I've had two techs work for me with VW experience, both hated em. I've been working on VW's since the mid 70's. My experience, yes the diesel's are very durable but high maintenance. Follow timing belt intervals. I think in all the VW line, their electrical systems and suspensions are weak. Generally, it seems when they fail, they fail big time. What makes it worse around here, since the dealer is usually the only supplier, our dealers stink. If you work on this thing yourself, you will learn all new swear words. Other than that, they're great.