Gazboy Posted August 22, 2005 Share Posted August 22, 2005 A chap I know in the states has been offered a mk3 n/a manual fairly cheap, asks if I know anything about them (what to look for, preservation etc), as I don't, I thought I'd ask here?????? Anyone? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GeordieSteve Posted August 22, 2005 Share Posted August 22, 2005 If it's anything like the turbo, check for head gasket problems! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jim_supra Posted August 22, 2005 Share Posted August 22, 2005 The head gasket on the mkiii (be it na or turbo) is a BIG weak spot!! I've got one and my dad has had two, all of them blew their head gaskets. They are prone to rust on the rear arches, but may not be a problem in the states, depending on where your friend lives. Other than that they are very reliable. and still great fun to drive! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gazboy Posted August 22, 2005 Author Share Posted August 22, 2005 The head gasket on the mkiii (be it na or turbo) is a BIG weak spot!! I've got one and my dad has had two, all of them blew their head gaskets. They are prone to rust on the rear arches, but may not be a problem in the states, depending on where your friend lives. Other than that they are very reliable. and still great fun to drive! Seattle- bit like here really. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GeordieSteve Posted August 22, 2005 Share Posted August 22, 2005 p.s. because of the gasket problem, you get HG kits cheap on Ebay Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gazboy Posted August 22, 2005 Author Share Posted August 22, 2005 Off topic- GS- if you get the Single, drive about and then decide you preferred the hybrids- do you get your money back?? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest davidwilce Posted August 24, 2005 Share Posted August 24, 2005 It's not a major problem, but the valve stem seals wear out really easily. Look for blue smoke when starting from cold. If it smokes for longer than 10 secs from turning the key it aint good! Also, the rear hatch leaks where the glass joins the bottom of the hatch. And the seals behind the tail lights dissintergrate. So have a look round the inside of the boot for water getting in. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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