Hi all, I am new to the forum. I am looking to change my car that is currently a Passat CC, looking to purchase A7 in the new year.  Even with the current car prices being as mad as they are.  

I joined to start doing some research.  My biggest fear at the moment is the was seems to be a common issue that I have read about, the dreaded gear box fault safe to drive message.  From what I understand it’s caused for a faulty coolant valve leaking and the the coolant travels along the cable (capillary effect) into the connector for the gearbox or gearbox ecu?  How common is this and are there any telling signs before it happened?  Or what to look out for whilst viewing and test driving?

I know googling common problems with any cars is like opening a can of worms and you always find horror stories.  Hence why I am here to ask the people who currently own one.

Have a look at buyers guides on YouTube. 

Check the service history. Make sure Cambelt and water pump has been changed on time. And the gearbox servicing has been done. If quattro make sure the tyre tread matches as uneven tyre wear can damage the quattro system. 

Also make sure all electrical items work as AC and lights can be expensive to repair or replace.