The Current State of Volkswagen's TDI Emissions Remediation

The Volkswagen emissions scandal, one of the most significant automotive controversies of recent years, continues to evolve as the company works through its remediation process. While Volkswagen received approval to begin fixing "Generation 3" TDI vehicles earlier this year, many owners of earlier models—particularly those with Generation 1 engines—are still awaiting solutions for their affected vehicles.

Key Development: Generation 3 TDI vehicles (2015 models) were the first to receive approved fixes due to their simpler emissions systems, while approximately 430,000 Generation 1 vehicles (2009-2014 models) remain in regulatory limbo as Volkswagen works to develop acceptable solutions.

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Understanding the Different TDI Generations

Volkswagen's TDI diesel engines involved in the emissions scandal fall into three distinct generations, each presenting unique challenges for remediation:

  • Generation 1 (2009-2014): These models, including the 2013 Jetta SportWagen TDI, represent the majority of affected vehicles with approximately 430,000 units in circulation. They feature more complex emissions systems that have proven difficult to modify while maintaining performance and fuel economy.
  • Generation 2 (2012-2014): A transitional generation with some technical improvements but still requiring significant modifications to meet emissions standards.
  • Generation 3 (2015): The newest and simplest generation to fix, representing about 70,000 vehicles that have already begun receiving approved modifications.
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What Generation 1 TDI Owners Need to Know

For owners of Generation 1 TDI vehicles, the waiting game continues. MotorVero acquired a 2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI specifically to conduct before-and-after testing once an approved emissions modification becomes available. Our testing aims to provide owners with transparent data about how any potential fix might affect:

  • Engine performance and responsiveness
  • Fuel economy and efficiency
  • Long-term reliability concerns
  • Resale value implications
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The Regulatory Timeline and Deadlines

Volkswagen is operating under strict court-ordered deadlines established in the consent decree with U.S. regulators. According to official documents and company statements:

  • The final deadline for Volkswagen to submit all required documents outlining fixes to the EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) was October 31, 2017
  • Regulators have 45 days from submission to approve or disapprove any proposed remedy
  • If no remedy is available by May 1, 2018, settlement members can choose the buyback option or opt out of the settlement

Important Note: While these deadlines have technically passed, many Generation 1 owners are still awaiting solutions as Volkswagen continues to work with regulators on acceptable modifications for these more complex systems.

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Buyback Options vs. Waiting for a Fix

TDI owners face an important decision: participate in Volkswagen's buyback program or wait for a potential emissions modification. Each option presents distinct advantages and considerations:

Buyback Program Advantages

  • Guaranteed compensation based on pre-scandal NADA values
  • Immediate resolution without waiting for uncertain fixes
  • Option to purchase a new Volkswagen with additional incentives

Reasons to Wait for a Fix

  • Potential to keep a vehicle you're satisfied with
  • Possible additional compensation if you accept a modification
  • Avoidance of new car purchase process and potential negative equity
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What Our Ongoing Testing Reveals

MotorVero's 2013 Jetta SportWagen TDI continues to accumulate miles as we await an approved modification. Our preliminary observations include:

  • Consistent fuel economy averaging 38-42 MPG in mixed driving
  • No noticeable performance degradation over time
  • Typical maintenance requirements for a high-mileage diesel
  • Surprisingly strong resale values despite the scandal

We will conduct comprehensive before-and-after testing once a modification becomes available, measuring:

  • Dynamometer-tested horsepower and torque
  • Real-world fuel economy over identical routes
  • Emissions output using professional-grade equipment
  • Drivability characteristics and throttle response
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Technical Challenges of Fixing Generation 1 TDIs

The delay in approving fixes for Generation 1 vehicles stems from several technical hurdles engineers must overcome:

Emissions System Complexity

Early TDI systems were designed with different priorities than current emissions standards require. Retrofitting these systems presents engineering challenges that newer generations don't face.

Performance Preservation

Volkswagen must balance emissions compliance with maintaining the performance characteristics that made these vehicles popular. Significant power or economy losses could make modifications unacceptable to owners.

Long-Term Reliability

Any modification must prove durable over the vehicle's remaining lifespan without creating new maintenance burdens or premature component failures.

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What Other Owners Are Experiencing

Through our network of TDI owner contacts and forum monitoring, we've gathered these common experiences:

  • Many Generation 1 owners report satisfaction with vehicle performance despite the scandal
  • Some have experienced increased dealership attention to emission-related components during service
  • Others report difficulty obtaining certain parts as Volkswagen prioritizes newer models
  • A significant number have taken the buyback option to move to newer, cleaner vehicles
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Future Outlook for TDI Owners

As the situation continues to develop, TDI owners should consider these key points:

  • Volkswagen remains committed to resolving all affected vehicles under the settlement terms
  • Generation 1 fixes may involve more extensive modifications than later generations
  • Extended warranties will accompany any approved modifications
  • Owner compensation remains available regardless of chosen path

MotorVero Recommendation: If you're satisfied with your TDI's performance and can afford to wait, continuing to monitor the situation may be prudent. However, if you're considering a vehicle change in the near future, the buyback program offers attractive guaranteed value.

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How to Stay Informed

TDI owners should take these steps to stay current with developments:

  • Regularly check Volkswagen's official diesel information portal
  • Sign up for settlement program email updates
  • Consult with your local Volkswagen dealership's diesel specialist
  • Monitor trusted automotive news sources like MotorVero for independent analysis

As we continue our long-term testing of the 2013 Jetta SportWagen TDI, we'll provide updates on any approved modifications and their real-world impacts. Our commitment remains to give TDI owners the unbiased information they need to make informed decisions about their vehicles.