hey everyone,
i'm new to audiforums and audi's in themselves. i'm looking to pick one up here very soon i have the funds and such already arranged, now it's just time to go pick mine out. i'm looking for a b5, hoping for a 99, maybe 00?

reason for posting: i'm just looking for some quick tips to look at when buying/test driving/looking at a prospective car. i'm trying to not get taken advantage of, paying too much for a car that's not worth it, that sort of thing.
so if you have anything to help me with, i would be thank if you would share.

the other part to this question is, whether to go with the 1.8t or 2.8. i'm not picky, i would be more than happy with either. but just looking for some peoples opinions!

thanks!

 

first off make up your mind weather you want a 1.8t or the 2.8...if you want to mod the car and make it fast for alot less money then go with the 1.8t if you want more of a daily driver thats reliable then go with 2.8...
i would ask for service record, ask if the timing belts ben done, and look for a low milege car...if you want more info post the ad up of the car you are looking at and we will try to help you out more with your purchase

 

Look for any airbag/abs lights (theyll be obvious, obviously), listen for clunks or squeeking in the front end, inspect upper control arms for a torn bushing. Check coolant color (should be red/pink, not greenish or brown). Check powersteering fluid color, should be green, if its dirty its not the end of the world but it would be smart to flush, very dark brown would be bad. Ask how often the oil was changed and with what (should be full synthetic every 3,000). Look beneath the coolant resevoir and look for a very large oil filter, if there isnt one, it would be best to look elsewhere.. Listen for any moans or groans (could be a bad wheel bearing), try out the sunroof, and heated seats (if they matter to you).

If the control arms havent been replaced before, almost expect them to fail and maybe look elsewhere unless you want to shell out more to have them replaced.

 

thanks guys!