MK4 GTI Issues

[poli84]

I've got a mate who is looking to buy a MK4 GTI.
Anything that he should be looking out for?
The one we are going to see on Saturday is an 02 so i'm assuming the timing belt should have been changed this year going on every 4 years.

Anything else to look for?

Thanks in advance.

[poli84]

No one has any advice or experience on owning a MKIV GTI?
Nothing to look out for?

[VDUB-BUD]

Air con are pretty **** in them, very expensive to replace. my gti has been running pretty good so far. i guess it like any car, if its well looked after their shoudnt be any probslems.

[dubbed]

MAF, temp sensor (needs to be the green one), check when/if water pump and timing belt have been replaced (very important and can be costly), climate control motor/flapper often busted, door locks (internal and external) susceptible to breaking, groans and creaks from chassis, suspension bushing is probably worn on most of these cars if not already replaced, leaks from sunroof piping is often blocked causing water to come inside, general wear and tear on things like brakes can be costly.

I'd suggest an emergency $2k+ bank account specifically for it - and that's after having the car checked out and given the all clear!

[poli84]

Thank you very much for the responses.
Went with my mate and test drove one yesterday.
One female owner from the start - just replaced it with a NKVI GTI - full service history and just had the air con unit replaced.
Does need timing belt done though.
137k with the red recaro's and sun roof.
Asking 13k.