I'm thinking about taking advantage of some of the lower prices on a used TT. I've always loved the design and perhaps this is the time for me to buy.

I want the 1.8 turbo 4 with automatic transmission and I'm thinking of going with a 2005 model. (Non Quattro model) (Non convertible)

I have read elsewhere about electrical and timing belt issues with some of the earlier model years. What should I be most concerned about with a 2005 Audi TT 1.8?

I appreciate any and all advice you can give me to guide me in my purchase. (Or possibly away from my purchase)

Reliability is the most important factor to me at this point.

 

automatic isnt as much fun.

 

Neither is fwd....hard top all the way

Timing belt issues don't really come about till 70-80K miles
VW/audi cars are very reliable

 

unless your missing your left foot get a manual, youll be happier...

also, you live in a snowy place? test drive a quattro in the snow, your views may change about going fwd

 

Test drive a quattro on wet roads with traction control off. Getting an Audi with out awd is pointless IMO.

 

How much do you want to spend? If you want reliability, get a CPO 2005 3.2 w/DSG. Sure you'll spend 10K+ over a 1.8T FWD A/T, but why half-*** it if you intend to have the car for 10 years?

 

If I get an Audi TT it will be my first Audi. I have owned BMW's and currently drive a 2006 Volvo S40.
To be honest "performance" is not an issue for me. I have always found the design of the Audi TT one of the most appealing cars on the road. I would like to own one as a second automobile and the auto transmission and 1.8 turbo just fit my needs.
I may drive it from Tennessee to Florida on occasion which is about 1,100 miles round trip. RELIABILITY is my biggest concern. I have read alot of horror stories out here but do not know the circumstances.
The 2004 and up TT's seem to get better overall reviews but I just want to have a good idea of what I need to look out for if I purchased a 2004-2005 1.8 liter turbo, auto trans, hard top TT with 45,000-85,000 miles.
The initial investment is not the problem. I just don't want a car that will possibly leave me stranded or one that is going to slowly suck any extra money I have dry due to frequent repairs. There is not an Audi dealership in this area. The closest is approx. 2.5 to 3.5 hours away depending on which direction I travel.
Thanks for the advice so far and any other input would be appreciated. How often should the timing belt be changed? What type of longevity should one expect out of the 1.8 liter turbo engine? Are these high mileage engines if taken care of?

 

I have a 2001 Audi TT 1.8t w/ 81,000 miles. I will not lie to you, my engine has been rebuilt by a previous owner after the timing belt broke at ~70,000 something miles. I was told it was a costly repair. I strongly recommend, as do others on this site, that you have the timing belt changed at or before 60,000 miles. This is on my 2001 model and I can not claim to be knowledgeable on any other year than my own. But I believe the newer models are free from or more resistant to this issue.

I do not know the specifics, but I believe there is some extended warranty just recently enacted to cover the cost of the repair should the timing belt fail. someone else will have to confirm this.

I personally have not had any issues with my car. I believe that the 1.8t is capable of hanging with best if properly maintained w/ regular and preventative maintenance.

Please do not be deterred easily by my TT's past misfortunes under another owner. I believe the TT, Quattro or not, is a wonderfully engineered vehicle that can be as reliable as any you can buy. I also believe that this forum has some very experienced and knowledgeable members who are more than willing to help should any problem arise.

I have been and always will be an advocate for the TT and the joy it can bring to its owner. I hope you will still consider the TT, knowing that there is a known timing belt issue and preventative measures to counter it.

 

My parents wanted to get a A6 but like you they live 3.5 hours away from a place to service. So I kinda talked em outta it. Saddly. But you said you have always had BMW's ?? Where do you service that at? If its just a local mechanic he should know a few things about audis

TT have glitches in them just like anyother car. The electrical can be a bear.
But I think you need to get a nice BLACK!! Hard top one!!

 

After test driving a 1.8 FWD and a 1.8 Quattro...hands down it was a Quattro for us. We settled on an '05 with 40K...balance of factory warranty prior to CPO kicking in. We got a fabulous deal on it and couldn't be happier.

Whatever you decide...best of luck...I feel the Quattro is definitely worth it.