Love it! I bought my 2017 SE new, took it stage 1 after break in, did my DSG tune at about 40k (should have done that a lot sooner!) and due to my commute of 50 minutes into work every day, am now at 185,000 miles. My GTI hasn't spent a day in the shop for anything other than routine maintenance and brakes. I follow maintenance to the T and do oil changes every 5-7000 miles. Best commuter car ever made IMO. It still hasn't needed a carbon cleaning, pulls as strong as it did when new, and my MPG is the same as well. I know my day is coming when something will fail, but I sure won't be able to complain. I plan on driving it until the wheels fall off!
@@David-vx5tkdon't worry about it. Change the fluid and filter every 30k miles and you'll be fine. My commute is 50 miles each way, with a good chunk of that through city traffic. 2015 GTI DSG with no unscheduled maintenance. Change your engine oil every 5k miles and you'll be happy as a clam!
Thanks! I looked up the value of a 2017 with 56,000 miles a while back when I had made a video about VW reliability or something else that would compel me to get another car. The used car market had inflated to the point that your car could retail for about the same as what I paid for mine brand new in 2016. That's amazing market demand, but also an amazing discount to be had back then. Thanks for visiting!
Me with a 2018 (I bought brand new in July of 2019) with only 38,000mi (10,000mi in the first 6 moths, then covid changed everything😢) I assumed an average of 15~20,000mi/ year hahaha took me 4 years to hit 30!
I bought my Golf GTI brand new in 2016. It has been the best car I have owned. My GTI just hit 143K miles. I also should mention it has been making 500hp for almost 20K with no issues. I stay on top of maintenance and don't beat on the car constantly. These cars will definitely last if you treat them right.
@ap6584 I have different maps I can choose. I don't run the 500+hp E85 map daily. Traction can be decent, as long as you invest in a good set of performance tires. I'm running Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and they grip well, outside of digs. Any 2wd vehicle making 400+hp will have trouble with traction off the line. My car has been absolutely fantastic reliability wise. The key is not constantly beating on the car. Also, doing regular and preventative maintenance.
your 3 year review is what sealed the deal for me. Have a 2017 GTI SE (6MT) that I bought in 2020. Put quite a few miles in the first year but WFH and moving to a city has halted that. Still, people are always amazed that the car has only needed regular maintenance. You've also inspired me to track my own GTI process and started writing a maintenance thread to keep track of the car's history. best
Excellent to hear about your car and maintenance thread. I've been keeping logs in little green books for as long as I can remember. Thanks for visiting!
Congratulations on the 200,000 miles on your amazing GTI. As a low miles 2019, GTI. And will never see that miles retired and enjoy each and every drive.
I'm a firm believer in proper and diligent maintenance. Our 2012 Ford Expedition has a hair over 217,000 miles on it and its still going. Thus far, I've been able to do all of the maintenance on it and catch potential issues before they become an actual issue. I sometimes worry about putting the mileage on my R but, I bought it to enjoy it and that's what I intend to do while I can. Thank you for your content. Always appreciate the honesty.
The mark 7/7.5 GTI's are just good cars. I have a 2018 MT with a meer 43K, but it has only needed oil changes, 2 tires, and recently a battery. It's never been to the dealer. Like you I do the oil changes with VW spec oil. I anticipate a long term relationship. Nice video!
Yes! The key to survival with the mods is that I don't hammer the car anywhere nearly as frequently as people would assume that I do. Thanks for visiting!
I remember my 100k kilometers moment on my Mk7.5 which was quite emotional. It is a well known fact that the cars used more frequently on highways and long road trips age like fine wine and with that said, I have to say, your GTI has aged incredibly well. Also an incredible idea of yours to celebrate 200k miles and Veteran's day with a cake. I'll make sure to celebrate my 200k with a cake as well. Wish you many great journeys with your great GTI and Happy Veteran's Day! Greetings from Turkey 👋
Happy anniversary on the GTI! And to you as the owner/driver! And…may you go another 200,000 with the “exact” “problems” that you have endured. More than fine. It’s a car, it runs, it will break. 😊 Health and happiness is what counts, not how many injectors you have replaced. 0 criticism here ☺️ Congrats!
Nice to see another high mileage GTI! I''ve got 220,000 on my 2011 GTI. I love the car but it needs a timing chain (at -5.9 deg), rear main seal and a new turbo if I'm going to keep it longer term. Not sure if it's worth putting all that money into it.
Very nice! Whether the maintenance is worth the money is determined by whether the cost of a replacement vehicle is worth what you'll save in less maintenance. I plan to drive this car until I absolutely HAVE to replace it. Thanks for visiting!
I bought my 2015 GTI during the pandemic I’m in nyc found it in Texas since everything was on lock down decided to take a ride out 25k miles $9900. it sat on their lot for 9 months it was tuned mildly and loud so people kept passing it up. I pulled the trigger nonetheless drove it back stoped by a muffler shop on the way and added a silencer til I got it home. It was supposed to be a daily but having previous VWs it was only a matter of time because I changed everything after selling my b7 RS4. I enjoy your channel and whatever I had doubts on your channel has gotten in depth with whatever problems I encountered. Thanks
Just came across your channel. Awesome GTI! I just bought my 21 with 12,000 miles in January. Now at 20,000 miles, you still have ten times as more miles than mine. Cheers
Just seeing this video. Congrats man! That's frieken awesome. I'm approaching 100k on a stage 1 tune. Never taken the RPM's over 3000 until it got up to temp and have followed the maintenance to a T...I just started getting weird engine sounds at idle lol. Dealer said nothing was wrong with it and to bring it back if it gets worse. Just how the cookie crumbles I guess, but I hope this thing runs to 200k like yours!
If you know someone with VCDS or OBDEleven, have them look at the camshaft timing compensation. I don't recall its limit, but seeing a number that's less than 5° may give you some peace of mind. Thanks for visiting!
My 23 year old stepson picked up a 40th Anniversary GTI a few months ago. He was adamant on changing the oil every 3000 miles. I told him it was a waste of money. He’s now doing 5000 but not too happy about it. 😂
I agree with 3000-mile drains if the favored oil is no-name cheap stuff. But the equation is different with quality oils. There's no way to know how well your step-son's old GTI was maintained before he bought it, So, 5000-mile drains may be appropriate, especially if he's now using quality synthetic oils. With that said, I wouldn't be at all surprised if Blackstone recommends shorter drain intervals for me. Thanks for visiting!
@qqsrx I have a car with turbo engine and I change every 2,500 miles- 3,000miles. Oil be very dark. I idle for a few hours every day and mostly city driving and drive fast from time to time. Not only do you have to keep the oil good for the engine, but the turbo as well. 5,000 is probably ok for most people but for me, I need oil change much sooner. Even my job as a bus driver, it was required to have an oil change every 3,000 miles or 3 months, which ever came first. I had a non turbo car that also needed 3,000 mile oil changes. 3,000 may not be required but is safer for the longevity.
I almost lost hope of this video coming out, but I’m glad you made this holistic, comprehensive video for us. First of all, that’s REALLY impressive that you made it to 200,000 miles with no problems at anywhere down the line. I’m at 145,000 miles in my ‘17 GTI and have been following in your footsteps with some deviations. I bought mine new in 2017 and it’s actually still completely stock with no engine or exhaust modifications. Other than regular maintenance, the only issues I had were the PCV valve at 130,000 and a carbon cleaning at 140,000 + all 4 fuel injectors. The injectors were simply preventive maintenance since they were right there anyway. I never did the water pump. Battery once. I (regrettably) tracked it once. My whole family drives my car everywhere in the salty Midwest and I’m the one that maintains it. They’re oblivious to anything about it including the chirping serpentine belt that needs replacing soon. Its first 100,000 miles were basically driven 25 miles each way to work/back…..autobahn style at a constant 3000 rpm on the highway. The only issues that I’m experiencing right now is some slight OIL BURNING (~1qt every 7000 miles) and SLIGHT MISFIRES. The Facebook forums say they’re inevitable but I think they’re related. Oil burning I think is caused by carbon buildup in the cylinder walls carbon buildup in the rings in the engine. There ARE some non-intrusive ways of cleaning it but I haven’t gotten around to it. I’ve since switched to 5,000 miles oil changes. Other than that, it’s smooth sailing 😅
Nice! Thanks for the detailed report! If I was to do it all over again, I'd stop at APR Stage 1 and not mess with the exhaust at all. MAYBE just an axle-back exhaust for the bling, but definitely no messing with the downpipe or resonator. I think a "silent but potent" package would be pretty cool. Thanks for visiting!
definitely not just 'lucky' it shows that pride of ownership and regular maintenance is key - cool video thanks for sharing the story of this car all summed up!
I'm 60k miles in on my 2019 Autobahn manual. It's been a pure pleasure to drive and own. It constantly impresses me with VWs design, workmanship and attention to detail. I get compliments from people driving Audi and Porsche. I know there will never be another car that comes close. The 6yr/72k warranty is just the beginning, hoping to keep it to 200k like you! VW makes great cars, you just gotta take care of them.
Couldn't agree more! This has been my best car ever. I hope to see it last a while longer and sharing more milestones in the future. Thanks for visiting!
I have a 2017 GTi S with 56k miles. I was doing ~15k miles a year for a few years until covid happened. Now I WFH and barely put any miles on him. Only issues have been a slipping clutch and a leaky water pump at 45k. The water pump was replaced under warranty, and the clutch replaced with a South Bend Stage 1 with a single mass flywheel, which has been an excellent upgrade over the stock unit even with no power mods. I'm impressed and a little disheartened that your shocks and struts have lasted as long as they have. I say disheartened because I've been looking forward to upgrading mine with a set of Bilstein B4s or B6s. Looks like I have to wait a little longer. This GTi is my seventh VW and was a replacement for a MK6 Golf TDi that VW bought back from me. The TDi was a fantastic car, but it doesn't compare with the GTi, which is just the best car, not just VW, I've ever owned. Anyway, thanks for the cool videos and I'm looking forward to seeing you hit 300k with your GTi!
You don't HAVE to wait for a suspension upgrade. HAHA! ;-) I had a pair of Mk6 Jetta TDIs when Dieselgate hit. I was glad to use the buybacks as a "do-over" to get my 2017 GTI and my wife's 2018 Jetta SE free and clear! Thanks for visiting!
I have a 2016 MK7 TSI 1.8 coming up to 193K for mileage. Was changing oil every 10K as recommended by the dealer from 36K when I got it to 185K. Now changing every 5K. Replaced the turbo at 140K. Had to have the pistons cleaned as the oil light would come on after driving 1200 miles. Replacing the evap due to my bad habit of topping off fuel. Did the carbon cleaning, injector replacement, coil pack replacement, DSG service every 40K. Flush the radiator every 20K. Replaced both front and rear brakes twice. Changed the tires once as I do the tire rotations and all wheel alignments every 10K. Looking forward to reaching 200K.
The mk7 is a great platform. I also had an older TDI, though mine was a mk4. When it came time to replace it at 400K miles, I bought one of the buyback 2015 Golf TDIs. That one has 108K miles right now. The only thing it's needed is two batteries in the time I've had it. It doesn't quite get the mileage of the mk4 (lifetime has been around 40mpg), but it's way more comfy. I think you'll get plenty of time out of your GTI, so long as you keep doing the maintenance (that shouldn't be a problem!). I've been following you on tdiclub and youtube since you bought your 98 TDI, and it amazes me how much you drive and the life you get out of your cars. Pretty cool.
@@StealthGTI Yeah, I'm MattRabbit on the tdiclub forums. I currently have the mk7 TDI as well as a 2014 Beetle TDI. Both are 6-speed manuals. I also have a 1981 Rabbit diesel that's been in the family since new.
Congrats, thank you for proving the VW durability. I got a 2018 VW Beetle and I gave it to my daughter in 2021. She plans to keep , so I make sure it gets 5K oil changes and other maintenance. FYI I had a 2016 GTI, I think I first saw your channel a few years ago .
That is awesome! My first car was a red '74 Beetle. I might have purchased a red 2017 Beetle for nostalgia's sake if it had been available with the GTI's engine and transmission choices... or at least the DSG. The Beetle is a different animal, for sure. I think I would have outgrown its styling rather quickly... but not if it had 400 hp! HAHA! Thanks for visiting!
Hey, Scott, love your vids, and as an original owner of an ‘00 Mk4 Golf TDI, I appreciate that you and I run our cars until the wheels fall off, as they say. Mine is still my daily driver and my lifetime mpg is just a hair under 50 mpg. It’s been a great car and I think yours is as well as you take good care of your car. I think half the people out there don’t understand PM and their place in the scheme of things. If you’re ever in Cali again, let’s go do another I5 run @ 77 mph again for old times sake. :) Take care!
USMC here 86-06. 2016 GTI Autobahn with 48k miles. I also have 08 Honda Element. I use public transport for work commute. I installed stage 1 tune and MOMO wheels.
Nice coincidence in these threads. Not sure if you're aware that my daughter is a Marine and currently deployed. But, the other coincidence, another commenter just a few posts down enjoys his GTI and is looking for a Honda Element. Thanks for visiting!
Mine turned 8 years this summer bought it new as well. I have a 2015 MK7 2 door DSG with APR Stage 1. Just had my DSG oil changed 7-8 months ago when it hit 40k. Odometer is around 45k miles now😁🥰. Might be the lowest mileage for that year that I know.
Thank you for the update! Always enjoy hearing about this as a fellow GTI owner. What is your experience with using the pump for oil change? I've always wanted to do my own oil change, embarrassingly, the thought of having to get under the car and buying the associated equipment is what prevented me all this time so would love to hear about your experience using the pump. Thank you!
I do like using the pump, for sure! There are two drawbacks, though: 1) It doesn't quite get out the last 8 ounces. Not a big deal, though. 2) If you never go under the car to drain the oil, then you're less likely to conduct under-chassis inspections that could allow you to spot problems early. So, even if you don't get everything you need to change your oil from under the car, I encourage you to at least get a set of low-profile ramps so that you can get under the car from time to time to look for leaks or other signs of trouble. Thanks for visiting!
I think given your use-case, a 10k mile OCI isn't going to be the end of the world. I was traveling largely highway miles every other weekend with 20-minute trips to/from work in between for a year or so, and Blackstone TBN analysis suggested I could push an 8k mile OCI out even further. I also use LiquiMoly Leichtlauf oil, which is why I felt like a comment might be worthwhile. Now if you were driving super short distances all the time, I think I'd be concerned. Suspension - I'm incredibly impressed you've still got stock hardware, AND alignment. I suspect you have far nicer roads where you're at than I am, and I won't really knock the decision not to change things out if they aren't giving you issues. I'm at 134k miles in my '17 Sport and still loving it, though I'm fighting a hot idle stumble that new coils and injectors, along with a valve cleaning and coil ground relocation haven't fixed. PCV is 31k miles old, so I'm hoping it's not that. We shall see. Delighted to see yours is still treating you well!
Thanks for the report! I almost never do short trips. I intentionally drive to the next town for groceries even though there's a similar store within walking distance. The car always warms up to full temp and is driven at least 10 miles. HAHA! Thanks for visiting!
Yeah, I never understood the notion of buying a clunker to spare your daily. Not only do you now have to maintain two cars and pay for insurance, you also incur some issues when not driviing either for a long stretch of time. Only time I'd consider it would be if the main car was entering collectible status, was an exotic, or can't handle the weather or roads of where I'm headed. That said, I've been itching for a NA Honda Element to have some fun and have a side car for when the GTI needs "love".
Yes, good points! The Honda Element is (was?) a good car. They may even have a cult following of their own. An AWD specimen is the way to go. I'm sort of interested in a Subaru; the Crosstrek Wilderness has my attention. But I cannot justify it with my car being as good as it's been. Thanks for visiting!
waiting for the next milestone - 300k. my 2017 GTI has been great, only 57k though. My mk7 has the same plaid cloth seat and the 18” Nogaro wheels, look and feel better than mk8
The next major milestone may take a few years. I may do one at 238,855 miles, which is the average distance to the moon. It's a kooky milestone, but perhaps I can come up with a lunar theme between now and then. HAHA! Thanks for visiting!
I use Liqui Moly 2332 Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40. I am on my original PCV. I've read that there's no need to "upgrade" that part. It hasn't failed yet; so, I'll rock-on until I have an issue. Thanks for visiting!
I did a precautionary cleaning at 105,000 miles before going on a 7000 mile road trip. The intake wasn't bad. The next one was around 195,000 miles due to a persistent cold start misfire. See my "Milestones" for videos that may discuss the cleanings. My mechanic recommends doing the cleanings at the onset of cold start misfires; not as part of any mileage related maintenance plan. No need to spend the money if there's not an actual problem yet. Thanks for visiting!
I hope you can! I forgot that the Passat has been discontinued in the US. Looks like the Arteon is on its way out, too. Golf is already gone unless you get a GTI or R. VW is shifting to electric or SUVs, it seems. I don't think that's going to work out. I'm already looking at other makers, though I hope to see my GTI last a very long time. Thanks for visiting!
I think it was around $300. The fabric is not a perfect match; OEM fabric boosts the price quite a lot. But I can certainly live with that. Thanks for visiting!
Excellent! I cannot recall if I said in this video, but I think Stage 2 is where it's at! I really enjoyed having immediate torque. Sure, the horsepower of the IS38 is nice, but I'm more frequently in need of the instant punch of Stage 2. I'll go back to a stock turbo if I ever need to replace my IS38. Thanks for visiting!
My mechanic advises against intake cleaning until you start to experience cold start misfires. It's just money down the drain to do it too early. Thanks for visiting!
Love it!
I bought my 2017 SE new, took it stage 1 after break in, did my DSG tune at about 40k (should have done that a lot sooner!) and due to my commute of 50 minutes into work every day, am now at 185,000 miles. My GTI hasn't spent a day in the shop for anything other than routine maintenance and brakes. I follow maintenance to the T and do oil changes every 5-7000 miles. Best commuter car ever made IMO. It still hasn't needed a carbon cleaning, pulls as strong as it did when new, and my MPG is the same as well. I know my day is coming when something will fail, but I sure won't be able to complain. I plan on driving it until the wheels fall off!
That is a fantastic testimony! I love it and have pinned it to the top for others to see. Thanks for sharing!
I just got a 2016 GTI Autobahn and I am concerned about the DSG lasting in heavy traffic and stop and go traffic
@@David-vx5tkdon't worry about it. Change the fluid and filter every 30k miles and you'll be fine. My commute is 50 miles each way, with a good chunk of that through city traffic. 2015 GTI DSG with no unscheduled maintenance. Change your engine oil every 5k miles and you'll be happy as a clam!
This makes me feel so good about my 2017 at 56,000 miles. Such a fantastic car.
Thanks! I looked up the value of a 2017 with 56,000 miles a while back when I had made a video about VW reliability or something else that would compel me to get another car. The used car market had inflated to the point that your car could retail for about the same as what I paid for mine brand new in 2016. That's amazing market demand, but also an amazing discount to be had back then. Thanks for visiting!
Me with a 2018 (I bought brand new in July of 2019) with only 38,000mi (10,000mi in the first 6 moths, then covid changed everything😢) I assumed an average of 15~20,000mi/ year hahaha took me 4 years to hit 30!
I bought my Golf GTI brand new in 2016. It has been the best car I have owned. My GTI just hit 143K miles. I also should mention it has been making 500hp for almost 20K with no issues. I stay on top of maintenance and don't beat on the car constantly. These cars will definitely last if you treat them right.
What's traction like at 500bhp? I've been considering going 450-500 but I don't want to blow it up or have something that's undriveable.
@ap6584 I have different maps I can choose. I don't run the 500+hp E85 map daily. Traction can be decent, as long as you invest in a good set of performance tires. I'm running Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and they grip well, outside of digs. Any 2wd vehicle making 400+hp will have trouble with traction off the line.
My car has been absolutely fantastic reliability wise. The key is not constantly beating on the car. Also, doing regular and preventative maintenance.
@@vr6gls interesting, thanks.
That's excellent news! I don't use my power very often, but it's nice to have it when I want it. Thanks for visiting!
your 3 year review is what sealed the deal for me. Have a 2017 GTI SE (6MT) that I bought in 2020. Put quite a few miles in the first year but WFH and moving to a city has halted that. Still, people are always amazed that the car has only needed regular maintenance.
You've also inspired me to track my own GTI process and started writing a maintenance thread to keep track of the car's history.
best
Excellent to hear about your car and maintenance thread. I've been keeping logs in little green books for as long as I can remember. Thanks for visiting!
Congratulations on the 200,000 miles on your amazing GTI.
As a low miles 2019, GTI. And will never see that miles
retired and enjoy each and every drive.
Thanks! I, too, still enjoy every drive. It's one of the reasons why I have so many miles... recreational driving! Thanks for visiting!
I'm a firm believer in proper and diligent maintenance. Our 2012 Ford Expedition has a hair over 217,000 miles on it and its still going. Thus far, I've been able to do all of the maintenance on it and catch potential issues before they become an actual issue. I sometimes worry about putting the mileage on my R but, I bought it to enjoy it and that's what I intend to do while I can. Thank you for your content. Always appreciate the honesty.
Thanks for your report! I appreciate you taking the time to share.
The mark 7/7.5 GTI's are just good cars. I have a 2018 MT with a meer 43K, but it has only needed oil changes, 2 tires, and recently a battery. It's never been to the dealer. Like you I do the oil changes with VW spec oil. I anticipate a long term relationship. Nice video!
Thanks for visiting!
Love this gti channel! 20206MT owner who puts 30K miles a year on mine. Full touring setup.
Thanks for visiting!
Congrats on 200,000. That’s serious miles especially with your performance modes
Yes! The key to survival with the mods is that I don't hammer the car anywhere nearly as frequently as people would assume that I do. Thanks for visiting!
It’s awesome to see people driving their car as it should be. Especially, when the car is modified 💯. Keep it up!
Thanks! Will do!
I think it’s really cool that you have done that many miles keep it up
Thanks a lot! I'm going to drive it until I cannot afford to keep it on the road. Thanks for visiting!
I remember my 100k kilometers moment on my Mk7.5 which was quite emotional. It is a well known fact that the cars used more frequently on highways and long road trips age like fine wine and with that said, I have to say, your GTI has aged incredibly well. Also an incredible idea of yours to celebrate 200k miles and Veteran's day with a cake. I'll make sure to celebrate my 200k with a cake as well. Wish you many great journeys with your great GTI and Happy Veteran's Day! Greetings from Turkey 👋
Thanks a ton! I appreciate your comment.
Happy anniversary on the GTI! And to you as the owner/driver!
And…may you go another 200,000 with the “exact” “problems” that you have endured. More than fine.
It’s a car, it runs, it will break. 😊
Health and happiness is what counts, not how many injectors you have replaced. 0 criticism here ☺️
Congrats!
Fingers crossed! I appreciate your visit!
Nice to see another high mileage GTI! I''ve got 220,000 on my 2011 GTI. I love the car but it needs a timing chain (at -5.9 deg), rear main seal and a new turbo if I'm going to keep it longer term. Not sure if it's worth putting all that money into it.
Very nice! Whether the maintenance is worth the money is determined by whether the cost of a replacement vehicle is worth what you'll save in less maintenance. I plan to drive this car until I absolutely HAVE to replace it. Thanks for visiting!
I bought my 2015 GTI during the pandemic I’m in nyc found it in Texas since everything was on lock down decided to take a ride out 25k miles $9900. it sat on their lot for 9 months it was tuned mildly and loud so people kept passing it up. I pulled the trigger nonetheless drove it back stoped by a muffler shop on the way and added a silencer til I got it home. It was supposed to be a daily but having previous VWs it was only a matter of time because I changed everything after selling my b7 RS4. I enjoy your channel and whatever I had doubts on your channel has gotten in depth with whatever problems I encountered. Thanks
Thanks for your report! I hope the car serves you well.
Just came across your channel. Awesome GTI! I just bought my 21 with 12,000 miles in January. Now at 20,000 miles, you still have ten times as more miles than mine. Cheers
Welcome aboard! I'm at 222,000 miles now. Thanks for visiting!
Just seeing this video. Congrats man! That's frieken awesome.
I'm approaching 100k on a stage 1 tune. Never taken the RPM's over 3000 until it got up to temp and have followed the maintenance to a T...I just started getting weird engine sounds at idle lol. Dealer said nothing was wrong with it and to bring it back if it gets worse. Just how the cookie crumbles I guess, but I hope this thing runs to 200k like yours!
If you know someone with VCDS or OBDEleven, have them look at the camshaft timing compensation. I don't recall its limit, but seeing a number that's less than 5° may give you some peace of mind. Thanks for visiting!
My 23 year old stepson picked up a 40th Anniversary GTI a few months ago. He was adamant on changing the oil every 3000 miles. I told him it was a waste of money. He’s now doing 5000 but not too happy about it. 😂
I agree with 3000-mile drains if the favored oil is no-name cheap stuff. But the equation is different with quality oils. There's no way to know how well your step-son's old GTI was maintained before he bought it, So, 5000-mile drains may be appropriate, especially if he's now using quality synthetic oils. With that said, I wouldn't be at all surprised if Blackstone recommends shorter drain intervals for me. Thanks for visiting!
Scotty said oil change every 5000, especially for turbo engines.
@@qqsrxScottle is a shyster
@qqsrx I have a car with turbo engine and I change every 2,500 miles- 3,000miles. Oil be very dark. I idle for a few hours every day and mostly city driving and drive fast from time to time. Not only do you have to keep the oil good for the engine, but the turbo as well. 5,000 is probably ok for most people but for me, I need oil change much sooner. Even my job as a bus driver, it was required to have an oil change every 3,000 miles or 3 months, which ever came first. I had a non turbo car that also needed 3,000 mile oil changes. 3,000 may not be required but is safer for the longevity.
2019 Giac stage 1 66 k miles only problem was water pump change oil every 5000 (66years old)
I almost lost hope of this video coming out, but I’m glad you made this holistic, comprehensive video for us.
First of all, that’s REALLY impressive that you made it to 200,000 miles with no problems at anywhere down the line.
I’m at 145,000 miles in my ‘17 GTI and have been following in your footsteps with some deviations. I bought mine new in 2017 and it’s actually still completely stock with no engine or exhaust modifications. Other than regular maintenance, the only issues I had were the PCV valve at 130,000 and a carbon cleaning at 140,000 + all 4 fuel injectors. The injectors were simply preventive maintenance since they were right there anyway. I never did the water pump. Battery once. I (regrettably) tracked it once. My whole family drives my car everywhere in the salty Midwest and I’m the one that maintains it. They’re oblivious to anything about it including the chirping serpentine belt that needs replacing soon. Its first 100,000 miles were basically driven 25 miles each way to work/back…..autobahn style at a constant 3000 rpm on the highway.
The only issues that I’m experiencing right now is some slight OIL BURNING (~1qt every 7000 miles) and SLIGHT MISFIRES. The Facebook forums say they’re inevitable but I think they’re related. Oil burning I think is caused by carbon buildup in the cylinder walls carbon buildup in the rings in the engine. There ARE some non-intrusive ways of cleaning it but I haven’t gotten around to it. I’ve since switched to 5,000 miles oil changes. Other than that, it’s smooth sailing 😅
Nice! Thanks for the detailed report! If I was to do it all over again, I'd stop at APR Stage 1 and not mess with the exhaust at all. MAYBE just an axle-back exhaust for the bling, but definitely no messing with the downpipe or resonator. I think a "silent but potent" package would be pretty cool. Thanks for visiting!
definitely not just 'lucky' it shows that pride of ownership and regular maintenance is key - cool video thanks for sharing the story of this car all summed up!
The cake was delicious, too! HAHA! Thanks for watching!
Great video, as always!
8 years & 135,000+ miles on my is38 GTI with no end in sight.
Very nice! Thanks for sharing!
I'm 60k miles in on my 2019 Autobahn manual. It's been a pure pleasure to drive and own. It constantly impresses me with VWs design, workmanship and attention to detail. I get compliments from people driving Audi and Porsche. I know there will never be another car that comes close. The 6yr/72k warranty is just the beginning, hoping to keep it to 200k like you! VW makes great cars, you just gotta take care of them.
Couldn't agree more! This has been my best car ever. I hope to see it last a while longer and sharing more milestones in the future. Thanks for visiting!
I have a 2017 GTi S with 56k miles. I was doing ~15k miles a year for a few years until covid happened. Now I WFH and barely put any miles on him.
Only issues have been a slipping clutch and a leaky water pump at 45k. The water pump was replaced under warranty, and the clutch replaced with a South Bend Stage 1 with a single mass flywheel, which has been an excellent upgrade over the stock unit even with no power mods.
I'm impressed and a little disheartened that your shocks and struts have lasted as long as they have. I say disheartened because I've been looking forward to upgrading mine with a set of Bilstein B4s or B6s. Looks like I have to wait a little longer.
This GTi is my seventh VW and was a replacement for a MK6 Golf TDi that VW bought back from me. The TDi was a fantastic car, but it doesn't compare with the GTi, which is just the best car, not just VW, I've ever owned.
Anyway, thanks for the cool videos and I'm looking forward to seeing you hit 300k with your GTi!
You don't HAVE to wait for a suspension upgrade. HAHA! ;-) I had a pair of Mk6 Jetta TDIs when Dieselgate hit. I was glad to use the buybacks as a "do-over" to get my 2017 GTI and my wife's 2018 Jetta SE free and clear! Thanks for visiting!
I have a 2016 MK7 TSI 1.8 coming up to 193K for mileage. Was changing oil every 10K as recommended by the dealer from 36K when I got it to 185K. Now changing every 5K. Replaced the turbo at 140K. Had to have the pistons cleaned as the oil light would come on after driving 1200 miles. Replacing the evap due to my bad habit of topping off fuel. Did the carbon cleaning, injector replacement, coil pack replacement, DSG service every 40K. Flush the radiator every 20K. Replaced both front and rear brakes twice. Changed the tires once as I do the tire rotations and all wheel alignments every 10K. Looking forward to reaching 200K.
Thanks for sharing your experience! Take Care!
The mk7 is a great platform. I also had an older TDI, though mine was a mk4. When it came time to replace it at 400K miles, I bought one of the buyback 2015 Golf TDIs. That one has 108K miles right now. The only thing it's needed is two batteries in the time I've had it. It doesn't quite get the mileage of the mk4 (lifetime has been around 40mpg), but it's way more comfy. I think you'll get plenty of time out of your GTI, so long as you keep doing the maintenance (that shouldn't be a problem!). I've been following you on tdiclub and youtube since you bought your 98 TDI, and it amazes me how much you drive and the life you get out of your cars. Pretty cool.
Matt - Very cool to see that we have so much in common. Do you have a screen name at TDIClub that I might recognize?
@@StealthGTI Yeah, I'm MattRabbit on the tdiclub forums. I currently have the mk7 TDI as well as a 2014 Beetle TDI. Both are 6-speed manuals. I also have a 1981 Rabbit diesel that's been in the family since new.
Congrats, thank you for proving the VW durability. I got a 2018 VW Beetle and I gave it to my daughter in 2021. She plans to keep , so I make sure it gets 5K oil changes and other maintenance. FYI I had a 2016 GTI, I think I first saw your channel a few years ago .
That is awesome! My first car was a red '74 Beetle. I might have purchased a red 2017 Beetle for nostalgia's sake if it had been available with the GTI's engine and transmission choices... or at least the DSG. The Beetle is a different animal, for sure. I think I would have outgrown its styling rather quickly... but not if it had 400 hp! HAHA! Thanks for visiting!
Congrats!
March is going to be my 8 year anniversary and I'm only about to hit 65K miles 😂
Very nice! Did I see a video from you where you're contemplating getting something different?
Hey, Scott, love your vids, and as an original owner of an ‘00 Mk4 Golf TDI, I appreciate that you and I run our cars until the wheels fall off, as they say. Mine is still my daily driver and my lifetime mpg is just a hair under 50 mpg. It’s been a great car and I think yours is as well as you take good care of your car. I think half the people out there don’t understand PM and their place in the scheme of things. If you’re ever in Cali again, let’s go do another I5 run @ 77 mph again for old times sake. :) Take care!
Thanks for the note. I think an I5 run has to be done at 88 mph these days. ;-)
USMC here 86-06. 2016 GTI Autobahn with 48k miles. I also have 08 Honda Element. I use public transport for work commute. I installed stage 1 tune and MOMO wheels.
Nice coincidence in these threads. Not sure if you're aware that my daughter is a Marine and currently deployed. But, the other coincidence, another commenter just a few posts down enjoys his GTI and is looking for a Honda Element. Thanks for visiting!
I bought new a Mk4 GTI 20th Anniversary in black magic. Lovely car with great handling for its time.
Excellent! Thanks for sharing.
Mine turned 8 years this summer bought it new as well. I have a 2015 MK7 2 door DSG with APR Stage 1. Just had my DSG oil changed 7-8 months ago when it hit 40k. Odometer is around 45k miles now😁🥰. Might be the lowest mileage for that year that I know.
Very nice! Yes, you may have one of the lowest-mileage cars from that year. Thanks for visiting!
Excellent video. Thanks for all the information on this great 200k milestone.
Thanks a ton! I appreciate that.
Thanks for serving our country we need more men like yourself
Thanks for visiting!
Thank you for the update! Always enjoy hearing about this as a fellow GTI owner. What is your experience with using the pump for oil change? I've always wanted to do my own oil change, embarrassingly, the thought of having to get under the car and buying the associated equipment is what prevented me all this time so would love to hear about your experience using the pump. Thank you!
I do like using the pump, for sure! There are two drawbacks, though: 1) It doesn't quite get out the last 8 ounces. Not a big deal, though. 2) If you never go under the car to drain the oil, then you're less likely to conduct under-chassis inspections that could allow you to spot problems early. So, even if you don't get everything you need to change your oil from under the car, I encourage you to at least get a set of low-profile ramps so that you can get under the car from time to time to look for leaks or other signs of trouble. Thanks for visiting!
You found yourself a new subscriber amigo!
Welcome aboard! Thanks for visiting!
I think given your use-case, a 10k mile OCI isn't going to be the end of the world. I was traveling largely highway miles every other weekend with 20-minute trips to/from work in between for a year or so, and Blackstone TBN analysis suggested I could push an 8k mile OCI out even further. I also use LiquiMoly Leichtlauf oil, which is why I felt like a comment might be worthwhile. Now if you were driving super short distances all the time, I think I'd be concerned.
Suspension - I'm incredibly impressed you've still got stock hardware, AND alignment. I suspect you have far nicer roads where you're at than I am, and I won't really knock the decision not to change things out if they aren't giving you issues.
I'm at 134k miles in my '17 Sport and still loving it, though I'm fighting a hot idle stumble that new coils and injectors, along with a valve cleaning and coil ground relocation haven't fixed. PCV is 31k miles old, so I'm hoping it's not that. We shall see.
Delighted to see yours is still treating you well!
Thanks for the report! I almost never do short trips. I intentionally drive to the next town for groceries even though there's a similar store within walking distance. The car always warms up to full temp and is driven at least 10 miles. HAHA! Thanks for visiting!
Happy Anniversary!!!
Thank you so much! 😀
My jetta tdi 2011 2.0. 376.000 kms. Best car ever
Thanks for visiting!
This is precisely why I use a old style bra on my car over ppf to prevent all those dings on front hood. I do have ppf on front bumper.
I used bras in the past. In my case, they caused damage of their own. I think the PPF has been a good decision. Thanks for visiting!
@@StealthGTI really never had bra cause any issue on mine and I bought car and bra back in 2018
That’s awesome I just hit 150k on mine 2016 with a manual transmission.
Excellent! Glad to see that I'm not the only one pushing the miles. :-)
Congratulations!
Thanks, Bobby! 🥳
Congrats
Thanks for visiting!
Interesting video. Has the DSG gearbox been reliable during this time?
My car is a 6MT. Thanks for visiting.
@StealthGTI OK cool. Has it required many clutches in 200k miles?
Yeah, I never understood the notion of buying a clunker to spare your daily. Not only do you now have to maintain two cars and pay for insurance, you also incur some issues when not driviing either for a long stretch of time. Only time I'd consider it would be if the main car was entering collectible status, was an exotic, or can't handle the weather or roads of where I'm headed.
That said, I've been itching for a NA Honda Element to have some fun and have a side car for when the GTI needs "love".
Yes, good points! The Honda Element is (was?) a good car. They may even have a cult following of their own. An AWD specimen is the way to go. I'm sort of interested in a Subaru; the Crosstrek Wilderness has my attention. But I cannot justify it with my car being as good as it's been. Thanks for visiting!
waiting for the next milestone - 300k. my 2017 GTI has been great, only 57k though. My mk7 has the same plaid cloth seat and the 18” Nogaro wheels, look and feel better than mk8
The next major milestone may take a few years. I may do one at 238,855 miles, which is the average distance to the moon. It's a kooky milestone, but perhaps I can come up with a lunar theme between now and then. HAHA! Thanks for visiting!
What oil are you using? Also original PCV valve?
I use Liqui Moly 2332 Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40. I am on my original PCV. I've read that there's no need to "upgrade" that part. It hasn't failed yet; so, I'll rock-on until I have an issue. Thanks for visiting!
Did you replace the "Timing Chain" ?. Thank you.
Still on the original. I showed the timing values somewhere in this video. My timing is well within the standard. Thanks for visiting!
How many intake valve cleanings have you've done?
I did a precautionary cleaning at 105,000 miles before going on a 7000 mile road trip. The intake wasn't bad. The next one was around 195,000 miles due to a persistent cold start misfire. See my "Milestones" for videos that may discuss the cleanings. My mechanic recommends doing the cleanings at the onset of cold start misfires; not as part of any mileage related maintenance plan. No need to spend the money if there's not an actual problem yet. Thanks for visiting!
I hope to get 150,000-200,000 on my Passat 2021 EA888 2.0t
I hope you can! I forgot that the Passat has been discontinued in the US. Looks like the Arteon is on its way out, too. Golf is already gone unless you get a GTI or R. VW is shifting to electric or SUVs, it seems. I don't think that's going to work out. I'm already looking at other makers, though I hope to see my GTI last a very long time. Thanks for visiting!
My seat bolster is getting pretty beat up. How much was it to fix the bolster?
I think it was around $300. The fabric is not a perfect match; OEM fabric boosts the price quite a lot. But I can certainly live with that. Thanks for visiting!
@@StealthGTI Awesome thanks! Now hopefully I won't be surprised when they give me a quote to fix it.
congrats, my 2015 GTI should be getting to 200K this month.
Excellent! Keep up the driving!
My 2019 rabbit edition is 80,000 no issues stage 2 stock turbo.
Excellent! I cannot recall if I said in this video, but I think Stage 2 is where it's at! I really enjoyed having immediate torque. Sure, the horsepower of the IS38 is nice, but I'm more frequently in need of the instant punch of Stage 2. I'll go back to a stock turbo if I ever need to replace my IS38. Thanks for visiting!
Would you recommend intake valves cleaning? I have a 2019 gti rabbit.
My mechanic advises against intake cleaning until you start to experience cold start misfires. It's just money down the drain to do it too early. Thanks for visiting!