Buying advice, used Passat Alltrack 2013

[mattbtassie]

Hi all, first post after lurking for a while, I haven't seen a buyers guide around for a secondhand Passat alltrack as yet. I am looking at a secondhand 2013 model, one owner, serviced at correct intervals, appears to be in very good condition. I am a diesel mechanic by trade (heavy earthmoving) and have a great deal of experience in german machinery, including Tier 4 machinery with common rail and DPF/adblue aftertreatment. I am wondering if anyone has experience with these cars, common failures, most mileage before major failures etc. I am buying this car for my wife and soon to be born first child so I want it to be reliable, safe and not cause major financial pain! any insight would be hugely appreciated, Matt

[Amalgam]

Hi Matt,

I own a MY12 125TDI wagon, so same yet slightly different.

As always make sure that the service history is up to date and preformed by a VW dealer or independent specialist. I would avoid those cars that have been serviced by the local auto masters, ultra tune et al. It is likely that the incorrect fluids were used. Also make sure that the DSG and Haldex system has been properly serviced.

As I am sure you know, VW diesels are a solid car but need to be serviced correctly.

PS I would also avoid TDI that have had the Dieselgate fix/ECU Flash. Controversial I know, but there are many reports of poorer performance/issues after the fix. So why take the chance. I haven't yet.

Good luck.

[mtbboy41]

Hi too Matt,
I have a my13.5 2013 Alltrack. Have owned it from new and it has 45k on the clock. I have had it serviced at the dealer and it has been a comfortable, well equipped and spacious car. Had a defective tailgate lock replaced under warranty and a leaking rear washer hose was fixed outside of warranty for free.
Tyres were replaced at 44K but that was probably my fault for not having them rotated. Apparently I had to ask the dealer to do this at service time???
I have politely refused the "fix", signed a waiver and it didn't make any difference when VW did the leaking rear washer hose fix as a goodwill gesture

[tigger73]

+1 get one that hasn’t had the “diesel gate” recall done.

They’ve seriously detuned the motor and produces nowhere near as much low end torque in the post-dieselgate tune.

Otherwise get an aftermarket tune applied to wake it back up.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[mattbtassie]

Thanks very much for the advice. The one I am looking at has not had the diesel gate tune done (unless they have done it in the time since it was traded) looking at it on Friday, hoping to pick up a good deal.

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk