2019 Mk7.5 PP Buyers Guide

[Spooky212]

Good evening guys!

I’m looking to replace my Mk3.5 ST with a lowish mileage (30-40k ideally) 7.5 GTI. From the classifieds it looks like £18-20k will get you a decent example.

What things should I be looking out for? I’m aware of the thermostat/water pump issue and it’s my main concern at the moment (not keen on spending £20k then potentially another £1k soon after to get it sorted). Also aware that the diff needs serviced after 30k miles so will for proof of that. Are there any other things I should consider?

Has anyone fitted a towbar to their mk7 GTI

[Adam T7]

LSD service at 3 years👍

[Watts]

Hi Spooky. Only Performance models need a diff service, the standard GTI doesn't. Other than what you've mentioned, they are pretty robust. Just the usual checks you'd make with any secondhand car. Beware the diamond cut alloys though, they can only be refinished a few times so if they need a refurb but have been done previously, that might be an issue. They can have a fair few internal rattles which can be irritating but many of them are common and easily sorted.

What spec are you hoping for?

[Spooky212]

Cheers for the replies guys!

I’m looking for a Performance ideally, 2019 ideally with DCC. Seem hard to come by though? The diamond cut alloys are a bit of a pain, had this with my old mk5! Do the mk7’s chew through oil the the mk5 did?

[Watts]

In nearly 10 years of 7 and 7.5 ownership I've only ever had to top the oil up once so pretty good there. DCC always brings out a good debate, I've had two cars, both on 19s and one with and one without DCC. I wouldn't be fussed if a car didn't have it. The dampers are expensive to replace too. They all have an excellent basic spec, the only variable for me would be colour. Try one without DCC and see how you get on. If it's a must, look at a TCR with a performance pack as DCC is standard. It will test the budget but you do get quite a bit for the extra money.

[Spooky212]

Thanks Watts, good info there.  Good news re the oil, the mk5 was using a litre every 1000miles or so, well within VW tolerance as well bizarrely. Will see if I can find a TCR to try close by.

[willni]

What are you planning on towing with the gti? You might be better off a a GTD or else moving up in size if it's regular.

[Spooky212]

It’s only for using a towbar mounted bike rack, no plans to tow any trailers or whatnot

[Spooky212]

Hello all, off to view a 7.5 PP at the weekend from an approved VW dealership. Car has FSH with diff serviced last year. Have asked about the thermostat/pump which they didn’t really know anything about. Car comes with a year warranty, my question is, is it worth paying for the All In VW service plan so that when the pump fails I’m covered?

[P6GTD]

The VW All In plan is pretty good value in my opinion but yes, it would be v wise to take a VW Warranty whether All In or stand-alone.
Water pump is the most obvious risk but good to have anyway.