Used Audi TT

What to know before buying: Audi TT

From 7 video reviews, 2 forum threads and 1 press test · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The Mk1 still feels fast and entertaining today; its heavy steering and Quattro traction give it a planted, confident character.[1]one sourceMk1
• The Mk1 cabin is stylish, functional and surprisingly modern, but the rear seats are token and access to the low car is awkward.[2]one sourceMk1
• The Mk3 coupe has a roomy boot and folding rear seats, but the second row itself is practically unusable for adults.[4]one sourceMk3
• The Mk3 stands out for its high-quality minimalist cabin and agility; 19-inch wheels make the ride choppy, while the steering lacks feedback.[4]one sourceMk3
• The Mk3 Roadster is comfortable and surprisingly practical for a two-seater; its roof works while moving, but creates a large blind spot when raised.[6][3]Mk3

Typical faults

• On the Mk1 1.8T, numerous vacuum lines become brittle and crack with age, causing leaks; disturbing them can also break adjacent pipes.[5]one sourceMk1

  1.8T

• The Mk1 1.8T can leak from the cam-chain tensioner seal; oily grime around the rear of the engine is a characteristic sign.[5]one sourceMk1

  1.8T

• The Mk1 1.8T timing belt can fail if it has not been replaced in time, making an uncertain service history a significant risk.[5][9]Mk1

  1.8T

• Early 1998–1999 Mk1 cars can suffer instrument-cluster failure, with incorrect fuel or temperature readings and sometimes dead displays.[9]one sourceMk1

  1998–1999

• On the 2006–2014 TT coupe, the front brakes may squeal; braking performance is unaffected, but pad replacement can be the only cure.[10]one source

  2006–2014

• On the 2006–2014 coupe, worn door seals can cause wind noise at speed; the source also reports rapidly wearing seat bolsters.[10]one source

  2006–2014

Which engine and version to take

• For the 1999–2005 Mk1, the source recommends the 180 hp 1.8 turbo with front-wheel drive and a manual gearbox.[8]one sourceMk1
• The Mk3 230 hp 2.0 TFSI offers a good balance of performance and economy; Quattro reduces wheelspin and torque steer.[4]one sourceMk3

What to avoid

• Treat the second-generation EA888 Gen 2 CDAA with DQ200 cautiously: the source reports oil use, intake deposits, and clutch and mechatronic trouble, especially when tuned.[7]one source

What to check at the inspection

• On the Mk1, check tie-rod joints, upper strut mounts, CV boots and control-arm bushes for play, cracking and escaped grease.[5]one sourceMk1
• Inspect the Mk1 1.8T from above and below; oily grime can reveal leaks, particularly around the valve cover and cam-chain seal.[5]one sourceMk1
• Verify the Mk1 timing-belt history and inspect the belt; if there is no documentary proof, the sources advise replacing it without delay.[5][9]Mk1
• Scan for faults before purchase: the source found secondary-air, mixture, oxygen-sensor and ECU errors that a visual inspection would not reveal.[5]one sourceMk1
• On an early Mk1, verify that the fuel and temperature gauges and every instrument-cluster display operate consistently.[9]one sourceMk1
• During a 2006–2014 coupe test drive, listen for dashboard, glovebox and wind noise; inspect the seat bolsters and body paint.[10]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]Car Culture Club — MK1 Audi TT review & road test - Still any good? · ▶ video
2. [2]Car Wizard — A Practical German Sports Car? The CAR WIZARD reviews this 2002 Audi TT. · ▶ video
3. [3]carwow — Audi TTS Roadster 2019 in-depth review | carwow Reviews · ▶ video
4. [4]High Peak Autos — Should You Buy an AUDI TT? (2015 - MK3 Review & Test Drive) · ▶ video
5. [5]Deutsche Auto Parts — How to Check an Audi TT Quattro for Problems · ▶ video
6. [6]Carbuyer — Audi TT Roadster 2015-2019 review - Carbuyer · ▶ video
7. [7]D&I production — YOU NEED AN AUDI TT! (but why?) · ▶ video
8. [8]auto.jautajums.lv — Audi TT atsauksmes | jautajums.lv · forum
9. [9]tipcars.eu — Diskuze - Jaké je Audi TT? · forum
10. [10]whatcar.lv — Audi TT coupe (06-14) - What Car? - WhatCar.lv · press

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