Any things to look out for apart from the usual, when buying a 2003 Focus TDCi with 97k on the clock. Apparently due its first MOT in Oct. A colleague wants one for general commuting and has found one at about £4500. Thanks,
JB
check the passener side headlight works.. see previous post !
apart from that the timing belt will need changing at 100k ( if it's not been done already ) mine needed work on the brakes for its first MOT apparently.
Yes, make sure the expensive (for a Ford) Cambelt has been done, or adjust price 400quid downwards.
EGR valves are known to leak / plug up causing sooty and low power-ed running, also a surging at low revs. This is well known and the new part is better but still is almost a service item.
Check the fuel gauge works properly, they often go flakey at very empty and very full. If it goes open circuit (i.e. empty) the car will stop- safety feature of the ecu, even if there is 5 gallons left.
Check the tail gate for rust in the V formed by the glass, and both ends of the trim panel where it vibrates against the paintwork.
Check for rust infront of the rear wheels (very common) and the sills. The earlier plastic covered sills are much less vunerable than the later painted steel ones.(obviously) Front mudflaps are a good thing.
Check for un even rear tyre wear, (suspension bushes- especially if its been regularly been loaded) and un-even front tyre wear.
The car should drive like its on rails- very surefootedly. At this mileage a set of new shocks will transform it, even if it feels good as it is. If bumps knock it off course you definately have rear bush issues.
Rear wheel bearings sometimes get noisy.
Hope this helps.
Tim..
Make sure they have the reciept for the work. If not assume it hasn't been done or check the garage has a record.
I would say price is the main issue with these, they seem to retain value extremely well. But the offer you've got currently of 4.5k (haggle the punter down a bit, of course!) is good going. Due to above average yearly mileage, make sure servicing has been carried out at regular intervals, that's really the most important. If the car's tatty inside and uncared for, that's usually a bad sign servicing-wise.
Many thanks for the advice.
JB
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