PugHottie wrote:Is there any tips that you folks can give for me actually going to buy the car? basic things to look out for to limit as much as possible, the chance of me buying a heap
Any realy common things to look out for on the 406?
Wet footwells and spare wheel well on saloons (easy fix, but great for haggling)
Key that works using the button AND in the lock
If it's got an immobiliser, check the condition of the keypad and make sure you get the code
Check EVERYTHING electric. If it's a D8 most things can be diagnosed and fixed quite easily
Vibrations at bite point and under hard acceleration at peak torque - sign of a shot engine mount
Shouldn't steer itself when you let go of the steering wheel
When was the cambelt last changed
On cheaper cars, check to see if you'll be buying new tyres in a week's time to replace the 5 bald ones...
Listen to the starter the first time it's started up. If it doesn't sound strong you could be buying a new battery soon
Check the aircon's cold
If there's an undertray under the engine compartment, have a look to see if there's a river of coolant under the radiator
<steve_earwig> I think this forum is more about keeping our cars going with minimal outlay than giving our cars more reason to go bang