Hey guys,

1st post here so be gentle!!

I'm going to look at a 04 Octavia 1.9 TDI PD Elegance tomorrow. It apparently has full service history, timing belt at 60k, and its cover 70k in total.

Is there anything in particular I should look out for, any common areas for concern?

Also, what's everyone's opinion of them? I'm looking to buy one as we have just had our first baby and need something larger than our 3 door 207!!

I have also read that the service interval on these is 10000, which seems very frequent, but I'm guessing that's just an oil and filter change, and nothing major? How easy are these to service, as I service my 205 gti, so unless there's something really complex, I plan to service this.

Thanks, Dean

Yeah, the 10_000 mile service is oil and filter, plus a general inspection; cost maybe £100 including oil.

If you're a high mileage, say 20_000 a year, driver, the car does support variable mileage servicing which should roughly double the interval, but does use more expensive oil.

Generally, check that all the electrics (and there's a lot of them, remote locking, 4 windows, 2 heated and adjustable door mirrors, HRW, sunroof, possibly a CD stacker in the boot (behind the trim just ahead of the rear light), full climate control (which might well need a regas), headlight washers, trip computer...) work.

If it's actually a PD, the badge should be TDi, and it will have a 6-speed gearbox. A lot of Elegance spec will be non PD 110s, with a badge TDi and a 5-speed.

Edited 24 May, 201115 yr by KenONeill

OK thanks, so there's nothing mechanical I should be wary of? What are the common signs of head gaskets going on these?

Also the ad says is a rare 130 bhp version rather than 105, how can I tell the difference?

If it's a 6 speed 'box it's a 130 bhp.

OK thanks, so there's nothing mechanical I should be wary of? What are the common signs of head gaskets going on these?

Also the ad says is a rare 130 bhp version rather than 105, how can I tell the difference?

Relevant points for model identification in #2 now emboldened.

A 105 will have a 2.0l (nominal capacity) engine rather than a 1.9l.

I have a turbo problem (waste gate seized) on my Octy. When you test drive the car, give it some and be happy that the turbo is functioning effectively. I have learnt that turbos have a propensity to seize up if the car is driven too sedately for too long a period.

Otherwise, these cars are great. Good luck.