🚀 go-pugleaf

Nhut Nguyen wrote:
*I am looking to buy an used car. Since I haven't done this before, I am
*hoping that 'net-wisdom (R)' would help me to avoid pitfalls and traps.

First, if you use Consumers Reports, take it with a grain of salt. Their 
survey methods are poor. A solid red dot is good, a solid black is bad, 
everything in between -- who knows? They tend also not to judge cars that 
are more than 5 (I think) years old. 

Second, you might want to look at K-cars with the 2.2 or 2.5 engines as 
severely underestimated transportation; they are quick with a five-speed 
due to their light weight (Omnis/Horizons quicker). Avoid turbos as used 
cars due to the beating the engine takes. 

Check carefully for painted-over rust. Remember the cost of new tires. 
Don't believe anything anyone tells you. Take a friend along in case your 
enthusaism runs away with you. Look for signs of a previous accident, 
especially at commercial places. Buy from a person if you want a lower 
price. Cars before electronic fuel injection and electronic ignition need 
more maintenance. (Get electronic ignition! It's worth it! Standard on 
most Chrysler products 1970 and after, GM 1974 or so and after).

Ignore stories told in rec.autos.misc about cars with a cajillion miles 
on them. 

Good luck.

/dave