So, I've been planning on buying a used Evo X, but I've never purchased a used car before, especially one from a private seller. What should I do when trying to buy a used car? Should I take it to a mechanic to get it checked out first and get a vehicle history report like CarFax? How should I approach this to make sure that I get the most out of the car?

 

Yes definitely take it to a mechanic and have them look at it. I was going to buy a used WRX for a steal of a deal one time and after the mechanic checked it out I was glad I didn't buy it. It turns out that the differential was leaking and the tranny was messed up. Another thing about the 08 X's they have been having slight tranny issues where pins break off and end up rubbing a hole in the tranny. So def have a mechanic take a look at it. I was lucky enough that when I bought my IX the guy had taken excellent care of it and it has ran like a champ for 20K miles now.

 

Carfax the vehicle, ask the seller for how many previous owners, has it been smoked in, any accidents, etc... Basically anything that comes to your mind...

Also check if the previous owner raced it or placed any aftermarket parts in the car

 

definitely. as well as seeing a mechanic is great. if the seller is honest and really wants to sell the car, he shouldnt have a problem with either.

if they do, you might want to reconsider.

 

Buy a black light and scan the seats and panels for stain marks, if you know what I mean...

 

The carfax will show you changes in ownership and documents any service they have had performed on the car at legitimate places.

Definitely take it to a mechanic (one knowledgeable about mitsu/turbos/awd would be best). I'd also see if there's a way to make sure the warranty is in tact.

I'd ask if the seller is a forum member (to whatever Evo or car site). Ask for their screenname and look up any all threads they have posted. Kind of sneaky but if they have nothing to hide they shouldn't mind offering this up.

 

lol. I think the back seats would be a bit tight and make things uncomfortable.

Thanks guys for your input. How do I find a good mechanic and one that's also knowledgeable about Evos? Is there some sort of certification?

Is there anything else that I should do before I purchase the car? Test drive for sure but anything specific that I should look for?

 

Take the car to a shop that has a competent tech and have them look the car over for signs of previous modifications.

Have the tech perform a compression AND a leak down test on the motor.

Also have the tech perform a pre-purchase inspection on the vehicle. (Some shops do this and have a various "point inspection" they can perform)

Good luck!

 

It's not bad lol.

 

What happenes if $ is owed on the car? How do you get the title if the owner doesn't have the $ to pay it off? You just pay the bank and he signs a release?

 

I hope everything goes well on this. I really want an Evo.

 

You meet with the owner at the bank.
Hand them the cash inside the bank.
Have the bank sign over the title to the owner once the owner pays off the car.
Have the owner sign the title over to you and sign a bill of sale.

 

lol

 

08 Evo X Navi and SS package, in mint condition only 1600 miles. Just lost my job unable to handle the payments make me a fair offer.

 

i have a 2008 with 20k mile pefect condition with tonz of ams mods with turbo back exhuast with exedy twin disk.. pm me for info! only reason selling is that im looking buy a house! over 6 grand in performace parts