Tips on Buying Cars: 1998 COROLLA LE $2,500 -- how is it, highway mileage, steve thanks

Question
Dear Experts,

I see an private car ad following, is it worth? thanks a lot
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Car # Illinois 3017341
1998 COROLLA LE FOR $2,500 OBO (KBB value $3,375)
First hand owner without any car accident, well maintained,  with good condition both inside and out. RUNS GREAT!

179,846 Mi (mostly  highway mileage), 4 DR, automatic transmission.

Answer
Hi Steve,

Thanks for your question. Sounds like a pretty good deal. I would however ask the owner if they would consider having it state inspected (if your state requires it).

If not, no problem but ask to review the service records on the vehicle for the last year. Really look at the records and check them against the mileage. It's important for you to know when the brakes were replaced, tires, how often the oil was changed and when the tires were last rotated.

If you can get access to the VIN (vehicle identification number), I will gladly run a CARFAX for you for FREE. This will tell you if there was any major body work done to the car, list of how many owners, etc. It's a valuable bit of information.

I realize this seems like a lot to ask a seller for, but you would rather know going into the purchase what you're getting yourself into. It's worth the trouble so you can avoid buying a lemon, or someone else's problem.

Other than that, it does sound like a good deal if the car is what the seller says it is. After reviewing the documents, I would offer about $2100 for the car.

Good luck,

Douglas Stahl