About to buy a 2002 V40 - buyer's inspection findings
Hi All,
I am about to make an offer on a 2002 v40 (~115k). I had a buyer's evaluation done by a volvo specialist. Here's a summary of work that is needed:
Because the timing belt has a crack in it and could go at anytime, I am thinking of actually completing the purchase at the mechanic's shop. I want the timing belt to get fixed immediately and I don't want to take the chance of something going awry. The current owner thought it was a non interference engine and the mechanic very nicely clarified that it is indeed an interference engine and that the pistons will run into the valves if the belt breaks. I am concerned the belt may break before I buy it (the family needs the car for another month or so). Do you think I should make my offer contingent upon a second inspection that confirms no damage is done during the next month? We have not discussed the water pump. Any thoughts on when this might need to get replaced and whether or not this would have been identified by the inspection? Here are some other things I know about the car:
The guy wants $6500 for the car and I am thinking of offering $5300. What do you think? I want to be fair and I appreciate the current owner's good faith efforts to try and do some of the work himself. I also want to make sure I reserve some budget to get the car in top running condition so that it has a great beginning to the start of its second lifetime under my ownership. Thanks for your help and please advise if there are other areas of concern you think I should have on my radar! |
Two items to have on your radar:
1. The original fuel filter should be changed. A filter that is 9 years old is in need of replacement. 2. Check your shock absobers. 71,000 miles/115,000km is a very long time for the original Sachs shocks on the car. Bilstein touring shocks would be an excellent replacement. Laddie |
My honest opinion, having JUST bought a V50 (having driven, and having my guy compare them all) - it sounds like this car is not even worth buying. I would look for a better one (Yes, it does take time - it took me a LOT of research to find just four, in my area) - but boy, it made all the difference.
It has obviously not been well maintained, and I've been taught that this is just bad news waiting for you with these cars. |
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