HI,
I am new to this forum and need to ask a question. I have never owned a honda before but only hear great things about them. I am ditching my Dodge dakota gas hog and going to buy a2005 Civic EX special edition. I am going to buy it privately and the guy only wants $8500!!! I test drove it and it ran awesome! I am super impressed!! It does have 84000 miles on it but from what I have read, that is just broke in ! Before I seal the deal, what are some things that may be wrong to justify him selling for almost $4000 less than book. Not to be racist or stereotypical, but he is Vietnamese and does not speak very good english, so maybe he just doesn't know any better??? Any advice on something to check the next time I meet with him would be VERY helpful. I guess I have learned in life that if it seems to good to be true it probably is but maybe I am just catching a lucky break!! Thanks!

 

well as long as you inspect the car realy good....
use your best judgement....

sometimes its just a good deal.... some people want to sell the car fast.... some people have so much money they dont realy care what it sells for.... and some people just dont know what thier rides worth.LOL
and thiers ALSO those shady sellers out thier.... which is why you must inspect the car fully!

 

Yeah, I understand that...I guess I am looking for someone to fill me in on some common problems or general items to test, ect. Thanks!

 

Look particularly for sludge in the engine (take oil cap, or even the whole valve cover, off and look inside), and evidence of flood or crash damage. Run a carfax and be careful that you're dealing with the actual previous owner of the car and not a "curbstoner."

It's often worth paying a mechanic to do an inspection because he's not going to be wrapped up in excitement over the deal and will have a more critical eye than you would.

 

Ok, yeah a carfax is what I need to do. Curbstoner?? Not sure what that is but this is the same guy on the title and he bought it brand new with 4 miles on it. Can a mechanic come with me, do you think? Is there things he could see without taking into a shop? Has anyone ever done this with a car from a private seller? Do I just ask if I can take it to a shop? I have always bought (got screwed) by a dealer. This is my first private party buy. Thanks!!!!!

 

If he has nothing to hide he should let you take it to a mechanic. But if you know a mechanic that will come with you they should be able to see/listen (if they know what they are doing) and get a good feeling for the car. Carfax will only tell you the major things (and thats only IF it was reported).

 

^^^ I was just about to say "Take it to a mechanic." and then I see that you beat me to it. LOL

 

Thats because I am the WINNAR!

 

I'd try to find out if the timing belt and fluids have been changed, with receipts. Check the alignment, emissions, noises, smells, electronics, and general condition.