Hi guys, i saw this post and decided to post a very similar question.
Any tips?
My name is Tyler from Manchester and I decided to take a huge risk/gamble on purchasing an A3 for a very cheap price. No service history at all and only 1 key! The price was very attractive, and after getting a very good report from a pre-purchase mechanical observation, i deceived to part with the agreed price of £1,000.
Car details
1.6 FSI Sport - Petrol
Blue
5 Door
Manual
04 plate
No Service History
MOT - June 23
118,000 miles on the clock
*** Notable observations from myself ***
Dented tailgate - its obvious that it has reversed into something big, or been hit by something big. I have found half a dozen on eBay for £50
Small dents and scratches - expected on a vehicle that age/price.
Interior - Spotless
Windscreen - 1 single chip, looks deep. Needs inspecting by Autoglass.
Alloys - Quite battered but will purchase a set of 18 inches 5 twin spokes once i have carried out the necessary work.
Tyres - Thread is not bad, the alloys i have bookmarked come with tyres with plenty of thread.
*** Feedback from mechanic***
Overall - solid car, requires service.
Gear box and clutch - both in healthy working condition.
Underneath - good condition, axels springs all good.
Drive shaft - good condition
Engine - no leaks visible, nice and dry.
Emissions - Very high and would not pass an MOT as it stands. Advised by mechanic and a 2nd and 3rd mechanic that i should check again once it has been serviced.
I have been provided the following quotes for a major service.
Generic garage - £169
Audi - £320
German car specialist - £420
I was thinking that it would definitely be worth investing in major service from Audi or the German Car Specialist given the age, millage and lack of service history. But i am keen to hear your thoughts. I was surprised to be quoted £100 less by Audi directly. I would of thought that they would be the most expensive option!
One last thing, i have been advised by the German Specialist that this model has a timing chain, not a timing belt. He advised they last a long time, sometimes the lifespan of the vehicle. And that it only requires replacing when there is an issue with it, which they will be able to identify with a diagnosis.
Sorry for the info dump! I thought it would be best to give you a full story!
Thanks in advance, and i’m happy to glad to of joined the community!