Chahta

Please excuse my ignorance but, I know nothing about Audi's, and I have an opportunity to buy an 2002 TT drop top. Haven't had a chance to see it in person yet but it looks good in the pictures. Of course the owner says it runs great with no problems, new top, steering rack, lower control arms. My main concern is it has 195,000 miles! Owner is asking only $2500. What do you all think? Good deal or bad? What should I look for? From what I've read, the timing belt (chain?) Is a problem? Other than tear into the motor, how can you tell if it's going bad? If I buy it I sure don't want to destroy it out of ignorance.
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Mister Bally

Search for threads on this subject poster Vegas Roadster has a great list of what to look for.

Vegas-roadster

Yes the timing belt is a major issue and no you can't tell if it is about to break. There is a plastic cover you can slide off to see the top of the belt but it is tensioner and water pump failures that usually cause breaks. Unless the owner can prove its been replaced in the past 5 years/60K miles, do it ASAP or risk a $5K+ repair. The glove box latch costs $1K - no joke. Vacuum lines probably leak. I would not buy ANY car of that age/mileage without an experienced mechanic checking it first AND enjoying DIY repairs. Read the FAQ https://forums.fourtitude.com/showth...44-Audi-TT-FAQ