- 2020 saw surge in VIN verifications as Romanians avoided risky used buys.
- Study based on 500,000+ reports; reflects caution, not necessarily most-sold models.
- Volkswagen Passat leads verifications at 6.44%.
- Volkswagen Golf is second at 5.28%.
The year 2020 marked a difficult period for the auto industry, with a significant decline in vehicle sales, both new and used. In this context, more and more Romanians turned to VIN verification services to avoid buying cars with hidden problems or undeclared damage.
A study conducted by carVertical based on over 500,000 unique reports generated from January to December 2020 reveals Romanians’ preferences in used cars and provides a valuable perspective on the Romanian car market.
Metodologia studiului carVertical
Platforma carVertical permite utilizatorilor să introducă codul VIN al unei mașini și să obțină informații detaliate despre:
- Kilometrajul real înregistrat în service-uri autorizate
- Istoricul daunelor și costurile de reparație
- Defectele comune specifice modelului
- Specificațiile tehnice complete
- Lista echipamentelor disponibile
Este important de menționat că aceste date reflectă interesul față de anumite modele listate pe platformele de vânzări second-hand, nu neapărat cele mai vândute mașini din România. Rezultatele indică mai degrabă precauția cumpărătorilor și necesitatea verificării înainte de achiziție.
Ranking of the most verified car models
1. Volkswagen Passat – 6.44% of verifications
The Volkswagen Passat remains a benchmark on the Romanian car market since the 1990s. Models from 2009, 2010 and 2016 are the most frequently analyzed, with the B6 (2005-2010) and B7 (2010-2015) generations being highly sought after.
Why it is popular:
- Abundance of spare parts in the local market
- High comfort for urban and long-distance driving
- Solid reputation among Romanian drivers
- Balanced price-to-quality ratio
Known issues:
- Body corrosion, especially on the B6 generation
- Electrical/electronic problems on high-mileage units
- Premature wear of suspension components
Special note: Beige/cream-colored units from Germany are often former taxis, which can affect the overall mechanical condition.
2. Volkswagen Golf – 5.28% of verifications
The Golf remains the reference hatchback in the compact segment. Most reports focus on examples manufactured between 2008-2010, a period that coincides with the transition between the V and VI generations.
Golf V (2003-2010) - features and issues:
- Naturally aspirated FSI engines: Modest performance and high oil consumption
- 2.0 TDI: Injector and fuel system issues
- Predominant market variants: 1.4 FSI, 1.6 FSI, 1.9 TDI
- Rare variants: TSI and 2.0 TDI with higher performance
Golf VI (2008-2013) - evolution and specific issues: Although it shares many components with its predecessor, Golf VI brings significant improvements in ergonomics and technology.
Major issues identified:
- DSG gearboxes: clutch and electro-hydraulic failures
- TSI timing chain: premature wear, especially on 1.2 TSI
- 1.4 TSI engine 160 HP: Short lifespan due to the turbocharger + mechanical supercharger combination
3. Audi A4 – 4.43% of verifications
Audi A4 continues to attract Romanians’ attention with a blend of luxury, performance and status. Generations B7 and B8 dominate checks, with examples from 2009, 2010 and 2013 in the top.
A4 B7 vs B8 - Technical comparison:
Generation B7:
- Known for reliability, per specialists
- Common issues with Golf V (FSI/TDI engines)
- Issues with climate control compressor
- Lower maintenance costs
Generation B8:
- Narrower but more modern engine range
- Higher technology and comfort level
- Issues with the MMI system in early models
- Higher repair costs
4. BMW 3 Series – 4.27% of verifications
The BMW 3 Series remains the emblem of premium compact sport sedans. Checks concentrate on models built between 2005-2007, marking the end of the E46 era and the start of the E90.
BMW E46 (1997-2006) - technical characteristics: Designed as an elegant and balanced sedan, not for extreme performance. Like any car over 15 years old, it presents specific challenges:
- Body issues: corrosion at critical points (sills, wings)
- Petrol engines: high oil consumption, especially on M54
- Diesel engines: issues with intake and EGR
- Suspension: accelerated wear of control arms and bushings
BMW E90 (2004-2013) - technological evolution: The E90 generation brings technical maturity and enhanced safety:
- Preferred engine: 2.0d with code M47 (2005-2007)
- Advantages: higher reliability, lower fuel consumption
- Disadvantages: high maintenance costs, expensive parts
5. BMW 5 Series – 3.66% of verifications
BMW F10 (2009-2017) marks the natural evolution toward top-tier comfort and technology. Examples built between 2010-2012 are the most analyzed, signaling the model’s maturation.
Body styles available:
- F10: classic sedan
- F11: Touring (estate)
- F07: Gran Turismo (fastback)
- F18: long-wheelbase version (Chinese market)
Engine range and Romanian preferences: Although there are petrol and even hybrid options, the Romanian market prefers diesel engines for:
- Higher reliability on long distances
- Lower fuel consumption
- High torque available from low revs
Common issues identified:
- Rear air suspension: leaks and compressor failures
- Adaptive suspension: issues with electronic dampers
- Timing chains: premature wear in N47D20 engines (518d, 520d)
- Injection system: injector problems on diesel units
Concluzii și recomandări pentru cumpărători
The analysis confirms Romanians’ steady preference for German cars, driven by:
- Superior comfort on long distances
- Brand image and social status
- Accessible prices on the used market
- Extensive service and parts network
Watch for hidden costs: Although the purchase price may seem attractive, maintenance of these models can be costly as vehicles age.
The importance of VIN verification before purchase
For anyone considering buying one of the top models, VIN verification is essential for:
- Avoiding unpleasant surprises related to history
- Saving money on unexpected repairs
- Negotiating a fair price based on actual condition
Interpreting reports:
- A detailed report usually indicates a well-maintained car at authorized service centers
- A sparse report may signal inadequate maintenance or post-accident repairs at non-authorized workshops
- A complete absence of information is often a red flag
