- Fri Jan 09, 2009 1:03 am
#87728
Make sure that it's owned by someone that has no idea what "modification" even is. If it's a young guy 15-25 just walk away.
Look up under the driver's side dash with a flashlight. If there's loose aftermarket wiring, or an all out spaghetti dinner going on under there, walk away. Also check the ECU and under the hood.
If it's been "wire tucked", run away!
Also check for the OEM labels on the inside of the fenders and hood, the emissions label on the hood, the OEM mark on the windshield, and any other indications that it's been wrecked and repaired. This doesn't automatically exclude the car. It depends on the extent of the original damage, the quality of the repair, and the way it's reflected in the selling price.
Run away from bondo!
Look in the door jambs and in the trunk to see if it's been painted.
If I care about the engine then I'll actually have it smog tested and I'll compression test it there on the spot. Smog test tells you more about the condition of the engine etc than any other test.
Check for grinding or slipping in the trans. Check the fluid and make sure it's not gear oil (really clear and watery). Slide your bare fingers on the oil dipstick and make sure it's not glittery.