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Look for anything that is obviously an aftermarket part. Look at things like bolt and screw heads. If they've got marks on them, then they've been taken off at some point. Check the level of the fluids.
Full Answer
What to look for when buying a Mk5 Golf GTI?
Early Mk5 GTI models were somewhat jerky at lower-speeds due to the mapping of the ECU. A factory recall for these early models was carried out, so its worth checking to see if the work was done on the car you are inspecting. While you are unlikely to come across a Mk5 Golf GTI with a non-stock engine, there are a few out there.
What to look for when buying a golf cart?
It is very important to take the age of the golf cart that you are looking to buy into consideration. Paying attention to the: These two things, especially the model and serial number, will help to tell you how old / young the golf cart is.
How do I test drive a Golf GTI?
Once the Golf GTI you are test driving is up to temperature, give it some revs and check that it accelerates smoothly and there is no hesitation, bucking or excessive lag. Listen out for any strange banging, knocking or tapping sounds and remember to keep an eye out for any smoke.
Is it better to buy a rebuilt engine Golf GTI?
It is usually better to purchase a Golf GTI with a rebuilt engine that was done a few more k’s. The reason for this is that a rebuilt engine with 10,000 km on it is more of a known than one that has only travelled a couple of hundred kilometres.
What year GTI should be avoided?
The Consumer Report VW GTI reliability studies recommend avoiding the 2010 and 2012 GTI models completely. In fact, 2012 is rated as the worst Volkswagen GTI model year ever reported. Model years 2013 and 2014 proved to be a bit more reliable, yet there were still numerous reports of 2014 VW GTI reliability problems.
Is a Volkswagen GTI a reliable car?
Volkswagen GTI Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Volkswagen GTI Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 34th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $791 which means it has higher than average ownership costs.
Whats the best year for GTI?
Here Are The Best And Worst Volkswagen Golf GTI Models Over The Years10 Best: 1983-1984 Rabbit GTI Mk 1. ... 9 Best: 1985-1992 Golf GTI Mk 2. ... 8 Best: 2007-2009 Golf GTI Mk 5. ... 7 Best: 2015-present Golf GTI Mk 7. ... 6 Best: 2000-2006 Golf GTI Mk 4. ... 5 Best: 2009-2013 Golf GTI Mk 6. ... 4 Worst: 1993-1999 Golf GTI Mk 3.More items...•
Is GTI high maintenance?
A Volkswagen Golf GTI will cost about $5,576 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular hatchback models by $935.
Are VW GTI expensive to insure?
How much does Volkswagen GTI car insurance cost? Volkswagen GTI insurance costs on average $1,516 annually, or $126 each month. Expect to pay about $66 more each year for Volkswagen GTI insurance compared to similar vehicles, and $35 less per year than the all-vehicle national average of $1,551.
Why you should buy a GTI?
Fun, practical and good-looking, the Golf GTI is a fantastic enthusiast vehicle. The GTI is the first performance badge that injected sport, fun, and fast German horses into the little Golf. The GTI badge paired with the Golf, one of their best-selling nameplates for Volkswagen, makes for a very cool combo.
How long does a Golf GTI last?
A Volkswagen car usually lasts 100,000 – 150,000 miles with good service and maintenance.
What does GTI stand for?
Grand Touring InjectionGTI stands for Grand Touring Injection. Volkswagen uses for its direct fuel injection system. Over 40 years ago, GTI technology was first deployed in the 1976 Volkswagen Golf GTI. GTI was meant to power long-distance journeys without sacrificing performance by using a new direct fuel injection system.
Are Golf GTI fast?
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a sporty car that stays true to the original idea of what a “hot hatch” should be. It has a top speed of 155 mph which makes it the fastest Volkswagen model on the market.
Is a Volkswagen GTI a good first car?
Good First Cars - 05 - 2015 Volkswagen GTI The 2015 Volkswagen GTI is a good first car for anyone who needs the versatility provided by a hatchback (five-passenger seating, fold-down rear seats for additional cargo space), but who doesn't want to give up on enjoying their daily commute.
How long do tires last on GTI?
about 3 yearsHow long do VW Golf GTI tires last? If your driving habits are fundamental and around 12,000-15,000 miles per year, an average tire's tread will wear out in about 3 years. This could be longer if you travel to work fewer than 12,000 miles or fewer if you travel to work more aggressively.
Are 2015 GTI reliable?
J.D. Power gives the 2015 GTI a reliability rating of three out of five, which is about average.
What to look for when buying a used golf cart?
Bad batteries are just an added expense to the buying experience and it can be avoided. A few tips for what to look for: Check the condition of the batteries.
What is a refurbished golf cart?
A refurbished golf cart is a cart that was used solely on the golf course for several years and now is being sold to the public as “reconditioned / refurbished”. A used golf cart is any other pre-owned golf cart whether it be previously owned by a dealer, private seller, Joe down the street, etc.
What does a red flag mean on a golf cart?
RED FLAG ALERT: If the seller or dealer does not want to let you test drive the golf cart, you may want to pass.
How long should golf cart batteries be set?
Golf cart batteries that are a year old or less and look to be in great condition should be set for the next couple years without needing to be replaced. Ask a ton of questions.
What happens if a golf cart doesn't show cycles?
Generally, if a seller or dealer does not want to show you the cycles and hours, they may be trying to “sugar-coat” or cover up the amount of rounds on the cart. Nobody wants to get stuck with a golf cart that has a zillion rounds on it, that will likely be in need of major repairs as soon as you pull it off the lot.
What is the best way to play golf with friends?
Golf carts in general are one of the best ways for you and your friends to not only play golf with, but also to cruise / travel around you neighborhood and community. You are probably sitting there right now wracking your brain, comparing prices, taking a look at pros and cons of new golf carts vs.
Why are used golf carts so popular?
Used golf carts are also equally attractive to most people. Reason being, most of the time, because of the lower price tag. Most used golf carts will sell for much less and be way easier on the pocketbook than a refurbished golf cart and carry the same maintenance record, good up-keep and new parts / pieces.
1: Try to Buy 2012 or Later Models
If you’re going to buy a Golf fitted with Volkswagen’s 2.0-liter engine, it may be wise to shop for one made after 2012, since a fault with the timing chain pre-tensioner can cause sudden and unexpected failure. If this fault occurs, it effectively ruins the engine.
2. Be Wary of DSGs
Some Golfs are fitted with VW’s dual-clutch (DSG) gearbox, which needs to be serviced religiously thanks to a weak mechatronics box. The problem is irregular, but the best way to arm oneself against it is by religiously changing the gear oil every 60,000 miles. A failure could result in a need to replace the whole gearbox.
3. Check the Fuel Economy
Many owners of these Golfs have reported fuel economy getting worse over time. With MPGs dipping down into the 25s on the highway, it could be frustrating. There is a fix, though.
4. Check the Rear Window for Dripping
A weak pump in the wear window’s washer fluid system can mean that fluid leaks onto the back window. This isn’t a huge problem in the summer, but during the winter it can be dangerous. Many cars were fixed by VW, but if the seller hasn’t had the fix done, it could mean some money out of your pocket.
5. Listen for a Rattle in Turbo Cars
This problem is a little more nebulous, but many owners have complained of a rattling coming from the exhaust system or the engine. The problem seems to be caused by the wastegate and doesn’t appear to have any associated issues, just a rattling sound that can be annoying. The result of this though, is that there is no official fix for the problem.
Should You Buy a Used Volkswagen Golf?
Look for a Golf that came later in the Mk6’s cycle, preferably with a manual, and be sure you’re buying a car that was cared for. Of course, that last piece of advice is always prudent, but in this case, it’s especially relevant as the difference between Mk6s that were taken care of and those that weren’t can be massive and expensive.
Where is the VIN number on a GTI?
The VIN can be found in a number of different locations on a Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk5 including the following: Inside the engine bay. Lower edge of the windscreen (when looking from outside) On a sticker on the inside of the driver’s door shut. It is a good idea to check that the VIN matches in all these areas.
What year was the last Mk5 Golf GTI?
By 2008 it was time for a new version of the Golf. The 2008 model year would be the last for the Mk5 Golf GTI and it would be replaced by the Mk6 for the 2009 model year.
What is the story behind the Mk5 GTI?
The story of the Mk5 GTI starts with the original model. When the Mk1 Golf GTI hit the roads of Europe it changed the hatchback market forever. The small and light Golf GTI could not only compete in terms of performance with more dedicated performance cars, but it could do so whilst being more reliable and usable.
What year was the GTI 30th anniversary?
When the 30th Anniversary Edition model launched at the end of 2006 (2007 model year) it was the fastest Golf GTI model produced to date. At its heart was the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, but with a few tweaks that boosted power to an impressive 227 hp.
What do spark plugs tell you about a Mk5?
The appearance of spark plugs can tell you a lot about an engine and how it is running. Take a look at this guide for more information on spark plug analysis.
How often should I change the oil on a GTI?
It is recommended that you engine oil is replaced every 16,000 km (10,000) miles or every 12 months. Some owners will change the oil more frequently than this, which is a sign of good maintenance. If the Golf GTI Mk5 you are looking at has travelled much further than this before the oil has been changed, you should proceed with caution or move onto another Mk5 GTI.
How long does a clutch last on a GTI?
Clutches will tend to last anywhere from 48,000 – 65,000 km (30,000 – 40,000 miles) but can go much longer if they are treated well. If the clutch feels excessively heavy it is probably on its way out.
