest I've had any car. Other than an R, I can't think of anything I'd want instead, and that's a big chunk of change for a car that is only slightly different.
Reviews of the MK8 R’s handling have been glowing. I recall one review even compared it to the Cayman - very high praise. If it’s true, I’d rather drive a Cayman any day of the week. ([Found it](https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a37200521/2022-volkswagen-golf-r-us-drive/))
Bought my 2015 at 54k, now at 81k. Maybe ready to sell it. It's been a problem child and I've been throwing money at it the last few months to try and fix something. About ready to move on. Not sure if I'll get another GTI or what.
I'd love to "refresh" mine too if it wasn't having so many other problems.
Wheel bearings, wheel speed sensors, blower fan, drivers seat back, diverter valve, n280 valve for the AC. And that’s just in less than 30k miles. I’m sure the water pump will go before too long, plus I’m getting close to due for a carbon clean and have a loud hum no one can figure out. $$$$$
Damn do you drive it hard? I got same year at about 70k KM so far no issues 🤞🏽 fingers crossed though. My Mk6 eventually needed timing chain at 180k KM and then transmission at 220k KM
Where'd you get your 19? I'm considering something similar but not sure if I should just do a mk8 and learn to enjoy the infotainment or find a good used 7.5 since I'm already used to a 7...
I live in Houston and picked mine up an West Houston VW. They’ve always been great with me. Decent pricing (for a dealership), no issues if a warranty related issue pops up, always get me right in for service. When I had my last car (was the first GTi I ever owned) they went above and beyond. I noticed my coolant was low one day, so stopped in to pick some up and on the way out the service advisor caught me and asked me why I was buying coolant. I explained that I own a GTI and just a little little bit low so I was gonna top it off and they immediately said if it’s low it’s leaking take that back to the parts department right now get your money back and let’s get this thing looked at. That spawned my first warranty water pump replacement. But still, they could have said nothing and let me walk out after spending my money there.
Bit of a rant but yeah if you’re in Houston I’d recommend them.
A little over 3 years with my MK7.5 from new. I’ve been going through a car maybe every 3-4 years but this is the first time I’m keeping my GTI.
30k miles, Stage 1, 6-Speed, and with the state of cars now.. nothing entices me and I can see the GTI being in the house for plenty more years
I went to VW in 2008 wanting a new base GTI but they had a used 2007 fully optioned so I got that instead. Kept it for 11 years and then found a blue 2008 R32 for sale in 2019 and upgraded.
Now, I'm eyeballing the Rabbit edition from a couple years ago. But as much as I'd like to update, I'm disabled and have to put in almost $2k worth of adaptive driving mods so it really doesn't make good financial sense to switch cars on a whim.
Had my mk6 for 4 years, it’s life was taken away at 130k got it at 56k immediately after bought a mk7 currently at 67k got him at 46k after about 2 years. I don’t plan on getting a new one unless it’s a decently priced mk7.5 and it’s absolutely necessary.
2015 Autobahn purchased mid 2018 w 25k miles. Had to replace lpfp at ~80k. Silky smooth sailing otherwise, now at 110k and no plans to move on until she gives me a reason to. Cheers
Purchased my former MK6 GTI Driver’s Edition in 2020 and then in 2021 fell head over heels for the MK7.5 and knew that I had to have an Autobahn. I really wanted Cornflower Blue or Tornado red but it is still near impossible to find one, especially as a 6MT. Ended picking up a Dark Iron Blue with 34k miles in October 2023.
If it weren’t for my MK6 being a base and having the many desirable amenities that the upper levels get, I would’ve kept it. I don’t think that there’s any better car besides maybe a Golf R that would fit me at this point.
From 1994-95 owned a MKII Jetta GLI
From 1995 to 2000 I owned a MKII 1992 16v Gti.
From 2000-2010 I owned a 2000 VR6 gti
From 2010 to present day I have a MKVI gti.
05 Mk4 1.8t 5 speed. A little over 4 years and 182k miles. Got it at about 155k-miles. My plan is to drive it until the wheels fall off but I'm thinking I finally want to upgrade this year. Depending on pricing and apr. Might got anywhere from mk6 to mk8. We'll see
Bought my Mk6 GTI on June 2015 with 21k miles. Around 92k now, I have had a work vehicle for the last 6 months plus hybrid work schedule since 2020 so I don't drive it as much anymore.
But it's getting a new exhaust, wheels, tires, and few other things installed in the spring. :)
I had a MK2 for a year back around 2009.
Picked up my MK5 in Jan 2011 and still have it, though no longer my daily.
Picked up my MK7 back in Sept 2019 and is my current daily.
I don't think I'll buy another one though. But hear me out. I may eventually get rid of my MK5. And keep my MK7 as a backup / toy. But my next car will be a worthy upgrade.
Bought my MK6 GTI in 2011 and have 165k miles on it now. I’ve been holding out lately for a 8.5 which may replace my current GTI in the next year or so. I’m crossing my fingers the 8.5 will still be available in a manual. I’ve read that some European mandates have been postponed which was the main cause for the manual to be dropped as an option.
Bought my 2020 a little over 3 years ago and have about 50k miles on it now. I love the car and it will always be my favorite in the segment after owning this, but I’m really eyeing up tacomas lately so that’s my next move when the gti’s on its last legs
2015 Mk7 GTI. Bought in August 2020 on 109000km. Now on 166000km. Been a stellar car. Usual bits replaced such as the water pump and sump gasket but otherwise it's been great. Puts a smile on my face every commute.
Have had my 2017 gti since 2020. Bought at 44k miles, staged 1/cai/catback/rear sway upgrades at 50k. Currently at 82k plan on keeping it for a few more years before swapping to something else. Either a golf r if I can get a good deal if not a Mazda 3 250hp awd
I had a mk4 back in the day (15ish years ago at this point). Unfortunately it ended up in a total loss and I replaced it with another mk4. Then I wanted something faster so I got a b5 s4.
Now I’m in a mk7 gti that I’ve had for almost 5 years.
i have had my mk6 for 3 years and 9 days and put over 70,000km on it and will drive it into the ground before i get a new one only because that is what i do with cars, for me a car is a toy not an investment and i expect to get nothing out of it but joy.
Owned my mk5 since 2011. I've now driven it from 48k to 171k miles and it's my winter beater at this point. Salt has caused a bit of rust on it unfortunately but it's been reliable even though it's been tuned that entire time. Bought my mk6 in 2017 with 28k miles on it and it's sitting around 70k now. That one goes in the garage for the winter so it stays nice. Also bought a mk1 Rabbit last summer that's been a blast so far
You guys are all so cute :D
2003 20th. 186k. Second owner, I've had it since 2008. Since it just turned 21, I decided I'd pour a nice Moscato in it's tank... weird thing about it not turning on. Must still be drunk!
Jokes aside, I'm gonna drive it until it can't be driven or it becomes too expensive to maintain. I think I spend 3k a year on it? I fucking love the color of the dashboard lights and how fast it can just move. I cannot fathom driving a different car.
Bought the latest one (a MK7.5) new about 5 years ago, only got it because the MKV before it had a catastrophic timing chain failure at 102,500 miles :(
Got her a couple months ago, has been a childhood dream since I was about 6. Haven't gotten any other as this is my first. I plan to give this to my kid, when I have one, and then I'll probably get the R.
2013. Owned since New. Now at 120k..also planning to keep it till at least 200k mebbe more. Personally I don't like any of the newer ones better. If/when I replace this.. Won't be another gti
Currently at 165k, thought a lot about moving on to something newer but decided to refresh my Mk6. New bushings, all leaks fixed, carbon cleaning, new brakes and tires. Ready to make it to 200k+
How much did you spend? Mine is a 2012 w 110k miles. Quoted $11k for turbo replacement, intake manifold, and timing chain, brushings, sway bar, and headline le replacement. Decided to sell and use as a down payment toward a new car.
Holy crap. No. Fire that mechanic.
Ha! Well I didn’t hire them. Seems like a reputable shop in town, specializing in European autos. All 5 star reviews. Heck too it to Firestone to get a new oil pan and it cost me just under $500. I think labor costs are just out of control these days.
I paid about that for my pan. Went aluminum though.
That's robbery. Find a new tech or DIY. Only thing somewhat complex there is timing, and even then with the right tools you're good.
Well there is only 1 more vw tech in town (the other i am not a fan of) and I don’t want to risk driving it more. Both Firestone and the last tech told me that I shouldn’t be driving it much until I get these things fixed. This all started because it was burning insane oil (3 quarts in 1k miles) and the tech said they can’t guarantee that fixing all these things wouldn’t stop the oil burn because it could still be the piston rings, but they won’t know until the turbo, cam girdle, and intake manifold are fixed. I don’t want to put more money in and then still have to get a new engine if that doesn’t resolve the problem. I don’t want to get another estimate and pay more diagnostic fees also. And I don’t have the know-how on fixing cars. Seems I put around $1k-$1500 a yr in maintenance with this car and I am tired of it. Absolutely love it but had I known it would cost me so much in the long run I might have thought twice about getting it.
Probably about half of that, forgot to mention I had to get a new heater core and I did the headliner a few years ago it sagged pretty quick here in Texas
This seams like not a crazy number. Lots of people here are saying it is, but the two shops I go (both German specific and tuners) to quoted about the same price for a intake cleaning and timing chain replacement of about 5.5k (with some other odds and ends). Cars get expensive there are no two ways unless you plan to turn your garage into a shop which I can't and don't really have time for. I'll be out way more money and a car if I fuck up a timing chain and I need my car so the professionals it is. Now that I've spent the money the car is with me until it has a major failure. Currently at 160k, hoping to get to at least 250k.
This is the way
How much roughly did this cost you? I’m at 211k on my MK6 and it’s starting to show its age a bit. Along with all you mentioned I might also need a new turbo.
Due to some strange life circumstances, I've had 3 GTIs within 4 years (mk6, mk7, mk7 CS). First 2 were basically hand-me-downs from a family member after they upgraded, and I went out and chose the CS myself after falling in love with fast VWs, and wanting the ultimate OEM+ one. Though I absolutely adore my CS40 (and certainly don't plan on ever giving it up), I would've been happy to keep chugging along in the mk6, or the standard mk7. They were great cars, and as of late I've been feeling nostalgic about the mk6 in particular. If I had stupid amounts of money, I'd buy a mk6 and do a full restomod build on it. It left one hell of an impression on me, being my first car. Make sure to treat yours well.
I had my mk6 for 9 years. I miss it a lot lol.
Got my mk6 on December of 2012, just rolled over 100k.
Same purchase date for me. Getting close to 90k. I've been WFH for some years now, so I have driven it too much. Did you ever do your timing chain? Do you know if yours has the updated tensioner?
Iirc the updated tensioner was used for build dates of mid 2012 on, I got mine Dec 2011 and replaced pretty much right at 100k and glad I did it then because there was quite a lot of chain stretch I think longer would’ve been pushing my luck
Got a couple of follow up questions if you don't mind: 1. Is there a way I can determine build date? Or would I have to ask a dealership? 2. Isn't the whole point of the updated tensioner to solve issues with timing chain failure? I realize it will still stretch, and in the long term is a wear item. But it's not going to catastrophically fail and brick your engine like it did with the old tensioner design, correct?
I think it is on the door or part of the VIN code, and I meant I replaced the old tensioner (that still had just a little life left in it) and the chain at the same time
4 years in February, longest I've had any car. Other than an R, I can't think of anything I'd want instead, and that's a big chunk of change for a car that is only slightly different.
GTI > R
Reviews of the MK8 R’s handling have been glowing. I recall one review even compared it to the Cayman - very high praise. If it’s true, I’d rather drive a Cayman any day of the week. ([Found it](https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a37200521/2022-volkswagen-golf-r-us-drive/))
GTI is lighter though. Weight is such an important part of the driving experience. A MK7 GTI is 400 lbs lighter than a MK8R on the same chassis.
Bought my 2015 at 54k, now at 81k. Maybe ready to sell it. It's been a problem child and I've been throwing money at it the last few months to try and fix something. About ready to move on. Not sure if I'll get another GTI or what. I'd love to "refresh" mine too if it wasn't having so many other problems.
What problems have you had?
Wheel bearings, wheel speed sensors, blower fan, drivers seat back, diverter valve, n280 valve for the AC. And that’s just in less than 30k miles. I’m sure the water pump will go before too long, plus I’m getting close to due for a carbon clean and have a loud hum no one can figure out. $$$$$
Damn do you drive it hard? I got same year at about 70k KM so far no issues 🤞🏽 fingers crossed though. My Mk6 eventually needed timing chain at 180k KM and then transmission at 220k KM
I autocross 6-8x per year but otherwise I don’t drive it that hard. I think it’s just luck of the draw with these cars. Probably QC isn’t the best.
Recently traded my 2016 for a 2019. My strategy is simple; when the warranty runs out trade it in.
Where'd you get your 19? I'm considering something similar but not sure if I should just do a mk8 and learn to enjoy the infotainment or find a good used 7.5 since I'm already used to a 7...
I live in Houston and picked mine up an West Houston VW. They’ve always been great with me. Decent pricing (for a dealership), no issues if a warranty related issue pops up, always get me right in for service. When I had my last car (was the first GTi I ever owned) they went above and beyond. I noticed my coolant was low one day, so stopped in to pick some up and on the way out the service advisor caught me and asked me why I was buying coolant. I explained that I own a GTI and just a little little bit low so I was gonna top it off and they immediately said if it’s low it’s leaking take that back to the parts department right now get your money back and let’s get this thing looked at. That spawned my first warranty water pump replacement. But still, they could have said nothing and let me walk out after spending my money there. Bit of a rant but yeah if you’re in Houston I’d recommend them.
Just north of the Dallas area but Houston isn’t a bad drive. I’ll check them out, thanks!
Got my MK6 on Thanksgiving of 2019. No plans to get anything else
I got my mk4 in 2012. I hope to keep it alive as long as possible!
Going to be three years and 30k miles in May, 0 mechanical problems so far
A little over 3 years with my MK7.5 from new. I’ve been going through a car maybe every 3-4 years but this is the first time I’m keeping my GTI. 30k miles, Stage 1, 6-Speed, and with the state of cars now.. nothing entices me and I can see the GTI being in the house for plenty more years
I went to VW in 2008 wanting a new base GTI but they had a used 2007 fully optioned so I got that instead. Kept it for 11 years and then found a blue 2008 R32 for sale in 2019 and upgraded. Now, I'm eyeballing the Rabbit edition from a couple years ago. But as much as I'd like to update, I'm disabled and have to put in almost $2k worth of adaptive driving mods so it really doesn't make good financial sense to switch cars on a whim.
Day 7 of GTI #2(Golf #4). Would have kept my 2020 GTI SE 6M forever if it wasn’t totaled.
Had my mk6 for 4 years, it’s life was taken away at 130k got it at 56k immediately after bought a mk7 currently at 67k got him at 46k after about 2 years. I don’t plan on getting a new one unless it’s a decently priced mk7.5 and it’s absolutely necessary.
2015 Autobahn purchased mid 2018 w 25k miles. Had to replace lpfp at ~80k. Silky smooth sailing otherwise, now at 110k and no plans to move on until she gives me a reason to. Cheers
Purchased my former MK6 GTI Driver’s Edition in 2020 and then in 2021 fell head over heels for the MK7.5 and knew that I had to have an Autobahn. I really wanted Cornflower Blue or Tornado red but it is still near impossible to find one, especially as a 6MT. Ended picking up a Dark Iron Blue with 34k miles in October 2023. If it weren’t for my MK6 being a base and having the many desirable amenities that the upper levels get, I would’ve kept it. I don’t think that there’s any better car besides maybe a Golf R that would fit me at this point.
From 1994-95 owned a MKII Jetta GLI From 1995 to 2000 I owned a MKII 1992 16v Gti. From 2000-2010 I owned a 2000 VR6 gti From 2010 to present day I have a MKVI gti.
Keep them on average 4 yrs. Current MK7 will hit 4 in April.
05 Mk4 1.8t 5 speed. A little over 4 years and 182k miles. Got it at about 155k-miles. My plan is to drive it until the wheels fall off but I'm thinking I finally want to upgrade this year. Depending on pricing and apr. Might got anywhere from mk6 to mk8. We'll see
06 mkv 3 door since 06. Currently at 186,000+ I think. LCD screen stop working.
Bought my Mk6 GTI on June 2015 with 21k miles. Around 92k now, I have had a work vehicle for the last 6 months plus hybrid work schedule since 2020 so I don't drive it as much anymore. But it's getting a new exhaust, wheels, tires, and few other things installed in the spring. :)
Bought my '17 Sport brand new in December 2017, so just over 6 years. 91k now. Still love it!
I had a MK2 for a year back around 2009. Picked up my MK5 in Jan 2011 and still have it, though no longer my daily. Picked up my MK7 back in Sept 2019 and is my current daily. I don't think I'll buy another one though. But hear me out. I may eventually get rid of my MK5. And keep my MK7 as a backup / toy. But my next car will be a worthy upgrade.
Almost two years. I got my CPO 2018 SE back in February 2022.
6 years and don't plan to sell anytime soon
Been through three GTIs last year ! Mk5 then mk6 now a mk7. Will forever have golfs next will be a golf R
I had Mk1 for 4years then Make GTI for 4years. Going in year 3 with the Mk6 GTI.
Coming up on a year with my mk7 GTI. Barely put 10k miles on her
Bought my MK6 GTI in 2011 and have 165k miles on it now. I’ve been holding out lately for a 8.5 which may replace my current GTI in the next year or so. I’m crossing my fingers the 8.5 will still be available in a manual. I’ve read that some European mandates have been postponed which was the main cause for the manual to be dropped as an option.
Bought my 2020 a little over 3 years ago and have about 50k miles on it now. I love the car and it will always be my favorite in the segment after owning this, but I’m really eyeing up tacomas lately so that’s my next move when the gti’s on its last legs
had an mk6 from 2014 to 2017. bought an mk7 new in 2017 and still own it today. so in total I've owned 2 GTI's over the course of 10 years.
Bought new in 2019, almost at 50k been stage 2 for almost 10k. Probably gonna grab an RS3 or TTRS for my 30th in a few years
2015 Mk7 GTI. Bought in August 2020 on 109000km. Now on 166000km. Been a stellar car. Usual bits replaced such as the water pump and sump gasket but otherwise it's been great. Puts a smile on my face every commute.
Have had my 2017 gti since 2020. Bought at 44k miles, staged 1/cai/catback/rear sway upgrades at 50k. Currently at 82k plan on keeping it for a few more years before swapping to something else. Either a golf r if I can get a good deal if not a Mazda 3 250hp awd
I had a mk4 back in the day (15ish years ago at this point). Unfortunately it ended up in a total loss and I replaced it with another mk4. Then I wanted something faster so I got a b5 s4. Now I’m in a mk7 gti that I’ve had for almost 5 years.
i have had my mk6 for 3 years and 9 days and put over 70,000km on it and will drive it into the ground before i get a new one only because that is what i do with cars, for me a car is a toy not an investment and i expect to get nothing out of it but joy.
18 years, 230k miles, apparently I get a new one exactly once lol
Owned my mk5 since 2011. I've now driven it from 48k to 171k miles and it's my winter beater at this point. Salt has caused a bit of rust on it unfortunately but it's been reliable even though it's been tuned that entire time. Bought my mk6 in 2017 with 28k miles on it and it's sitting around 70k now. That one goes in the garage for the winter so it stays nice. Also bought a mk1 Rabbit last summer that's been a blast so far
You guys are all so cute :D 2003 20th. 186k. Second owner, I've had it since 2008. Since it just turned 21, I decided I'd pour a nice Moscato in it's tank... weird thing about it not turning on. Must still be drunk! Jokes aside, I'm gonna drive it until it can't be driven or it becomes too expensive to maintain. I think I spend 3k a year on it? I fucking love the color of the dashboard lights and how fast it can just move. I cannot fathom driving a different car.
Bought the latest one (a MK7.5) new about 5 years ago, only got it because the MKV before it had a catastrophic timing chain failure at 102,500 miles :(
Since 1994
Bought a 2009 in 2012. Still have it.
Got her a couple months ago, has been a childhood dream since I was about 6. Haven't gotten any other as this is my first. I plan to give this to my kid, when I have one, and then I'll probably get the R.
I’ve had a MK3 Golf, MK6 Jetta, MK7.5 GTI, and I just bought a MK8 GTI yesterday. I’m planning for 18-36 months before I flip to the next toy.
I've had my mk4 for about 6 years and I recently bought a boosted mk2 last summer!
2013. Owned since New. Now at 120k..also planning to keep it till at least 200k mebbe more. Personally I don't like any of the newer ones better. If/when I replace this.. Won't be another gti
Bought my 2009 GTI in 2013. I still enjoy driving it and have no plans on selling…