2001 Volkswagen Golf GLS

steeLh

Member
Dec 21, 2005
172
0
71
So I was looking through autotrader as I'm considering getting a new (used) car. Came across 2001 Volkswagen Golf GLS for $10k ($9,995). I'm sure theres a few of you out there, that have had this model or something close to it. Would this be a good choice? or is it better to stay away from Golf's?
 

cardiac

Platinum Member
Oct 9, 1999
2,082
14
81
That price is way out of line. If the mileage is average. say 85,000 miles, the trade in value is $5800 and retail is $7350, if it is in excellent shape. All the options (ie.: sunroof, leather, alloys, and auto)adds $1000 to the used value. I'd look elsewhere or offer them $7000-8000....
 

Cdubneeddeal

Diamond Member
Oct 22, 2003
7,473
3
81
The price is fair. The only issue with the 1.8T's is sludge. Do some research on the engine before you buy then make your decision. Also, find out where that car was made. If it's a Mexican car, steer clear.
 

thecritic

Senior member
Sep 5, 2004
470
0
0
The sludge issue was limited to the Passats and A4s with the 1.8T. The same engine in the Golf/Jetta had a larger oil pan do to the different mounting style, which eliminated most of the sludge complaints. Many people did not use the correct synthetic oil which greatly contributed to the sludge problem.

6-7.5k is a reasonable price for the car. Even though it has 50k, the car is around eight years old and should receive a full timing belt job (timing belt, tensioner, water pump, thermostat, drive belts, rollers), which will run you around $1000. Tensioners are common failure items on the 1.8T well before the 100k mark, so a timing belt job is a must as tensioner failure will result in valve damage in this application.