Mk3 Golf VR6 - knocking/rattle.

[Senior_AP 0]

All VW VR6 owners....

I'm in the process of *possibly* buying a Golf VR6. Here is the spec:

1998 R reg VR6 Highline, 94k miles.

The car idled fine and sounded smooth. I took it out for a test drive - I did not thrash the car but it was a good, vigorous drive.

when I got back from the test drive we turned it off. when we started it again there was a tapping/clakking/knocking noise on tick over.

It sounded external to the block but cannot be 100% I'm thinking Cam-chain/tensioners however am reluctant to buy the car in case it isn't.

Any advice from those in the know???

[apd 0]

belt tensioner bearing,knackered water pump bearings?

[Slim 0]

My car sometimes makes a creaking kinda noise from the engine after i turn it off after a bit of hard driving, doesn't last too long though, I wouldn't worry about it.

[acf8181 0]

well, you gotta say that the chains are likely to be up for renewal (or more specifically the top runner).

however, its a late car with the single row chain, so its less likely to be an issue.

if i were you i'd report back to the owner that it'll be the timing chains needing replacing, and say that it costs £600 to do, and try and knock the price down that amount. then when you get the car, immediately get them checked and replaced if needed.

[Senior_AP 0]

UPDATE!!

Dealer just called me. Engine is now as silent and quiet as it ever was!!!

So, intermitent knocking!!!

[SankysVR6 1]

What was it then?

Please do tell

[Senior_AP 0]

What was it??

Good question!!!

Answer : God knows!!

I'm not buying it though, either way it's not right.