buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
06-20-2006 | 09:51 PM
#106
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
That is what I meant. A car is worth the value it provides which is
transportation. People want to act like a car is an asset but it isn't so
it shouldn't matter that you have to spend $1500 in repair for a $1000 car.
I believe in trying to "drive a car into the ground". For me means when the
car is having to go in the shop too frequently for unscheduled repairs it is
time to get rid of it.
"Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote in message
news:t0%lg.8721$lf4.2180@newsread1.news.pas.earthl ink.net...
> "Patrick" <p.j.hughes@sbcglobal(dot)net> wrote
>>I agree. The CV boots are normal and total repairs are minimal. My only
>>concern would be that normal maintenance has not been done over the life
>>of the car and more problems may be appearing soon. Although the car may
>>have started exhibiting a few minor problems and the owner just didn't
>>want to even check into getting them fixed. We live in a throw away
>>society where it is better to buy new than fix what you've got.
>
> To clarify what I think you're saying: We live in a society where people
> /think/ it is better to buy new than fix what they've got.
>
> In fact, from a financial standpoint for cars, it is often less expensive
> to fix the car than replace it.
>
> Kills me when people say, "The cost of repairing my old car was going to
> be $1500. Car's only worth $1000!" What the old car is worth is completely
> irrelevant. The issue on which they should focus is cost of repair and
> subsequent expected life vs. cost to replace entirely.
>
> Of course, if someone does not have time to take his/her older car to the
> shop now and then, it may pay to buy new. But that's getting subjective.
>
transportation. People want to act like a car is an asset but it isn't so
it shouldn't matter that you have to spend $1500 in repair for a $1000 car.
I believe in trying to "drive a car into the ground". For me means when the
car is having to go in the shop too frequently for unscheduled repairs it is
time to get rid of it.
"Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote in message
news:t0%lg.8721$lf4.2180@newsread1.news.pas.earthl ink.net...
> "Patrick" <p.j.hughes@sbcglobal(dot)net> wrote
>>I agree. The CV boots are normal and total repairs are minimal. My only
>>concern would be that normal maintenance has not been done over the life
>>of the car and more problems may be appearing soon. Although the car may
>>have started exhibiting a few minor problems and the owner just didn't
>>want to even check into getting them fixed. We live in a throw away
>>society where it is better to buy new than fix what you've got.
>
> To clarify what I think you're saying: We live in a society where people
> /think/ it is better to buy new than fix what they've got.
>
> In fact, from a financial standpoint for cars, it is often less expensive
> to fix the car than replace it.
>
> Kills me when people say, "The cost of repairing my old car was going to
> be $1500. Car's only worth $1000!" What the old car is worth is completely
> irrelevant. The issue on which they should focus is cost of repair and
> subsequent expected life vs. cost to replace entirely.
>
> Of course, if someone does not have time to take his/her older car to the
> shop now and then, it may pay to buy new. But that's getting subjective.
>
06-21-2006 | 11:46 AM
#107
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
changing it into the price.
On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
$550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
were selling above blue book.
Is this right?
Elle wrote:
> "Grumpy AuContraire" <Grumpster@GrumpyvilleNOT.com> wrote
> > Elle wrote:
> >>
> >> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >> >I just went for an inspection on the 94 Accord LX Wagon
> >> >at
> >> >a Honda
> >> > Dealership.
> >> >
> >> > Here is a list of the major items found and their
> >> > quoted
> >> > repair costs:
> >> >
> >> > Left Outer CV Boot ($150)
> >> > Right Axle Assembly (shaft) ($250)
> >> > Right Outer Tie Rod End Loose ($50 or $150 (can't read
> >> > quote))
> >>
> >> The part costs about $28 from online OEM parts places
> >> like
> >> www.slhonda.com . Add another $7 for shipping. I
> >> understand
> >> it's pretty easy to replace. Could be just $50 total, but
> >> you should double check.
> >>
> >> Good for you for spotting the steering problem and then
> >> Honda finding the cause (hopefully).
> >>
> >> > Brakes:
> >> > Front Brake Pads 3mm
> >> > Rear Brake Pads 7mm
> >> > The dealer says front brakes need to be replaced pretty
> >> > quick, while
> >> > rear brakes may last a bit.
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > Other Items should be replaced:
> >> > New Dome Light Bulb
> >> > Wiper Blades
> >> > Battery
> >> > Air Filter
> >> > Muffler (owner says it's under warranty and she can
> >> > have
> >> > it replaced
> >> > for me for free)
> >> >
> >> > They said the front right pull is due to the loose
> >> > Front
> >> > Right Tie Rod.
> >> > After fixing the Tie Rod, they said an alignment would
> >> > be
> >> > necessary. I
> >> > guess that is $100 or so.
> >>
> >> Correct. My local dealer wants $80, IIRC from speaking
> >> with
> >> them a week ago.
> >>
> >> > I am trying to get quotes from different shops on
> >> > repairs.
> >> > One shop
> >> > quoted %$500 to $600 on the Timing Belt.
> >> >
> >> > But with the Timing Belt and the other problems, looks
> >> > like I might
> >> > need to spend at least $800.
> >> >
> >> > The owner lowered her price to $3600. I think she
> >> > should
> >> > go lower
> >> > though.
> >> >
> >> > Edmunds lists Private Party True Market Value at $3697.
> >>
> >> What "Vehicle condition" did you put in for this price?
> >>
> >> Of the five categories of "vehicle condition," I think
> >> this
> >> 94 Accord LX qualifies as being somewhere between
> >> "Average"
> >> and "Rough" in condition. Edmunds gives info on what it
> >> means for each category.
> >>
> >> If the timing belt did not need replacement, I'd say it's
> >> "average," from what you've written (though I can't
> >> remember
> >> the body and interior condition).
> >>
> >> > To what degree
> >> > are these repairs accounted for in the Edmunds price?
> >> > Any
> >> > suggestions
> >> > on a fair price to pay considering the repairs?
> >>
> >> I think I'd be happy with something between the "rough"
> >> and
> >> "average" condition prices.
> >>
> >> On the other hand, how badly do you want the car? How
> >> likely
> >> is it that someone else might come along and pay what the
> >> seller is currently asking? Is the seller getting
> >> exasperated? (Not sure how experienced you are at
> >> negotiating something like this. You don't want her to
> >> just
> >> tell you to get lost. You're being thorough, and that's
> >> great.)
> >>
> >> That's my two cents. Average it with the other responses
> >> here. :-)
> >
> >
> > I would seriously look for another car. Keeripes! That
> > car seems to
> > have more issues than my (non running at the time) project
> > car which
> > only cost $100...
>
> This 94 Accord LX has very usual problems that are also,
> IMO, nickel and dime stuff. The CV boot and axle are the
> most serious items, IMO. Yet those problems come up here all
> the time.
>
> If there were serious engine problems, like a blown head
> gasket or bad engine compression, then I'd be worried.
rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
changing it into the price.
On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
$550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
were selling above blue book.
Is this right?
Elle wrote:
> "Grumpy AuContraire" <Grumpster@GrumpyvilleNOT.com> wrote
> > Elle wrote:
> >>
> >> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >> >I just went for an inspection on the 94 Accord LX Wagon
> >> >at
> >> >a Honda
> >> > Dealership.
> >> >
> >> > Here is a list of the major items found and their
> >> > quoted
> >> > repair costs:
> >> >
> >> > Left Outer CV Boot ($150)
> >> > Right Axle Assembly (shaft) ($250)
> >> > Right Outer Tie Rod End Loose ($50 or $150 (can't read
> >> > quote))
> >>
> >> The part costs about $28 from online OEM parts places
> >> like
> >> www.slhonda.com . Add another $7 for shipping. I
> >> understand
> >> it's pretty easy to replace. Could be just $50 total, but
> >> you should double check.
> >>
> >> Good for you for spotting the steering problem and then
> >> Honda finding the cause (hopefully).
> >>
> >> > Brakes:
> >> > Front Brake Pads 3mm
> >> > Rear Brake Pads 7mm
> >> > The dealer says front brakes need to be replaced pretty
> >> > quick, while
> >> > rear brakes may last a bit.
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > Other Items should be replaced:
> >> > New Dome Light Bulb
> >> > Wiper Blades
> >> > Battery
> >> > Air Filter
> >> > Muffler (owner says it's under warranty and she can
> >> > have
> >> > it replaced
> >> > for me for free)
> >> >
> >> > They said the front right pull is due to the loose
> >> > Front
> >> > Right Tie Rod.
> >> > After fixing the Tie Rod, they said an alignment would
> >> > be
> >> > necessary. I
> >> > guess that is $100 or so.
> >>
> >> Correct. My local dealer wants $80, IIRC from speaking
> >> with
> >> them a week ago.
> >>
> >> > I am trying to get quotes from different shops on
> >> > repairs.
> >> > One shop
> >> > quoted %$500 to $600 on the Timing Belt.
> >> >
> >> > But with the Timing Belt and the other problems, looks
> >> > like I might
> >> > need to spend at least $800.
> >> >
> >> > The owner lowered her price to $3600. I think she
> >> > should
> >> > go lower
> >> > though.
> >> >
> >> > Edmunds lists Private Party True Market Value at $3697.
> >>
> >> What "Vehicle condition" did you put in for this price?
> >>
> >> Of the five categories of "vehicle condition," I think
> >> this
> >> 94 Accord LX qualifies as being somewhere between
> >> "Average"
> >> and "Rough" in condition. Edmunds gives info on what it
> >> means for each category.
> >>
> >> If the timing belt did not need replacement, I'd say it's
> >> "average," from what you've written (though I can't
> >> remember
> >> the body and interior condition).
> >>
> >> > To what degree
> >> > are these repairs accounted for in the Edmunds price?
> >> > Any
> >> > suggestions
> >> > on a fair price to pay considering the repairs?
> >>
> >> I think I'd be happy with something between the "rough"
> >> and
> >> "average" condition prices.
> >>
> >> On the other hand, how badly do you want the car? How
> >> likely
> >> is it that someone else might come along and pay what the
> >> seller is currently asking? Is the seller getting
> >> exasperated? (Not sure how experienced you are at
> >> negotiating something like this. You don't want her to
> >> just
> >> tell you to get lost. You're being thorough, and that's
> >> great.)
> >>
> >> That's my two cents. Average it with the other responses
> >> here. :-)
> >
> >
> > I would seriously look for another car. Keeripes! That
> > car seems to
> > have more issues than my (non running at the time) project
> > car which
> > only cost $100...
>
> This 94 Accord LX has very usual problems that are also,
> IMO, nickel and dime stuff. The CV boot and axle are the
> most serious items, IMO. Yet those problems come up here all
> the time.
>
> If there were serious engine problems, like a blown head
> gasket or bad engine compression, then I'd be worried.
06-21-2006 | 11:46 AM
#108
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
changing it into the price.
On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
$550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
were selling above blue book.
Is this right?
Elle wrote:
> "Grumpy AuContraire" <Grumpster@GrumpyvilleNOT.com> wrote
> > Elle wrote:
> >>
> >> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >> >I just went for an inspection on the 94 Accord LX Wagon
> >> >at
> >> >a Honda
> >> > Dealership.
> >> >
> >> > Here is a list of the major items found and their
> >> > quoted
> >> > repair costs:
> >> >
> >> > Left Outer CV Boot ($150)
> >> > Right Axle Assembly (shaft) ($250)
> >> > Right Outer Tie Rod End Loose ($50 or $150 (can't read
> >> > quote))
> >>
> >> The part costs about $28 from online OEM parts places
> >> like
> >> www.slhonda.com . Add another $7 for shipping. I
> >> understand
> >> it's pretty easy to replace. Could be just $50 total, but
> >> you should double check.
> >>
> >> Good for you for spotting the steering problem and then
> >> Honda finding the cause (hopefully).
> >>
> >> > Brakes:
> >> > Front Brake Pads 3mm
> >> > Rear Brake Pads 7mm
> >> > The dealer says front brakes need to be replaced pretty
> >> > quick, while
> >> > rear brakes may last a bit.
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > Other Items should be replaced:
> >> > New Dome Light Bulb
> >> > Wiper Blades
> >> > Battery
> >> > Air Filter
> >> > Muffler (owner says it's under warranty and she can
> >> > have
> >> > it replaced
> >> > for me for free)
> >> >
> >> > They said the front right pull is due to the loose
> >> > Front
> >> > Right Tie Rod.
> >> > After fixing the Tie Rod, they said an alignment would
> >> > be
> >> > necessary. I
> >> > guess that is $100 or so.
> >>
> >> Correct. My local dealer wants $80, IIRC from speaking
> >> with
> >> them a week ago.
> >>
> >> > I am trying to get quotes from different shops on
> >> > repairs.
> >> > One shop
> >> > quoted %$500 to $600 on the Timing Belt.
> >> >
> >> > But with the Timing Belt and the other problems, looks
> >> > like I might
> >> > need to spend at least $800.
> >> >
> >> > The owner lowered her price to $3600. I think she
> >> > should
> >> > go lower
> >> > though.
> >> >
> >> > Edmunds lists Private Party True Market Value at $3697.
> >>
> >> What "Vehicle condition" did you put in for this price?
> >>
> >> Of the five categories of "vehicle condition," I think
> >> this
> >> 94 Accord LX qualifies as being somewhere between
> >> "Average"
> >> and "Rough" in condition. Edmunds gives info on what it
> >> means for each category.
> >>
> >> If the timing belt did not need replacement, I'd say it's
> >> "average," from what you've written (though I can't
> >> remember
> >> the body and interior condition).
> >>
> >> > To what degree
> >> > are these repairs accounted for in the Edmunds price?
> >> > Any
> >> > suggestions
> >> > on a fair price to pay considering the repairs?
> >>
> >> I think I'd be happy with something between the "rough"
> >> and
> >> "average" condition prices.
> >>
> >> On the other hand, how badly do you want the car? How
> >> likely
> >> is it that someone else might come along and pay what the
> >> seller is currently asking? Is the seller getting
> >> exasperated? (Not sure how experienced you are at
> >> negotiating something like this. You don't want her to
> >> just
> >> tell you to get lost. You're being thorough, and that's
> >> great.)
> >>
> >> That's my two cents. Average it with the other responses
> >> here. :-)
> >
> >
> > I would seriously look for another car. Keeripes! That
> > car seems to
> > have more issues than my (non running at the time) project
> > car which
> > only cost $100...
>
> This 94 Accord LX has very usual problems that are also,
> IMO, nickel and dime stuff. The CV boot and axle are the
> most serious items, IMO. Yet those problems come up here all
> the time.
>
> If there were serious engine problems, like a blown head
> gasket or bad engine compression, then I'd be worried.
rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
changing it into the price.
On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
$550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
were selling above blue book.
Is this right?
Elle wrote:
> "Grumpy AuContraire" <Grumpster@GrumpyvilleNOT.com> wrote
> > Elle wrote:
> >>
> >> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >> >I just went for an inspection on the 94 Accord LX Wagon
> >> >at
> >> >a Honda
> >> > Dealership.
> >> >
> >> > Here is a list of the major items found and their
> >> > quoted
> >> > repair costs:
> >> >
> >> > Left Outer CV Boot ($150)
> >> > Right Axle Assembly (shaft) ($250)
> >> > Right Outer Tie Rod End Loose ($50 or $150 (can't read
> >> > quote))
> >>
> >> The part costs about $28 from online OEM parts places
> >> like
> >> www.slhonda.com . Add another $7 for shipping. I
> >> understand
> >> it's pretty easy to replace. Could be just $50 total, but
> >> you should double check.
> >>
> >> Good for you for spotting the steering problem and then
> >> Honda finding the cause (hopefully).
> >>
> >> > Brakes:
> >> > Front Brake Pads 3mm
> >> > Rear Brake Pads 7mm
> >> > The dealer says front brakes need to be replaced pretty
> >> > quick, while
> >> > rear brakes may last a bit.
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > Other Items should be replaced:
> >> > New Dome Light Bulb
> >> > Wiper Blades
> >> > Battery
> >> > Air Filter
> >> > Muffler (owner says it's under warranty and she can
> >> > have
> >> > it replaced
> >> > for me for free)
> >> >
> >> > They said the front right pull is due to the loose
> >> > Front
> >> > Right Tie Rod.
> >> > After fixing the Tie Rod, they said an alignment would
> >> > be
> >> > necessary. I
> >> > guess that is $100 or so.
> >>
> >> Correct. My local dealer wants $80, IIRC from speaking
> >> with
> >> them a week ago.
> >>
> >> > I am trying to get quotes from different shops on
> >> > repairs.
> >> > One shop
> >> > quoted %$500 to $600 on the Timing Belt.
> >> >
> >> > But with the Timing Belt and the other problems, looks
> >> > like I might
> >> > need to spend at least $800.
> >> >
> >> > The owner lowered her price to $3600. I think she
> >> > should
> >> > go lower
> >> > though.
> >> >
> >> > Edmunds lists Private Party True Market Value at $3697.
> >>
> >> What "Vehicle condition" did you put in for this price?
> >>
> >> Of the five categories of "vehicle condition," I think
> >> this
> >> 94 Accord LX qualifies as being somewhere between
> >> "Average"
> >> and "Rough" in condition. Edmunds gives info on what it
> >> means for each category.
> >>
> >> If the timing belt did not need replacement, I'd say it's
> >> "average," from what you've written (though I can't
> >> remember
> >> the body and interior condition).
> >>
> >> > To what degree
> >> > are these repairs accounted for in the Edmunds price?
> >> > Any
> >> > suggestions
> >> > on a fair price to pay considering the repairs?
> >>
> >> I think I'd be happy with something between the "rough"
> >> and
> >> "average" condition prices.
> >>
> >> On the other hand, how badly do you want the car? How
> >> likely
> >> is it that someone else might come along and pay what the
> >> seller is currently asking? Is the seller getting
> >> exasperated? (Not sure how experienced you are at
> >> negotiating something like this. You don't want her to
> >> just
> >> tell you to get lost. You're being thorough, and that's
> >> great.)
> >>
> >> That's my two cents. Average it with the other responses
> >> here. :-)
> >
> >
> > I would seriously look for another car. Keeripes! That
> > car seems to
> > have more issues than my (non running at the time) project
> > car which
> > only cost $100...
>
> This 94 Accord LX has very usual problems that are also,
> IMO, nickel and dime stuff. The CV boot and axle are the
> most serious items, IMO. Yet those problems come up here all
> the time.
>
> If there were serious engine problems, like a blown head
> gasket or bad engine compression, then I'd be worried.
06-21-2006 | 11:46 AM
#109
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
changing it into the price.
On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
$550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
were selling above blue book.
Is this right?
Elle wrote:
> "Grumpy AuContraire" <Grumpster@GrumpyvilleNOT.com> wrote
> > Elle wrote:
> >>
> >> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >> >I just went for an inspection on the 94 Accord LX Wagon
> >> >at
> >> >a Honda
> >> > Dealership.
> >> >
> >> > Here is a list of the major items found and their
> >> > quoted
> >> > repair costs:
> >> >
> >> > Left Outer CV Boot ($150)
> >> > Right Axle Assembly (shaft) ($250)
> >> > Right Outer Tie Rod End Loose ($50 or $150 (can't read
> >> > quote))
> >>
> >> The part costs about $28 from online OEM parts places
> >> like
> >> www.slhonda.com . Add another $7 for shipping. I
> >> understand
> >> it's pretty easy to replace. Could be just $50 total, but
> >> you should double check.
> >>
> >> Good for you for spotting the steering problem and then
> >> Honda finding the cause (hopefully).
> >>
> >> > Brakes:
> >> > Front Brake Pads 3mm
> >> > Rear Brake Pads 7mm
> >> > The dealer says front brakes need to be replaced pretty
> >> > quick, while
> >> > rear brakes may last a bit.
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > Other Items should be replaced:
> >> > New Dome Light Bulb
> >> > Wiper Blades
> >> > Battery
> >> > Air Filter
> >> > Muffler (owner says it's under warranty and she can
> >> > have
> >> > it replaced
> >> > for me for free)
> >> >
> >> > They said the front right pull is due to the loose
> >> > Front
> >> > Right Tie Rod.
> >> > After fixing the Tie Rod, they said an alignment would
> >> > be
> >> > necessary. I
> >> > guess that is $100 or so.
> >>
> >> Correct. My local dealer wants $80, IIRC from speaking
> >> with
> >> them a week ago.
> >>
> >> > I am trying to get quotes from different shops on
> >> > repairs.
> >> > One shop
> >> > quoted %$500 to $600 on the Timing Belt.
> >> >
> >> > But with the Timing Belt and the other problems, looks
> >> > like I might
> >> > need to spend at least $800.
> >> >
> >> > The owner lowered her price to $3600. I think she
> >> > should
> >> > go lower
> >> > though.
> >> >
> >> > Edmunds lists Private Party True Market Value at $3697.
> >>
> >> What "Vehicle condition" did you put in for this price?
> >>
> >> Of the five categories of "vehicle condition," I think
> >> this
> >> 94 Accord LX qualifies as being somewhere between
> >> "Average"
> >> and "Rough" in condition. Edmunds gives info on what it
> >> means for each category.
> >>
> >> If the timing belt did not need replacement, I'd say it's
> >> "average," from what you've written (though I can't
> >> remember
> >> the body and interior condition).
> >>
> >> > To what degree
> >> > are these repairs accounted for in the Edmunds price?
> >> > Any
> >> > suggestions
> >> > on a fair price to pay considering the repairs?
> >>
> >> I think I'd be happy with something between the "rough"
> >> and
> >> "average" condition prices.
> >>
> >> On the other hand, how badly do you want the car? How
> >> likely
> >> is it that someone else might come along and pay what the
> >> seller is currently asking? Is the seller getting
> >> exasperated? (Not sure how experienced you are at
> >> negotiating something like this. You don't want her to
> >> just
> >> tell you to get lost. You're being thorough, and that's
> >> great.)
> >>
> >> That's my two cents. Average it with the other responses
> >> here. :-)
> >
> >
> > I would seriously look for another car. Keeripes! That
> > car seems to
> > have more issues than my (non running at the time) project
> > car which
> > only cost $100...
>
> This 94 Accord LX has very usual problems that are also,
> IMO, nickel and dime stuff. The CV boot and axle are the
> most serious items, IMO. Yet those problems come up here all
> the time.
>
> If there were serious engine problems, like a blown head
> gasket or bad engine compression, then I'd be worried.
rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
changing it into the price.
On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
$550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
were selling above blue book.
Is this right?
Elle wrote:
> "Grumpy AuContraire" <Grumpster@GrumpyvilleNOT.com> wrote
> > Elle wrote:
> >>
> >> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >> >I just went for an inspection on the 94 Accord LX Wagon
> >> >at
> >> >a Honda
> >> > Dealership.
> >> >
> >> > Here is a list of the major items found and their
> >> > quoted
> >> > repair costs:
> >> >
> >> > Left Outer CV Boot ($150)
> >> > Right Axle Assembly (shaft) ($250)
> >> > Right Outer Tie Rod End Loose ($50 or $150 (can't read
> >> > quote))
> >>
> >> The part costs about $28 from online OEM parts places
> >> like
> >> www.slhonda.com . Add another $7 for shipping. I
> >> understand
> >> it's pretty easy to replace. Could be just $50 total, but
> >> you should double check.
> >>
> >> Good for you for spotting the steering problem and then
> >> Honda finding the cause (hopefully).
> >>
> >> > Brakes:
> >> > Front Brake Pads 3mm
> >> > Rear Brake Pads 7mm
> >> > The dealer says front brakes need to be replaced pretty
> >> > quick, while
> >> > rear brakes may last a bit.
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > Other Items should be replaced:
> >> > New Dome Light Bulb
> >> > Wiper Blades
> >> > Battery
> >> > Air Filter
> >> > Muffler (owner says it's under warranty and she can
> >> > have
> >> > it replaced
> >> > for me for free)
> >> >
> >> > They said the front right pull is due to the loose
> >> > Front
> >> > Right Tie Rod.
> >> > After fixing the Tie Rod, they said an alignment would
> >> > be
> >> > necessary. I
> >> > guess that is $100 or so.
> >>
> >> Correct. My local dealer wants $80, IIRC from speaking
> >> with
> >> them a week ago.
> >>
> >> > I am trying to get quotes from different shops on
> >> > repairs.
> >> > One shop
> >> > quoted %$500 to $600 on the Timing Belt.
> >> >
> >> > But with the Timing Belt and the other problems, looks
> >> > like I might
> >> > need to spend at least $800.
> >> >
> >> > The owner lowered her price to $3600. I think she
> >> > should
> >> > go lower
> >> > though.
> >> >
> >> > Edmunds lists Private Party True Market Value at $3697.
> >>
> >> What "Vehicle condition" did you put in for this price?
> >>
> >> Of the five categories of "vehicle condition," I think
> >> this
> >> 94 Accord LX qualifies as being somewhere between
> >> "Average"
> >> and "Rough" in condition. Edmunds gives info on what it
> >> means for each category.
> >>
> >> If the timing belt did not need replacement, I'd say it's
> >> "average," from what you've written (though I can't
> >> remember
> >> the body and interior condition).
> >>
> >> > To what degree
> >> > are these repairs accounted for in the Edmunds price?
> >> > Any
> >> > suggestions
> >> > on a fair price to pay considering the repairs?
> >>
> >> I think I'd be happy with something between the "rough"
> >> and
> >> "average" condition prices.
> >>
> >> On the other hand, how badly do you want the car? How
> >> likely
> >> is it that someone else might come along and pay what the
> >> seller is currently asking? Is the seller getting
> >> exasperated? (Not sure how experienced you are at
> >> negotiating something like this. You don't want her to
> >> just
> >> tell you to get lost. You're being thorough, and that's
> >> great.)
> >>
> >> That's my two cents. Average it with the other responses
> >> here. :-)
> >
> >
> > I would seriously look for another car. Keeripes! That
> > car seems to
> > have more issues than my (non running at the time) project
> > car which
> > only cost $100...
>
> This 94 Accord LX has very usual problems that are also,
> IMO, nickel and dime stuff. The CV boot and axle are the
> most serious items, IMO. Yet those problems come up here all
> the time.
>
> If there were serious engine problems, like a blown head
> gasket or bad engine compression, then I'd be worried.
06-21-2006 | 12:17 PM
#110
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
<webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
>average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car,
What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
more polite than I perhaps should be).
Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
car know about timing belts.
OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
people are what they are" situation.
> so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
(previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
from her.
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
---
How are the final values determined?
Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
collected data along with historical trends, current
economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
location. The resulting values reflect the most current
representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
the average consumer.
http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
---
Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
make a sale.
Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
>average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car,
What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
more polite than I perhaps should be).
Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
car know about timing belts.
OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
people are what they are" situation.
> so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
(previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
from her.
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
---
How are the final values determined?
Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
collected data along with historical trends, current
economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
location. The resulting values reflect the most current
representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
the average consumer.
http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
---
Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
make a sale.
Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
06-21-2006 | 12:17 PM
#111
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
<webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
>average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car,
What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
more polite than I perhaps should be).
Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
car know about timing belts.
OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
people are what they are" situation.
> so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
(previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
from her.
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
---
How are the final values determined?
Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
collected data along with historical trends, current
economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
location. The resulting values reflect the most current
representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
the average consumer.
http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
---
Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
make a sale.
Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
>average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car,
What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
more polite than I perhaps should be).
Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
car know about timing belts.
OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
people are what they are" situation.
> so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
(previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
from her.
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
---
How are the final values determined?
Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
collected data along with historical trends, current
economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
location. The resulting values reflect the most current
representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
the average consumer.
http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
---
Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
make a sale.
Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
06-21-2006 | 12:17 PM
#112
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
<webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
>average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car,
What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
more polite than I perhaps should be).
Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
car know about timing belts.
OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
people are what they are" situation.
> so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
(previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
from her.
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
---
How are the final values determined?
Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
collected data along with historical trends, current
economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
location. The resulting values reflect the most current
representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
the average consumer.
http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
---
Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
make a sale.
Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
>average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car,
What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
more polite than I perhaps should be).
Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
car know about timing belts.
OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
people are what they are" situation.
> so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
(previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
from her.
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
---
How are the final values determined?
Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
collected data along with historical trends, current
economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
location. The resulting values reflect the most current
representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
the average consumer.
http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
---
Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
make a sale.
Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
06-21-2006 | 07:26 PM
#113
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
<webmaster@tfy.com> wrote in message
news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
>
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
>
Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
you slice it, that seller is poison.
I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
Mike
news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
>
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
>
Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
you slice it, that seller is poison.
I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
Mike
06-21-2006 | 07:26 PM
#114
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
<webmaster@tfy.com> wrote in message
news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
>
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
>
Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
you slice it, that seller is poison.
I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
Mike
news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
>
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
>
Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
you slice it, that seller is poison.
I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
Mike
06-21-2006 | 07:26 PM
#115
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
<webmaster@tfy.com> wrote in message
news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
>
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
>
Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
you slice it, that seller is poison.
I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
Mike
news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
>I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
>
> She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> changing it into the price.
>
> On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
>
> Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> were selling above blue book.
>
> Is this right?
>
Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
you slice it, that seller is poison.
I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
Mike
06-22-2006 | 12:23 AM
#116
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
Too bad I probably won't be able to get her to lower her price. But
the good thing is I have learned a lot through this.
I am still looking and will hopefully be able to find something soon.
I saw 97 Accord EX Sedan at a dealer listed at $3900. It has 136k
miles. Dealer is trying to find out when the timing belt was changed
on the car. Hopefully will find out something soon.
I am not too excited about the 98 Escort for $5000. I will keep
looking.
Many thanks again for your taking time to post to this thread.
Elle wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
> >average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> > thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> > "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> > said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> > necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car,
>
> What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
> devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
> occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
> schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
> or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
> someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
> more polite than I perhaps should be).
>
> Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
> car know about timing belts.
>
> OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
> people are what they are" situation.
>
> > so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
>
> I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
> (previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
> citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
> on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
> address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
> from her.
>
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> > the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> > and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> > about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> > and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> > price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> > efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
>
> Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
> ---
> How are the final values determined?
> Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
> process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
> collected data along with historical trends, current
> economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
> location. The resulting values reflect the most current
> representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
> relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
> the average consumer.
> http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
> ---
>
> Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
> make a sale.
>
> Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
> folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
> on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
the good thing is I have learned a lot through this.
I am still looking and will hopefully be able to find something soon.
I saw 97 Accord EX Sedan at a dealer listed at $3900. It has 136k
miles. Dealer is trying to find out when the timing belt was changed
on the car. Hopefully will find out something soon.
I am not too excited about the 98 Escort for $5000. I will keep
looking.
Many thanks again for your taking time to post to this thread.
Elle wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
> >average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> > thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> > "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> > said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> > necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car,
>
> What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
> devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
> occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
> schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
> or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
> someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
> more polite than I perhaps should be).
>
> Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
> car know about timing belts.
>
> OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
> people are what they are" situation.
>
> > so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
>
> I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
> (previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
> citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
> on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
> address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
> from her.
>
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> > the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> > and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> > about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> > and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> > price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> > efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
>
> Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
> ---
> How are the final values determined?
> Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
> process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
> collected data along with historical trends, current
> economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
> location. The resulting values reflect the most current
> representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
> relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
> the average consumer.
> http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
> ---
>
> Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
> make a sale.
>
> Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
> folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
> on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
06-22-2006 | 12:23 AM
#117
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
Too bad I probably won't be able to get her to lower her price. But
the good thing is I have learned a lot through this.
I am still looking and will hopefully be able to find something soon.
I saw 97 Accord EX Sedan at a dealer listed at $3900. It has 136k
miles. Dealer is trying to find out when the timing belt was changed
on the car. Hopefully will find out something soon.
I am not too excited about the 98 Escort for $5000. I will keep
looking.
Many thanks again for your taking time to post to this thread.
Elle wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
> >average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> > thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> > "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> > said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> > necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car,
>
> What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
> devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
> occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
> schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
> or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
> someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
> more polite than I perhaps should be).
>
> Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
> car know about timing belts.
>
> OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
> people are what they are" situation.
>
> > so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
>
> I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
> (previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
> citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
> on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
> address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
> from her.
>
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> > the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> > and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> > about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> > and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> > price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> > efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
>
> Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
> ---
> How are the final values determined?
> Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
> process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
> collected data along with historical trends, current
> economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
> location. The resulting values reflect the most current
> representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
> relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
> the average consumer.
> http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
> ---
>
> Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
> make a sale.
>
> Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
> folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
> on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
the good thing is I have learned a lot through this.
I am still looking and will hopefully be able to find something soon.
I saw 97 Accord EX Sedan at a dealer listed at $3900. It has 136k
miles. Dealer is trying to find out when the timing belt was changed
on the car. Hopefully will find out something soon.
I am not too excited about the 98 Escort for $5000. I will keep
looking.
Many thanks again for your taking time to post to this thread.
Elle wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
> >average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> > thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> > "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> > said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> > necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car,
>
> What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
> devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
> occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
> schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
> or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
> someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
> more polite than I perhaps should be).
>
> Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
> car know about timing belts.
>
> OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
> people are what they are" situation.
>
> > so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
>
> I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
> (previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
> citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
> on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
> address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
> from her.
>
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> > the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> > and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> > about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> > and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> > price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> > efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
>
> Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
> ---
> How are the final values determined?
> Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
> process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
> collected data along with historical trends, current
> economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
> location. The resulting values reflect the most current
> representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
> relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
> the average consumer.
> http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
> ---
>
> Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
> make a sale.
>
> Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
> folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
> on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
06-22-2006 | 12:23 AM
#118
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
Too bad I probably won't be able to get her to lower her price. But
the good thing is I have learned a lot through this.
I am still looking and will hopefully be able to find something soon.
I saw 97 Accord EX Sedan at a dealer listed at $3900. It has 136k
miles. Dealer is trying to find out when the timing belt was changed
on the car. Hopefully will find out something soon.
I am not too excited about the 98 Escort for $5000. I will keep
looking.
Many thanks again for your taking time to post to this thread.
Elle wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
> >average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> > thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> > "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> > said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> > necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car,
>
> What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
> devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
> occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
> schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
> or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
> someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
> more polite than I perhaps should be).
>
> Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
> car know about timing belts.
>
> OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
> people are what they are" situation.
>
> > so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
>
> I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
> (previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
> citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
> on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
> address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
> from her.
>
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> > the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> > and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> > about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> > and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> > price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> > efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
>
> Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
> ---
> How are the final values determined?
> Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
> process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
> collected data along with historical trends, current
> economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
> location. The resulting values reflect the most current
> representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
> relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
> the average consumer.
> http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
> ---
>
> Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
> make a sale.
>
> Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
> folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
> on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
the good thing is I have learned a lot through this.
I am still looking and will hopefully be able to find something soon.
I saw 97 Accord EX Sedan at a dealer listed at $3900. It has 136k
miles. Dealer is trying to find out when the timing belt was changed
on the car. Hopefully will find out something soon.
I am not too excited about the 98 Escort for $5000. I will keep
looking.
Many thanks again for your taking time to post to this thread.
Elle wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for
> >average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I
> > thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an
> > "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she
> > said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely
> > necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car,
>
> What a pity her mechanic is so wrong-headed, unaware of the
> devastating consequences of broken timing belts, which do
> occur if the belt is not changed per the maintenance
> schedule. That she believes him and won't look at an owner's
> or other manual on the subject says you're dealing with
> someone quite unreasonable and a bit ignorant (that's way
> more polite than I perhaps should be).
>
> Most owners who have any kind of maintenance done on their
> car know about timing belts.
>
> OTOH, she has the car. You want it. ISTM it's an "Oh well;
> people are what they are" situation.
>
> > so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
>
> I would leave her a copy of the maintenance schedule
> (previously cited in this thread), at least three web site
> citations that discuss broken timing belts, my offer based
> on the Edmunds price and repairs, my phone number/email
> address, and then walk away. I would not expect to hear back
> from her.
>
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out
> > the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on,
> > and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is
> > about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes
> > and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the
> > price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel
> > efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
>
> Kelley Blue Book's site suggests otherwise. Excerpt:
> ---
> How are the final values determined?
> Used values are determined by a proprietary editorial
> process. This process starts with a thorough analysis of all
> collected data along with historical trends, current
> economic conditions, industry developments, seasonality and
> location. The resulting values reflect the most current
> representation of a changing marketplace and are therefore
> relied upon by a variety of leading organizations as well as
> the average consumer.
> http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/ke.kb.s...ebook;article&
> ---
>
> Based on many reports, dealers will say almost anything to
> make a sale.
>
> Sorry this may be frustrating. Hang in there. Plenty of
> folks report getting fair prices on new and used cars, based
> on Edmunds and Blue Book, here. I would keep looking.
06-22-2006 | 12:31 AM
#119
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
Thanks for the post.
Regarding the broken springs, the mechanic said they were broken toward
the bottom of the spring. He showed me, but is was difficult to see as
the lower part of the springs were slightly concealed by the wheel.
He said the danger was the springs could break in another place higher
up causing the car to be undrivable as you mentioned. The mechanic
said Escorts in before and up to the 98 year were notorious for this
problem. However, he also said in their current condition, these
springs could be driven on another 2 years.
Considering the price, I am not that excited in this 98 Escort. I
will keep looking.
Michael Pardee wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote in message
> news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
> >
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
> >
> Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
> Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
>
> I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
> not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
> knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
> stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
> the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
> you slice it, that seller is poison.
>
> I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
> springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
> Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
> rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
> rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
>
> Mike
Regarding the broken springs, the mechanic said they were broken toward
the bottom of the spring. He showed me, but is was difficult to see as
the lower part of the springs were slightly concealed by the wheel.
He said the danger was the springs could break in another place higher
up causing the car to be undrivable as you mentioned. The mechanic
said Escorts in before and up to the 98 year were notorious for this
problem. However, he also said in their current condition, these
springs could be driven on another 2 years.
Considering the price, I am not that excited in this 98 Escort. I
will keep looking.
Michael Pardee wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote in message
> news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
> >
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
> >
> Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
> Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
>
> I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
> not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
> knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
> stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
> the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
> you slice it, that seller is poison.
>
> I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
> springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
> Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
> rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
> rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
>
> Mike
06-22-2006 | 12:31 AM
#120
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: buying recommendation 94 Accord LX Wagon
Thanks for the post.
Regarding the broken springs, the mechanic said they were broken toward
the bottom of the spring. He showed me, but is was difficult to see as
the lower part of the springs were slightly concealed by the wheel.
He said the danger was the springs could break in another place higher
up causing the car to be undrivable as you mentioned. The mechanic
said Escorts in before and up to the 98 year were notorious for this
problem. However, he also said in their current condition, these
springs could be driven on another 2 years.
Considering the price, I am not that excited in this 98 Escort. I
will keep looking.
Michael Pardee wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote in message
> news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
> >
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
> >
> Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
> Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
>
> I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
> not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
> knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
> stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
> the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
> you slice it, that seller is poison.
>
> I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
> springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
> Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
> rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
> rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
>
> Mike
Regarding the broken springs, the mechanic said they were broken toward
the bottom of the spring. He showed me, but is was difficult to see as
the lower part of the springs were slightly concealed by the wheel.
He said the danger was the springs could break in another place higher
up causing the car to be undrivable as you mentioned. The mechanic
said Escorts in before and up to the 98 year were notorious for this
problem. However, he also said in their current condition, these
springs could be driven on another 2 years.
Considering the price, I am not that excited in this 98 Escort. I
will keep looking.
Michael Pardee wrote:
> <webmaster@tfy.com> wrote in message
> news:1150904769.047863.83170@c74g2000cwc.googlegro ups.com...
> >I explained to the owner what the Edmunds TMV price was for average and
> > rough condition. Since I really need to get a car soon, I thought I
> > would go above what the Edmunds TMV price of 2739 for an "Average"
> > condition 94 Accord LX Wagon. I offered $3000 and she said no way.
> >
> > She says her mechanic thinks that it is not absolutely necessary to
> > change the timing belt on the car, so she won't consider the cost of
> > changing it into the price.
> >
> > On another note, I had the 98 Escort inspected. Turns out the car has
> > broken coil springs, needs to have the brakes worked on, and a new tie
> > rod. Cost to replace both Coil springs and struts is about $500 to
> > $550. Dealer said he would take care of the Front brakes and the tie
> > rod, but not the Coil Springs. He won't budge on the price of $4995.
> >
> > Dealer said that because of high gas prices, small fuel efficient cars
> > were selling above blue book.
> >
> > Is this right?
> >
> Small cars are definitely commanding a premium, but let's not get wacky.
> Maybe somebody will pay the asking price, but you have options.
>
> I have grave doubts a mechanic would have told the Accord owner that it is
> not absolutely necessary to change the timing belt. Any competent mechanic
> knows it is absolutely, positively, necessary. The intervals can be
> stretched so the mechanic can say it is not absolutely necessary to change
> the timing belt *right now* but that is disingenuous at best. No matter how
> you slice it, that seller is poison.
>
> I don't understand about the broken springs. Normally a car with broken
> springs is not drivable (tires rubbing on wheel wells... things like that).
> Broken springs would also be unusual in a '98 that wasn't driven a lot of
> rough-road miles. I've seen broken springs on vehicles driven on dirt and
> rock roads, but not cars driven on public streets.
>
> Mike