Alright well, I am going to be buying a used EVO private sale, so I can really get the best feel for where it has been. I'd like to know what kind of questions to ask... also what answers could mean this or that, abused or not... tell tail signs that the seller is not being straight up, probobly lying or if you should stay away from the car. I was told once to let the seller take ME for a drive in it, so I can pay attention to how he does things to see weather he lets it warm up, hammers on it to impress me with it's power and handling etc etc... What should I look for and ask?

 

make sure all oil changes were done...ask for proof of maintenance stuff... what year are u looking at?

 

I think you are better off spending a few dollars more and getting a new one.

 

Well I was thinking if I could spend less, still have lower miles then I'd go for an 03... still an EVO and I could get into one cheaper than if I went with an 05 or used 06 and I'd still have the EVO unless I am really turned off from the 03 some how and persuaded that it is indeed very worth it to get an 05 or something, this won't be for a while but I'd want to spend $25,000 tops... but hell I'm sure I could find a low mileage 03 for $21,000 or so.

 

Get an 05. Bigger turbo, more agressive ECU tuning, Front LSD, E-ACD, and much more.

 

Every used Evo has been beaten to some degree. Why else would you drive an Evo? You, on the other hand, are not cut out for a used Evo. Considering the amount of posts you have started regarding getting an Evo, the only way I think you would be happy is with a new one with extended warranty. Save up, and enjoy when you finally get one. Until then.....

 

perfect post! People need to understand if you are getting a used EVO the only thing to worry with is the shifting of the tranny and a compression check. If those turn up fine then the guy drove it and cared for it like your going to. This goes for any performance car. If problems develop outside of this then it was just as likely to happen as if you had owned it all along. The reciepts for oil are a crock, perfomance car people change their oil and use the BEST oils. That BS is for someone buying an accord with 175K and hopes the guy changed it every 10K or so with generic oil.

 

I know my car was beat on. It was used, but compression came out fine! Brakes were shot, negative camber on all 4 corners it was obviously tracked, some comsetic bo bo's front seat stain, but I bought the car for 23.7K for a 05 with 10K miles in Nov. 05.

For me it's great since I knew I would be swapping out the brakes, engine, clutch etc etc and still be under the price of a new 05' with TTL.

 

So a compression check is key, I wouldn't think the power plant would be the biggest issue considering it is very strong... I'd assume that the transmission components would be something to worry about... I can't buy new however and I think the warrantee is a crock considering how Mitsu treats you on them, a waste... I need to buy used because it is still a little ways away and also new does not fit my budget however I want an EVO, no STi... no RWD cars... nothing but an EVO.