I'm not sure if this is the right thread and if it isn't feel free to move it mods, but I was looking at purchasing another evo soon and have realized that most are at least 300 miles away. I know how these cars can be so I want to get a thorough inspection/ compression test before I head over. Now if it's a dealership car, can I try to get them to pay for those tests or will they more than likely make me pay for them? Also is it kosher to negotiate price before I head over or is it best just to wait? Really any advice from people who bought cars far away would be appreciated thanks.

 

Negotiate everything before you make a trip, have a bill of sale sent to you before you make the trip. Agreeing on pricing is the single most important tip here. Don't just take their word for it. Everything should be on the bill of sale, including cost of compression test that you might be paying for.

 

Obviously with a private dealer it's different, but can I make the dealership pay for inspections or is that something most won't do?

Also are there any state-state issues I need to worry about.

 

Bought my car from a FS thread on here. It was 900 miles away. I had him tell me where he lived, I then found a reputable garage online and called them and explained I wanted a thorough inspection of the car, and asked how much it was.

I then told the owner, that if the car is in the condition he claims, and if in fact it's in perfect health like he claimed, that the price of the inspection would be deducted from the total purchase price, after all it was MY investment so I have no problem investing a little bit into it.

He agreed, took the car, turned out perfect, so I agreed on a price, flew to get it, went to his bank and signed it over. Drove home 900 miles immediately.

38 months later, still original drivetrain, only had to replace a battery, tires and brakes. Put 40k on it, couldn't be happier.

So do a little homework, know what you're buying, research research and don't be afraid.

 

i purchased my 06 evo rs from the original owner about 3 months ago he lived 500 miles away from me he was a very helpful and great person he described everything about the car, took every picture from every angle that i asked for, answered ever tiny little question i had about the car, after talking to him for about a week i felt confident on making the trip down to purchase it, i got there it was exactly as desribed

this isnt my first time buying a vehicle from a long distance away my only advice is to kinda get a feel for the person your buying it from see if they show you the time of day and be meticulous ask every little question and ask to see a ton of pics after all your gonna be the buyer also talk to them on the phone way easier than texting or email!! if their a serious seller theyll show you the respect and answer all of your questions and do every little thing that you asked of them

good luck with your search and hopefully you can find a great deal and a great car

 

are you taking out a loan? if so have the bank call and have the paper work filled and and ready to sign, and have it sent to them so they no that your going to by it