I've been watching and waiting for a clean, low-miles Evo IX to hit the market. I see them come and go but there's almost always some kind of catch that I can't accept, especially with the high probability that a lot of "stock" cars were once heavily modded especially if they had several owners. So I found one on FB market, it's not too far from me but still a few hours drive, and I feel like it's "the one". I'm not new to fast cars but this will be my first Evo if I get it. So if I decide to go see the car in person, what should I be looking for as far as major issues goes? I mean, is there anything particular to Evos like dead giveaways that something is wrong, or common problems that should be resolved? From the pics the car looks like it's really good shape and it's being sold by the original owner who has answered all my questions so far.

http://www.facebook.com/marketplace/...9993408533224/

 

Well... if you end up buying that car, but you notice it has some paint issues that need to be fixed... don't sweat it. I have some of that color because my previous car was that color. Super cheap too! https://www.evolutionm.net/forums/ma...unreduced.html

 

Find a local shop, and spend the $300 or whatever a shop out there charges for a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Compression/leak down tests, check fluid conditions, check for rust, etc.

 

I'll probably take you up on that if I do end up getting this car. Good to have even if it doesn't need it.

 

Look,at the 2006 Evo values thread. Post # 201. That’s all the stuff I did to my car. Hope that helps.

 

Your diligence in inspecting the Evo IX is commendable. Focus on maintenance records, modifications, accidents, and potential rust. A test drive and professional inspection can provide added assurance.


 

Thanks for the feedback but the deal fell thru. It was my fault. I went to check the car out, it was great. Car starts and runs good, did a cold start, went for short ride around. Pulls hard AF and I did not know Evos were that fast with such basic upgrades. Exhaust sounds awesome. Paint was damn near perfect all around and I was surprised how clean the interior was and no wear on the arm rest or seats like there often is in older cars. The photos were true to what was being offered. We agreed on a price a bit below asking and I was all set to buy it. I had a pre-approval from my bank for the amount before I went to see the car but a few days later I get a call from the bank saying they can't do a final approval for that amount. I'm like WTF my credit is nearly perfect and they told me I was pre-approved. They told me that if I wanted that amount I'd have to get a personal loan and not an auto loan. Anyway, it's bull****...but I guess it wasn't meant to be. Sucks for me and the seller was understanding but I could tell he was annoyed.

 

I'm in the car business... it likely is not any issue with credit; it's the age of the car a normal bank likely would have issue with...

I've seen advertisements about "classic car financing." Before you give up, try this:

https://www.hagerty.com/finance/clas...tial-providers

And if you do put your deal together, you may want to consider insuring through Hagerty or some other "classic car" type of insurer - as they'll extend a higher value to the car.

(I have no ties to Hagerty or any of those companies, I'm just trying to help.)

 

Yeah, the age of the car seems to be a limiting factor in how much they'll actually approve it for. I didn't even think to try the classic car financing, probably because when I hear "classic car" I think some 1970s big block v8 with a holley double-pumper and posi-rear.

 

lightsteam offered me financing options to purchase my 2006 Evo 9MR, 2 years ago.

It was a quick online process too, had the funds in a few days to make the transaction.

**I am not affiliated with lightstream, just a happy customer.