Looking at buying a Mk5 GTI

[Gav23]

Hi guys,

As the title suggests, I am *considering* buying a Mk5 GTI - a 2005 or 2006 make (or a 2007 if you know of one under $30K without a high amount of KMs!). I originally planned on waiting until next year and was going to get a Mk6 GTI, but I think it is just too much money for me to be spending at this stage of my life when that money could be better used elsewhere (eg. towards my mortgage or my investment portfolio). In 5 years time I'd probably be in a much better position to buy a new car (perhaps Mk7 GTI ). But I don't want to keep my current car for another 5 years, unless I can't get a Mk5 GTI for the price I want.

I was wondering what things I need to consider when purchasing a second hand Mk5 GTI. I've had a look through quite a few threads here in the Mk5 section, and here is what I've come up with:
- problems with mechatronic unit in DSG
- problems with air con compressor
- ensure timing belt has been changed at 4 year mark
- obviously ensure the vehicle has the user manual and service history

Is there anyway to check if the mech unit in the DSG has been replaced, or needs replacing? (same with air con compressor and timing belt) Are there any other things I should add to the list that the Mk5 GTI has had problems with? Even cosmetic things like rattles, interior problems, etc?

How reliable is the DSG? I know it can be very costly to repair/replace. I drive around 20,000km per year, which means I could have this vehicle up to the 160,000km mark.

There are two Mk5 GTI's that I am currently considering. One is a 2005 make and is a private sale, the 2006 make which is a dealer sale. Both are 4 doors with DSG and have the same extras. The private sale has nearly 30,000km less than the dealer car. But the dealer will come with a used car warranty (perhaps with the option to extend the warranty, which I'd definitely be interested in). Price between the two cars is fairly similar. Assuming I can negotiate the price I am comfortable with, which would you choose and why?

If I decide on the privately sold car I'd have the hastle of getting rid of my current car. Considering I've never bought a car privately before, is it reasonable to ask for someone like RACV or the place I get my current car serviced to have a look over the car? (at my expense of course) How would I arrange this? What if the person didn't want me driving his car around town whilst he still owned it, should I ask him to drive it to RACV or my service guy in his own time and I'd just foot the bill?

Thanks in advance for any advice/suggestions

[Lima]

Don't forget to check for the most notable defect, which is a lot of GTIs have too many doors. Look out for a good one with three doors and you'll be all set.




















(Haha, sorry, just had to get in first with that one.)

[isaw]

If you find one within warranty (should be easy for 30k) you can extend the factory warranty for under $1500, this will cover you for another 3 years and up to 160,000 km.

apart from that you have your bases covered, remember you can walk on the dealer and private sell alot on the price, its always a buyers market.
DSG's have been around in audis since 04? (sic) and thus far have been pretty solid. apart from that good luck in finding your new car!

[seangti]

if you want a car, it is entirely reasonable to get it inspected and ask the seller to make it available. Obviously give and take for the arrangement.

[lawsy82]

I had a 2006 GTI, and surprise surprise the Aircond compressor **** itself!! ... $1,500 down the drain....

After owing mine for 18mths I had no real issues - Byt DSG is a big problem... I had manual

[KWICKS]

I'd choose the one with the full service history. I'd even go as far as to check on here for one where everyone will tell you the full vehicle history.

[sixfootchoc]

I had a 2006 GTI, and surprise surprise the Aircond compressor **** itself!! ... $1,500 down the drain....

After owing mine for 18mths I had no real issues - Byt DSG is a big problem... I had manual

Good luck with your search - I've had my 5 door DSG for nearly 2 years and have done over 40kkm. I've changed the oil every 7.5kkm (personal choice) and the car hasn't skipped a beat.....aside from a warranty steering rack replacement.

Not sure about DSG being a 'big problem'. Hardly anyone on any forum has reported major issues with their DSG. Consider that the DSG is used in nearly all VAG cars, it's not a niche product.

If you buy a car with full service history, you'll know whether anything has been repaired/replaced.

All the best. They are an amazing car to own and drive.

[Gav23]

Thanks for your replies.

Lima: I'd prefer 5 door DSG, but I don't mind if it's 3 door and manual. If I can get a good price, I'll consider any that have done less than 90,000km and in good condition.

I dont have to buy a car, there is nothing wrong with my current car. So I'll be bargaining to get the best deal I can. If no-one is willing to budge, I'll simply keep driving my current car and wait.