TT 1.8t - anything to look out for?

[Gruber]

My younger sister, sadly recently bereaved, has decided to try lifting her spirits by buying a car she's always wanted - an early TT.

She has a budget of £5k which seems to get her a tidy 9-12 year old car with sub-100k miles.

Is there anything in particular to look out for?

I'm aware of the need for cambelt changes, Haldex servicing, etc. Do these suffer the same engine fan problems as the Mk4 Golf? And are there any other weaknesses or common issues to look out for, or areas prone to rust?

And she's going for the 1.8T, which seems to come in various states of tune (150-225bhp). Any particular sensitivities in that regard?

Any help would be much appreciated!

[Gruber]

Thanks!

Is it a big job to replace the tube? Sounds like it might be worth getting sorted as an early preventative measure if it's not too costly a job.

[Gruber]

Stuart J said:

Thought they were 180 bhp for the 2 wheel drive ( only one exhaust ) & 225 for the 4WD ( twin zorst )

If its the same aircon system as Golfs etc of that era make sure it works, the cluth pulley had a habit of slowly working loose on the compressor knackering the thread on the way off new compressor & fit / re gas will see you paying around a grand at a dealer

It seems the drop-tops were 150bhp and the coupes were 180bhp.... As far as I can tell from t'interweb.

She's just this afternoon bought a very tidy, low mileage 04-plate convertible and is very excited about it. After the year she's had, it's good that a car has brought her a little happiness.

Thanks all for the advice. Very, very much appreciated!

[Gruber]

HumbleJim said:

150 TTR (non quattro) was introduced as an entry level car and very good too.
Good balance/drive, simpler and lighter. not the quickest but most people don't actually need ultimate performance.

She's coming from a 1.4 Seat Ibiza. 150bhp feels very rapid indeed!