Hi Guys

New to the site, basically I am in the market for a octavia vrs estate (got approx 3K to spend) and was just wondering if there was anything in particular I should be on the look out for when going to see one.

Cheers for all your help

Cambelt and water pump replaced, all the electrics work, including the climate control AC should be cold on the cold setting. Suspension squeaks and rattle, not expensive as usually just bushes.

Accident damage and just the other usual suspects like tyres, fluids and all the numbers on the VIN match the log book.

As above, and just check for obvious signs of a hard life e.g.

• Check the load area for excessive abuse (a load liner is probably a sign of a conscientious owner)
  
• Make sure the rear springs not sagging (especially if fitted with a towbar)
  
• Check the condition / cleanliness of the seats - if it's been used as a van the white cloth inserts may be even grubbier than they tend to get through normal use...
  

Might be worth trying to find out if it has been remapped, may have been remapped for more torque if they were carrying a lot of stuff in the boot or towing.

The seller should know, or have a receipt for it, or if it has a boost gauge fitted or you have access to VAG-Com you can check whether it's boosting above normal pressure which is 10psi.

Bear in mind if it has been remapped the insurance company will want to know and will put your premium up so if that's the case try and haggle them down on the car price.

thanks guys, having not had one before just trying to see if there are any little specific things to look out for onthe octi's. ideally would like to get one of the forum, make me a bit happier!

The other thing to look for on any vRS (not just the estate) would be to drive it from cold and look for a chug / misfire between 1500 and 2000rpm, especially on light throttle openings. This can be due to a dirty throttle body and / or intake air leaks after the airflow sensor caused by split breather hoses.

Ask when the throttle body was last cleaned. It's an easy diy job for the cost of a £2 gasket and some carb cleaner, but if it's not been done recently it could be a bargaining point.

An oily smell in the cabin when stationary may indicate a split breather hose - again an easy diy repair but budget about £30 for the hose..