Auto trans - good/bad years?

[geohunt]

All right, let me spin the auto trans issue one final way. Fyi, looking to buy like a 2000-2003. Are any model years know to have reliable auto trans'? Any model years to stay away from in terms of the auto trans? And finally, how do you tell if an auto trans is failing? Thanks again! George in Philly.

I know a stick is a safer way to go but, if someone is offering an older creme puff w an auto trans and lower miles let's say I'd hate to pass it up.

[Smileybug]

None in that year range as far as I'm aware. The auto in those cars is the O1M, which is junk. Failure before 150k miles is extremely common. Some of the newer transmissions may be ok, but VW has issued a recall for the valve body on the newer models. Replacement may happen, but the trans may still die and they won't cover it.

[2004NBTURBOS]

Originally Posted by Smileybug

The auto in those cars is the O1M, which is junk..

[JP]

well i have the infamous 01m transmission let me tell you it ain't no walk in the park, i got this nb from my cousin he bought it new from the stealership at 8000 miles the original transmission went it was replaced with a new one, now in 2011 i have it at 117000+ Miles and i changed the fluid about six months ago but this thing has a mind of it's own if your going up a hill and you don't give it enough gas it will buck you have to drive it like you were Richard petty on the racetrack, the gearing in it suck's it shift's too early like a noob when they first learn to drive stick and it takes it's time shifting into reverse (like 3-5 seconds) sound like a stick but it's automatic 4-speed. just to let you know if you get one i found a ebay store that sells automatic transmissions new for like 1300 bucks

[deenalouise]

There might be a reason the car has low miles- just saying if the transmission is bad you can't put the miles on. Sounds like you want the car regardless of what folks say, so if you want to buy it- buy it. I've had my manual for 1.5 years, 72,000ish miles and runs like a charm