2002 A3 TDi

[Error404]

Going with a mate to have a look at an A3 TDi tomorrow, anyone got any info on common problems to look out for etc?

[djh]

try take vagcom, usual stuff like check wiring as much as you can especially around the injector areas.

[sdk778]

Waterpumps are weak, usual plastic impellor grief. MAF can give issues, door latch's can give 'no closure' errors, knocks from front suspension will be a cheap repair as they have single lower wishbones, single ball joints, plastic drop links and a 'D' bush for the anti roll bar.
Obviously check for cam belt change receipts/records, good oil service history is paramount.
The interior trim on post 2001 A3's, well all Audi's, is of poor quality as they rubberised the switchgear, pre 2001 cars had the better trims IMO, (I've had both), the rubberised stuff tends to break up leaving a tatty looking interior.
Wheel bearings up front are another common area, again, cheaply put right. Not had or seen many injector issues on 1.9 TDi's, I know the 2.0 TDi's can suffer, but as you are looking around the 2002 year, then you will be looking at 1.9's anyway.
Injector issues on 1.9's is usually down the the loom which passes through the head, not as daunting as it sounds to change and around £80 odd from a dealer for the loom.
Rear calipers are a weak spot on most A3's/Golfs etc, again, new are reasonable money, whilst you are at the back the rear beam bushes are another common failure, cheap, but a pig to change.
However, on the whole, I've always been an A3 fan and as the majority of things listed here are easy to do yourself, beam bushes aside, and are cheap to do then buy/bid accordingly.

Best of luck with your search.