View Single Post
  #3  
Old 01-19-2003, 09:36 AM
ILUVMILS's Avatar
ILUVMILS ILUVMILS is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Posts: 3,066
Allen, it's possible to have a car that drives "considerably well" and still needs a lot of work. Assuming the drivetrain is where most of the money will be spent you need to decide if you can live with the little ( or not so little ) things the car may need. Power seat switches, window regulators, etc. are some of the nickel and dime items that can add up. A/C or climate control repairs can get pretty expensive so make sure all this is in good working order. It's up to you to decide if you'll enjoy the car after putting a large sum of money into it. Be advised though, on a car with high mileage and an odometer that hasn't worked for three years, you probably won't get your money back if you decide to sell it later. On the other hand, if the body and interior are in excellent condition, fixing the mechanical stuff makes good sense. Also, the lack of maintenance may or may not be a problem. As long as it had regular oil/filter changes and transmission service, it should be OK. Most of the other maintenance items can be put off for awhile without any ill effect. As far as trade-in value at a dealer, the best way to find out is to ask. Lastly, I'm sure the other members of this forum will respond with some good info/ideas, so stay tuned.
Reply With Quote