Tips on Buying Cars: comparing cadillacs, oil filler caps, jim sears

Question
I'm comparing two cadillacs with higher mileage.  The first a 98 eldorado with 119125, the second being a 97 seville with 104913 on it.  How much longer do you think these will go if maintenance was done and is any one a better buy than the other?

Answer
Hi Ron: I just now got your e-mail request. Sorry for the delay. Allexperts will look into it...Anyway, it all depends on how well these vehicles were maintained as to how much longer they will last. Vehicles with over 100,000 miles are not uncommon anymore. Pop off the oil filler caps and take a look inside the filler hole. See if you can see a lot of sludge build up. Also look at the backside of the cap for the same. Expect a little with that many miles, but if it is excessive, it may be an indication that the oil wasn't changed often, or poor quality oil was used. I like to look at the overall condition of the engine compartment. Usually those who maintain their vehicles have cleaner engines. Look at the belts and see if they have been replaced. (If not they are due). Take them for a drive and see that the transmission shifts smoothly, not rough, or sluggish. Ask when it was serviced last. The trans should have been serviced around 60,000 miles and is due again. I don't know of any significant reliability issues vs., the Eldo and Seville. Both are pretty tough cars. I would have a mechanic look at both and give you his opinion. It is well worth the money spent. If you don't have a mechanic you know and trust well, try an independent vehicle appraisal service like Car Checkers. They are totally unbiased and can usually send an equipped truck and technician to the vehicle site, to give you a complete report. If the seller rejects the idea of you checking the vehicle out, then walk away. Let me know if I can help with anything. Good luck with the Caddies! Jim Sears