Buying MKV, what to look for, any common issues?

[Stelex]

We'll be buying a car for my daughter and being her first car she definitely wants Golf mkV.

There are a few around at reasonable pricing and reasonable condition. Not sure whether we'll be getting 1.6 or FSI2.0, I guess whatever happens to be a better deal. Also, what about the TDIs, if one comes along I wouldn't mind looking into it as well.

I would appreciate your thoughts on both and what to look for, or in better words, what to check before forking out cash.

I had mk Vi myself and experienced every single problem they had, so I'm a little uncomfortable for her getting a Golf, but I've been told that mkV are pretty alright.

Thanks heaps everyone.

[jessv3]

Both the 1.6 and 2.0 petrol mkv use the conventional 6spd auto box which has been well known for major issues, often requiring a rebuild. I personally would avoid both engine choices (unless she can drive manual). Otherwise the 1.9 and 2.0 diesel use a dsg gearbox which if serviced correctly is mostly hassle free, just ensure the dsg fluid is changed every 60k.

[Hiken]

I got a TDI for my first car mate, and I love it ! I agree they do have some common issues but if you are lucky to find a car with fairly low kms (mine had 87,000 when i first bought it, practically new for a diesel) and then look after it (services on time, changing parts that wear out asap, etc) you'll have no worries ! Bonus is they are great on fuel economy (I get 800 km a tank and I gun my car heaps), especially a 103 TDI or a 90 TDI which are less powerful than my 125 TDI. You should be able to find something good around the 10k mark..