Buying a MK5 GTI, what to look out for

[M6 VWW]

After having several non-GTI VAG cars since my last MK4 GTI Turbo, I've decided to buy a MK5 GTI.

My budget is about £10k for a 5 door.

I used to know everything to look out for when buying a MK4 but I don't have the low down on the MK5. Are there any common problems to look out for, recalls, cam belt changes etc. that I should be checking?

I'm looking forward to being back!

Cheers

[R32UK]

i would say look for a special badge on the back that says 'Edition 30' 

[Steve30]

i would say look for a special badge on the back that says 'Edition 30' 

Or Pirelli   much more rare

[M6 VWW]

Don't tempt me!

[magsmagsmags]

Coilpacks fail sometimes, mine went within a month of owning - common fault.
The standard diverter valve is another common failure, so check for boost issues etc

[clum1]

Rusty front wings on the inside between the wing and the liner; should be repairable under warranty but worth checking. My front sills are both rusting too (again, may be warranty from VW). Check the high level brake light works: £400 from VW - £40 DIY. I've had mine since new (Oct 06) and although it's only done 55k, there's more going wrong than I'd hope for a near-premium car that's been well looked after...

Still love it though!

[clum1]

Aircon too! My condenser corroded and needed replaced, again after only 5 years...

[Real Thing]

After having several non-GTI VAG cars since my last MK4 GTI Turbo, I've decided to buy a MK5 GTI.

My budget is about £10k for a 5 door.

I used to know everything to look out for when buying a MK4 but I don't have the low down on the MK5. Are there any common problems to look out for, recalls, cam belt changes etc. that I should be checking?

I'm looking forward to being back!

Cheers

Don't tempt me!

Rusty front wings on the inside between the wing and the liner; should be repairable under warranty but worth checking. My front sills are both rusting too (again, may be warranty from VW). Check the high level brake light works: £400 from VW - £40 DIY. I've had mine since new (Oct 06) and although it's only done 55k, there's more going wrong than I'd hope for a near-premium car that's been well looked after...

Still love it though!

Mine just going into Leicester VW to have the front wing repaired/replaced with the rust problem be putting it for sale when I get it back as I've just took delivery of a RS3 It's a very well known Golf from this Forum as it's first owner was John (hurdy) I'm the 3rd Owner and as well as 5 Doors and a DSG Box it's got that special badge on the back (Edition 30) Back to almost standard now although it still has a revo stage 1 remap as well as a Quaife Dif Fantastic Traceable History and a very well specced Car(Sat/Nav Bluetooth MFSW Cruise etc) Done 61000 Miles and as the wheels could do with a refurb I'd give you change from £10K If any interest to you drop us a PM 

[AlanD]

Hurdy car is almost back to standard!?

Bit of a shame that as it was such a beast.

[Poached]

Some info here:

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Drives/Search-Results/First-drives/Volkswagen-Golf-GTi-Mk5-2004-2009/

Buy the car with a warranty main dealer or a dealer unless you know the history of the car and have it scanned to check for faults on site or elsewhere depending on what the dealer provides.

Also look out for this £1200 bombshell:

http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?;topic=48030.0

Read the warranty very carefully as well.