How/where to check before purchase

[novio]

Hey peeps,

Here's where I am at the moment:
I found an e36 that I really want, but there is a possibility that the engine could be on its way out.
Is there some place this car could be taken to check the state of the motor i.e. establishing that the rings and pistons are fine and any other things that could potentially cause serious issues later on.

bear in mind that this inspection should preferably be quick and cost as little as possible.

Please let me know what you think.

Thanks

 

[zaleonardz]

Anyone that can do a compression test and check for visible leaks and listen to the motor will do

You in JHB ?

 

[novio]

Anyone that can do a compression test and check for visible leaks and listen to the motor will do

You in JHB ?

yep. Im in jhb.
what do you suggest?

 

[zaleonardz]

Savspeed does inspections on cars,

Donno who else.

 

[novio]

Savspeed does inspections on cars,

Donno who else.

Thanks bud.
Any idea on how much it will cost and time?

 

[viven]

If I am not mistaken, you can also take it for the AA check. There is the standard roadworthy that you will need done anyway but they also offer a more intensive inspection.

Think it should set you back about R500.

 

[Hellas]

R500 is maybe not that bad for peace of mind, but if the car turns out to be a dud (and the seller is not willing to drop the price) then you are out of some money.

So if you know a bit more before forking out some dough, then maybe the testing will be just a formality. Better yet would be to agree with the seller beforehand that should the car not pass all the hurdles, then you can settle on some serious discounts (if you still want the car)

Good luck with the purchase, Novio! :thumbsup:

 

[novio]

R500 is maybe not that bad for peace of mind, but if the car turns out to be a dud (and the seller is not willing to drop the price) then you are out of some money.

So if you know a bit more before forking out some dough, then maybe the testing will be just a formality. Better yet would be to agree with the seller beforehand that should the car not pass all the hurdles, then you can settle on some serious discounts (if you still want the car)

Good luck with the purchase, Novio! :thumbsup:

Thanks guys
I have been told about the AA and its not a bad plan, however, I know of someone who had the extensive AA test done, they approved the car, and 3 months later he found that the engine needed a recon.
having said that, I'm not sure I would entirely trust the AA.
So I've emailed Savpeed to find out what they charge, and if its fair, I would rather have both the AA and Savspeed do their tests. I'm willing to fork out a little if tests come back good. If it comes back with problems, well, at least I didnt get rid of all my cash for something broken. Sucks but thats the only way I see things working out:bawling::bawling:

 

[zaleonardz]

I do not trust the AA at all for the inspections.

I once almost bought a golf for my wife, paid the AA to do an inspection and they came up with some issues but minor stuff

Then when time came to do finance after it has been approved and I was supposed to collect the car the next morning, the bank phones me and says the vehicle is a code 3.

Interesting dont you think...

 

[novio]

I do not trust the AA at all for the inspections.

I once almost bought a golf for my wife, paid the AA to do an inspection and they came up with some issues but minor stuff

Then when time came to do finance after it has been approved and I was supposed to collect the car the next morning, the bank phones me and says the vehicle is a code 3.

Interesting dont you think...

hmmmm, well, that settles it then. off to savspeed:wave:

 

[zaleonardz]

Or ask Gizmo what he will charge you to take look at it.