Buying advice - please help

[Claude]

I'm based in Berkshire and I want to upgrade from 2 to 3 stars so I'm after some guidance on buying a used Trophy.

When you bought your used Trophy did you get a professional independent inspection carried out? If so, who did you use & would you rate their service?

If not, what did you check and how thorough were you before agreeing a price?

I've been on the forum for a while so I know the Sachs dampers and the cam/aux belts are key things on the Trophy but I've never bought a used car before so I'm really nervous as I don't want to buy a lemon.

If anyone has any advice or links for buying a used car, specifically a Trophy, it would be great if you could share them. Or if any experts would be willing to offer some time to view a potential purchase and share their thoughts that would be great.

Suggestions/comments are encouraged and would be gratefully appreciated.

Claude

 

[BoroGTI]

definitely make sure all services are up to date and on time, dont put too much importance on the dampers been refurbed (cue the arguments) you could do a rough test on these by taking your hands off the steering wheel and braking hard from 25-30mph, check the engine mounts arent knackered. personally i think the rest is just like you would look at any other car, take it for a drive (dont be afraid to give it some either) im sure others on here might know of other stuff to look out for but its mainly common sense. good luck and dont rush into buying one (mines for sale early august :wink: )

 

[bearne1]

Would definately check if belts AND Tensioners have been done as often people pay less by just replacing belts. If all have been done it's usually a sign the owners has 'gone the extra mile'.

Good luck!

 

[felix]

Take it for a MOT test. Cheapest inspection there is.

 

[bearne1]

No way an MOT would guarantee a good example as some centres would not look into the in and outs of a Trophy / 2.0 Clio.

Would check that the car has had regular services as per previous post as fresh oil helps, the dampers are another issues and would also check rears for leaks.

A previous 172 I bought had an issue with a power steering sensor and that had a 12 month ticket. Also have learnt from my mistake of getting jobs at a local garage who have no or little experience with these little pocket rockets!

Best tip is to check for leaks or noises and if you don't feel happy don't buy it. Will cost you a fortune if something is not quite right!!

 

[felix]

Around 15 yrs ago i gave a (then) colleague a lift back from the test center when he dropped off his car. Upon collection he found they had passed it on something that didn't work and failed it on something that did!

 

[Claude]

Thanks for your help so far chaps.

 

[Sir_Dave]

HPi Check
Evidence of Cambelt/aux belt, maybe de-phaser pulley - preferably reputable specialist
Damper refurb - if not done, knock the price down £500

Then the usual checks on a car, crash damage, general condition, etc.

 

[Claude]

As I mentioned, I've never bought a used car before, ever, so have no idea what to check to see if there's any crash damage, any specific advice?

Also, what/where are the engine mounts (please try & refrain from posting comedy responses) and what do I look for to see whether they need replacing? Pics would help a great deal.

Cheers

 

[BoroGTI]

Have you got someone who has more experience to take with ya?

 

[Claude]

Nope

In my original post I asked if any experts would be willing to offer some time to view a potential purchase with me and share their thoughts. No takers...yet.