So I have been looking for a TDI in the 3800-5500 range but every time I find one I like it gets sold before I get there. Today I found a 2005 Passat for sale for $4700 but the timing belt is broken and it is not running. The car has 141k and an automatic transmission. I can turn a wrench but I have never worked on a diesel. I have a friend who is a good mechanic as well but he has never worked on a diesel either but I am sure he would be willing to try. If I only have to fix the top end I will be ok. If the rods are bent I don't have the time, or tools to replace them unless you can pull them out from the bottom with the block in the car. Can you do that on these motors?
So is it worth my time even looking at this car? How much money do you think it will take to fix the car? What are the chances that I only have to replace/repair the head and timing belt? Is there anything else I should be worried about?
So is it worth my time even looking at this car? How much money do you think it will take to fix the car? What are the chances that I only have to replace/repair the head and timing belt? Is there anything else I should be worried about?