2010 and 2011 VW Golf TDI FAQ, forum, and buying checklist

with dealer invoice price, MSRP, options explained, video reviews, and chip tuning info for VW Golf TDI

For the 2009-2010 VW Jetta sedan, see 1000q: 2009-2010 Jetta sedan TDI buying checklist.  
For the new style 2011 Jetta, see 1000q: 2011+ VW Jetta buying checklist.  
For the 2009-2011 VW sportwagen TDI, see 1000q: 09-11 Jetta wagon TDI buying guide.   
For the 2010 Audi A3 TDI, see 1000q: Audi A3 TDI buying checklist.  
For an overview of tax credits and exemptions with the Golf TDI, see 1000q: Tax credits and exemptions with the TDI .

Introduction

This article shows the most up to date invoice pricing, available options, and other misc info specific to the 2010 and 2011 Golf TDI hatchback.  Because there are many other diesel VW models and trims available in Europe and Asia, this article is written with a focus on the North American market and the TDI.  Canadian differences are noted.  The Golf was revised for 2010.  The 2010 Jetta TDI uses the mk5 (5th generation) body and the 2011 Jetta uses a mk6 body so it's in a separate link. 

The basics
The 2010-11 Golf TDI is the most luxurious, safest, and most powerful Golf TDI that VW has offered.  It was chosen as World Car of the Year at the New York auto show 2009 and reliability of VW Golf TDI has improved.  They are 50 state emissions legal and available in Canada.  However, the added weight and features slightly decrease fuel economy compared to earlier TDI.  Mileage is high 30s-high 40s depending on loading, driving style, and tires/wheels.  Although the 2010 Golf TDI gets the all new mk6 body, the engine/transmission are shared with the Jetta TDI.  The chassis, suspension, and most interior/exterior panels are new vs. the mk5 Golf/Rabbit.  See 1000q: 2009-2010 mk5 Jetta vs. mk6 Golf updates for a detailed list of differences between the Golf and Jetta for 2010.  One example are the new, quieter side view mirrors (shown below).  In the past Jetta and Golf were almost identical except for different bumpers and a trunk.  Starting with the 2010 Golf, the Golf no longer shares the same exact body with the Jetta (many parts are still interchangeable).  

Compared to a 2011 VW Jetta TDI, the Golf has optional xenon headlights, an independent rear suspension, and standard 17" alloy wheels.  The hatchback body style is also pretty useful for loading bulky items.

The dealer can order as many cars as they want from the factory but they're only allocated a certain number of TDI to sell.  VW finished the 2010 model run so you can no longer order a 2010.  You can only get what's on the dealer lot, dealer trade with another dealer, or on the way.  The release date of the 2011 VW Golf TDI has passed as some people have already taken delivery of their 2011.

The full federal income tax credit amount will end June 2010, see the link at the top or here: 1000q: Tax credits and exemptions with the TDI for details.

Make sure to tell all drivers of your car to only put diesel in the fuel tank!  If you accidentally put gasoline in it, immediately stop and tow it to a mechanic!

The TDI costs about $4300 more than the 2.5L gas engine base Golf because of additional trim level features and the engine.  The TDI also has a $1300-1700 income tax credit.  If the car was purchased in CT and some places that had sales tax exemption for high mileage cars (see tax info below for qualifications), it could have saved about $1400 in sales tax.  (The CT exemption has expired).  This makes the TDI premium as low as $2000 vs. the 2.5L Golf.  The higher price also includes bluetooth, touchscreen 6cd changer radio, foglights, leather multifunction steering wheel, and more.  Of note is that the 2010 Golf and Jetta TDI cost about the same.  Other than the body style, the Golf gets the new mk6 chassis and sport suspension.  The Jetta gets standard cold weather package and leatherette interior.  The 2011 Jetta is greatly revised, see the links earlier for more info on the changes and differences on the 2011 Jetta TDI.

2010 vs. 2011 VW Golf TDI differences and revisions

For 2011, Golf TDI now get 9w7 bluetooth standard.  This is a major upgrade since the old 9w2 bluetooth did not have phonebook, menu control, or voice activation through the car.  9w7 adds all of these features which still retaining AD2P streaming music capability like from an iphone or android.  For more on bluetooth differences, see 1000q: mk5-mk6  VW bluetooth FAQ.  For specifics on 9w7 bluetooth, see 1000q: 9w7 features and retrofit.  Also see 1000q: 9w7 install #2 for a video.

The optional RNS 510 GPS navigation is no longer available on Golf.  The new optional GPS is the RNS315.  The difference on the RNS 315 GPS and RNS 310 are a 5" touchscreen instead of 6.5", half the resolution as the 510, no internal hard drive for storing music (you can use SD cards), and a CD player instead of CD/DVD.  The biggest difference will be the price - at $590, it's much cheaper than the $1750 MSRP for the 510.  If you still wish to install the 510 you can buy it as a part and install it yourself.  For detailed info on the RNS315, see 1000q: RNS 315 GPS system FAQ.  For detailed info on the RNS 510, see 1000q: RNS 510 FAQ.  As a final note, both the 315 and 510 touchscreens will display phone book, keypad for dialing, voice mail button, missed calls, etc., if you have high bluetooth. The 510 could also support HD radio but since the old 310 wasn't sold in the North America the 315 capability isn't known.

2011 VW Golf TDI pricing: (I don't know if this includes the price of the $295 bluetooth - it's a standard feature but in the past it was included in the price as an additional "forced option".)
2 door 6 speed manual: $22,810
2 door automatic DSG: $23,910
4 door 6 speed manual: $23,435
4 door automatic DSG: $24,535
destination is now $770.

The rest of the options are about the same as 2010 pricing.

Invoice price and MSRP for 2010 VW Golf TDI

prices below do not include $750 mandatory destination fee (prices for US only)  Foglights, ipod connector, leather MFSW steering wheel/parking brake handle, bluetooth, and floormats are standard on 2010 VW Golf TDI.  

EPA fuel economy rating for the 2010 Golf TDI is 30 city, 41 highway(manual)/42 highway (DSG transmission).  This is the same as the Jetta TDI for 2010 and slightly better than the 2009 VW TDI EPA rating because of a small engine tuning change and slightly taller transmission gearing for 2010.  Real world fuel economy is typically better with manual.  The Jetta TDI is getting high 30s, low 40s average mpg per tank and the Golf TDI can be 100-200 lbs lighter with the same engine.  Manual transmission TDI also weigh less than DSG transmission.  My best conservative guess of real world fuel economy with the Golf TDI is about 40 mpg per tank, assuming the average driver and after engine break in.  Expect fuel economy to increase after engine break in by 10-15%.  Diesels take longer to break in and because of their high fuel economy, see a greater fuel difference after engine break in.  

Why not a hybrid?
TDI are most compared to hybrids like the Prius because of fuel economy.  However, handling, highway manners, looks, and size (with the station wagon) are very different.  For more details on why a VW Jetta or VW Golf TDI is a good choice over a hybrid, see 1000q: general TDI buying guide and checklists.  If you are totally new to diesels and would like the basics on the differences from a gasoline car, see 1000q: how a diesel works.  Real world experiences since the introduction of the TDI in 1996 have shown that the EPA fuel economy ratings for TDIs tend to be lower than real world results but diesels aren't all about the best fuel economy or lowest cost per mile!  I believe that VW TDI are excellent choices combining fuel economy, resale value, safety features, handling, and cost.  In the end, the best car for you is a car that matches your needs, not mine.  It comes down to your values of what you want in a car and purchasing economy.  For some more opinions, see below.  Autoweek magazine said, "For comfort, quiet and highway handling, our drivers found the TDI had significant advantages over every other car in the test. It would have been our choice, in other words, for an easy daytrip on the interstates, regardless of fuel economy. And we topped the hybrids by driving with just a little attention to fuel economy, not making it an obsession."  Ultimately, your mileage and experience may vary depending on your driving style and other factors.  If your choice of car were based solely on money, buying a well maintained, used, compact car like a Civic will cost far less in depreciation, sales tax, and lifetime fuel costs compared to buying any new car!  And if fuel economy were everything then ride a bike!  

Below is a video review of the Jetta TDI and Audi A3 TDI vs. the Insight and Prius.

Below left is a video review of the Prius vs. Jetta TDI.  When a review of the new Golf TDI vs. hybrids comes up I'll replace this - the point is to compare the engine/dynamics.  (diesel fuel is now less expensive than gas, the video was made when diesel was more expensive).
   

Below is a table comparing MSRP of the various VW TDI models with the 2010 Audi A3 TDI.  The MSRP of the Audi includes the $825 destination fee.  The Golf is offered in 2 door and the others have manual transmission option so to make the comparison even, all VW MSRP are 2010 models, 4 door, DSG transmission with $750 VW destination fee included.

Golf TDI vs. Jetta sedan Jetta wagon TDI vs. Audi A3 TDI

Why the Golf instead of the Jetta sedan or wagon? (jetta wagon is called Golf wagon in Canada)  Why not pay a little more for the Audi A3?  The biggest reason is because the Golf was all new for 2010.  It's the first VW/Audi product to use the new mk6 body.  This means that in addition to cosmetic changes, it also gets the following that are not on the 2010 Jetta sedan or station wagon:

The VW Golf got more features from the change from the 2009 mk5 body to the 2010 mk6 body.  Oddly, the 2011 mk6 Jetta lost features compared to the 2010 mk5 Jetta.  There are a number of features on the Golf that you can't get on Jetta like optional HID headlights, the standard independent rear suspension, or no sunroof (if you don't like sunroofs).  However, the Jetta has standard vinyl leatherette interior whereas the Golf has only black cloth (leather available in Canada).

2010 Golf TDI have 9w2 bluetooth mounted on the overhead console.  The Jetta gets 9w3 high bluetooth with outgoing call, phone book, and voice control.  (If you want voice control over bluetooth and phone book functions, you have to get an aftermarket bluetooth or retrofit 9w3.  See 1000q: VW Bluetooth FAQ for more details.  Another option is 9w7 bluetooth. Also see 1000q: 9w7 bluetooth install #2 for a quick video showing how easy it is to install) Multifunction steering wheels (MFSW) to control the multifunction display and it's display (MFD+) are standard in the US.  These show temperature, mpg, distance traveled, radio settings, GPS directions, etc.  For Canada only: the MFSW is standard on highline trim only.  All Golf will have a black interior only, Jetta will have a choice of interior colors.  

US specific info:  All Volkswagen Golf TDI will sport seats and 17x7.5" porto alloy wheels.  All cars come with 3 years/36,000 miles of free maintenance in the US.  Just remember that nothing is free, this cost is shifted into the purchase price.

Power modifications
I would wait until the warranty expires and power tuning matures for this engine before trying it on my own car.  Because of more sophisticated engine management and the totally new emissions control system, the greatest power modification available right now for the 2.0L TDI CBEA / CJAA engine is chip tuning.  VW changed the engine code for the engine but they're basically identical.  Early chip tuning is producing an estimated 160 hp and 290 lb-ft torque.  The 2010s have different engine management vs. the 2009s so they require a different tune.  At this writing, there is only 1 company making a tune for the 2010 TDI engine.  See the forum for more details.

For some more perspective, here are some video reviews of the new golf vs. old rabbit/golf. 

UK review of the new Golf TDI vs. older Euro market Golf TDI-----Fifth Gear Golf 6 test drive

More reviews


 

Complaints and common problems with the 2010 VW Golf TDI
Some TDI engines occasionally hesitate or hiccup when cresting over a hill or lifting off the accelerator pedal at a certain position.  So far, the best guess why this happens is because of an interference between engine and the EGR emissions tuning.  If it happens to you, please post it in the VW TDI help forum.

17 x 7.5" "porto" alloy wheels with 225/45/17 tires will be standard on US Golf TDI for 2010.  Canadian Golf  TDI come with 16" "cleveland" alloy wheels standard.  The 2009 Jetta TDI had standard 16 x 6.5" wheels, 17" optional.  Larger/wider wheels and tires will reduce fuel economy, everything else being equal.  Since the Golf is about 210 lbs lighter than the Jetta, the potential for higher fuel economy is hurt.  You can swap any 5x112 bolt pattern wheel (with correct offset) onto the car, see 1000q: wheel gallery overview to see what's available.  Also see 1000q: wheel/tire calculator to measure the difference in dimensions.

VW missed the chance for a great economy car by not certifying the 1.6L TDI European engine for North America.  Rated fuel economy is 58 mpg and people have averaged 78 mpg when trying.  I believe this is because VW is positioning the Golf as the sporty TDI and it costs money to certify/test/import engines.  A choice of engine also costs money since it requires more inventory.

The Golf TDI interior is only black cloth seats (in the US).  All Golf TDI interiors will be black.  You can only get leather interior in Canadian high trim cars.  Vinyl leatherette seating was standard in the Jetta and although you can most likely swap the seats it's possible there might be an airbag plug or seat rail interference.

ESP (electronic stability program) is standard on all US VW but optional on Canadian Golf depending on trim package.  Stability control is proven to significantly reduce accidents and increase control when swerving the car away from polar bears, so it's disappointing that it's not standard in Canada as well.

Canada only: no optional HID/xenon lights on the Golf even though they are optional on US Golf.

Bluetooth on VW Golf TDI

Tax credits and sales tax exemptions with the VW TDI

The 2010 VW Golf TDI manual transmission qualifies for a $1300 federal income tax credit for the US.  A credit isn't a deduction.  See the above link for detailed examples and references, here are some basic examples.  If you had $3000 in federal income tax, you would only owe $1700 after the credit.  If you would normally get a $100 refund and pay $1300 in income tax, you can still use the credit to offset your tax liability and get a $1400 refund.  It's a non refundable credit so if you owe $1000 and would have gotten $0 refund, you don't get a $300 refund.

The DSG transmission (auto transmission) 2010 VW Golf TDI qualifies for a $1700 federal income tax credit.

Since the 2011 models haven't been approved for the tax credits, it's unknown if they will apply.  I don't see why not but there's no official word.  In any case, you have to take delivery before the end of 2010.

Options and more ordering info

2 door vs. 4 door Both 2 door and 4 door Golf TDI will be released in the US.  Canada only gets the TDI engine in the 4 door body.  Weight of a 2 door Golf is about 2994 lbs manual transmission, 3041 lbs DSG transmission.  2 and 4 door Golf are exactly the same overall length but the 2 door has longer front doors (highlighted in yellow in the overlay picture at right), the 4 door has shorter front doors (white lines).  The 4 door is actually slightly stiffer and heavier because of the reinforced center pillar between the doors.  The 2 door has better side/blind spot visibility because there is no center pillar and the windows are also longer (because of longer doors).  The longer doors make it easier for the front passengers to get in but make it harder for the rear passengers.  The 4 door should weigh about 50 lbs more. Xenon HID lighting with AFS turn cornering: optional on TDI - both low and high beams are xenon and turn into corners.  $700 MSRP which is a bargain since retrofitting OEM headlights with all sensors generally costs about $2200 + some work.

The mk6 Golf HID headlights with AFS turn cornering works at all speeds.  This is for the xenon headlight only.  The foglights (standard on TDI Golf in the US) activate with the turn signal or a greater than 90 degree turn at low speeds.  AFS HID and the foglight cornering is shown in the below videos.

If you don't move the car after starting the engine, the HID should self calibrate.  Here are two examples:

VW Golf color samples and color codes

US specific info: Tornado red (LA3D /g2), black (L041 /a1), candy white (LB9A /b4), united grey metallic (LA7T /x6), reflex silver metallic (LA7W /8e), shark blue metallic (LA5Q /5r), blue graphite metallic (LC5f /w9).
Canada specific info: Amaryllis red metallic (LA3S), shark blue metallic, united grey metallic, deep black pearl (LC9X), reflex silver metallic, blue graphite pearl, candy white

candy white - black (black pearl is Canada only)

reflex silver - shark blue metallic

Tornado red (Amaryllis red metallic may be very slightly darker, Canada only) - united gray metallic

blue graphite metallic on Jetta - thumbnail of worldwide Golf colors from topher at golfgtiforum.co.uk (large file size, click to enlarge)
  

DSG transmission is the only "auto" transmission on TDI.  For US 2010 Golf TDI with DSG, you also get paddle shifters on the backside of the steering wheel.  Paddle shifters are not standard on Canadian cars.  Some call it tiptronic but all Golf and Jetta TDI that aren't manual transmission are DSG.  See detailed video explanations and more FAQ about DSG at 1000 answered questions: DSG FAQ.  DSG is an automatically shifting manual-like transmission.  The insides of a DSG look similar to a manual transmission and it drives like a manual transmission - but it can shift for you.  Although the DSG's fuel economy rating is higher than the manual, everything else being equal, the manual should give slightly better economy because of less weight and less parasitic losses.  The advantage of DSG are very fast shifting with no misshifts, and it's much more engaging than a normal automatic transmission.  Any difference in fuel economy between DSG and manual are will within differences in driving style.  A leadfoot will always get lower mileage regardless of transmission. 

Biodiesel in the new TDI
The 2.0L TDI CJAA and CBEA engine will run on biodiesel but VW only allows up to 5% biodiesel (B5) because of the emission system and engine oil dilution.  VW cannot void the car warranty because you use biodiesel!  However, they could refuse a warranty claim if they believe the problem was caused by biodiesel use and you would have to fight them.  Laws vary by state but this could mean the burden of proof would be on you to prove the car has a defect that wasn't caused by the fuel.

The new TDI common rail engines and emissions systems haven't been tested long term in real world evaluations yet.  While past TDI ran excellently on high percentages of quality biodiesel, the new concern how biodiesel affects the self cleaning emissions system and engine oil dilution.  During the particulate filter self clean cycle, the engine injects a little extra fuel after the engine combustion cycle.  This post injection regeneration fuel goes into the filters and burns up any trapped particulates.  The filters are why new TDI have very little diesel odor and clean tailpipes.  For more basic information about biodiesel and VW, see 1000q: intro to biodiesel.

There is also some concern that some biodiesel will get into the engine oil and dilute it.  The difference with earlier TDI is the "self clean" post injection of fuel.  Petrol diesel evaporates easily out of the engine oil but biodiesel tends to accumulate.   A little biodiesel can be easily tolerated but the long term effects aren't known on the new common rail TDI engines.

Post combustion injection will also slightly lower fuel economy.  The self clean cycle depends on how clogged the particulate filter is so it's unknown how much fuel is used.  On average, the self clean cycle occurs every 4-600 miles or once/tank.  See 1000q: VW DPF FAQ for detailed info on this system.

Delivery inspection

After leaving the dealer, tell anyone who borrows your car to pay you cash instead of fueling it up as a favor.  This is a major cause of misfueling with gasoline!   Some dealers will fill up your fuel tank as a favor, make sure they put diesel in it!  The car keys will get passed to a few people like the car washer or tech when it's in for service so it's not always the salesperson's or mechanics fault.  I suggest a note taped to the "gas cap" while it's at the dealer.

If someone does put gas in your TDI, stop as soon as practical and safe and tow it to a mechanic!  The car probably won't get very far but don't risk getting into an accident by pulling over suddenly!  

Check the pumps for the ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) sticker.  About 99.5% of all retail pump diesel sold in the US is ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) but you may find a rare pump that isn't.  Even if the sticker on the fuel pump doesn't say it's ULSD, all major refineries in the US/Canada have been making pretty much only ULSDand are required to make only ULSD by 6/1/2010, so if the pump doesn't say ULSD it's almost certainly ULSD or diluted enough so that it shouldn't cause any serious problems.  After 12/01/10, by law, you can only find non ULSDfor cars in Mexico/South America.  California has been only ULSDfor years.

Follow the recommendations in the owner's handbook when breaking in the Golf's engine.  Most salespeople don't know anything about cars beyond what's in the sales brochure so don't listen to them.  If you need more advice and tips, read 1000q: engine break in.

Current and recent recalls:
Oxygen sensor and computer reflash.
Some tire pressure monitor systems are incorrectly set and will result in the low pressure light.  The computer should be set to 2.3 bar but it resets to 5.5 bar.  The solution is a computer reflash.  You can temporarily fix it by changing the coding with a VCDS cable as shown in this writuep.  As of mid 2011, VW is slowly changing back to the indirect system that works off the ABS sensors instead of having sensors in the wheels.

Some new cars are damaged at the dealer or in transit.  It happens.  Even though the dealer should have done it, carefully inspect your new car for dents, scratches, misaligned panels, haloing or spiderwebbing of the paint (see 1000q: polishing your paint for more details and pictures), or other damage.  Examine the paint for swirl marks and other defects.  This is not acceptable on a brand new car.  Don't let the happy ether from taking delivery of a new car cause you to overlook defects or damage.  A professional detailing will remove any rail dust, sea salt/sand, or road detritus accumulated during transport.  Waxing the car will only coat over these paint impurities and seal them in.  Browse the detailing index linked above for more details.   I recommend washing, claybar, and then waxing your new car yourself.  This removes the corrosive railroad dust if they came by rail, saltwater spray/sand while sitting at the port, and road detritus during transport.  See detailing tips at 1000q: washing and wax your car , 1000q: claybar your car. 

Very minor and consistent orange peel (a slight/wavy texturing of the paint surface) is considered normal on most cars.  Inconsistent minor orange peel shows a bad paint job and possibly damage cover ups.  The 2 thumbnail pictures (above right) are examples of orange peel from glossycar com.  The red car shows very severe orange peel and the repair.  The blue car shows a brand new car with strong orange peel which may be considered normal.  This can be corrected with a very light wetsanding and polish that can be done by any professional detailer.

Some cars have had spots or defects in the clearcoat.  If a hairdryer makes it disappear it's moisture trapped in the clearcoat.  Sometimes it goes away and sometimes it causes flaking.  Barring that, don't worry about waxing your new Golf.  The factory paint is baked in ovens and have had plenty of time to cure when they were being shipped to you.  Non factory body shop paint needs to cure for at least a month before waxing because it's slightly different and can't be baked in an oven or else the interior and all the plastics on the car would melt.  High quality body shops can do a better paint job than the factory so don't worry that they don't bake the paint. 

Double check your insurance coverage and see if insurance discounts apply for safety.  For whatever reason, some insurance companies may think your car is a gasoline car.  Golf TDI have 3 sets of airbags standard and optional rear lower side airbags.  All modern VW also have immobilizer anti theft, security alarm, shoulder harness seat belts, traction control, and ESP stability control standard in USA.

Make sure the dealer removes the front suspension blockers.  These are black or orange colored rubbery bumpers that lock the front springs for shipment.  They could get mangled from driving around on them (below left) or dislodge the shock boot.  It's on the delivery checklist but the box often gets checked off even though they didn't do it (and may have charged you for the pre delivery inspection).  If the front rides hard and high or you hear a clunking noise from the front, check for the blockers.

VW quirks and other misc stuff to know as a new owner

All 2010 VW Golf TDI use the 2.0L 140hp, 236lb-ft torque common rail TDI engine.  This engine is comparable in torque to a 6 cylinder engine in daily driving with the fuel economy of a small 4 cylinder engine.  See 1000q: direction injection, pumpe duse, and common rail for a comparison to older TDI technologies.  Common rail and emissions filtration system is state of the art for passenger car diesels and results in better emissions, more power, more economy, and a quieter, smoother engine sound than previous TDI.  Although diesel fuel prices are higher than gasoline prices, you'll still save money over the long term compared to a similar new car.  It also has less CO2 emissions per mile than the base 2.5L gasoline engine.  

After you shut off the engine or are stopped at a light: if you hear the engine fan running AND you smell something overheating at the tailpipe, this is the diesel particulate filter (DPF) burning off accumulated soot.  If the DPF doesn't get hot enough during a highway run or normal driving, it injects some fuel to burn off trapped particulates.  If you shut off the engine in the middle of a filter regeneration cycle you may notice some odor while it burns off.  A hot regen cycle occurs about once every 450-600 miles depending on use.  More information can be found in the FAQ article: 1000q: DPF and Adblue FAQ for VW.

Because diesel engines are throttled by fuel and run off oil, any diesel engine could have a rare mechanical malfunction called a runaway engine.  If the car is in gear it will also accelerate.  If the engine races on its own, keep control of the car and shut off the engine as soon as it's safe and practical.  Take it to a mechanic before starting it again.  Read more about a diesel engine runaway and some causes at 1000q: runaway engine FAQ.

You can use the remote key fob to open/close the sunroof and windows if you have comfort windows enabled.  See the video below for a demo.  This is in addition to the holding the key in the door lock operation.  See 1000q: comfort windows to enable it.  All VW relock themselves if you don't open the door after 30 seconds of using the remote to unlock the doors.  This is a security feature.

The manual door lock cylinder is hidden under a cover.  First, pull the door handle.  Then stick the metal key in the slot under the cover and pull it up and towards you to pop it off if you have to use the manual door lock.  If you don't pull the door handle open it can break the plastic.

It's normal for speedometers on most German cars to read slightly higher than actual speed.  This accounts for build variations like slightly different tire/wheel size and so that they don't read lower than actual speed.  The odometer reading should be correct and is a separate display from the speedometer for warranty and maintenance purposes.  Most report that the fuel economy meters are pretty accurate.  Even still, the best way to calculate fuel economy is to fill the tank all the way, drive, and then fill the tank all the way at the same exact pump.  Different pumps may shut off at slightly different points which can change your calculated fuel economy.  You can adjust the speedometer with a VCDS tool or if you complain to the dealer, they should fix it.  See 1000q: speedometer fix for more details.  It's for a mk5 but the same basic procedure may apply.

The TDI engine must get VW spec 507.00 engine oil for warranty purposes.  Because this is a new spec oil, you must order it from an online seller or the dealer.  DO NOT trust the dealer to comply with this requirement, even under their 3 years/36,000 mile free maintenance program!  Dealer techs are busy and sometimes don't know any better.  Sometimes it's just a matter of which bottle is closer.  Always check which oil will be used on your car with the exact mechanic who is changing the oil.   507 engine oil is also very low ash.  Low ash oil is needed to maximize the life of the DPF exhaust particulate filter.   See 1000q: DPF FAQ for more on this system.  Until there's testing and long term evidence for use of engine oils other than 507.00 VW spec, I suggest sticking to the factory recommendation.  Don't let them tell you that another oil is OK to use because it's you who has to prove any problem down the road, not them!  Also check the receipt for the part number.  Some oils that meet this spec are Castrol SLX Professional LL03 (VW# gvw 052 195 m2), Motul specific VW 507.00, Total Quartz Ineo 5w30 507.00, and Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30. Here is a TSB in .pdf format which lists engine oils approved by VW - click to view it (scroll down to the bottom for 507.00 oils)  The part numbers for 5w-30 507.00 engine oil are: VW# g v52 195 a1 (g v52 195 a1) for .5 liter  VW# gvw 052 195 m2 (gvw 052 195 m2) for 1 liter VW# g 052 195 m4 (gvw 052 195 m4)for 5 liters

Black cloth sport seats are standard in the US.  Only Canadian highline trim have leather seats.  If you prefer sport bucket seats they can be swapped from a Golf GTI.  If you prefer vinyl (leatherette), they should be available from a Jetta.  No 2010 TDI is available with leather seating or power seats in the US although gas 2009 Jettas and the older 2005.5-2006 Jetta TDI may have it optioned.  Make sure to check airbag connector compatibility before swapping seats!  

The RCD 510 premium 8 radio (pictured below) is touch screen, 6cd in dash changer, color, and accepts SD cards for music.

The RNS510 navigation system (pictured below) is touch screen, color, and uses a hard drive.  1000q: RNS 510 FAQ for more info on the touchscreen headhunt.  All TDI for 2010 get optional or standard bluetooth.  The new system for 2011 is the RNS 315.  You can still buy either as parts later and swap them in if you decide you like it.  Dual zone climatronic auto climate control and the old steering wheel/cluster is shown because this picture is of a 2009 gas Jetta.

Estimated mileage is not known but real world experience with the 2009 Jetta TDI suggests 35-50 mpg average mixed driving.  The coefficient of drag in Jetta (.31) vs. Golf (.32) is almost the same but the Golf 2 door is about 200 lbs lighter.  Major factors effecting mileage include individual driving style, car build quality variations, tire/wheel size, tire compound/tread, and fuel quality.  Expect mileage to increase during engine break in by as much as 10-15%.

All 2010 Golf TDI come with head curtain, front, and side airbags.  Lower rear side airbags are the only optional airbags.  ABS and traction control are standard, stability/yaw control is standard in the US, optional on Canadian comfortline, standard on highline.

Production of VW Golf on the assembly line in Germany.  All Golf TDI are built in Germany and shipped over.  There's a tag on the driver's side door and/or next to the spare tire with a manufacture location.

Engine testing and assembly (very last part is Touareg specific)

Chassis testing for test cars (reminds me of driving in Boston although I've hit more huge potholes in NYC)

When it's colder than 48^oF, wait at least 1 second after turning the key to "on" before turning the key to "start" and starting the engine.  This lets the glow plugs turn on and warm up.  The "wait to start" glow plug indicator light normally goes out in less than 1 second and could be on as long as 4-5 seconds when it's freezing.  Start the engine as soon as the light turns off.  Don't freak out if you hear a chime when the temperature goes down to 39^oF.  It's to let you know the road could be icy.  For more information on the multifunction display options, see 1000q: MFD menu FAQ.

The Golf TDI uses a timing belt and will need a timing belt change every 120,000 miles.  This can be verified in the owner's manual maintenance schedule.  All idler rollers, water pump, timing belt tensioner, should also be changed at that time.  The DIY parts price is about $400.  If you can't DIY, ask around for an independent TDI expert before going to the dealer since dealers not experienced with TDI engines have damaged engines in the past due to lack of experience with the exact engine.  If you go to the dealer, expect to pay roughly $900-1,300.

Some TDI with common rail injection have gotten metal flakes in the fuel filter.  This is evidence of a disintegrating high pressure fuel pump.  The entire fuel system should be replaced since the filter is upstream of the pump which has sent metal flakes throughout all the lines, injectors, and pumps.  The fuel filter should be changed every 20,000 miles.  See 1000q: fuel filter replace on how to open the fuel filter canister.  If you see flakes it should immediately be brought to the attention of the dealer while under warranty.  After that, keep your fuel receipts in case they accuse you of putting gasoline in the car.  Diesel fuel is an oil and lubricates the fuel system.

The fuel tank capacity is 14.5 gallons (55 liters).

Many car settings must be set up by the dealer.  Your CAN BUS technology Golf comes from the factory in sleep mode to prevent battery drain.  Sometimes these settings are never configured (dealer error) or reset later.  Some examples are the power seat/power windows/sunroof remote functions.  The window pinch protection can even be turned off.  These options can be adjusted with a VCDS diagnostic tool or the dealer can do it.  Other features can be adjusted through the MFD+.  See 1000q: window pinch protection and steering adaptation for how to do it yourself.

The engine coolant is "lifetime" G12.  Do not mix it with green Prestone or other non compatible coolants.  It's a sealed system so if it's low, figure out where the leak is.

All modern VW use an anti-theft system called the immobilizer.  See 1000q: immobilizer FAQ for more details.  Although you could have the key cut at many shops, an unprogrammed key won't let the engine stay running.  Don't buy used cut keys except for parts because immobilizer chips can only be programmed once per car.  If you buy a used key it's only good for parts.  To program a key yourself, see 1000q: a5 key FAQ.  The article is for the older Jetta but Golf are basically the same.  The part number for the key may be different.

The DRL light is normally on.  It doesn't mean the DRL are burnt out.  If a bulb burns out, you'll see a text message in the MFD display.

The glovebox has a small compartment for the owner's manual.  It's hard to see unless the manual is already there or you really look at the glovebox.  There's also an AC duct vent in there which can be rotated open or closed.

Apply the parking brake when parking!  It's good practice with any car but it is important on VWs because this sets the rear caliper self adjusters.  It's best to apply the brake before going into park (auto trans) or first/reverse gear (manual trans) to put stress on the brake instead of the transmission internals.

Securely jack up the rear of the car and spin the wheels by hand.  Do not put yourself in a position where you could be injured if the car falls!  Many have misadjusted parking brakes.  Light touching or scraping on the brakes is normal, resistance is not normal and should be adjusted by the dealer.

The Golf can't use truck stop high flow fueling pumps.  Truck high flow pumps are larger and flow much faster to fill a semi's large fuel tank and some will splash out.  Only use the small car sized fuel pumps.  You may hear of venting or a ventectomy- it does not apply to this generation of TDI.  Don't push the fuel filler nozzle too far or else the metal rings around the nozzle can get stuck on the filler neck.

I recommend applying a UV-resistant laminate or headlight protector on the headlight lenses.  This will prevent pitting and yellowing of the plastic on your new headlights.  This is not a VW specific problem.  All modern headlights on US cars use DOT approved plastic lenses instead of glass.  A clear film over the front of the car can also protect it but it's a lot more expensive than a headlight cover.  If you want to do paint shielding, professional installation is required.  It does reduce the shininess of the paint but you can't tell unless you're looking for it.  It can be removed without damage on original paint but shouldn't be applied to repainted panels since it could pull off some paint.  

You may also want to tint the windows.  Auto glass blocks UV light but even clear or light tint will block a lot more UV light.  Tinting the side windows helps prevent aging of the interior, aging of your skin, adds privacy, and in the event of the window shattering, controls glass particles by holding them to the stick-on film.  Tint darkness can come in clear, all the way to dark limo tints, check your local laws for any restrictions.  Use only simple soap and water on window tint, never use ammonia based cleaner on the interior of the window where stick-on tint film is applied.  If you listen to AM radio, do not use metallized tint or else you will lose most AM reception.  Depending on the brand/model of tint, FM reception should be fine with most metallized tints.  This is because the diversity radio antenna is in the hatch window.  The sharkfin antenna on the roof is for the satellite radio and GPS (if equipped).

Expected longevity of the exhaust particulate filtering system is not yet known but all emissions equipment is covered under warranty under federal emissions laws.  Removal will certainly set off a check engine light but there will probably be aftermarket solutions to this.  It's not currently possible to bypass the DPF filter on your VW or disable the Golf's DPF system.  See 1000q: DPF system FAQ for more details on the "clean diesel" system.

The 2010 Golf has an electric heating strip (auxiliary air heater Z35) in the air vent system to help warm up the cabin on cold winter mornings.  It won't blow hot air but slightly warmed air is better than nothing and it will prevent your frozen breath from obscuring the windshield on super cold mornings.  This is specific to the TDI and not on the gas VW.

If the sun visor is unclipped, you can slide it longer to adjust the rod length.  Both the driver's and passenger side pull out.  The passenger side pull-out sunvisor was decontented on Jetta.  The center console armrest also tilts and/or slides forward.

Do not add aftermarket rustproofing since it will void the factory rust warranty.  Cars are dipped in anti-rust zinc and have a few layers of paint to prevent rust.  While it could still happen and the rust warranty only covers certain kinds of rust, the best thing to do is to wash your car regularly, including the undercarriage.  See 1000q: car detailing index for tips on how to avoid scratches and swirl marks from car washing.  The best thing to do is to avoid automatic car washes unless they are "touchless".

Transmission problems with VW Golf TDI

There is no long term information on the 2010+ Golf TDI but they use the same transmission as the Jetta.  

Although the DSG (automatic) transmission (introduced with the 2004 New Beetle TDI) has it's drawbacks, it's still a good automatic compared to previous ones.  However, if you want better mileage and reliability, nothing beats a regular manual transmission.  Please read 1000q: DSG FAQ for maintenance, quirks, and other common issues with the DSG transmission.

Some people report the DSG transmission causing hesitation from a full stop.  Users report it to be more likely if you're fully stopped with your foot on the brake, and then quickly step hard on the accelerator pedal.  This is believed to be from the DSG clutches slipping.  It can be dangerous because this is often done when trying to dart through a gap in traffic.  To minimize the likelihood of hesitation, learn when the car is most likely to hesitate and plan accordingly.  When you take your foot off the brake, wait before stomping on the accelerator pedal hard or gently go through the first inch of travel on the pedal before pressing it harder.  

Some early A5 Jetta TDI used defective clutches which were replaced under recall.  Some dual mass flywheels (see 1000q: clutch FAQ for more details) failed or decided to liberate themselves from the engine with spectacular results.  The flywheel was revised and this should no longer be as prominent.

VW has extended the warranty on some DSG, see the DSG FAQ for more details. 

The gear ratios for the DSG and automatic transmission are shown below.

The transmissions use final drive #1 for gears 1, 2, 3, and 4, and the other for gears 5, 6, and reverse.  This is why 4th and 5th manual transmission gears have the same (or almost) ratio.  If you want to calculate rpm in any given gear, see 1000q: tire wheel gearing calculator.  Your mileage may vary!

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