Hi all,
Firstly, apologise for what I'm sure is one of thousands of threads however I'd just like to double check that the list I've compiled is not missing anything major and/or the options list I've got is correct. If anyone has an approximate cost for things please let me know as it would be a massive help. Just some background information; I'm looking to get a Mk5 GTI with a budget of 5K max. I have about 1k slush fund for repairs but obviously I want to ensure that I minimise going into it the best I can. Here is the information I've gathered so far from various forums and buying guides. Basically have I missed anything?
Options
Must have -
18” Monzas (Are 17’s considerably more comfy? Do they considerably change handling performance?) (What are the names for the diamond cut / standard 18 wheels?)
Rear parking sensors
Multimedia input (Comers with RCD500? Aux input?)
RCD500
Cruise control (Retrofit?)
Side airbags
Smoking pack (Cigarette lighter socket)
Not bothered -
Multi function steering wheel (MFSW) / Highline (Do these come together? Difference between highline and midline?)
Xenons
Luxury pack (Electric folding mirrors, kerb view (and auto dim rear view mirror?))
Winter pack (Headlamp washers, heated windscreen washers, heated front seats, low washer fluid warning sensor)
Armrest (Retrofit?)
Ipod preparation
Pearlescent paint (Standard on black cars?)
Sunroof
Don't want -
Recaro seats
Rear tinted window
Full leather
Any options I missed out? Any comments on what I should definitely have? Note on the xenons is that I'd like them but they are always paired with leather which I don't want.
Main Check Points
Front and rear door seals failing - Water ingress / Rust (cost?)
Failed door lock module - Lock doors on FOB and check (cost?)
Panel gaps / accident repair - missing paint from the bolts holding the wings on, missing paint from chassis rails and mismatching paint colour
Rust - Check arches, sills, boot area, under VW boot badge (further areas????)
RUST - The rubber wheel arch liner rubs on the wing and wears away the paint, which leads to rust forming on the front and rear arches. Also look along the sills where they meet the front and rear wings for any rust spots. The seam where the roof panel meets the body above the doors.
Rear headlight water ingress - Mould / failure (cost?)
Corroded discs / lipped discs - Pads last replaced? (cost?)
Snapped springs / worn dampers - Visual check (cost?)
Last alignment - Uneven wear / check inner rear tyres (Droning noise on drive)/ tread remaining (cost?)
Check seats for wear / Bolsters / Abnormal wear on interior for mileage - Cloth tartan seats repair (cost?)
Rattle on start up, disappears then reappears short time later - Fuel pump (cost?)
ESP Light illuminated - ABS unit problem / failure (cost?)
Passenger seat occupancy light visible - Failed sensor / may be disconnected (Airbag may not work!!) (cost?)
Misfire - Coil pack(s) (cost?)
Check aircon blows cold both sides / climate control blow hot one side and cold the other - Other checks for air con problems?? (cost?)
Listen for rattles - 06+ car purchase / rattles resolved?
Lack of boost (No kick @ ~2000 RPM) / boost issue (flat spot) / Check light - Diverter valve (cost?)
Heavy clutch / slipping - Clutch replacement / How to check DMF is on its way out? (cost both?)
Poor handling - Worn bushes / suspension (cost for refresh?)
Bonnet catch seizes - difficulty opening (cost?)
Air filter cover broken (cost?)
Positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) - Loosen oil filler cap or dipstick (Engine should falter) / Leaking air /woosh when turn off car (cost?)
Oil level / Clean or dirty / Mayo in filler cap - Correct specification and intervals / litres used per 1K miles (Oil spec?)
Coked valves - High oil consumption / Carbon clean to resolve?? / New valves?? (cost?)
Check radiator - damage / split hoses (cost?)
Oil cooler housing failure - leaking coolant (cost?)
Cam follower check?? A pump is mentioned?? - Immediate replacement (cost?)
Cambelt, tensioners, water pump, thermostat (x2?) - 60k miles / 4 Years (cost?)
Anything major I missed off? If anyone could comment on costs of items that would be great.
Also what parts should I definitely look to replace straight away? I don't have time to DIY so can those parts be fitted by my trusted mechanic or shall I take it to a specialist?
Thanks in advance for any feedback, it would be much appreciated.
