306 xnd `93 is it a good buy?

My son is thinking of buying a 1993 5 door 306 XND with 110K on the clock for £500 from a car mechanic mate. The car starts first time, doesn't look to bad and drives OK. What sort of things should he check out on the car? What are the major cost items for repair?

regards,

David

Reply to
David
Loading thread data ...

David,

Look out for leaking head gasket and that it starts ok when cold, other than that these engines are fairly bullet-proof. Make sure the window demister works ok, and there is no damp anywhere in the vehicle. If it has power steering, check for leaks. Listen for loud whining noise from the alternator (there shouldn't be one) check all electrics. If it has ABS, take it to a stretch of gravel or very wet slipy road and test it. Check the condition of the tyres and exhaust (Good bargaining points)

At that price I suspect the cambelt is due, along with a good service and seeing too. Possibly the brakes will need checking too. (Unless you know the guy very well, do not take his word on the cambelt 'just been done mate') In my experience, if somebody says the cambelt was done not so long back, it means 4-6 years ago.

They are reasonable cars at this price bracket.

Andy

Reply to
Nik&Andy

Hi, Andy

thanks for the advice. I have had a few replies now and all have suggested that the 306 would be a good buy. On Saturday I had a look at the car with my son and was amazed at the rust free condition of the bodywork. The car started straight off from cold, with no black smoke! The only dampness I could find inside was ?cos his car mechanic mate (seller) had replaced the heater matrix the day before. There was no obvious leaks or bits hanging off. The clutch seemed a bit "heavy" but other than that I reckon that we will be buying, subject to a ramp inspection and MOT,

thanks again,

David

Reply to
tealandsilver

If the heater matrix had started to leak, just be aware that it might have been caused by pressure in the cooling system, which in turn could mean a head gasket on the way. The matrix is also aluminium, and will rot away if there is insufficient protection in the coolant. This in turn will also affect the cylender head - Guess how I know?

Reply to
brian

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.