QuestionI want to buy my college student son a used car. I have seen a 2001 Nissan Altimal with 129,000 miles on it. The seller states there are no problems. What should I be looking for as a possible problem, and do you thinks it would be a wise purchase for $3500 (NADA states $6k would be the retail in good running condition)?
Thank you,
Tina
AnswerHi Tina -
That sounds like a lot of mileage, but then again, I am from Hawaii, so it is probably not a problem.
First thing I look for is body work. You do not want to purchas a car that has been in an accident, for fear that the farme may be bent. Look along the side of the car to see any undulations, the back end of the car and front end. Open the hood. If some parts seem newer than others, that could be a sign.
Run the engine, take it for a test drive, and note any sounds or driveability problems. If the car is running rough, do not accept "just needs a tune up" as an answer. A lot of times it goes deeper than that. When you come back from the test drive, the car should be nice and hot. Pull the oil dipstick and drip some on the engine exhaust. If the oil sizzles, do not buy the car. This means that there is water in the oil.
Let me know if you see anything else questionable, and get back to me
I want you to get a good deal -
Hope this helps
aloha
calvin
