WHY Mk2 is THE BEST TT + 10 TOP TIPS to buy A GOOD ONE

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE HERE AND GET ME TO 50K (big thanks all those that have got me to 40k)
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In this video I explain why (in my opinion) the Mk2 is the best of the 3 BRILLIANT generations of Audi TT we have had so far. Then I share with you my 10 top tips so you can buy yourself a good one!
This video only covers the 4 cylinder models, not the TT 3.2 or TT RS though most of it applies to those too. The Mk2 TTS continued to use the old EA113 engine right throughout its production run and didn't switch to EA888 like the lower power non S 2.0L petrol models.
This video can be divided into the following chapters;
00:00 Quick preview
00:10 Introduction
01:08 Why Mk2 interior is best
04:07 Why Mk2 reliability is best
06:55 Why Mk2 looks and drives the best (please note looks are subjective)
09:34 Top buying tip 10 - tyre repair kit
10:45 Top buying tip 9 - rear lamps
11:36 Top buying tip 8 - brakes
13:07 Top buying tip 7 - BOSE amp fault
14:21 Top buying tip 6 - Glovebox fault
15:42 Top buying tip 5 - aircon issues
18:11 Top buying tip 4 - engine issues
20:10 Top buying tip 3 - Mag ride shocks
22:09 Top buying tip 2 - S tronic/DSG gearbox faults
23:28 Top buying tip 1 - Haldex AWD issues
26:00 Conclusion

[@davescott9062]

@24:47 the tiny spider making a home on the back of the rear view mirror is pretty cute.

[@tomthumb3085]

THE MOST IMPORTANT TIP OF ALL. Take a decent scan tool with you and check for current and historic faults. If you find anything that repeats or is currently showing a fault: walk away as it’s probably going to start costing large sums of money to put right. I love my TT but bought it without checking the electronics. It was almost immaculate but when I finally ran an OBDEleven on it, there were dozens of problem DTC codes which are going to cost more that I paid for the car.

[@volkswizard]

Agreed

[@heatheredwards9100]

What Scan tool do you recommend and what’s OBDEleven? thanks

[@robbie1403]

Great video. I’ve owned a MK2 for 18 months and have experienced three of the issues mentioned and was aware of the others through being a member of one of the owners clubs but in this video you’ve covered the essentials in a succinct easy to watch way and hopefully will be invaluable to others wanting to own one of these great cars.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks so much Robert, glad the video meets the approval of an experienced owner.

[@RS.Outdoors]

One of the first things people should check is the rear underside metalwork, chassis. Doesn't come with much rust protection from factory and just bought a 12 year old car myself without checking it and it is rotten. Going to be a subframe off and try and treat all the rust. Never for a minute believed a fairly modern car of this age could be so bad and a reason I myself never checked. Have a look under the rear of the car when viewing to buy and see how bad it is and if it is wild look for another. Believe that there will be many MK2 MOT failures in future if folks don't do some form of preventative treatment such as a spray wax coating such as Bilt Hamber Dynax or Lanogaurd. Wish this had been mentioned in video as I did watch it before buying car last week. Note that the car I got was 1 owner, never had an MOT advisory, full service history , 75k miles and lived nowhere near the sea. Cant believe it. :(

[@F.S92]

As an MK3 owner (pre facelift) I can say that its hard to judge DSG just by how smooth it delivers power. Especially the DQ250 which is notorious for jerky operation at low or "crawl" speeds.

[@ZzxOPTICxzZ]

I really appreciate you taking the time making this. I am currently looking for a MK2 TT (PFL or FL) and you can get so caught up with the amount of info out there on the forums

[@volkswizard]

Glad it was useful, keep looking as they are great cars👍

[@global5740]

Hey which one did u get and why unwound like to buy a prefl end 2011 u guys think it’s a good car?

[@user-ps8mv6js8f]

I own a MK2 2 litre manual petrol and absolutely love it!! Owned it 2 years now and everyday I get in it, it is such a pleasure to drive. Unbelievable I only paid £7k for it with 56k miles. She has never ever put a foot wrong in all that time compared to the utterly crap MK1 version I owned before it, that broke every single month virtually - even the rear suspension decided to cave in onto the wheel arches luckily at 30mph and not 70!!! The MK2 feels like a prestigious coupe to drive almost. A long time ago I owned a 996 Turbo and 997 Turbo when I made a lot of money and this little car although not in acceleration terms, but in everything else feels just as special if not better I kid you not. Well worth getting full leather inside as opposed to the suede and get the 18" wheels. It would actually make me feel sad to sell it I have bonded with it that much!!! Well worth adding a Double din head unit conversion, focal's all round and an 8" sub in the boot as I found out Lol

[@PeteLeaney]

I have the same model 2ltr TFSI Quattro black edition had it 4 years I love it, had the front caliper issue a couple of years ago… The key is service when it needs it never overlook it. I only do about 2-2500 miles a year but she is serviced every year without fail. In the snow like today it really comes into its own….. Totally agree re your comments on the looks compared to the mk3 the only thing I have changed on the interior is upgraded to an apple car play head unit

[@andyhawkins9541]

I have a MK2 3.2 TT manual petrol 2007 and I love it but have to re gas after watching this 😮lol but I can only say wot a joy this car has been and for me I cannot get over how good the body work holds up even though it’s 16 years old it’s still mint , it drives perfectly but have looked after with servicing etc , timing chain still holding true and engine runs lovely. Lowered springs give my 18 inch wheels a mean look and always puts a smile on my face 😊 yes stereo had same problems but upgraded whole system with new amplifier head unit and upgraded speakers and couldn’t be happier. For me this car constantly puts a smile on my face and will keep until I have trouble getting in and out 😂❤

[@ricktullemans4147]

I have my TT for almost 4 years now and still enjoy everytime i drive it. Probably won't be able to drive anything this fun, "cheap" and reliable.

[@hyunxzseu]

Any issue you had with it?

[@Julia-xz7vb]

wtf is that 5 door yellow monstrosity !? posting it now = great way to increase the value of the current ones haha 👏

[@volkswizard]

Blame peoples' taste for SUVs and blame legislation to force EVs upon us - together we get these monstrosities

[@Julia-xz7vb]

@@volkswizard I won't be getting... 😆

[@Stallzyx]

For some reason these have just recently taken my fancy and also looks like JayEmm has also done a review of them in the last few weeks. These 2.0 S-Line or the TTS models are really well powered it seems and the auto box seems just what you want. Didn't even know they may have AWD until hearing you mention it here. There really is no better person to listen to describing the nuances of VAG group cars than yourself though, so I'm glad to have had this pop in the recommended :)

[@FredericFreedom]

Planning to get a 2013 one for my 40th

[@simonvalent]

not really an AWD, its a FWD becoming AWD when you loose grip

[@carjockey1776]

Yes definitely these are good points. I like the set up of the 2nd gen. But I love the sharpe lines and headlights of the 3rd gen

[@yapchenpo95]

There are after market headlights for mk2 that mimics mk3

[@TS-gg9dk]

Great video! 👏💪👍👌 Interested in a TT some day. Probably a mk2, definitely NOT a mk1, so this was very helpful. Just subscribed. We currently have a Scirocco MY2013, do you have experience with those and can compare the differences between TT and Scirocco?

[@murraywilkinson4128]

brilliant video and what an education. I picked up a 3.2 v6 manual last year, early 8j which I absolutely love, totally engaging, super quick and a joy to drive (sounds good also) is there anything I should look out for?

[@KingNayt]

Sir your review was amazing and thank you for putting so much effort into making it! I just got my 3.2 vr6 mk2 last summer and I still can't believe how great this car is

[@conorsmyth9963]

VR6 best engine. That’s elite spec TT

[@timstanton5192]

Just swapped from a 2.0 TT, to a 3.2 VR6 much more exciting

[@ErichHaubrich]

Thank you for this, even if I don't end up buying a TT. You truly care about the integrity of the information you share. Cheers, mate! 🙂👍

[@dragonh3art1]

love my quattro,diesel really good ime on around 43 mpg upwards,i had the earth wire done for £90,thats only hassle i had so far,its cheap to insure which i couldnt believe especially 0-60 in 7.2 sec,always starts first turn looks awesome drives awesome best car ive had,ps.closest ile ever get to a r8 lol

[@steppenwolf1872]

Great channel,perfect for the Volkers.What about the 1.8 tfsi?It is really so oil thirsty? I drive a Golf mk6 1.4 tsi and i'm very satisfied BUT the tt mk2.... always in my mind.

[@speedhunter5572]

I have the mk3 TTS and I'm so happy with it, zero issues I also track it sometimes and service it very often, so far the best purchase in my life I love it❤

[@joshTEAM44]

Gained a sub here, great video! Slightly bias, as I've had my 11' TT (almost exact spec as yours, Blk Ed S line Auto Quattro etc) for nye on 3 years.

[@Gwynwills84]

Completely agree. Great video. I had the Mk2 TDI Quattro, I fixed all the issues you mentioned and it was a great car. I p/x'd mine for a Golf GTD Mk7 as the family grew, the TDI TT was a lot more economical. I will buy another in the future. 👍.

[@jf8085]

Bought a golf as the family grew 😆😭

[@FredericFreedom]

​@@jf8085😂

[@FredericFreedom]

To be fair the Golf GTD is a perfect family car 👍

[@puravida5683]

I'm German/American, and have owned every Audi model. Keep your checkbook handy, you will need it for repairs and parts! I finally decided to purchase a Lexus LC500 convertible. For dependability and reliability!

[@josephdonnelly3169]

Informative video! Currently have a mk 1 since 2008 as a second car. May upgrade to mk2 if need be. Thanks

[@EllisBurton3339]

Going to view a 2010 Audi TT TDI Quattro SE , tomorrow , great advice but made me think again re poss future expenditure , the car has 35k on the clock backed up with Annual services from new , being mainly oil and filter services , additional items that can cause concern that you didn't mention are the DPF and EGR ....A great car if all is working as should ....having major second thoughts now lol .

[@chrisml91]

I bought one for £6k a year ago with 98k miles. Done 5k miles in it. ('08 PFL) Work I've done: oil change, replaced cam follower (precaution), installed A6 washer jets, replaced a split vacuum pipe (caused fuel bank error codes), installed additional earths for rear lights (this was cheap and easy to do via ttforum). Some annoying things: - I had the common steering wheel judder at 80mph, had the wheels balanced and new rear tyres fitted, still got it. Will be checking top mount bushes next. - Do not attach a phone holder to the air vents, they will break and cost £20 odd each to replace - The floor mats unclip all the time. You can use zip ties to help, but they still come undone - My driver's door handle stopped working. Would have to open the passenger door and climb through to unlock it. I meddled with it a bit and its been ok recently - The ergonomics aren't great - my knee/leg occasionally gets in the way when I'm turning the steering wheel around a tight corner. However, the flat bottom steering wheel makes getting out easier! - The doors are a nightmare when getting in/out of, especially when parked in between cars. Very heavy. - Topping the oil up - but what used performance cars don't require this? - Quite a harsh ride (though mine has done 100k+ now) Overall I'm quite happy with it. I could have negotiated the price but I didn't bother. The power you get for the money and the reasonably modern looks are hard to be beaten. That's coming from an M140i and before that an FN2 Type R. However I've decided it's too low down and small for me and I'm only 6'2 - I want to get an 8P S3 for more room and a bit more power but they'll all have been ragged to oblivion compared to these. Great video, quite informative!

[@bmx4lifecobby]

I’ve had a TDi since 2018 which has had the 80mph judder since I’ve owned it. 3 sets of tyres, wheels balanced at least 6 times, alignment done. Then out of nowhere I had a new set of 4 tyres put on last month by ATS of all places because they had pilot sport 5’s on offer and it’s gone! I had completely given up on trying to eliminate it and just accepted it’s there having decided it wasn’t a balancing issue. I’d previously had Davanti which it came on, and one set of contis on the front only and then a full set of Bridgestones all with the issue. Wondering what you’ve had on yours and if that might be the issue?

[@chrisml91]

@@bmx4lifecobby Hmm - that’s interesting. I bought it with budget Accelera tyres on the rear and Goodyear’s on the front. Since swapped the rears to Michelin’s. Still haven’t got round to rebalancing the fronts though. The judder is really annoying. Completely numbs the steering

[@bmx4lifecobby]

@@chrisml91 Id just run what you have down to when you need a new set and then try a full set of matching 4 premium tyres and take it somewhere they should know how to balance a wheel well! Agreed its such an annoying issue, hope you get it sorted

[@grahambrooks2209]

A well presented video. But, unless someone else has mentioned it, I think a 'big' watch out is the EA888 gen 2 engine with the earlier cam chain tensioner. Mine failed, causing a lot of expensive damage. I was lucky that Audi offered some goodwill as it has full Audi service history. I think the car may have been written off without that gesture.

[@butchmeister80]

Was considering one of these for a second car for weekend fun as prices are coming down are they reliable or have any common issues to worry about ?

[@eddiericks6554]

Had the mk1 1.8 225 so much fun but mk2 vr6 has a lot more features Good video

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Eddie

[@jeffreyroberts7438]

I had three gen one tt’s 225 coupe’s over a number of years. The cam belt and water pump are obvious weak points. Other than that, I liked them, they still look good now. I now drive a 987 Boxster, the most stable, planted, safest driving experience yet. I’ve owned a number of different sports cars, the only one that sticks to the road like glue more than the Porsche was the lotus exige, but with British roads my back was in bits after a few months! So the Porsche is hands down the best overall driving experience. Your vid is very instructive but I must say it would also put me off buying any of them now. You make them sound like there’s a part failure waiting to happen!!

[@red00eye]

Presumably you watched a Porsche buying video, bet that had some interesting failures to watch for. Yet...

[@FameAndFortune1]

Hi Volkswizard, first of all great video and very informative. I have loved all shapes of the TT over the years but do like the the look of the MK3 the most. Only thing is you have scared me off the manual and I like a manual shift in a sports car. I was hoping to buy a petrol front wheel 2.0T FSI and hoping the clutch would last a bit longer than the higher powered versions of the MK3. In terms of the known thermostat and water pump issues it seems a lot of MK3's have had the specific upgrade to this known problem. I would be looking out for this when buying or budgeting it in on price. But yea you have depressed me over the clutch, maybe a better upgrade out there for it also. Do you know if all mK3 TT's manual models were having early clutch failure?

[@darnell3493]

I am about to buy a MK2 , glad I found your channel ,great information

[@volkswizard]

Glad to help

[@alfiedog2942]

Great video always great to listen to someone who knows all the essential stuff before buying. Advise needed please , I have found what potentially could be a good car ? Mk2 tdi Quattro 62 plate BUT have noticed on when I went to view that the battery recess has water ( not a lot but it’s there) sitting in the bottom and quite a lot of condensation on the battery?? Is this normal? A/C doesn’t work so that needs sorting? Any other advice? Thanks

[@volkswizard]

Battery is in the boot and no this shouldn't be wet so be very careful as could due to accident damage. Also be careful with ac and don't assume a regas. I'd personally find another on the basis of that car or get a professional inspection. Also check AWD works and last cambelt change. Always check MOT history if in UK.

[@alfiedog2942]

@@volkswizard thanks for your reply, I’ve heard in other reviews and on forum that water in boot area is a problem with the mk2 , yes I think I may have to look elsewhere 👍

[@danielrussell446]

Well done Andrew and I completely agree having been in a series 2 and 3 I much prefer the series 2 in many ways it seems a far better built car and if I had the money who knows! I cannot believe Audi are replacing the TT with that.. Great video as ever and I look forward to the next one Daniel

[@ikarugaxx3749]

I don't know if the "replacement" can be said to being done by car makers, or, actually, the customer base, who have, now for years, shunned all low-height, 2-seat, sport-orientated, fetching cars, preferring SUVs or SUV-like shapes. Actually, people (not car makers) are putting out of the market, and production, the classic sedan as well (as well as manual gearboxes, and cars that mind handling and driving, thus not weighting much, instead of being ridded with e-gadgets that load them with a lot of weight, and raise their price).

[@daviddb2528]

So much good information by ten minutes in that we clicked subscribe. Enough said.

[@leeellis6738]

Got a 2004 986 Porsche Boxster S now instead, better to drive and the sound is so much nicer than any TT(minus the TTRS)

[@volkswizard]

The noise is epic in a Porsche but you have to be a reasonably competent driver to get the most out of a Boxster/Cayman and not get into trouble with the rear wheel drive especially in the wet and I doubt most TT buyers would rather swap the 'adjustability' and 'engagement' for the TT's rock solid stability in all conditions.

[@4th_Lensman_of_the_apocalypse]

Had to sell my MKII to get the way more beautiful and original to concept MKI.

[@OrlandoPaco]

I love it! Just wanted the "eye lids", look of the mk3! The more aggressive sporty look.

[@fabianwylie8707]

Very nice video , it’s there a particular mark 2 year recommendation.! I am giving serious thought on getting one !.

[@seanduncan8927]

Dear Audi this video is a timely reminder of how good your interiors used to be. I ❤️ TTs Had a Mk 1 (design classic) but Mk 2 is the biz. Great vid.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Sean 👍

[@PhillipParr]

I have a 2010 TTS with the facelift. My gearbox blew up in warranty (and the replacement was much smoother), my sparks were faulty out of the factory, my rear diff has blown up (I blame a "specialist" garage - I strongly believe they drained the diff during a haldex service), my N80 / evap canister has been replaced, the PCV has been replaced, but other than that she's still sound at 164k miles 😄 Pretty much the only thing that lets one of these down which is in good working order in my opinion is the tech, but it's easy enough to upgrade the head unit and swap the cabin bulbs for canbus friendly LEDs to make it feel fresh. Oh, my glovebox has the broken plastic bit so it flaps open though. Curious design choice, I will find a way to repair it and make it more robust.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks for the real world report, warts and all 👍

[@leeellis6738]

My wife had a 2009 Mk2 TT Tdi on 70k miles and the high pressure fuel pump self destructed, causing severe damage to the engine and fuel system. Garage quotes of between £3-5k were given. Sold the car as spares or repairs. Not a good experience. She had a 2003 MK1 TT 225 BAM prior to this, with no issues. Mk1 is the the nicer car to me, looks more interesting on the road too.

[@volkswizard]

That's not good Lee, diesels are great until something major goes wrong like that. Was that a rear failure or common?

[@leeellis6738]

@@volkswizard the common rail pump, driven by the engine.

[@davidbillyard6629]

I have an A5 3.0 tdi. It seems to like 2 stroke tcw3 @ 200:1

[@butchmeister80]

My tdi 09 scirroco had same issue night mare

[@diydetail8916]

what are your thoughts on the radio it seems a bit limited doesnt have bluetooth to stream music? are you planning to replace it?

[@seachangeseachange]

I owned 2 MK2 TT(S), but today I would be a customer of an MK3 because of the MQB chassis

[@volkswizard]

MQB has it's ups and down, they definitely livened up the rear axle but it was also a big cost cutting exercise for most models - and in the case of TT Mk3 which arrived in 2014, you can't blame dieselgate

[@jjkingkongjjracingstar8410]

Good tips. I would also add that the rear suspension arms on the mk2 can rust

[@volkswizard]

Thanks for that. If they are like Mk5 Golf (they look it) then they can seize up which means adjustment can be impossible and they need to be cut off and replaced. The amount of rust on these arms is a good indicator as to the amount of rust elsewhere and easily spotted when looking underneath the rear

[@davidbird380]

the mark 2 can leak in the boot which is a massive pain to fix, now on a mk3 tts, mark 2 had thicker heavier doors and a bigger sill, better vents which were directional, preferred the gauges over the VC. tts has a better gearbox, engine etc, but hand on heart the mark 2 was a better car

[@PhilippePriam]

Absolutely spot on advises. Gone through some of the mentioned issues 👌🏾

[@andrewmcivor42]

Good tips for any prospective TT owner. It's not "me", but your "buying tips" videos are excellent, if I ever decide to get a Mk 5 R32, I'll dig out the Mk5 buying guide you did a good while ago!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Andrew, I'm always looking for Mk5 until I revisit my guide and that puts me off :)

[@theshepherd6779]

Hi Great video, what year model is your TT? Still new to the preowned world so not sure which years pre facelift ect. What year model do you recommend , I was looking to buy a 2009 model…any thoughts?

[@volkswizard]

Just buy the best you can afford, 2009 is the old cambelt petrol engine which is fine and a wealth of info on it as used in Mk5 GTI.

[@White1404]

I test drove a 2010 TT RS today with 95k on the clock. It slipped it's rear wheel on rapid starts, off the line. Traction control was on throughout. I'm wondering if the cause was the Haldex system ? It did feel otherwise good to drive. What do you think?

[@normwetherbee3403]

I really enjoy your videos. You come off extremely likeable so I'm happy the issues with the microphones/ sound has been resolved. Carry on!

[@volkswizard]

Good to hear and thanks! The mic did decided to have a strop while filming this one as the settings on the GoPro mysteriously changed so there is always something out to get you. However with them reset the lack of interference was a pleasant suprise. It's all to do with whether the mic is powered or not. One to keep an eye on - thanks for your patience

[@paulmussett94]

I run a facelifted TT 2.0tdi as a second car. The Quattro system gives that surefooted feel in the wet. Fuel consumption and low down torque as its a diesel make it a better option than the petrol versions in my opinion. The car is totally standard and is comfortable with the 17” alloy wheels. Its a decent relatively practical car that still looks fresh even though its a 2010 model.

[@TheWolf133]

TT RS provides 450 nm from 1600 rpm.

[@FredericFreedom]

Nice 👍

[@heatheredwards9100]

I’m currently looking now not sure if to get the diesel or petrol? which is the better engine? I about 100 miles short trips to work on b roads

[@csabaveres3230]

There is something strange going on in Australia! I am currently looking at a 2010 quattro, MY10 with engine code CCZA, which as far as I can tell is a gen 2 E888. But according to your video this is way too early .. even the facelift in 2011 according to you is a gen 1. Do you know if Audi did weird things in some of their markets?

[@sky-----tv]

Great Video, as I can relate with me purchasing my weekend and sunny day Daytona Grey MK2 S Line 2.0TFSI DSG Facelift Quattro with 143k now, and remapped 0-60 in 4.1sec which I've done just over 5k in 14mths and it is definitely giving me smiles per miles 😂😂😂👍🏾

[@volkswizard]

Sounds like a great car Stephen, nice work😎

[@Paul-eu9jp]

Great video mate. I own a TTRS Mk2, it’s the best car I’ve had. I love everything about it. The sound of the 5 cylinder engine sounds fantastic. I owned a TT black edition sline before it and it never missed a beat in the 5 year I had it

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Paul, if you watch my most recent video, my friend turns up in his 2012 TT RS and I say camera I love them. Drove my Roadster to Austria in 2015, it was a good cruiser but also nice with roof down and exhaust on loud.

[@dt1316]

how did you find the jump up mate? I'm looking to do exactly what you did - have a 2.0 TSFI sline black edition and love it but am seriously considering upgrading to the RS (if i can find the right one)

[@Paul-eu9jp]

@@dt1316 definitely do it mate you won’t regret it. I loved my TT Sline but the RS is on another level. I bought a Suzuka grey with 39000 miles. The car feels completely different to drive, so much more planted to the road and obviously more power.

[@dt1316]

@@Paul-eu9jp funnily enough a grey one has just gone up for sale 10 miles away with only 47k on - might go check it out today 😂

[@Paul-eu9jp]

@@dt1316 it’s a sign haha.

[@andrewreddy7063]

Great summary I bought a Mk2 2012 TTS manual version earlier this year with 63000 miles. Had a haldex issue which the dealer fixed FOC under a 3 month warranty. I have spent £1000 on a full service and cambelt change, and bought a second hand rear subframe assembly as an insurance against rust. Have treated everything with LANOLIN as a further insurance. I intend to keep it for a long time as I think its the best all round sports car out there. With British roads ,potholes, cyclists etc any more power doesn't make sense. I also have a RSQ3 2015 automatic which is surprisingly comfortable given the 20" wheels. I can throw my bike in the back of both and head for the national parks. Keep the videos coming as we all appreciate you sharing your knowledge. I would like to see more people appreciating what they have and looking after it.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks for commenting Andrew, feedback much appreciated and great info for any potential TT/TTS buyers 👍

[@malcolmscott4150]

Hard to find in Oz as not a huge seller here but under appreciated as it’s a great car and very tempting - 2015 Quattro 2 litre seems like a good buy here with most options standard here like climate AC - great video 😊

[@volkswizard]

Thanks as ever Malcolm - interesting that TT not a big seller there, it certainly didn’t conquer every market

[@jwmurphyccsis]

Agree Mark 2 is the best looking with the best interior. Don't agree with your classification of the pre face lift engine having all these problems. There were early high oil usage issues on some motors with most of those now resolved as there were early issues with cam chain tensioner on the face lift (your model) car. I would say reliability and performance of the pre facelift is just as good as post face lift all other circumstances being equal. Also the face lift EA888 engine has many more plastic parts and is also a Golf motor (just a later model) - both facelift and pre facelift, are Golf motors with minor differences and different mapping. The pre face lift motor (with beefed up pistons etc) is also the one they used in the pre and facelift TTS performance models (not the EA888) so again a good reliable motor capable of significant performance modifications.

[@redsagan7188]

Hello, thank you for this video !! I believe my has issue 4 with the thermosta. How much would you think this would cost to fix ?

[@volkswizard]

So you have the older EA113 engine? Up to around 2011? If so, it's not the easiest job but it's OK, alternator needs to come out as it's buried under the inlet manifold. I'd estimate approx £250-£300 at an independent specialist

[@redsagan7188]

@@volkswizard yes I have a 2010 TTs pre-facelift. Ok thank you very much 👍

[@FredericFreedom]

Planning to get a MK2 for my 40th 👍

[@StingrayNGAGE]

What a great video this is. I’ve owned a MkII in Condor Grey since new, rarely used really, 35k on the clock, and I had been considering chopping it in for a MKIII, although the styling both inside and out does jar with me, more so after driving one at my local Audi. I think I will keep hold of her now as I believe the MKII could well be on its way to being a financially appreciating classic. Only problem, I’m running out of garage space having a 1969 Stingray as my classic I’ve owned for 28 years. I think I’ll stop collecting cars now, full house. 👍

[@tarak3439]

I'll buy it!

[@joshl5919]

@volkswizad. I’m looking at two Audi tts need some help both 2013 plates and both 1.8 litre both in decent condition. One has 85k miles at £7k and one has 38k miles at 9k which one ? Both from dealers and both mark 2

[@kujal4]

Best review of the Audi TT I've ever seen. Spot on! Well done sir - subscribed

[@volkswizard]

Welcome aboard! Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@christopherwonnacottnumber1]

Loving the spider , I’ve got one in my scirocco r , cool lil dude 😂

[@volkswizard]

🕷️

[@robsx4280]

Great info as i have been looking to change my current car for a mk3. May look at late mk2s now. Thank you

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Rob. Mk3 is great but like Mk6 Golf to Mk7 there is a feeling that the accounts have taken away some of that solid VWG feeling we have grown to know and love

[@robsx4280]

@@volkswizard think it's possibly a good time to reduce my 3 car garage by at least one. Also have a 718, mine is a Base but I don't get to use it much I tend to use my 2008 petrol Leon FR more, which has been almost faultless from new and tbh is more fun round town. So something like a TT or GTi 40 may be a good idea.

[@eddiericks6554]

That spider 🕷️ was so funny 😂

[@pz189]

Great video 👍 I love my mk2 TT (2.0 manual, FWD) but I've had to fix a lot of the issues you've mentioned (thermostat, rear light earth issues, glovebox). Those relatively minor issues aside, it has been great to own so far. I have a private plate on it and people are shocked that it's a 2007 model because it still looks and feels so fresh. They really are such great value cars, especially when compared to equivalent Mk5/6 Golf GTIs and the R32 which are closely related yet now seem to go for more, despite being cheaper when new.

[@skeelo69]

Did you remove the Spider ? @24:02 onwards.

[@james-r]

I wasn’t disappointed by the mk2 facelift, I personally think the original sills and bumpers are timeless and suit the car much better, they look cleaner and much in keeping. Just because something is newer, doesn’t mean it’ll look better. Just look at the original MG MGB bumpers compared to the following facelifts with ugly black plastic bulbous ones.

[@wynhughes9072]

Hi Andrew good synopsis on the MK2. Have had 3 mk1's .last one a V6 man. lovely car only reason I got rid of it was the fear of timing chain stretching and the cost involved in replacement. Never gave the MK2 a thought really sought have done the TT thing. But watching your guide wish I had now dipped my foot in the market. liked your overall view of the MK2 but what I thought was ' The elephant in the room' is the MK2 TTRS any views and thoughts on this?

[@volkswizard]

Well I owned a TT RS Roadster with 19" Rotors and bucket seats, one of my favorite cars, a manual 2010 car. Bought a Golf R brand new in 2014 and this came next and was so much nicer - OK new it was a lot more than £30k (it was nearly 30k at 4 years old). Still have a soft spot for them and there are some bargains. However most get hammered and will be knackered now. Never have I been on so many scary test drives than with Mk2 TT RS owners demonstrating their cars performance, seems to be a thing with them! But buy a good one and it's a great car apart from the front end which is a bit lethargic to change direction but way better than the equivalent era RS3 which is understeer central

[@welkekutnaamdanwel]

Looks are a matter of taste. I like the interior a lot more of the mk3. It s really clean. I also dont like big screens in a sportscar. Diesels don t belong in a sportscar. It s all about emotion with these kind of cars. Most petrol engine s are worst in the later tt s. Not only because of the timing. Also the problem of the pistonrings. You can have the six or five cilinder. I will take the ttrs mk3🎉

[@SuperDeano1000]

I used to strongly dislike TTs when I was younger and they were all the rage but I've grown to really like them. Great, one of a kind motors.

[@TheShoodybonger]

Looking at a 62 plate 2.0 TDI Quattro with 91k miles, full service history and timing belt and water pump change. Your advice excepted, is this too high miles?

[@volkswizard]

Miles are OK for that car as long as it's been serviced properly and price is right and everything works, Haldex very likely to be dead. Also it will be very hard to sell as TT owners don't like 100k+

[@andrewreddy7063]

Some car models represent outstanding value the mk 2 TT, is one such example as is the Audi A2 you have featured. I am increasingly drawn to cars with aluminium structures and fine leather upholstery so the TT you have is spot on. The sound system has an aux connection to run a cable to a modern phone. I think we over complicate life and look for excuses to spend big bucks on marginal gains. We are now at a time where there is some fantastic engineering available at rediculusly low prices if only people could get away from the marketing rubbish which puts labels on cars to distort opinion. I look at some only cars and wonder why there was any demand for them

[@volkswizard]

Well said Andrew, I prefer most models in their previous (not current) generations. I was watching a video on new RS6 and reviewer said it felt hesitant due to emissions regulations affecting the mapping, 600 PS and hesitant!

[@alplop]

Brilliant video. Thanks for taking the time.

[@volkswizard]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@theolderigetthefasteriwas3381]

Great video Andrew. I've had a mk3 for a few months now. 2.0 petrol S-line quattro is economical but great to drive. Coming from a Megane RS Cup I'd say it has plenty of performance for today's typically busy roads, but is also refined and build quality is very solid. Each to their own, but the minimalist cabin design is much better than the stuck-on iPad approach seen in many cars over the past 5 years or so. Interested in your views on whether the mk3 might be less prone to issues than the mk2?

[@volkswizard]

Thanks TOIGTFIW - I can understand that coming from a Megane the TT feels in a different league which is because the Mk3 TT is still streets ahead of the competition in many ways, it's just when comparing it to the Mk2 when you can see areas that have been cheapened and it's a bit sad. Climate control now an option says a lot, plus on Roadster the wind deflector became optional for the first time and impossible to retrofit and it's quite important. As for reliability, Haldex remains a big issue on the MQB cars (Mk3 TT and most of the transverse engine VWG cars from 2013 on) plus the coolant thermostat module WILL fail and that's costly plus manual clutch is useless on petrol cars and £1000. Maybe fewer issues on Mk3 but they are often costly ones. DSG/S tronic seems pretty good so far however. I can't imagine they are any worse than other brands though. I get what you are saying about the Ipad type infotainment screens but for some owners having something there, however it's mounted is better than nothing - but if you can live without it then it's no biggie.

[@rajchoudhury5130]

Brilliant review had a tt s a couple of years ago. Looked great but sold it after 2 weeks! You live and learn

[@volkswizard]

Not too late to buy another Raj 😎

[@MrSunnyBhoy]

Great and comprehensive video, thank you 👌🏾

[@darranjsamuel3063]

Great buyer tips 👍 i nearly bought a mk11 TT but the Mrs said it wasn’t practical 🙄 I ended up with an f20 xdrive 120d m sport in Estoril blue , lovely colour , nice interior , great economy ( 52 mpg average) but I’m not impressed with the build quality, the interior creeks now and then and really annoys me lol plus it’s now developed what feels like a miss fire in a petrol at certain revs , I’ve been informed it could be the transfer case 😢 wish I’d bought the TT .

[@volkswizard]

Sorry to hear that Darran, cars with issues like that is what We Buy Any Car are for. Sell to them and go and buy a TT (with a warranty!)

[@ewwmin3m]

so tt or tts ? i've started doing the research.... Looking for something that I can OEM+ with some bolt ons. I always look for cars that are a good base for Potential mods... Will be used for daily and autoX

[@djalba1163]

Had a tts 2011 convertible for a while and what a car to drive, with nearly 300bhp is put a smile on your face and the auto box made some boom when changing gear, I do prefer a stick tho

[@stevebbuk9557]

He'd be a useful guy to have around when buying a used car. Does he rate the Roadster I ask myself?

[@fabianwylie8707]

Thanks for posting , super good information 👍

[@Eddison548]

Great review . I love my MK2 although it is the 3.2 . Yes my partner Broke the glovebox, yes my air conditioning needed Regassed, yes my rear callipers seized open and yes I used your advice to change the filter and oil on the rear diff using your recommendation as Audi do not change the filter. A few other things to look out for in the MK2 that seem to go wrong, the central locking, window motors, cam chains and the dash pod can all malfunction..........but would I change my mk2.....never. Thanks volkswizard.

[@volkswizard]

Hey Stan, thanks for the feedback, 3.2 is a cool car. Glad the Haldex video helped, I was amazed how widespread these issues are on Mk2 and Mk3. Glad you still love your TT even with all the niggles, I totally understand why you would 👍

[@nigh7swimming]

There's also a common issue with rear shelf, the side mounts break.

[@crazycrickeeet1964]

Fascinating video - very helpful

[@jakjak258]

What about replacing rear sway bar with a stiffer one?

[@paulnewton1410]

Great review. I am looking to get one as my next car. Many thanks

[@noelmannion4433]

Thank you for a very complete review 👍

[@volkswizard]

Thanks for watching Noel👍👍

[@rebirthofthecool5619]

I need to know more about buying a 2011, 88k on the clock, main thing probably timing chain. What am I asking the seller?

[@volkswizard]

Need to check if it’s too new to have chain issues as on the change. Research this via forums. Also listen for chain rattle on start up.

[@wernerdanler2742]

Brake calipers seizing up seems to be an Audi thing. I had a 2002 A6 over 15 years ago, and the rear calipers seized shortly after I bought it. Luckily, it was under warrantee.

[@paulattree4171]

Is the spider still alive , noticed it comng down from the mirror.

[@turboclub.comcarclubfortur3199]

Driving yesterday with outside temperature of 36 deg Celsius and noticed aircon in the 8J Mk2 TTRS not getting very cold. I guess we had better get it re-gassed soon! Thanks for your tips...

[@volkswizard]

You are welcome - hope it's just regas. The person who filled should vacuum test to check for leaks before filling as otherwise they could be putting aircon gas into the atmosphere which is illegal. Standard part of job for an a/c professional

[@andrewwhitehouse3869]

Great video 👌 Brought a MK2 TT few months back, had most the problems mentioned in your video 🙄 Air con was the high pressure valve(G65), repaired glovebox hinge with plastic weld and mild steel straps to support it and a new damper still fine months later 👌

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Andrew! If it's just those 2 issues you've done OK :) Now time to enjoy it 😎

[@scitec6166]

Top tip for mk2 is get a xtrons 9 inch screen octa core android head unit, works with bose or standard speaker setup and the sound is excellent, 10 times better than the crappy RNS E and only the mk2 can have this upgrade

[@axelarkin644]

what would you add if we are talking about a used 2009 TT RS (mk2 8J) with 6000miles?

[@brianfalconer217]

Great video, am I the only one distracted by the little spider going up and down a strand of web on the interior mirror?😂

[@volkswizard]

The things you only notice in the edit! Yep well spotted Brian and well done for staying tuned almost to the end 👍👍

[@964tractorboy]

Yes, at 24:45. A small but pivotal role. But still a good video!

[@lesthedog]

I've heard of an Alfa Spider, but this guy is the Audi Spider. 😆

[@DKM11_]

MK2 FAN but who doesn’t love MK3 design in and out sheeeeesh still love it !!! But MK2 is GOAT TTs

[@josephrock8739]

Great vid as usual, about to late for me as I purchased a mk 3 diesel, was going to get a Mk 2 ! But the spider was extra , so it was out of my budget 🤪

[@volkswizard]

😆👍