Volkswagen Problems

I understand what you're trying to do, and the Amarok wheel might well fit, but I wouldn't recommend it. The Amarok wheels are 16 x 6.5-inch, the Q5's are 17 x 8-inch. Go to an Audi dealer, or a specialist mechanic and try to find a more suitable steel wheel.

I don't believe it does.

You can start by having the dealer explain what they are doing to try and fix your car. If they cannot provide a satisfactory story on their plan to sort the problem out, ask them to call in experts form VW head office to assist them. If that doesn't work out get the advice of the consumer affairs department in Perth. Talk to a lawyer if things don't appear to be improving.

The deal VW has offered you on the diff rebuild is the industry standard deal on a car that is a few years old and has done a few kays, such as yours. It's frustrating for you, but cars do wear out and do break down. Regarding the belt and tensioner, they are normally considered consumable parts and not covered by the warranty. If you could prove that it was design or production fault that caused the problem you could make a claim against the company.

Both are fine choices. I believe it comes down to the use you plan for it. A diesel works at its best when it's constantly running and fully warmed-up, preferably at a constant speed. The petrol engine is better in transient traffic conditions where the car is always accelerating or slowing. If you live in the city I would go for the petrol engine, if you live out of town then the diesel is probably better.

You are choosing from a good line-up as all three of your contenders get The Tick from me. My personal ranking puts the Passat ahead of the Outback but there is no reason not to go ahead with the Subaru.

Clearly what it's doing is not normal, but the dealer seems to know what is causing it, and is suggesting a software update will do the trick. I would go ahead and have it done.

The VW brand has been tarnished somewhat with the automatic gearbox and the diesel emission issues, and that could be turning people off. It does sound like a decent car, however, one that would be worth looking at. It might be a case of setting a price that no one can ignore. The guiding price range is $11,000 to $13,000, so perhaps consider dropping it below that.