Ok some feedback: Write a script and rehearse before you record your videos. You said "obviously" probably 50 times, "actually", "ok so" and "so uh", "uh", "uhm" hundreds. This makes you sound less knowledgeable (but you know your shit). Slow down a tiny bit when you talk and try to enunciate each word clearly. Get more takes and just listen to your own voice a lot. Be very self critical. The content in this video is exceptional but your delivery is very poor. Bonus: that strut assembly shifting scared the crap out of me.
Thanks for watching and for the feedback. In response to your scripting and such. I own and operate a VW and Audi parts business. Couple this with video creation I work more hours than pretty much all humans on the planet. I create video to share my knowledge to help the community out, as you can imagine time is an asset I dont have a lot of. This puts me in a position where I can chose to either make perfectly polished content or help as many people as possible. When it comes to this choice for me its not even close. Im going to help as many people as I can. The video you are commenting on was shot and edited over a 6 hour period where I also replaced 2 lower control arms, an axle and got the vehicle safe to drive on the street. If you take a look at our other content it generally has very little of that but Obviously ; ) this one had a little more. Again I appreciate the feedback and I hope this explanation makes sense. Paul
Hey Paul, No worries at all. I hope you didn't take my criticism too hard. This video is incredibly good so I just wanted to provide some context as to what could be improved. The value of the content itself is far more important than the details I pointed out. Not only this, I suggest you do more videos like this because you'll be able to constantly practice. This video will do wonders for your business and if you can create more than you'll continue to build upon it. But also, don't work too hard. You certainly deserve some time for yourself. Thanks for taking the time to reply to me!
I never take offense to honest feedback and I agree that the things you mentioned would make it better. Im never afraid of the truth. Thanks for watching.
Has sick mods, put more into mods than car price. Mods include: >Cold Air Transmission >High Performance Blinker Fluid >Aftermarket wheels >straight pipe exhaust Doesn't run, ran when parked, engine is great just needs tlc. NO LOWBALLING I KNOW WHAT I HAVE!!! ASKING $17,500.
1. stretched tires 2. notched frame 3. cheap bolt on parts 4. poor installation of mods 5. lack of maintenance I wouldn't go near this car with a 10 foot pole.
DUDE SAID HE WOULD DO A PROGRESS VIDEO IF THIS GETS 700 LIKES! FUCKING GET ON IT!(I mean, I'M going to see the progress because I live with the guy, but YOU can see it too!)
I’ve owned two used volkswagens an 03 20th anniversary gti and an 04 passat, the GTI was modified, very fast, very nice, but it started shitting itself after 3 months of driving it, had to sell it. Bought the passat, it had endless issues and a blown head gasket I was unaware of when buying it. Sold it as well. Moral of the story, don’t buy a used Volkswagen unless it is stock and has records of maintenance
Can I ask if there is a small Circle sticker next to that Bubbless/Decent decal in the back? Does it say Stickit-Decals if so? If so, I made that decal!
Cazmeus - RICE stands for Race Inspired Cosmetic Enhancements. Things like a hood scoop on a civic would be considered rice, swapping out a bumper isn't exactly RICE if it's from the same type of car with a better look. People have been doing it forever. A bumper with fake canards maybe.
Cazmeus I'm on your side. Whatever your style is, the most basic thing is car is a vehicle. You have to ensure its vehicle's function and then pursuer the good looking exterior. I'm a owner of vr6 Jetta. When I fix it, I try to make it originally looks like. Lower body, extreme large wheels and loud self made exhaust is not my style.
the best vw channel out there by far, you post the best content! keep up the great videos. your videos are always useful and have learned so much on your channel. recently picked up a 02 gti vr6 and now have a place to go to for questions and info!
that MK4 is a textbook example why there should be a yearly inspection, by the state. talk about unsafe at any speed. I trust that it will be sorted by the owner.
Yeah, you'll see natural selection when you get hit by a car that has been "modified" like this. The problem isn't the owner's safety but the safety of everyone else around him.
This is an awesome video. I do alot of work on my car and I frequent used car lot, junkyard, personal sellers for better parts and or a fixer upper. This has really opened my eyes to paying a closer look at what I see when looking for something newer. Thanks Paul. Going to share this one with my peeps.
I wanted to give you a 1000 thumbs up for this. I know too many who thought they were getting b'dass car, but actually getting dicked into fixing ridiculous amounts of bullshit, adding thousands just to make the car safe. I recently sold my 2000 golf, an unmodified, well maintained (and Wolfsburg made, if that has any clout) 2.slo I drove spiritually for 16 years and just < 200k mi. I drove my potential buyer to his favorite garage in the car and they told him what I disclosed already, its only main issue was shady control arm bushings. He was still cool with the $2750 asking price. That was last July. Just got an email the other day that he immediately fixed the problem and how much fun he is having ripping it around town! If you need to know, I upgraded to an R. I hope it too has a good 16 years to go. Damn, I love theses cars!! and BTW, love your store and videos.
to be fair those look like decent racing seats. very nice side bolstering to keep you in place and the seat belts even come through the seat. but i know what you mean
Actually the title should be "How Not to Buy a Riced Car". The only problems are related to the modifications and to the fact that the money were tucked into mods not maintenance. The car itself (at it's origin) is a jewel
Thanks for the upload! Very detailed and informative definitely something I wished I had watched before i purchased my project mk4 GTI 1.8t. I've spent the last year and a half dubbing around with it bringing her back to life. At least the engine and transmission are sound and have maintenance records. The Original Owner planned to big turbo it so he had the block built with forged internals with some extra goodies tucked away. Worth it to me and I've really learned a lot about the platform having the project. Unfortunately I've also become addicted to the MK4 scene and have purchased quite a few parts cars since then
Please do more videos like this, they are very entertaining. Would be even more entertaining if Paul broke from his 'business like character' once every while.
On the note of making sure the lug nuts on a car are there, I went to look at a car. The seller told me it needed a wheel bearing cause it shakes in the highway. I asked if he thought it would be safe to make it home (across town). He then had me ride with him on the highway, this guy went 120 and the car was shaking SO BAD I thought I was going to die. So I took his word for it and bought it. The next day I took off the wheel covers and the car had TWO LUGS NUTS ON TWO TIRES. WHAT THE FUCK. I bought some and it turned out it didnt need a wheel bearing.
Loved the video. Shot and edited well; very good informational delivery. You have a wonderful and professional demeanor. Your delightful restraint at holding back your personal opinions on the car was hilarious and very professional. If you completely removed "obviously" and "actually" from your on video vocabulary your videos would near professional grade. It is distracting. Otherwise you are doing a truly incredible job. Thank you for posting all the wonderful content that you do.
Hi Paul, thanks for your hard work and videos. Personally, I always like the way you present the videos because they sound genuine. I am not sure they would better if cue-card scripted or something like that. Thanks!
I bought my MK4 VR6 from a very nice girl in Grand Rapids, MI. Car had only spent 1 winter in MI and everything before it was in Cali. It was probably one of the best purchases I made, this was 6 years ago, got the car for $3500. Now it is Stage 2 and completely modified to hell and back, but every so often I drive it and it never fails to make me smile.
one time i got a mk3 2door golf 5speed with 12v VR6 swap really cheap. salvage. at the time needed something to drive, also turned into a project that i put low mile motor/ clutch/ axles/brakes & stuff into then sold it for a grand after i picked up mk5 GLI in better times, (that one got totalled by 200lb deer). insurance cut me a check from the GLI for almost 90% what i was payed for it (driving that almost for free), then put 6k down on a stock 08' .:R32 i found at a mazda dealer for 12k (current ride, really good).
I did black ice, and then I switched to pine, but there was still some black ice smell so the mixture made baby wipes, not the best smell, but its a lot better than crayons
great review! I hope as many people as possible come across this video-- super important stuff to consider when buying ANY used car. Also, do you miss being on "That 70's Show"? You and Donna were such a great couple ...
I wasn't expecting that scared the crap outta me as with anything on a hoist falling as I work under them all day long and don't expect anything to drop like that
Wow!!! Reading the feedback. Seen more mature 12 year olds. I own a 32 and it seems general interest in these are for the more younger generation able to afford a car like this, The video obv shows a young owner/owners with cheap crap mods. Great video btw if i didn't like it i'd not continue to watch it, Little advice there lol. Watching this has made me think twice in modding my R32 which is pure stock 1 owner lovely example soon to be stored over winter as it's that tidy. Keep up the good work
The best way to go about buying a gti or any other sports car for that matter is to ask your self ' "what am I using the car for, a daily or to build a race car?". That will determine how you go about buying some one's project or a bone stock car.
Hello there and ty for that good video. I just want to say that allthought i wasnt a golf fun after owning a golf 4 for 19 years and haveing 495k km on the milemeter i have realized that very few cars can go till half a million and still have some blood in there veins and that thing make me see golf 4 and generally europe cars from an other angle!!
lol. I bought one put some parts on it and drive it daily. It had been off the road before with dent in fender and mud stuck in the rear tow hook. the mud is still there for respect. There was a feather stuck in between the sunroof motor cover and the head liner. I put another feather there to compliment it. After a new windshield, cv axil, rear breaks, and new heavy-duty shocks it rides like a new car. Sea foam and some other cheap injection tank stuff got rid of a lot of sputter. The ocb does not read lights are on the dash and it runs. It runs faster than I really need it to run but in general there is a great investment in buying a car that has been seasoned by the past owner. One that starts, stops and runs. Total investment. 4k inluding the upgrades. 156,000. 03 1.8t. gti. My other is a w8 wagon automatic. It needed both cv tranny seals, cv axil, front brakes, airflow meter. It came with new tires, smells new, looks new. Total investment...3.9k. Total I still have two badass vw's. I will keep replacing parts and driving the living crap out of them before I buy new. Cheers! great vid...I'm watching the congress fall apart right now so there are more important things to do...cheers!
I’m in Canada, and my province requires a safety inspection before it can be registered and insured (when buying a used car). Some people hate it, but it makes for safer cars on the road.
Great video. I've purchased replacements part from your web store. Never knew you had a youtube channel. In the future I will be purchasing a MK7 and will want a ecu flash. Your video and past purchase experience is the reason it will be done in your shop.
Great video , could you make a video focusing on a stock mk5 and mechanical issues to look for and avoid when your Shoping for a one , what issues can be fixed , and which aren't worth fixing , maybe have a list of work that you would expect to do on a 100k + miles / 10 year old Gti
Thanks for the feedback. You should check out these articles. 2.0t FSI Common Problems shopdap.com/common-problems-to-look-out-for-on-the-vw-and-audi-2-0t-fsi-engine/ 2.0t TSI Common Problems shopdap.com/common-problems-2-0t-tsi-engine/
Hmm buying any car modified by a weekend warrior is a gamble. All the MK4s are getting pretty old now so expect a number of issues to get them up to spec.
Diarmuid Marsden I’m still wondering what GTI VR6 is. Because mk3 Golf GTI does have a VR6 model as the top performance model for mk3 golf. But when it comes to mk4 it should be R32, however I’ve never seen a mk4 R32 in US at all, seemed to me that you can’t own one unless you are a foreigner and can only bring it here up to one year. But I bet people would think many times that their VR6 is the real high performance model of Golf andwhen they see mk4 R32 they might think that “R32” badge is glued on. I thought people who really love VW in US would know a bit more about real VW, but it’s not always the case.
And im here thinking, that vw isnt even that low? I mean its low, but ive had lower cars with just having proper coil-lower setup. No need to chop anything or make things unsafe
Man seeing stuff like this makes me glad that we have mandatory checkups every 2 years here in Germany even if its annoying. Worked as a mechanic for 5 years and i thought i've seen bad cars, but damn its scary to see what kind of crap people drive around with in other countrys. This is probably an extreme case but still
I couldn't watch it past the CV boot. As a practice I never buy modified cars. Unless you know the care that was put into modifying the car it's not worth the trouble.
Brandon Harlow the red that was sprayed everywhere was stock color but why would it be all over everything like that from the factory they usually paint the body before assembly
This car is a disaster. You did a great job finding the major flaws and shoddy maintenance. Can you please do a follow up video (when you're ready) that explains everything that had to repaired on this vehicle to make it safe and reliable? Also, what's the recommended interval for changing a timing chain on a 2004 GTI VR6 (24 valve)? I realize VW says it's a lifetime part, but I also understand VW owners change them before the timing chain guides fail, in order to prevent catastrophic engine failure. I've heard different opinions on what the interval should be. I would appreciate your opinion and rational on this specific maintenance on a GTI VR6. Great video! Thumbs up!
My lord, this vr6 is basically what you wanna start away from. I feel sorry for the person who bought it. Aside from all the stuff you pointed out, I'll bet there's all sorts of other mechanical stuff going on. This is a prime example of what car to NOT buy. It's a nightmare. Someone went out of their way to get accepted by the stance boi's and shit in on the car trying.
Meant that even if everything else on the car was pristine I would walk after seeing the frame notched with what looks like a drunk dude with an angle grinder. Thing is a driving travesty as it sits.
Eüro Nasty I mean mk4 Golf never had a VR6 elsewhere in the world. It’s all called R32, I don’t know why mk4 has something like GTI VR6 stuff in US. I’m amazed my friend had one and I thought he put a VR6 badge on it. So what’s the difference between GTI VR6 and Golf IV R32?
A little bit of feedback for future vids--- showing a close-up and comparison for parts that might not be factory would be really helpful for those who aren't familiar with VWs or MK4s
There's something soothing about seeing all the things wrong with this car, knowing I don't have to fix so many different buggered jobs. I'd strip the car and sell the parts individually, no one deserves that thing as it stands.
I was just about to ask about that. Is that just a look some people like, or is there another reason for it? Seemed unsafe to me, but I'm not an expert and Paul didn't mention it, so I'm assuming it is safe.
Some stretch isnt really a big deal , I drive that for quite a long time 7.5j with 165/50/15. It gives a bit more responsive feeling while steering but it makes it also a bit more bumpy. Depends on where you live and how the condition of roads are to choose what tyres to use. Stretched tyres are not dangerous as long as you dont go too extreme and dont drive like you're racing on a track.
My father bought one of the first mk4 gti in '98 (I think that's when they came out in UK) he put every option on it. It's like 24 years old with over 200k miles. It's an absolute piece of shit but he refuses to scrap it. I think it's linked to some sort of breakdown
Deutsche Auto Parts hey man can you please let me know what type of wheels are on that gti in this video I've been trying to find them forever also what year was this gti
@Deutsche Auto Parts I bought a 20th Anniversary with Rims and Mods but Motor was blown for $1200 so I’m pretty sure me and this guy are now Best Friends so let him know !!!
Just as a note, in some states if you have an airbag light on, it will not pass inspection. I had that problem with my Mk4 Jetta when the airbag controller went bad. It wouldn't pass inspection in VA unless the light went out.
maybe you didn't watch the video? The rear wheel FALLS out of the suspension while he's demonstrating how badly its been put together. The frame is hacked up to shit, and they literally just cut the roll bar instead of taking it out. Theres overspray everywhere from the more than likely hack paint job (real painters don't get overspray all over brakes and intercoolers / radiators). CV boot was absolutely destroyed and it sprayed oil all over the inside of the wheels. The car is literally a pile of shit, but hey, if you want cars that will have a $5000 repair bill once you pick it up, by all means, please go buy this car.
Oh, I watched the video. Can't deny tons of corners were dangerously cut(pun intended), but I also know what's been done to the car in terms of maintenance, which wasn't discussed in detail during the video. Is it going to cost a couple grand to get in good condition? Yes. Is it going to be worth it in the end? Yes. Should you knock the owner for buying a car before getting a PPI(something I haven't done because I like the kid)? That's up to you. The car can be worth the effort put in, but it's not the biggest piece of shit I've seen. My last mk3 holds that title firmly.
I agree with everything you've said in the video. Except, why do you insist overspray is a 'clear indication it's been in an accident'. The whole car has obviously had a door shut respray, as the insides are red, and matte purplebrown is not factory colour. The overspray seems nothing more than evidence of crap workmanship just like everything else
Tbh for harnesses it's pretty simple, if it doesn't have a cage it should not have a harness. (Harnesses will keep you in an upward position if your roof collapses, so it wil basically turn your neck and back into an accordion) It might look cool but it's pretty dangerous without a cage, a simple solution is a half cage, it keeps you protected and you dont risk serious head trauma in case of a crash.
Had a brand new 03 20th Anniversary for 4 years and loved it. I kept it stock and it was a good car. Im sure someone "improved" it to death..... 3469 RIP
![🔴 ฟุตบอลแชมป์กีฬา 7HD แชมเปียน คัพ 2024 [รอบรองชนะเลิศ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/zPm8ClLVhoE/mqdefault.jpg)
Ok some feedback:
Write a script and rehearse before you record your videos. You said "obviously" probably 50 times, "actually", "ok so" and "so uh", "uh", "uhm" hundreds. This makes you sound less knowledgeable (but you know your shit). Slow down a tiny bit when you talk and try to enunciate each word clearly. Get more takes and just listen to your own voice a lot. Be very self critical.
The content in this video is exceptional but your delivery is very poor.
Bonus: that strut assembly shifting scared the crap out of me.
Thanks for watching and for the feedback.
In response to your scripting and such. I own and operate a VW and Audi parts business. Couple this with video creation I work more hours than pretty much all humans on the planet. I create video to share my knowledge to help the community out, as you can imagine time is an asset I dont have a lot of. This puts me in a position where I can chose to either make perfectly polished content or help as many people as possible.
When it comes to this choice for me its not even close. Im going to help as many people as I can.
The video you are commenting on was shot and edited over a 6 hour period where I also replaced 2 lower control arms, an axle and got the vehicle safe to drive on the street.
If you take a look at our other content it generally has very little of that but Obviously ; ) this one had a little more.
Again I appreciate the feedback and I hope this explanation makes sense.
Paul
Hey Paul,
No worries at all. I hope you didn't take my criticism too hard. This video is incredibly good so I just wanted to provide some context as to what could be improved. The value of the content itself is far more important than the details I pointed out. Not only this, I suggest you do more videos like this because you'll be able to constantly practice. This video will do wonders for your business and if you can create more than you'll continue to build upon it.
But also, don't work too hard. You certainly deserve some time for yourself. Thanks for taking the time to reply to me!
I never take offense to honest feedback and I agree that the things you mentioned would make it better. Im never afraid of the truth.
Thanks for watching.
croakz s
It's obvious you didn't even read the other replies to the conversation we had.
This is a great example that shows how some people just care about how their car looks and not how safe it is or how it performs.
voyfan99 yup. Typical "pimp my ride" build with aesthetics first and safely/mechanical last.
voyfan99 show car
It actually might perform really good in the straight line because 1'300kg heavy and at least 174hp
Most people buy cars based on their looks, not performance.
tbh that engine sounded pretty nice, im sure that performs quite well.
Has sick mods, put more into mods than car price. Mods include:
>Cold Air Transmission
>High Performance Blinker Fluid
>Aftermarket wheels
>straight pipe exhaust
Doesn't run, ran when parked, engine is great just needs tlc.
NO LOWBALLING I KNOW WHAT I HAVE!!! ASKING $17,500.
Furkan Turfanda lmfaoooo typical Craigslist post
Furkan Turfanda your comment made me laugh, thanks
Lol craigslist what
-Muhabbet için aramayın. Ciddi alıcılar arasın. ..
This ain't a 240...
1. stretched tires
2. notched frame
3. cheap bolt on parts
4. poor installation of mods
5. lack of maintenance
I wouldn't go near this car with a 10 foot pole.
nothin wrong with stretched tires
@@supplant9124 besides the embarrassment of having them
It would be great if you could make videos showing the repairs and progress for this MK4.
or one of it being flung into a junkyard
ChiefShittingBull but in all seriousness, how do people find this car attractive? It looks someone tried to build a car from scratch.
i feel like they had good intentions... but just cheaped out on EVERY step on the way....
DUDE SAID HE WOULD DO A PROGRESS VIDEO IF THIS GETS 700 LIKES! FUCKING GET ON IT!(I mean, I'M going to see the progress because I live with the guy, but YOU can see it too!)
I’ve owned two used volkswagens an 03 20th anniversary gti and an 04 passat, the GTI was modified, very fast, very nice, but it started shitting itself after 3 months of driving it, had to sell it. Bought the passat, it had endless issues and a blown head gasket I was unaware of when buying it. Sold it as well. Moral of the story, don’t buy a used Volkswagen unless it is stock and has records of maintenance
So basically try to buy one from a financially secure enthusiast age 30+ with good taste.
Yes sirrr
or find a nice stock one and build it yourself
Unfortunately we're the fools who buy these as "project" cars
Good info. This poor car needs a lot of TLC. I legitimately had a small jump scare when that LCA dropped 😮
did anyone else fucking jumped like hell at 12:29😵😵😵
Lol. yeah.
yes!
What do you think I did ; )
Kevin Pena I did lol
Can I ask if there is a small Circle sticker next to that Bubbless/Decent decal in the back? Does it say Stickit-Decals if so? If so, I made that decal!
I can't believe some of the things people do to cars.
iTheGeek except this is a European car ;)
jack sisneros it's still rice. Just like a raised turbo diesel with the emissions hardware removed is technically rice lol
jack, rice is very popular in Italy and Greece!
Cazmeus - RICE stands for Race Inspired Cosmetic Enhancements. Things like a hood scoop on a civic would be considered rice, swapping out a bumper isn't exactly RICE if it's from the same type of car with a better look. People have been doing it forever. A bumper with fake canards maybe.
Cazmeus I'm on your side. Whatever your style is, the most basic thing is car is a vehicle. You have to ensure its vehicle's function and then pursuer the good looking exterior. I'm a owner of vr6 Jetta. When I fix it, I try to make it originally looks like. Lower body, extreme large wheels and loud self made exhaust is not my style.
Typical Mk4 H2O build...not even close to surprised.
what is H2O build?
@@2stroke438 h2oi it used to be a car event in ocean city md
You were been very kind. Whoever touched this car should be ashamed of themselves.
looks like almost everything that is broken was from the car being lowered
Except the control arm bushings
that is the textbook example of a screaming metal deathtrap.
the best vw channel out there by far, you post the best content! keep up the great videos. your videos are always useful and have learned so much on your channel. recently picked up a 02 gti vr6 and now have a place to go to for questions and info!
"If it doesnt smell like crayons, black ice is normal"
loool
I have a mk4 Jetta 🤣 black ice hanging from the mirror 🤣🤣🤣
My 05 GLI Jetta smelled like crayons lmao
My mk4 golf smells like crayons 🤷♀️🤣🤣
What a hack of a car. I’ve had my 04 GTI since new, all stock, 93k miles, and drives great. Stock might be boring but it’s best for longevity.
that MK4 is a textbook example why there should be a yearly inspection, by the state.
talk about unsafe at any speed. I trust that it will be sorted by the owner.
Mark Day some states dont do shit about safety with car inspections, my state literally just tests emissions now
hllboi817 I live in michigan which has no inspections. I like it though because I can run a catless downpipe and never have to smog it.
Natural selection
Yeah, you'll see natural selection when you get hit by a car that has been "modified" like this.
The problem isn't the owner's safety but the safety of everyone else around him.
Same, exhaust mods are pretty carefree here.
This is an awesome video. I do alot of work on my car and I frequent used car lot, junkyard, personal sellers for better parts and or a fixer upper. This has really opened my eyes to paying a closer look at what I see when looking for something newer. Thanks Paul. Going to share this one with my peeps.
Very professional presentation. No vulgarities. Music was good, not blaring.
Thanks for the video.
You would never find such a hack car in germany. Incredible !!!
Maybe you looked in the wrong Germany... men every second Golf in Germany look like this and better😉😎🤙🏼
I wanted to give you a 1000 thumbs up for this. I know too many who thought they were getting b'dass car, but actually getting dicked into fixing ridiculous amounts of bullshit, adding thousands just to make the car safe.
I recently sold my 2000 golf, an unmodified, well maintained (and Wolfsburg made, if that has any clout) 2.slo I drove spiritually for 16 years and just < 200k mi. I drove my potential buyer to his favorite garage in the car and they told him what I disclosed already, its only main issue was shady control arm bushings. He was still cool with the $2750 asking price. That was last July. Just got an email the other day that he immediately fixed the problem and how much fun he is having ripping it around town! If you need to know, I upgraded to an R. I hope it too has a good 16 years to go. Damn, I love theses cars!!
and BTW, love your store and videos.
the crayon smell is so so true!
Stance wheels with racing seats lmao
Haha! Complete with trendy look at me flat finish dip. Maximum try hard Posermobile!
and a cut off sway bar
cheap ebay reclining seats arent racing seats
to be fair those look like decent racing seats. very nice side bolstering to keep you in place and the seat belts even come through the seat. but i know what you mean
Maybe people buy things because they like the look? Dumbass
Actually the title should be "How Not to Buy a Riced Car".
The only problems are related to the modifications and to the fact that the money were tucked into mods not maintenance. The car itself (at it's origin) is a jewel
That thing is a rolling death trap. What a hacked up piece of junk.
Thanks for the upload! Very detailed and informative definitely something I wished I had watched before i purchased my project mk4 GTI 1.8t. I've spent the last year and a half dubbing around with it bringing her back to life. At least the engine and transmission are sound and have maintenance records. The Original Owner planned to big turbo it so he had the block built with forged internals with some extra goodies tucked away. Worth it to me and I've really learned a lot about the platform having the project. Unfortunately I've also become addicted to the MK4 scene and have purchased quite a few parts cars since then
Excellent video! Brilliant tutorial. Thanks for this.
I think everyone who is buying used should see this.
Please do more videos like this, they are very entertaining. Would be even more entertaining if Paul broke from his 'business like character' once every while.
HA! Crayon smell. I learned to love it.
Jason Cole So weird, my friend's mid 2000's beetle had the same exact smell. What is that from?
The crayon smell comes from a wax-based sound insulation material on the interior! Common on German cars of this era
I always poked fun at my friend for he's jetta always smelling like crayons, I had no idea that was a common thing lol.
I also have came to love the smell. Haha, my buddies and I will not buy an MK4 if it does not have the smell. Haha
I laughed when he said crayon smell because it's true. my mk4 jetta had that same smell. I miss that car every day.
On the note of making sure the lug nuts on a car are there, I went to look at a car. The seller told me it needed a wheel bearing cause it shakes in the highway. I asked if he thought it would be safe to make it home (across town). He then had me ride with him on the highway, this guy went 120 and the car was shaking SO BAD I thought I was going to die. So I took his word for it and bought it. The next day I took off the wheel covers and the car had TWO LUGS NUTS ON TWO TIRES. WHAT THE FUCK. I bought some and it turned out it didnt need a wheel bearing.
@TvRF AYO HOLD UP
@TvRF 🚨🚨
Paul, the guy who bought this car works for you right? Why didn't he just take the car in for you to take a look first...
nickolas He's a dunce, case closed.
nickolas I would’ve fired my employee if I was Paul
Loved the video. Shot and edited well; very good informational delivery. You have a wonderful and professional demeanor. Your delightful restraint at holding back your personal opinions on the car was hilarious and very professional.
If you completely removed "obviously" and "actually" from your on video vocabulary your videos would near professional grade. It is distracting. Otherwise you are doing a truly incredible job. Thank you for posting all the wonderful content that you do.
List everything that is broken and aftermarket
: EVERYTHING
Hi Paul, thanks for your hard work and videos. Personally, I always like the way you present the videos because they sound genuine. I am not sure they would better if cue-card scripted or something like that. Thanks!
Have owned my mk4 vr6 gti for 17 years and love her more everyday.
12:27 scare hella scared me.
I bought my MK4 VR6 from a very nice girl in Grand Rapids, MI. Car had only spent 1 winter in MI and everything before it was in Cali. It was probably one of the best purchases I made, this was 6 years ago, got the car for $3500. Now it is Stage 2 and completely modified to hell and back, but every so often I drive it and it never fails to make me smile.
You should make a series about repairing this thing lol
great video. glad you took the time to point out many things for us to look at. keep them coming i enjoy watching this channel
one time i got a mk3 2door golf 5speed with 12v VR6 swap really cheap. salvage. at the time needed something to drive, also turned into a project that i put low mile motor/ clutch/ axles/brakes & stuff into then sold it for a grand after i picked up mk5 GLI in better times, (that one got totalled by 200lb deer). insurance cut me a check from the GLI for almost 90% what i was payed for it (driving that almost for free), then put 6k down on a stock 08' .:R32 i found at a mazda dealer for 12k (current ride, really good).
"Good car overall" 🤔 this is why you never buy other people's projects, just pathetic
Excellent analysis young man, keep up the good work.
Thanks for this topic. It's scary to see what people can do to a car in all those wrong ways.
This makes me feel good about my used VW
Ha! Black Ice. #guilty
I always thought new car scent was more euro thing than black ice!?
I did black ice, and then I switched to pine, but there was still some black ice smell so the mixture made baby wipes, not the best smell, but its a lot better than crayons
great review! I hope as many people as possible come across this video-- super important stuff to consider when buying ANY used car.
Also, do you miss being on "That 70's Show"? You and Donna were such a great couple ...
I wasn't expecting that scared the crap outta me as with anything on a hoist falling as I work under them all day long and don't expect anything to drop like that
It's such a nice car that wasn't modified properly and became a not nice car. Best way you and I could put it.
that guy should take out the drivetrain and put in a fresh golf
canchume yes👌🏽
Wow!!! Reading the feedback. Seen more mature 12 year olds. I own a 32 and it seems general interest in these are for the more younger generation able to afford a car like this, The video obv shows a young owner/owners with cheap crap mods. Great video btw if i didn't like it i'd not continue to watch it, Little advice there lol. Watching this has made me think twice in modding my R32 which is pure stock 1 owner lovely example soon to be stored over winter as it's that tidy. Keep up the good work
With all the mods How is it still considered a Volkswagen then?
The best way to go about buying a gti or any other sports car for that matter is to ask your self ' "what am I using the car for, a daily or to build a race car?". That will determine how you go about buying some one's project or a bone stock car.
are you going to make videos on the restoration on this car?
Hello there and ty for that good video. I just want to say that allthought i wasnt a golf fun after owning a golf 4 for 19 years and haveing 495k km on the milemeter i have realized that very few cars can go till half a million and still have some blood in there veins and that thing make me see golf 4 and generally europe cars from an other angle!!
My motto is: don't cheap modify your car, it gets worse. Always original.
Not really true though , it can get better if you know what you are doing. Some cars are horrible on their stock suspension.
lol. I bought one put some parts on it and drive it daily. It had been off the road before with dent in fender and mud stuck in the rear tow hook. the mud is still there for respect. There was a feather stuck in between the sunroof motor cover and the head liner. I put another feather there to compliment it. After a new windshield, cv axil, rear breaks, and new heavy-duty shocks it rides like a new car. Sea foam and some other cheap injection tank stuff got rid of a lot of sputter. The ocb does not read lights are on the dash and it runs. It runs faster than I really need it to run but in general there is a great investment in buying a car that has been seasoned by the past owner. One that starts, stops and runs. Total investment. 4k inluding the upgrades. 156,000. 03 1.8t. gti. My other is a w8 wagon automatic. It needed both cv tranny seals, cv axil, front brakes, airflow meter. It came with new tires, smells new, looks new. Total investment...3.9k. Total I still have two badass vw's. I will keep replacing parts and driving the living crap out of them before I buy new. Cheers! great vid...I'm watching the congress fall apart right now so there are more important things to do...cheers!
Now I get why MOT is important. This car would never drive here.
I’m in Canada, and my province requires a safety inspection before it can be registered and insured (when buying a used car). Some people hate it, but it makes for safer cars on the road.
I got a Vw variant 1.6 FSI 2003! Awesome car and super cheap on gas ❤❤❤
I started dying when the wheel fell while he was messing with the bushing 😂😂😂😂😂
Great video. I've purchased replacements part from your web store. Never knew you had a youtube channel. In the future I will be purchasing a MK7 and will want a ecu flash. Your video and past purchase experience is the reason it will be done in your shop.
Thank you so much for the feedback and support. We appreciate it very much
Can you start on the mk5 gti build again?
You left us all in wonderment......
+theblackslcmamba it's all on the owner to get some of the final stuff needed. It's not dead though.
+Deutsche Auto Parts fantastic!
Will be viewing till then.
Great video , could you make a video focusing on a stock mk5 and mechanical issues to look for and avoid when your Shoping for a one , what issues can be fixed , and which aren't worth fixing , maybe have a list of work that you would expect to do on a 100k + miles / 10 year old Gti
Thanks for the feedback. You should check out these articles.
2.0t FSI Common Problems
shopdap.com/common-problems-to-look-out-for-on-the-vw-and-audi-2-0t-fsi-engine/
2.0t TSI Common Problems
shopdap.com/common-problems-2-0t-tsi-engine/
Hmm buying any car modified by a weekend warrior is a gamble. All the MK4s are getting pretty old now so expect a number of issues to get them up to spec.
Badgertronix buying any mk4 is a gamble, let alone one as modified as this.
Diarmuid Marsden why? Parts are dirt cheap and they're super easy to work on.
Badgertronix they're not the most reliable vws the mk4s.
Diarmuid Marsden buy a good TDI and you won't go far wrong
Diarmuid Marsden I’m still wondering what GTI VR6 is. Because mk3 Golf GTI does have a VR6 model as the top performance model for mk3 golf. But when it comes to mk4 it should be R32, however I’ve never seen a mk4 R32 in US at all, seemed to me that you can’t own one unless you are a foreigner and can only bring it here up to one year. But I bet people would think many times that their VR6 is the real high performance model of Golf andwhen they see mk4 R32 they might think that “R32” badge is glued on. I thought people who really love VW in US would know a bit more about real VW, but it’s not always the case.
Moral of the Story Kids, DON'T BUY PROJECT/MODDED CARS! OverSpray City Hacked up parts falls apart during demo Stretched tires
There a exceptions to that rule, for example if you knew your stuff about cars (e.g if you were a mechanic) and everything looked good.
And im here thinking, that vw isnt even that low? I mean its low, but ive had lower cars with just having proper coil-lower setup. No need to chop anything or make things unsafe
Man seeing stuff like this makes me glad that we have mandatory checkups every 2 years here in Germany even if its annoying. Worked as a mechanic for 5 years and i thought i've seen bad cars, but damn its scary to see what kind of crap people drive around with in other countrys. This is probably an extreme case but still
Drinking challenge!!!: Take a shot when you hear "obviously". Two shots for "actually". Prepare to get shitfaced.
I got so hammered ; )
It was a great video for what to look for when buying other kid's project cars, and great drinking game ; )
thx for pointing this out
Lol
I couldn't watch it past the CV boot. As a practice I never buy modified cars. Unless you know the care that was put into modifying the car it's not worth the trouble.
You keep saying there are indications that the car may have been re-sprayed.....Am I stupid or is that obviously not a stock color?
Plastidip on the outside. Acutal paint overspray on the inside.
That makes more sense. In the video, the overspray almost looks like it could be the outside color, especially on that rear suspension
More than you can afford, pal. Ferrari.
Brandon Harlow the red that was sprayed everywhere was stock color but why would it be all over everything like that from the factory they usually paint the body before assembly
😂😂😂😂same thoughts here
This car is a disaster. You did a great job finding the major flaws and shoddy maintenance. Can you please do a follow up video (when you're ready) that explains everything that had to repaired on this vehicle to make it safe and reliable? Also, what's the recommended interval for changing a timing chain on a 2004 GTI VR6 (24 valve)? I realize VW says it's a lifetime part, but I also understand VW owners change them before the timing chain guides fail, in order to prevent catastrophic engine failure. I've heard different opinions on what the interval should be. I would appreciate your opinion and rational on this specific maintenance on a GTI VR6. Great video! Thumbs up!
My lord, this vr6 is basically what you wanna start away from. I feel sorry for the person who bought it. Aside from all the stuff you pointed out, I'll bet there's all sorts of other mechanical stuff going on. This is a prime example of what car to NOT buy. It's a nightmare. Someone went out of their way to get accepted by the stance boi's and shit in on the car trying.
That frame notch alone would have unsold me from an otherwise completely pristine car. There is no way that car should be on the road as is.
Meant that even if everything else on the car was pristine I would walk after seeing the frame notched with what looks like a drunk dude with an angle grinder. Thing is a driving travesty as it sits.
Eüro Nasty I mean mk4 Golf never had a VR6 elsewhere in the world. It’s all called R32, I don’t know why mk4 has something like GTI VR6 stuff in US. I’m amazed my friend had one and I thought he put a VR6 badge on it. So what’s the difference between GTI VR6 and Golf IV R32?
A little bit of feedback for future vids--- showing a close-up and comparison for parts that might not be factory would be really helpful for those who aren't familiar with VWs or MK4s
It would be great to know how you'd go about tackling these issues sequentially.
There's something soothing about seeing all the things wrong with this car, knowing I don't have to fix so many different buggered jobs.
I'd strip the car and sell the parts individually, no one deserves that thing as it stands.
Nothing lines up on that car, really. Hood, doors, lights, grille...
Anyone buying this probably shouldn't be driving...
Awesome breakdown, and that scare of the suspension shifting suddenly scared me lol.
when I work on vws I do the whole nine, safety and preventable maintenance first then modes.
doc C gotta love modes
I've never flinched so fast...
Did you mention the stretched tires?
I was just about to ask about that. Is that just a look some people like, or is there another reason for it? Seemed unsafe to me, but I'm not an expert and Paul didn't mention it, so I'm assuming it is safe.
right
+Preproto honestly I didn't even think to with the mountain of other stuff to address, but it's a valid point for sure.
Randy Knight its something all the stance guys do to fit the widest wheel possible under the arch and looks dumb and makes the car perform worse.
Some stretch isnt really a big deal , I drive that for quite a long time 7.5j with 165/50/15.
It gives a bit more responsive feeling while steering but it makes it also a bit more bumpy. Depends on where you live and how the condition of roads are to choose what tyres to use.
Stretched tyres are not dangerous as long as you dont go too extreme and dont drive like you're racing on a track.
My father bought one of the first mk4 gti in '98 (I think that's when they came out in UK) he put every option on it. It's like 24 years old with over 200k miles. It's an absolute piece of shit but he refuses to scrap it. I think it's linked to some sort of breakdown
3:55 Don't forget vape scent!
#vapenation ; )
Deutsche Auto Parts hey man can you please let me know what type of wheels are on that gti in this video I've been trying to find them forever also what year was this gti
@@nothingtoshow8084 They are made by Rotiform
Love your videos!!! Thanks for all the content and tips . ❤
Who ever did this stuff to the car is making me feel a lot smarter 😂
Lmfao 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
@Deutsche Auto Parts I bought a 20th Anniversary with Rims and Mods but Motor was blown for $1200 so I’m pretty sure me and this guy are now Best Friends so let him know !!!
Me: ok, not bad, all this can be fixed.... Cut frame, NOPE! Nevermind!
Just as a note, in some states if you have an airbag light on, it will not pass inspection. I had that problem with my Mk4 Jetta when the airbag controller went bad. It wouldn't pass inspection in VA unless the light went out.
Such a shame to do to a car. That whole entire car screams " Don't Buy Me"!!!
Keep making these videos, you're doing great
that car is a piece of shit.
A really big piece of shit.
Yup, you couldn't pay me to take this car.
pretty sure thats what helped this video be created lol
maybe you didn't watch the video? The rear wheel FALLS out of the suspension while he's demonstrating how badly its been put together. The frame is hacked up to shit, and they literally just cut the roll bar instead of taking it out. Theres overspray everywhere from the more than likely hack paint job (real painters don't get overspray all over brakes and intercoolers / radiators). CV boot was absolutely destroyed and it sprayed oil all over the inside of the wheels.
The car is literally a pile of shit, but hey, if you want cars that will have a $5000 repair bill once you pick it up, by all means, please go buy this car.
Oh, I watched the video. Can't deny tons of corners were dangerously cut(pun intended), but I also know what's been done to the car in terms of maintenance, which wasn't discussed in detail during the video.
Is it going to cost a couple grand to get in good condition? Yes. Is it going to be worth it in the end? Yes. Should you knock the owner for buying a car before getting a PPI(something I haven't done because I like the kid)? That's up to you.
The car can be worth the effort put in, but it's not the biggest piece of shit I've seen. My last mk3 holds that title firmly.
The bumper strap is probably to take off the front bumper quickly for going over lips or ramps, since it's lowered.
F those seat brackets. I wouldn't even drive that car just for that reason.
Just started a mk 4 journey. 1st euro car adventure
I agree with everything you've said in the video. Except, why do you insist overspray is a 'clear indication it's been in an accident'. The whole car has obviously had a door shut respray, as the insides are red, and matte purplebrown is not factory colour. The overspray seems nothing more than evidence of crap workmanship just like everything else
Nice job. Very informative. I will be exploring your other videos.
Tbh for harnesses it's pretty simple, if it doesn't have a cage it should not have a harness.
(Harnesses will keep you in an upward position if your roof collapses, so it wil basically turn your neck and back into an accordion)
It might look cool but it's pretty dangerous without a cage, a simple solution is a half cage, it keeps you protected and you dont risk serious head trauma in case of a crash.
The stretched tyres looks hideous!
Had a brand new 03 20th Anniversary for 4 years and loved it. I kept it stock and it was a good car. Im sure someone "improved" it to death..... 3469 RIP
Obviously
Wow, that control arm! Take a speedpump at high speed and things are not going to end well.
Why do MK4s smell like crayons? I've noticed it before, just didn't know it was that common.
Michael it's the glue that was used for the carpets and dash and what not