Questions and Answers

Buying A Used GTI Q. Hi Vince, I am looking into purchasing a 1991 VW GTI. It has approximately 150,000 miles on it. I used to own a 1990 GTI and LOVED it, so I am excited about the prospect of again owning one. When I had the other one, I lived with a VW fanatic, who inspected it prior to purchase and also maintained it for me.

I no longer live with him, and actually now live across the country in a new town. I'm apprehensive about buying a car with so many miles on it without having a trusted mechanic around to inspect it for me. Do the GTI's have any inherent problems that I should look for when having the car checked? Anything that I should focus on? I hasn't looked at it yet, but have been told that the engine leaks.

What should I look for when inspecting the leak? I am aware that VW's are relatively easy to work on. I've done some myself, and I would like to become self-reliant. Should I buy this car? Any advice/suggestions?

Thanks!
Kristina

A. I'd be a little leery about buying a car with that many miles on it. But if the price is right and you have your heart set on it, by all means go for it.

However, before you do buy it have it checked out by a mechanic. If you don't have a local mechanic, take it to the dealer. In fact, I would recommend the dealer to have it inspected. They know the car and what potential problems to look for. Make them aware of any known problems, like the leaking engine, so they will look specifically for a problem. Tell them you are interested in buying the car and you want it inspected. They will go over it and give you a detailed list of whet the car needs and what it will cost to repair. This is a good tool in negotiating the purchase price. If it needs, for example, $1,000.00 worth of work maybe the cost could be split between you and the seller and knock off $500.00 off the asking price.

While you are waiting you can talk to the used car manager and ask him what the car is worth whosale and retail, just to see if the asking price is in line with what the seller is asking.

If you read my article Buying A Back To School Car I detail what you need to look for and there's some helpful links to information you can use when buying a used car.

I can't tell you if you should buy the car or not. I haven't seen it and I don't know the vehicle. In addition, you should be aware that a used car that looks good today, may go sour in a few weeks or never. There's no way to predict what will happen down the road (forgive the pun).

Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA