'97 A3 Auto Hatch for sale in Australia-what should I look out for ?

[Ringsby4]

Hi all,first visit to your sub forum as I have an A4 but found this car looking for a ride for my son.
Its done 130,000 miles and by all accounts in good nick.
Hoping to look tomorrow-what potential problem areas should I be aware of ? Note-its an auto
Here's a http://www.carsales.com.au/private/d...87/?Cr=19link:
cheers

[Okedokey]

• oil consumption
• service record a must
• check for damage to body

check suspension and look under oil cap fir sludge.

[Chris@EPL]

That 1997 A3 is basically a mk4 VW and the Auto transmissions do not have the best longevity, especially if the previous owner did not do all the recommended maint. If it was a 5 speed he could drive it forever.

[Ringsby4]

• oil consumption
• service record a must
• check for damage to body

check suspension and look under oil cap fir sludge.

Thanks Dokey,the oil consumption issue may be hard to quantify unless its noted on invoices that "owner complained about excessive oil usage " for eg.Its not going to appear in the stamped service book probably.Curly one,that.
I've since found later model years for not a lot more eg 2003 with 195k kms asking $3k....,2002 with 109k kms asking a bit over $4k-still seems like good buying.....

[Ringsby4]

That 1997 A3 is basically a mk4 VW and the Auto transmissions do not have the best longevity, especially if the previous owner did not do all the recommended maint. If it was a 5 speed he could drive it forever.

Thanks Chris,Ive found later models for sale now ( see my post above ),I'm thinking that they all share that same 4 sp trans ? What exact model transmission is that ?,Ive googled to no avail,I'm hoping that its not a bullshit "sealed for life" auto...my experience is that few cars have promulgated auto trans fluid change intervals in any case.I haven't seen the service requirements for an A3 gen 1 however, Any info appreciated....