On Thu, 10 Jan 2008 07:45:01 -0500, Stewart DIBBS wrote:
> If you can get a service history of the car, it will give you an idea if
> the car is worth considering. Get the CarFax re****t too in case its a
> flood damage car. At 61K, its in the sweet spot for reliability.
> Anything that might have gone wrong will have, and you should not expect
> anything major for until about 100K.
Well engineered engines would not have to be opened until 200K. Really
good engines, like those made by Volvo and SAAB will often go for 400K
without anything more than an oil seal or two, pulley bearings and
alternator bushes needing replacement. But you're right, with that '****i
engine, major failure is only a mere 39K away.
Also, make sure that the car has been garaged out of the sunlight,
otherwise you will have to factor in the likely cost of a respray since
'****i clear coats do fail prematurely. There has been legal action taken
against '****i for that. The problem is not just in the US, '****i clear
coats fail prematurely in all parts of the world that have high UV.
Check that all of the interior trim is in place and undamaged.
> Have the mechanical re****t include checking the plugs and compression
> for excess oil consumption. The timing belt is due for replacement about
> now. If its not been done as evidenced by an invoice or similar, get a
> quote for the job. This MIGHT be why the owner wants to sell. Have the
> ECU checked for any error codes as well as an emissions check.
Get the coolant analysed for exhaust gases, and likewise the engine oil
should be analysed for coolant. Get the cooling system pressure tested.
Make sure that the transmission is working properly. Mitsubi**** have had
big problems with their automatic transmissions in the past.
> Replacement parts are easily available at reasonable prices. If there's
> still warranty, get work done by the dealer. Otherwise find a local
> Mitsu expert.
There are plenty of abandoned Mitsubi****'s on the roadsides, so you
should never have to walk too far for find parts from a donor car. If you
carry a decent tool kit, you can enjoy motoring the '****i way.
|
