1.9 TDi SE - very little service history...

[0191mark]

I've got my eye on a Passat 1.9TDi SE estate (2001, 115k). The seller has got back to me stating that there is S/H up to 2002, then none 'til 2007 and then again 2008. Cambelt's been done once. What are the implications regarding wear, etc?

How likely is it that the engine is nearing the end of it's life, and how much would a replacement be - or would it be possible to get it successfully reconditioned instead? Bearing this in mind, what would be a fair offer, considering the bodywork is described as being in good condition, sat nav doesn't work but is generally well specced...? All advice gratefully received.

[clonmult]

Cambelt on those is around £300.

My A6 had a complete service history up 'til the previous owner of the car, one of the first jobs I had done was the cambelt and a full service at a local indy (who were absolutely fantastic).

Those PDi engines can go for 300k+ without any major issues, I think the cambelt changes can be stretched (mine turned out to be a couple of years late), but its not recommended to do that regularly. Oil services are incredibly important as well, with the correct oil being mandatory.

[0191mark]

I think I'm going to give this one a miss, what with such a large gap in the service history. Thanks for your reply.