Bora TDi

[cruiser647]

Hi, the g/f and I (very Royal eh!!), are going to get a Bora TDi for her to drive. Selling her Clio dCi.

As I look about, is there anything that I really need to look out for in the Bora - any weak points, leaks, bad design bits etc.

Looking to get an SE or Sport with the manual box. With the 115 BHP or more engine.

I know the MAF will probably need changing, but am looking up to about £5.5K. Dark colour (green blue or black)

Also, do they have 3 x 3 point belts in the back?

Age and miles not toooooo important!

Many thanks.

[Rustynuts]

If I was you, I'd look out for a 130 engine, as it's a far better unit than the 115. It costs a bit more to insure, but worth it in my opinion.

The sport model is a lowered suspension, and they all sit pretty low anyway, so if there's any bumpy roads etc you plan on using then the se would be a better bet. If they're available for your budget, a Highline would give you stuff like leather interior, cruise control and lots of other goodies. It could be that they weren't made early enough to drop into your price band though.

MAF can be a problem, but is easy to replace for about £75.

Look for dealer service history, as this will ensure the correct oil has been used. This is vital to long engine life.

6 speed gearbox is a delight to use if you get one, and make sure it's smooth between all gears.

Budget about £300 - £500 (depending where you live) for a timing belt if it needs one, usually 80k miles, and don't let the mechanic at the local backstreet motor shop get his hands on it. It's a very specialised job doing these.

3 point seat belts in the centre rear were an option until 2004, so you might be lucky. However, the cars with the centre lap belt get a handy middle seat armrest/storage box.

[cruiser647]

Cheers Rusty.

Glad you mentioned the oil, as I had forgotten about that longlife diesel oil they use!

Thanks for info on the 3 point belt too!