The author shares a fascinating story about a seemingly unreliable car that has proven to be one of the most reliable vehicles in their fleet. The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI, with its extensive mileage and history of sitting under a tree, initially seemed like a risky purchase. However, the author's wife, Sheryl, fell in love with the car, and the author decided to give it a chance. To their surprise, the car has exceeded expectations, even after sitting unused for years. The author attributes this to the car's robust mechanical condition and the original owner's meticulous maintenance. Despite initial concerns about potential issues, the car has shown remarkable resilience, with no major breakdowns and excellent fuel efficiency. The author's wife, Sheryl, has been driving the car hard and fast, and it has performed flawlessly. The Jetta's reliability has even improved Sheryl's professional image, as clients perceive it as a new car. The author reflects on the car's unexpected performance and considers the possibility of a longer lifespan, challenging the notion that sitting cars will inevitably break down. The story highlights the importance of thorough inspections and the potential for hidden gems in used car markets, even those with extensive mileage and unique histories.
