So I'm going to look at a 1990 Mk2 GTI...

[Depone]

I really have next to no info about the car so far...if it's an import/16v/8v etc

I'm not really to fussed over the whole import vs Aussie stocky debate...I have read a few threads already in my searching, I wouldn't want to re-ignite that!...

It has 5 doors and a quarter panel on the back doors...so this would be 8v Aussie I imagine?

What are some key things I need to look out for?

It may seem obvious to you guys but I'm looking for my first Golf and kinda want to get this right...it is coming unrego'd and no roadworthy.

It is the gamble out of the final 2 I have narrowed it down to I think...

Thanks in advance!

[benough]

Does it have big plastic bumpers on it or small ones with metal panels underneath them.

As I bought one in the same condition I'd check the following.

Does it idle properly?

Check the CV boots for tears.

How's the front drivers seat for wear n tear?

Does the heater work? The heater cores are known to fail. What about the A/C?

Check for rust under the windscreen, especially in the wiper holes.

Obvious stuff like coolant or oil leaks.

Does the central locking work? You should be able to activate it with the key from the drivers door.

Check the foglights work. They are expensive to replace.

Does it crunch into 2nd gear? That's a common fault.

Hopefully the rear parcel shelf doesn't have speakers cut into it.

Cheers

[RedMk2Gti]

It is the gamble out of the final 2 I have narrowed it down to I think...

Which 2 have your narrowed down ? Ben has listed out almost everything, I'd check MFA if you fuzzy about it.

[Depone]

I have narrowed it down to Kozteks Mk2 and this other one I have found...There is not alot of info about it and the pics are not great at all that I do have of it.

That list is all really helpful stuff thanks!

Being such a newbie to Golfs and tbh cars in general it is a risk...but I will get it checked by RACV if it looks worth it.

What is MFA :/

[Depone]

http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/435...qmokiceyvl.jpg



images are'nt working so here are some links

[Depone]

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/450...qyoknme5uo.jpg

[velly_16v_cab]

black FTW

[Depone]

Yeah I hear ya, that black is tough as f*ck! But I don't want to be basing my purchase on the colour! ( when from what I can see Kozteks red mk2 is clearly in good running order )


That list is a good start, I will have it with me when I check it all out on Sat.

[ryana89]

My first (and current) car is a MK2 Golf GTI, love the thing to bits.

But be prepared to be working on it atleast once a month (they're old cars!) Im usually fixing or replacing somthing on my car every fortnight.
Also be prepared to buy parts that arn't from local stores but instead from over sea's.

Walking into a auto store like Supercheap, Repco, Autobarn ect, to buy parts is not an option. Luckly your in Melbourne though, you might have better luck with VW suppliers down there.

That said, they are great little cars that will last forever.
Also I might add, check for rust around the outter door rubbers in the frame of the car (particularly the back bottom) as I found rust in these area's on both sides of the car (I can throw a pic up if you need).

I paid $5000 from mine and I'd consider it to be in relativly good condition.
You'll enjoy the first test drive

PS: MFA is the Multi Function Indicator at the bottom of the instrument cluster, its a little digital screen that can tell you the time, oil temp, fuel use per 100km (L/100km) and also your RPM aswell(?). Theres a little switch on the wiper stalk to change 'mode' between what info you want displayed. (mine doesnt work, only tells the time)

[Depone]

Yeh I have kinda gathered that so far thanks, been doing a fair bit of research the last 2 weeks since I have decided to get one.

Thanks for the info on the MFA, hope that set up works on this one sounds very handy.

I realise this one is a bit of a risk but I've got to check it out....

[benough]

The MFA recently died in mine. I got it fixed for $70. Just handed my guy the cluster (takes 15 min to get out) so don't let that stop you.

[Depone]

I just want it to be in good mechanical order and no
rusting...there are a few people interested in it, I have first viewing on Sat morning...I may have to make the call then and
there!

How do I check the Cv joints?

Is there a place where I can get the optimal temps etc to check with the MFA?

This is my dream ride, I will have a few
G to spend on it I get it at the right price.

[benough]

Well get under the car and check the rubber boots that are on the driveshafts. If they aren't torn then you are sweet. If they are, drive it at full steering lock in either direction slowly and listen/feel for a knocking in the steering.

Either the MFA will work or not at all. To get mine fixed I just sent off the cluster.

Also check for coolant leaks and ask if the guy has ever put water in there. Also try and listen to see if it makes a tappety sound in the head when running. It's not the end of the world but will just show signs of wear.

[RedMk2Gti]

The MFA recently died in mine. I got it fixed for $70. Just handed my guy the cluster (takes 15 min to get out) so don't let that stop you.

Sorry for hijack this, where did you get that fix ??

[benough]

I link though my parts guy. I'd give you the details but I've been told I can only deal through my guy to him.

I can sort you out though.