HELP with 16 Facelift possible purchase?

Hello all! I am going to look at a really nice N16 facelift 1.5 se (full kit and everything really nice original!) but I am having MASSIVE doubts because of what I have seen on the image on its for sale ad (see attached image) I am worried about the fact the plastic engine cover is missing and the BIG doubt is the red liquid gasket on the housing of the timing chain! (see left side)

Now I know the timing chain can go wrong in rare instances but the garage have told me that its been fully serviced at one garage with no previous issues, its low mileage with one owner - So why is the cover missing and why is there no history of the timing chain having to come off?!

Should I still go and see it?

Thanks in advance,

John.

There's no plastic cover on these.

Also the drip could be a sign that the rocker cover has been off before, maybe even the timing chain previously replaced?

edk said:

There's no plastic cover on these.

Also the drip could be a sign that the rocker cover has been off before, maybe even the timing chain previously replaced?

Click to expand...

I never realised these didnt have the cover - mind you my last n15 did so I assumed this would, but the red liquid gasket concerns me because the garage said nothing like that had been changed?

I really like it but Im not sure.

If you're not sure, and not willing/able to fix any problems you might have in future, don't buy it. I'd be buying a 2.2 Diesel anyway.

I religiously maintained my N15 but thought Id just ask for advice, I wouldn't have the 2.2 myself as I found the 1.5 16v engine adequate.

It's about reliability. These QG engines arent in the same league as the N15 engine line up for that.