Buying a mk4 TDI GT

[boltoncalling]

Hi

Im new to the forum, as I dont own a VW (yet)

Ive got the opportunity to get a MK4 Golf TDI GT (Y plate) from a relative for a knockdown price. I dont know how much thats going to be yet but it should be enough to warrant me buying and Ive always wanted a Golf

However, the car has 130k miles on the clock which to me sounds a lot. If the car is MOT'd do I need to look out for anything in particuar? Is this going to be a worthwhile purchase, or is it stupid?

Sorry to sound like a total newbie but my knowledge of buying cars is limited..

Thanks

[chris.fulton]

Welcome to the forum.

Hard to really say if its worthwhile or not until you find out how much it's going to cost. If the car has a just passed its MOT then that should in theory mean that things like checking the braking system, suspension, tyres, steering, lights, exhaust, general condition of engine, checking for leaks, and underbody checks should all have been carried out and all parts are considered to be in satisfactory condition.

Some common faults that the golfs and Boras have can be checked if you get a test drive. Accelerate to around 3,000 rpm in 5th or 6th gear and look for any sudden power loss, this can either indicate a faulty MAF or clogged turbo, also look for excessive black smoke on acceleration, this can indicate a blown turbo. Check all electric windows function correctly, and check the rear washer jets work. Other than that, the Golf's are in my opinion, one of the best cars you can get and you won't be sorry you bought it. Also, considering the car has 130k miles on it, ensure a good service history and that the correct oil was used every time i.e. fully synthetic oil that was designed for the PD engines.

[m0cea]

I would not let the mileage worry you if its been serviced well. It should have had the timing belt and tensioners done at about 120K so double check it has as its not a cheap job to have done. There are penty of secondhand parts about for these now and plenty of mods you can do too. I cannot think of any major known issues to worry about.

My dad has a Bora with 4k on and I have a Bora with 145k and mine feels better on the road.

[dazler1527]

Hi mate and welcome to the forum,i have owned and drove lots of cars as i have been in the motor trade for 14 years and my 130 td golf with 110k on drives better than some new cars,admitted had a few little problems but it is well worth it.

[boltoncalling]

Cheers for the advice guys, it's a big help that

It looks identical to the one in Chris Fulton's avatar actually..

Hopefully I'll be able to get the car

cheers