Hi everyone, I'm austin I just registered with zukiworld because I had an important question pertaining to me.
I have a 96 subaru impreza that I've been trying to sell to replace it with a samurai, however someone just offered me a trade for a sidekick and I was wondering what you guys thought
it's a 95, 4door, manual, 4wd with 160,000 miles... any thoughts or warnings? it is in good shape and he says it has no issues, is this high mileage for a sidekick?
I figured this hasn't been asked before, but I'll try searching also.
It will probably smoke on a cold start (valve seals usually start leaking by 160K). But should clear up and not smoke anymore after 30 seconds or so. Tell him you do not want it started for the day, before you get there. That way you can check it. It really isn't a big deal if the valve seals are leaking. But just something to check. A bigger concern would be if it continues to smoke for longer than 30 seconds or smokes if you run it hard.
The timing belt should have been changed at around 100K and will be due to be changed again at 200K. You could ask him if the timing belt has been changed and when. He might tell you the truth, he might lie...you have to make the judgement on whether he is being truthful. If in doubt, change it if you buy/get it.
Rust is ok. As long as it isn't excessive. Generally, I am more concerned with the mechanical condition than the cosmetic condition.
Not really "high mileage", but it is on the upper end of "average", IMO. Like was said, these engines will run for a long time, if properly maintained (meaning change the oil and filter and keep the oil topped off). Black oil or low oil is a good indication that he doesn't keep up on the maintenance very well. So listen closely to the engine for unusual knocks, taps, pings, etc. As those can indicate that the engine may need some expensive repairs shortly.
Also, people don't seem to keep the valves adjusted on a regular basis. So if you get it, be prepared to adjust the valves (which isn't really a big deal or hard to do...just time consuming and possibly intimidating for someone with limited or no experience). But also if the valves have not been adjusted regularly, it can burn a valve. That means headwork....which usually means $$$. You could ask him when the last time the valves were adjusted (should be done about every year or 30K or so)....again, no way to tell if he is being truthful or not...you have to go with your gut.
As far as checking anything else, just do the basic checks as you would with any vehicle....make sure everything works....lights, radio, heater, AC, etc. Look over the wiring for "hack jobs"...which could indicate there was an issue with something and maybe it was repaired or maybe it wasn't. Check the tire condition...uneven wear could mean suspension or steering parts that are worn and need replaced. Listen for any unusual noises when driving. Check for looseness in the steering and wheels...which would indicate worn parts that need replaced.
