MK6 90TSI long term reliability

[jessv3]

Hi,

My friend is convinced that she want's to buy a second hand MK6 90TSI 7spd DSG. I tried to talk her out of it, as I know the earlier 7spd DSG was extremely problematic for VW.

My question is; is the 90TSI as bad as the 118TSI for reliability? I read over the 56 page thread about DSG shudder/ squeal. And most in that thread had a 118TSI not a 90TSI. Now, I know they use the same gearbox (DQ200), but perhaps the higher torque of the 118TSI contributed to some of the clutch issues?

The car in question has 120k and full VW service history. I'm going with her on Saturday to test drive it, apart from shuddering and squealing, what else should I look out for?

Thanks

[The_Hawk]

I'd look at the diesels as an alternative with it's 6 speed wet clutch setup, probably the better buy anyway.

Edit: Just to be clear I was talking about the 6 Speed DSG. But manual would be even better (although I do conceed that manual in traffic can get painful quickly).

[Lucas_R]

The 90TSI engine itself is much more reliable than the 118TSI, although they do still have some common issues like timing chains.

But....they both have the same rubbish DQ200 DSG gearbox. See if you can convince her to buy a 6 speed manual (its a great gearbox) or i would suggest either a TDI or perhaps a different car. Otherwise she may be in for a world of hurt.

[Kachingg]

I agree the 6 speed tdi is almost bulletproof providing correct servicing
My old mark 6 tdi is 9 years old and 155k my daughter is driving it and it has not missed a beat in all that time

[jessv3]

Thanks for the responses. She can't/ refuses to drive manual but I think I've steered her away from the 7spd DSG and shes now considering an MK5 2.0TDI 6spd DSG (Her budget is 7k or less, which makes an Mk6 2.0TDI impossible to find).

[Umai Naa!!]

If money is tight, I wouldn't be buying a VW.

[Lucas_R]

Thanks for the responses. She can't/ refuses to drive manual but I think I've steered her away from the 7spd DSG and shes now considering an MK5 2.0TDI 6spd DSG (Her budget is 7k or less, which makes an Mk6 2.0TDI impossible to find).

For $7k why not find her a nice Mazda 3 or similar Japanese or Korean car which will be cheaper to run and service and will no doubt be more reliable in the long run.

If money is tight, I wouldn't be buying a VW.

^ good point.