b7 questions

[ozrcboy]

Folks - the OP noted the passat is six years old and has done 150k - so warranty isn't really an issue.

That being said, under Australian Consumer Law your warranty is protected provided you use an appropriate product. And a product isn't appropriate if the manufacturer says it is (that would give them monopoly power) - it is appropriate if it meets the standard the manufacturer has published - ie VW502/504/505/507 etc.

I'd appreciate your thoughts on this question: Do you genuinely feel the VW Approved gives higher assurance of the quality of the product, or do you see it purely as a warranty issue?

[Umai Naa!!]

It's not the quality, it's what's in it.

The the emissions controls, catalytic converter, etc are pretty much designed to work around certain chemical by-products and reactions that occur when the approved oils are burnt through the combustion process. All engines burn oil to varying extents, mind you.

[ozrcboy]

Must admit would have thought additives to allow for the Cat/DFP etc would be part of the VW spec, so if something meets the VW spec good to go. You think VW approved requires things (in the oil - not commercial terms etc) in addition to the spec?