What to look out for when buying a used A3 Tdi SE

[Easygoingdave]

Hi
I have put a deposit on a 2004 A3 SE tdi, with only 49K on the clock and full audi service, six months warranty and is immaculate. I am testing driving it next week. (Car was having a new EGR valve fitted when I went to view it at the garage). I have read several posts regarding DMF, which has now got me twitchy. When I test drive it, what is the best way to check the Flywheel is not on its way out? Also is there any other known faults I should be looking for?
Thanks in advance for replies.

 

[SAiLO]

Watch out for a police siren sound / whining / blue smoke - that could mean turbo on the way out. Also check for white mayo like residue on the oil cap / coolant loss - if it's there might mean a cracked cylinder head. Other than that you'll love your car.

 

[Sandra]

Hi
I have put a deposit on a 2004 A3 SE tdi, with only 49K on the clock and full audi service, six months warranty and is immaculate. I am testing driving it next week. (Car was having a new EGR valve fitted when I went to view it at the garage). I have read several posts regarding DMF, which has now got me twitchy. When I test drive it, what is the best way to check the Flywheel is not on its way out? Also is there any other known faults I should be looking for?
Thanks in advance for replies.

Welcome to audi-sport.net. Have a look in the faqs section at the top of the page, lots of useful Info in there. Where are you located Dave? Enjoy the forum. x

 

[Easygoingdave]

Hi Sandra
Thanks for the link, I live in Weston super Mud and all being well with the test drive, can't wait to get my A3.

 

[ColganRaz]

I cant think of any known issues really that are a common problem, the cars seem super reliable in that sense. Theres the dual mass flywheel problem but i doubt thatll be the case @ 49k, mine didnt go until 140k lol!

when my DMF was going it clattered like hell and the clutch began to slip

check for any major service history such as when it had the cambelt replaced last

other than that enjoy the car!

i have linked a basic guide on what to look for here

 

[Sandra]

Hi Sandra
Thanks for the link, I live in Weston super Mud and all being well with the test drive, can't wait to get my A3.

Dave, if your interested in meets in your area, click the link below, add hourself onto the members list and look see whats going on. x

Smaller (Local) Events

 

[Rom]

Make sure everything electrical works. Knocks etc on test, smoke, usual stuff.

DMF, look out for a faint judder at idle, almost like a slight misfire, or hunting revs.
They aren't the end of the world, but not cheap either.

Check the warranty. Carefully. Many aren't worth the paper they come on.

Egr, and throttle flap are reasonably common. But it's had an Egr so.