A Big Hello, and After some advice

[Ricky_TT]

Hi Everyone. I used to have a 98 A3 T sport, which I loved and owned for 3 years. Had 70k on the clock when I bought it and sold on with 110k - nothing ever went wrong apart from brakes and tyres.

When it was sold, I bought a 2001 225 TT coupe with about 70k on the clock which I love and have owned for about a year, but with petrol on the increase, car tax going up to £450, and insurance on the up, I have decided to get another A3.

I've got around £10 - £11k to spend and want to get a 3door 2.0 TDI Sport with a full black leather interior. Just a few questions for everyone though if you don't mind?

1. When should the cambelt be changed? Is it the usual 5 years, or 80k miles?

2. Any advice on what to look for when buying? (I've never owned or purchased a diesel car before)

3. I'm looking at getting the 140ps version (as I can't afford the 170 ), but have seen a chip that you can get that will take the 140 up to 175. What are peoples thoughts on: Is it safe to do, what effect will this have over fuel consumption?

Anyway, I thought I'd introduce myself, and any advice would be greatly appreciated

[VanWheeler]

Hi and welcome to the forum.

We can take the 140 up to 180-190 safely depending on what you are after.

Feel free to call me once you have the car and I'll be able to help you out.

Thanks,
Mark