The Mk6 GTI (2010–2014) is a facelifted Mk5 with the EA888 Gen 2 — a nicer car, but the Gen 2 engine brings two watch-items.
Mk6-specific checks:
- Timing-chain tensioner — the Gen 1/2 tensioner can fail; listen for a start-up rattle (EA888 Timing Chain Tensioner). This is the big one.
- Oil consumption — some Gen 2 engines burn oil from the ring design; check the level and ask (EA888 Oil Consumption).
- Water pump/thermostat (EA888 Water Pump Thermostat), carbon (FSI Carbon Buildup), PCV (EA888 PCV Breather).
Otherwise: window regulators, DSG service (DSG Mechatronic Service), and the usual suspension wear.
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