To buy or not to buy???

[mikevochis]

A friend of the family has an 88 convertible with the 4+3 for sale. The odometer "reads" 6K. He is the original owner and says he has had an intermittent problem with the odometer not working. He feels the car has around 10k on it. The car looks and drives like a 10k car, and he is asking 15,000. My questions are: 1) Is there any way to find out the true mileage? 2) If I can find it out is there anyway to bring the odometer to actual milage? 3) What does this do to the value of the car? and 4) Would you buy it or stay away? Thank you for your opinions.

 

[KANE]

I would look at it at least. Here are a few things I would look into if I were going to buy a car with suspect mileage:

- Raise the car, check every seal and zerk fitting.

- Pull the wheels off and inspect the rotors, calipers, and dust seals.

- Check the compression and inspect the oil passaes under the valve covers.



If you want to be very high-tec.... I know the military uses an oil analysis program where samples of fluids are sent off to a lab and tested for contaminants and debris. I don't know who else tests but I am sure that someone out there does. Its like a tranny and engine heath check from the inside out.

 

[vettenick]

Mike,
With 10K, the car should be like brand new. Look at the interior, carpet, seats, knobs. Even underneath, the car should be pretty clean, unless the guy was an untidy owner. If you're still not sure, go look at another comparable car to see what kind of wear is evident. At least you have something to compare.
I've seen cars with 30k look like they had 100k, and vice versa.
It sounds like the guy is honest. He could have lied about the 10K in the first place.

Good luck!

 

[bowmanm]

Mike, if you decide to buy it just be ready to replace all the seals. I am going through this now with mine. Water pump seal, valve guide seals, intake manifold seals and I am sure I will find more of them to replace as I drive it. Other than that if it is what you want go for it!:J

 

[bradfordsvettes]

sounds like a fair price do some home work and check the wear items .it does sound like the guy is being up front didn't even have to mention it just check it over closely. have some one else take a peek if you are not to sure your self steve

 

[voorthuist]

if it were me...

Mike I would find a competent local mechanic, one who's knowledgeable about Corvettes, and have him do a thorough check-up. Shouldn't run more than $100. but well worth the peace of mind. Since the seller is a friend of your family, I wouldn't think he'd object, after all $15k is a chunk of change.