1.9 Audi A3 2008. Should I buy?

MrWenger1982

I was intending on buying a Ford Focus as some of you may have noticed from a different thread. However, I have a good friend who wants to sell his A3 quickly as he is leaving the country for work reasons. I know the reason is genuine and I know the car didn't give him trouble (I'll still get it checked out though ) He is giving me a very reasonable price on it if prices on carzone are anything to go by and I really like the car.

I just want to know the general thoughts on the A3 and pros and cons of this particular model. The last thread I posted on the Focus had some great replies and excellent tips which is why I am coming back again

George Dalton

They are a good car generally.

Which engine is in it?

MrWenger1982

It's a 1.9 Diesel TDI George

George Dalton

The 1.9TDI is probably the best of the lot. I think they are a very good car. They have their issues just like any other make or model but they are well documented and relatively cheap and easy to fix.

Engines are pretty much trouble free barring the odd sensor, EGR valve or if you are very unlucky a turbo. Timing belt and water pump change due every 120,000km or 5 years, costs €350 approx.

Dual mass flywheel does give some trouble in them just like any modern diesel. The 5 speed 1.9TDI is among the cheapest to replace though, around €700 should cover it.

Wishbone bushes, steering rack tie rods, anti roll bar links and rear shock absorbers can wear in higher mileage examples.

Models fitted with ESP use the troublesome Teves Mk60 abs unit which suffers pressure sensor failure. This is the same unit that is also giving trouble across the VAG range, also Ford/Mazda/Volvo, BMW, Honda and I think it is also fitted to some PSA cars. In the case of the VAG stuff it can be sorted for around €350 if you know where to go.

MrWenger1982

Great info George. I'll not pretend that I understand all the terms but it's good to see you think it's a good car and most of the known faults have a relatively cheap fix. Thanks!!

tossy

As always arming yourself with a little knowledge prior to buying is never a bad thing.

The way i see it you have 3 really good positives here,things which are always good when buying a car.

1.You know it to be a good relatively trouble free make/model.
2.You know the previous owner and history.
3.You can get it for a very good price.

MrWenger1982

Exactly my thoughts Tossy. The one thing I wasn't sure about was the reputation/reliability of this particular model hence starting a thread here.

colm_mcm

I'd go for it, the 1.9 is relatively old skool, which is good.