Tips on Buying Cars: used car purchase - about to pull the trigger, mile warranty, sharp car

Question
I buy and drive - My last vehicle was bought in 2002 - it's a 99 Buick Regas GS - I just found out the motor is on it's last leg - rings or valves?  I'm not too upset I paid $14,500 for a $33K car with 28K miles on it and drove it until 253K miles (one used transmission at 153K.
Anyway, I'm about to fly from Detroit to Chicago and by an 01 Aurora with 82K on it for $5,500 and am looking for input on this car - The Buick was solid and I'd like to think this 4.0L is also - I haven't seen anything bad online and this is a sharp car
I'm in Detroit and need/want to buy domestic
Is this a good deal?

Answer
Steve:Thanks for the quetion.My answer is yes and no.This Olds is a good car,but I have written before on parts and service.Maintance costs could cost more than the car itself.Before buying,I suggest two things:1)Get a carfax report2)Have the car inspected for any possible future problems.If it checks out;buy it.Consider this too:All 2007 or newer GM production cars or trucks have 5 years or 100,000 mile warranty and roadside assistance.And it is transferable to the next owner.Good luck!