Volkswagen Problems

It’s not something that has come to our attention. It’s a cosmetic issue; one I’m guessing VW is not going to be terribly interested in.

The most likely cause of the shudder are the clutches, which probably need to be replaced. It doesn't mean you will have long-term issues with the gearbox, but you could be up for replacing the clutches regularly.

If you want a reliable ride go for the Camry, buying the Jetta is a gamble, which could end up being an expensive one.

It’s gone into “limp-home” mode because it’s detected a problem, but before you do anything else you need to find what caused the problem. Once you’ve done that you could approach VW and ask them to repair it at their expense, or pay part of the cost to repair it. If they won’t and you want to take it further you could go to the ACCC.

The Golf is a great driving car, but I couldn’t suggest you go for one, simply because of the well-known problems with the DSG auto gearbox and engine.

It won’t have jammed as such; it’s got an electronic throttle. It’s more likely to be an electronic issue, perhaps at the pedal. If you can, have it checked by a mechanic experienced in VWs, or perhaps an independent engineer.

The petrol engine has a chain, the diesel a belt.

In order I would go for the i30, the Mazda 3, and the Golf, certainly if you value reliability highly, as you claim.

You’re right to be wary of the Golf, but apart from the well publicised stories of trouble with the DSG gearbox a few years ago it has been in more recent times a sound vehicle. We get very few complaints from owners of these later cars, so I wouldn’t be concerned about buying one. The Cerato is also a fine car and would be a good choice. If I were forced to choose I would probably gamble on the Golf for its driving dynamics.