This is terrible story and I'm glad Tiffany has posted it as a caution to the rest of us.

I have to make one point in response: don't mistake VW for the dealerships that sell its cars here in the states. Some VW dealerships have been notoriously bad, and I've had some really bad experiences with them myself.

I do have to say, though, that my '99 Jetta, new style, has been a great car. It's been reliable, safe, and really fun to own for the three years I've had it. I've come to really love VW through this car, it's been such a pleasure to own.

Just thought I'd give another perspective on this issue, and suggest that maybe VW should be thought of separately from its more insidious dealerships. I do know that VW's taking active steps to change the bad rap that its dealers have had since the mid-90's...