makristal

So I'm going to look at a car tonight, and the offer has been accepted by the dealer. I'm essentially driving down to test it/sign if it checks out by my hand.

But I'm slightly uneasy about not getting the car inspected. I'm going to be driving down to Puyallap around 7~ to see the car. If you know if anyone who can inspect the vehicle...That would be awesome. The place is Milam Autos (Mazda Dealer, and the car has about 35k on it.) I don't feel like its that bad due to the low mileage, but I still don't want to sucker myself into a shitty buy.

Thanks again guys! This just just another step int he right direction!

-Mike

Cam

iTrader: (1)

Congrats (hopefully).

Dont know anyone in the area, but you can always check it out. Ask them to bring it into the shop and put it on a lift.

Im guessing it will have been cleaned/dressed up, so I'd drive it first.

Once on the lift, look for signs of coolant/oil leaks. Check the springs/shocks, for broken springs etcs (you would feel a broken spring though on a test drive), Check for torn boots, etc. Look at the brake pad thickness, and rotor. Check the tires for poor wear patterns, or low tread.

Ask for maintenance records. If its been brought to any Mazda dealer for service, repairs they should be able to see it. Ask if all the recalls have been performed.

If you dont feel confident doing that, wait till you can take it somewhere.

FYI, most dealers inspect used cars and make necessary repairs before selling.

makristal

Yeah, it was always serviced at another Mazda dealership and they say they have all of the records.

http://www.milamauto.com/inventoryDi...rent=1&size=10

They said it was in an accident involving the front end, but that it wasn't anything that harmed the record of the vehicle. They have the carfax (which I want to see first) and they also have all other information regarding the care for the car.

I'm going to ask them for a LONG and intimate test drive.

Any other info that I can use, would be GREATLY appreciated.

Cam

iTrader: (1)

If the techs are still there ask them to scan the PCM for DTCs after the test drive. Just cause the CEL isnt on doesnt mean there arent pending codes.

makristal

PCM and DTCs?

Sorry, my abbreviations are a little slow today.

Anijo

If it wasn't so far south I'd offer to show up with my AP and scan for codes for you. He's basically saying that if they reset the Check Engine light right before the test drive, it won't come on but pending issues will still show up on a reader.

You can tell something's up with the front end again on this one from the front bumper fitment. The paint match looks really good though. Honestly, I'd be really nervous buying an '04 without a compression test. I think even with the extended core warranty, it's only for 5 years?

pdxhak

iTrader: (2)

Ask them for a print out of the recalls and TSB performed on the car. Make sure it has fresh coils and plugs. And insist on a compression check read out.

Easy_E1

iTrader: (2)

If it's at a Mazda dealership, then ask them to pull the VIN # Service/Warranty history and all relative info that comes up. Make them show you the history on the car. Print it out. They can do this. If they say they can't they are lying. Take your business elsewhere.
Do not rush into buying a used car with out fully knowing the history.

dondo

iTrader: (7)

8 years

get them to run the compression test for you. watch them do it and if it's below 6.9 kPa @ 250RPM dont get it cause it's got a soft motor. or have them replace it with a reman under warranty and buy it.

shin

It would be better to have below 6.9 otherewise u will end up With out of warranty, engine goes out, u gotta buy engine by urself.
I wouldn't buy 04s now if I wanted to drive the car for long time

makristal

Good golly I wish you guys answered while I was still at my computer. But I am proud to say....i am the proud owner of a depreciating asset! I got the car! It ran and drove smooth from what I can see. And everything looked pretty good :-)

Anijo

Congrats! This + a PM I got makes me think it's time for another Dick's meet...

You should still get a compression check Take it to Lee Johnson and if they won't do it, take it to University Mazda instead. Worst case you'll have peace of mind that you bought a car in excellent condition Also a good opportunity to make sure all the recalls have been done.

dondo

iTrader: (7)

congrats and welcome!!

shin

Congrats!

faith&firepower

iTrader: (1)

I ******* hate that dealer. They lied about my engine replacement while I was gone for 4 weeks on an army training session. It wasn't until I showed up to pick it up that they told me they never ordered the engine. Then they wanted me to pay $600 for a new clutch. I will never go back to them again.

makristal

That sounds terrible. They were pretty honest to what I saw. Driving it all day today it still feels good. :-) I would love to meet up with some guys and if you wanted to look at it, go for it, just don't kill me with what's wrong with it. I'm poor now. :-)