Mk2 Octavia vRS facelift - thoughts?

[Matt_N]

It's been a while since I last dabbled in the world of VAG, my last experience was a bangernomics Bora 2.0 which did me proud when I needed a cheap run about a few years ago, prior to that I had a bad experience with a Mk4 1.8T and have had other older ones - Corrado G60, Mk2 16v etc.

I'm currently driving a facelift E46 330i manual and whilst it's a decent steer with a goodengine, it's getting old and rusty. I'm a keen road cyclist (ducks) and also have a 2.5yr old boy and the associated paraphernalia that needs transporting with us everywhere we go meaning I'm currently on the lookout for an estate.

That search has brought me to the Mk2 vRS, particularly the facelift cars.

I've seen a few manual estates around that have piqued my interest, specifically a 59 plate with 99k miles on it.

I've done some background into the model, it has the CCZA engine code (EA888), which I've discovered is cam chain driven, but there are potentially issues with tensioners?

In general how does this model fair, any common niggles etc. the car is up for £5k.

TIA.

[liner33]

Yes there are tensioner issues I believe , check if its been fitted with the revised one or budget to do it yourself

Good solid cars apart from that although you do need to keep an eye on the oil level as some use more than others

[xjay1337]

Great cars.

[Matt_N]

Cheers guys.

Was the tensioner subject to a recall, I know VAG have covered coilpacks etc this way or was it down to owners to get the revised part fitted?

[liner33]

I dont think a recall no but many have failed and been covered by goodwill or warranty or have been replaced for piece of mind

[xjay1337]

There's no recall for the tensioner.

Just have it checked if it's a 09/10 plate. Later models will probably be done from factory.

[PooPoo]

Compared to my MK1 vRS my MK2 has been nothing but problems. I have only done 41,000 miles and already my front shocks are misting, my evap N80 valve has failed and I'm sure I have a problem with the drive shaft c.v joint. I might just be unlucky, but if you have kids/family it's a great all-rounder. 200hp is ample for public roads but breath on it and stage 1 is 240ish. I have a dsg estate, it's a 61 plate and plan to service myself as it's well out if goodwill should the timing chain tensioner let go!