GTi ownership, what to expect?

[GTi_Lee]

Right I've read the guide for what to look for and I've got cash waiting. There's still a question that comes to mind...

What should I expect if I do end up with a mk2? What are the common problems? I know I should expect problems as it is a 16yr old car now.

I'm a complete newbie when it comes to the ins and outs of cars. My plan is to get a Haynes manual some tools and keep the golf maintenance going from there. I'm expecting it to be a struggle but I think it'll be worth it, fingers crossed. So yeah as well as a car it'll be a learning exercise too as it'll teach me about the mechanics side.

Any experiences you guys could share would be great.

Regards,

Richie Lee

[Mart8V]

A summary of the jobs I have done on my two Mk2s to date (all needed!) :

- Front engine mounts x2
- Clutch
- New Shocks
- New water pump
- New Oil pump
- back box and centre box
- rear caliper and pads
- front discs and pads
- rocker cover and sump gaskets
- temp senders
- oil pressure switches
- speedo cable
- seat bolster repair
- new clocks
- gear linkage
- relay shaft (gear)

And the list goes on!!!!  Apart from the clutch it has all been DIY, and with a decent set of sockets and spanners you can get through most things.  Just allow plenty of time and expect mistakes!!

Most of these are pretty typical and are wear and tear items- my old Peugeot was much worse!!

Welcome to the happy spanner club

[8vRicey]

Always expect the easiest of jobs to be a complete nightmare !!

Jobs done
New alternator
New ARB links
New front discs and pads
Refurbished BBS RA's
Replacement tailgate
Cambelt and tensioner change
-40mm Eibach lowering springs
New Boge shocks
New top mounts
Stainless exhaust (Front pipe back)

Jobs to do
New rear discs and pads
Electric windows ?
Electric mirrors ?
Respray ?

Oh...and a grin from ear to ear EVERY time you drive it !!

[tom26]

mk2's are a pain in the arse with too many problems to list! but in my opinion they also offer one of the best driving experiences you can get for the $! good luck!

[GTi_Lee]

Sounds like a perfect learning exercise.  might be a bit costly though.

What do you guys think of this that I've found?

1991 H Reg VOLKSWAGEN Golf 1.8 GTi 16v
3 Doors, Manual, Hatchback, Petrol, 110,000 miles, Black, MOT-06-2007. Exceptional Condition and Drive. Insurance Group:15, UN TOUCHED EXCEPT WHEELS THIS GOLF DRIVES GREAT LONG MOT BLACK 3 DOOR MODEL RECENT CAM BELT.. SURFACE RUST ON REAR QUATER PANNEL NEW TYRES RAINBOW INTERIOR. £1,250.

is £1200 a bit steep? It's from a car dealership near swansea way. MOT til June, which I think is quite sketchy, I dont wanna buy it then fork out hundreds to pass it's MOT a month later.

[T_J_G]

Sounds like a perfect learning exercise.  might be a bit costly though.

What do you guys think of this that I've found?

1991 H Reg VOLKSWAGEN Golf 1.8 GTi 16v
3 Doors, Manual, Hatchback, Petrol, 110,000 miles, Black, MOT-06-2007. Exceptional Condition and Drive. Insurance Group:15, UN TOUCHED EXCEPT WHEELS THIS GOLF DRIVES GREAT LONG MOT BLACK 3 DOOR MODEL RECENT CAM BELT.. SURFACE RUST ON REAR QUATER PANNEL NEW TYRES RAINBOW INTERIOR. £1,250.

is £1200 a bit steep? It's from a car dealership near swansea way. MOT til June, which I think is quite sketchy, I dont wanna buy it then fork out hundreds to pass it's MOT a month later.

That's a good price I think,if it's as good as it says! It's 3 Dr and black, is it big bumpered? Go see it and say i want a 12 month MOT with it or i'll walk away, chances are they may sort it for you! However it says long MOT, when it clearly hasn't......

Tim

[Uruk Hai]

I wouldnt buy a car with less than 10 months ticket on it.

[GTi_Lee]

Cool. I'll call them up and have a chat with them. It looks like a "big bumper" model, looks a bit weird on what seems to be 16" aftermarket wheels though. What have they done to the bbs's!? either way I'll keep my wits about me and check it all out and demand 12months MOT before parting with any cash.

Richie

[T_J_G]

don't let your cash rule your head though.

If it's not right walk away, no point in buying it just becasue you have the cash.

Tim

[Thom89]

Buy the very best car that you can afford, with the most service history, and the least amount of owners, try and find a sub 90K car.. they can be found! expect to heamorage money for all the time you own the car, never buy the car of this age because the colour looks nice!! walk away from molested cars, ask to see the car on a ramp before purchase, fair wear and tear is OK, botched repairs.. do a runner!
Make sure you keep your mobile charged,, for when you go out in it!!
Tom