I am considering buying my first EVO, a 2003 with 58k. It starts but idles pretty rough, I put it in reverse and can back up okay but when I put it in first I can barely get it to move, it sputters and coughs and backfires. I don't really know anything about these cars, if improper tuning could cause it to act like this or if it could have a blown head gasket or something serious. I'm pretty sure it has some aftermarket parts, exhaust for sure.

Just wondering if anyone could throw some ideas my way, worst case scenario if it had a blown head gasket or if I had to have the engine rebuilt, what kind of money would I be looking at throwing down?

A dealer I know took it in on trade and I can't talk to the previous owner and I haven't had the car checked by a mechanic. I pretty much have to roll the dice and take it the way it is, I just don't want to get a car I'm going to have to sink thousands into.

Thanks

 

Try asking in the evo forums, not the evo X forums as that is not an X.

Also, I would stay far away from that car.

 

Stay away from it.

Also, this is the wrong section to post that question in; try Evo general.

 

that would be a money pit.

 

LOL the Evo X General is in the same spot where Evo General used to be. It took me some time to get used to it.

 

How much are they asking? also it's close to the 60K mile service maybe a timing belt or water pump? I wouldn't know maybe if you posted a video someone could figure out the cause of what is going on with this particular Evo.
Good luck maybe if its fairly cheap you could just build up the motor and get the car for a cheaper price.

 

You should buy an EVO X instead.

 

are you sure it just doesn't have an aftermarket cam in it? That could cause a rough idle... just my 2 cents

 

check to see if the dv is stock.....or "blow off valve"

 

Oh hell no don't buy that car.You will regret it.Save your money and try to find one that is in better condition.

 

doesnt sound like a good car to invest in. save your money

 

run away from that one

 

Stay away from it

 

buying an Evo with 58k miles??? blasphemy !!

 

I bought mine with 61K. It runs FLAWLESSLY!