How reliable are VW Audi Skoda DSG gearboxes

[TopCat]

Sorry if this is a bit deja vu

But everyone was very forthcoming about the horrendous problems of modern BMW diesels 2006-2012 ; so I thought I would ask about VAG products!
So I have been again toying with the idea of getting a nearly new Audi Allroad VW Passat AllTrack, Superb Country 4x4 auto as a daily to replace my much loved MGZT-T which I have owned from new with BMW diesel with a serious remap when 2 years old- now with 92k miles and going strong.

I have heard troubles with this gearbox which you can no longer buy with the 177 bhp engine in a SSuperb because of unreliability issues (allegedly)
I am put off Audis because of their reputation for consuming oil and oil leaks as well as the offset pedals on rhd cars.
So yet again there are issues everywhere!

(Also on the wish list is a Vauxhall Insignia Country Tourer)
Experiences and advice gratefully received!

[arshad76]

I can only speak for an uncle who bought a 2.0 A4 TDi. Great car, apart from the gearbox failing out of warranty and a 4k bill. Then went again, but luckily in the one year warranty period. It's a known weak point apparently and I'd stay away personally.

[uwbuurman]

I drive the AudiA4 B8 tdi and the BMW E91 320D. No doubt, the BMW is by far superior. lost more driving fun, no freekin' understeer in every corner. The Audi still has its block way to far in the front of the car, so the block pushes the nose straith forward, but the wheels go in other directions. Crap.

BMW has about 210k km on the clock, no probs at all so far, just regular service, at 200k km a new DPF ant just a month ago a new flywheel and clutch, but thats due to heavy trailers.

The Audi is a little more fueleconomic, but a 201X E91 is also cheaper to run than my old block 2006 320d. BMW sportseats are a lot more firm, better fit (i'm 190cm, 105 kg), audi sportsseat is more flat, less support in the corners.

Both cars are grat for traveling around, doing long stretches a time. Audi has given me no troubles in 140k km, but just lacks power and real driveability. BMWE91 trunk is bigger than the Audi Avant, because of the roofdesign.

So all in all, as soon as I have the opportunity, the A4 will be traded in for a F30/F31, but not until 2015. 'till Than, I'm not ashamed for my Audi, its a nice car, great looks and no troubles. Same goes for my BMW E91, great car, regual service is sufficient, no problems in 210k km, real fun to drive and just the better car!

[TopCat]

I can only speak for an uncle who bought a 2.0 A4 TDi. Great car, apart from the gearbox failing out of warranty and a 4k bill. Then went again, but luckily in the one year warranty period. It's a known weak point apparently and I'd stay away personally.

Was this the DSG S Tronic gearbox I am so worried about?

Have found a potentially suitable All Road 245 bhp listed as having a Tip Tronic = OK gearbox but since it is a 2013 car it might have the not quite so OK S-Tronic gearbox- may be poorly described etc

[arshad76]

I don't think it's an S-tronic TC. My uncles is a bog standard ex rep 2.0 tdi.

[Bigmeat]

I've got a Skoda Octavia with the DSG box & I find it great. Had it from new on a '63 plate & done only 10k but it's never missed a beat.
Economical too, getting easy 55mpg round town, & around 70 on a run.

[problemchild75]

dsg boxes are pretty bomb proof but the DMF is made from butter

[TopCat]

Am drawn to one of these Audis which have the Torque converter Tiptronic auto thingie

tempted by an offer I shouldn't refuse ...............................

[Jeroen]

Like one of the 4WD ones? Hope its not one of the messed up weight ratio no grip no handling ones from the city of understeer!

[TopCat]

A6 Allroad 4wd Biturbo................. seems OK?

[uwbuurman]

Well, still an Audi, but a fast one. I drive an Audi A4 b8 and an e91. The Audi has great build quality, but it is no bmw, for sure. Steeringwheel is more vague, distant. Driving is with less feeling. But an allroad biturbo must handle pretty allright. And at the right price.....

[TopCat]

what attracted me was the fact that it has a proper gearbox a tiptronic 8 speeder which has the all important fluid torque converter

we'll see...........