http://www.tdiclub.com/TDIFAQ/TDiFAQ-7.html said:Your owners manual contains a recommended change interval for normal driving conditions, which is either 12,000 km / 7500 miles (older models), or 16,000 km / 10,000 miles (newer models)
The problem with the Golf compared to a Ford is your insurance is definitely going to offset any savings ... since the insurance institute is ranking the Golf as quite a bit more costly to repair compared to the Fords.
However, it being a Ford will probably feel the same at 10k as the VW does at 150k. In regards to squeaks and rattles.
I've got a 2007 VW Rabbit (obviously not a diesel). I absolutely love this car--it's an absolute blast to drive. It's not even a GTI and it's still fun. The 2.5L I5 is surprisingly potent.
It's approaching 50,000 miles without the slightest bit of any issues. The most I've had to put into it so far was about $500 for a new set of tires at about 40,000 miles. Maintenance has basically just consisted of oil changes. I'm due for "big" 40,000 mile service, but I'm not in too big of a hurry to do that as long as I get it done before 50k or so.
I'd be a VW again in a heartbeat.
However, it being a Ford will probably feel the same at 10k as the VW does at 150k. In regards to squeaks and rattles.
$2000 for a timing belt? You're ****ing insane.
Most compact cars using timing belts, most dealers will charge about $300~500 to change it. You can do it your self for about $100 pretty much regardless of make or model. My VW dealership quoted me $400 to change the timing chain on my VR6 and that includes parts and the labour for them to remove the transmission to do the work.
Considering that my insurance went down when I got my Golf GTI, even though it was more everything than my old car, more expensive, more powerful, etc, I'm not so sure I believe that.
I'm not Ford driver by any means, but they've come a long way in quality.