Piston Slap: The Affordable VAG-COM Dongle Tool?

Dan writes:

Dear Sajeev,

I’m looking for some advice on a reliable, yet affordable OBD-II scanner to look up and clear the check engine light (CEL) on my 2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI. While a dedicated Ross-Tech VCDS would be ideal, the price and future ownership of this (or any other VAG) vehicle is not.

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Piston Slap: The Straw That Broke the Audi's Back?

Wiley writes:

Sajeev:

I own a 2006 Audi A3 2.0T with the DSG dual clutch gearbox. I really like the car, and my plan had been to keep it for a long time. As the original owner I’ve racked up nearly 125,000 miles. I’ve scrupulously kept up with the maintenance, and service on the car, though those 125,000 miles haven’t been exactly trouble-free.

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  • Zipper69 So, my '94 Ranger doesn't cut it?
  • GregLocock Since fixed interval servicing costs per km or mile are dwarfed by any other line item except tires and batteries, I think you are barking up the wrong tree, for new vehicle owners at least.
  • Theflyersfan Excellent dealer - 2 years scheduled maintenance included from the dealer (not Mazda) as part of the deal. One warranty repair - a bolt had to be tightened in the exhaust system. Only out of pocket were the winter tires and a couple of seasons of paying to get them swapped on and off. So about $1000 for the tires, $80 for each tire swap and that's it.
  • EBFlex You can smell the desperation.
  • Safeblonde MSRP and dealer markup are two different things. That price is a fiction.