An FC is for sale and Im thinking about buying it. From what he says, the car runs, but is a pain to start? He left the country for out a month and when he came back it was a hatsle to start. The only way to get it started is to keep your foot on the gas, but once you let go, the car dies. What could be the problem? The owner doesn't even have a clue. I was thinking that there might be a vacuum leak, but is there more to it? He is asking $1400 for this car. I think that's too much since there is also body damage. What sounds like a fair deal?

 

sounds like a blown motor to me your better off looking for another car in better shape i mean i bought an 86 base model with full interior and 100% straight body for $400 you just gotta look around... but if anything do a compression check on the motor it does sound like a blown apex to me...
TwEaK

 

For pricing it helps to know the year and model.

Basically, check KBB.com for the Blue Book price and run an autocheck on the car. Then check the FC FAQ and the associated Arron Cake buying guide for stuff you can check on yourself.

If it has a salvage title, it's pretty much a no-go. They're a massive pain in the *** as far as I know. If you're shopping for a used car I'd recommend getting a autocheck.com acct. I got the 60 day one and ran the VIN numbers of every car I could find. (Hell, PM me and I'll run the check for ya.)

Also if you're not to keen on working on cars, the rotary can be a bit of a problem. The mechanics who worked on my car for the previous owners didn't know what they were doing. My thermostat was missing, wrong kind of oil, wrong radiator caps, bad transmission oil... etc. Being an old car, it probably needs work.

Depending on where you live, there might be a decent amount of other FC's available. If this one doesn't work out, just keep checking the listings and follow up on good leads. I used autos.yahoo.com which is another front end for autotrader.com. If you search daily there's a good chance you'll be the first one to get on the car, which helps your chances of getting one. I had 2 FC's snatched out from under me.

Sorry for not being able to help with your mechanical problem, but if I were in your shoes... I'd look for another FC. (Don't worry, there's more around.)

-Twofer

 

I wouldn't get a problem FC as your first. You'll be much happier with one that is in good running condition.

 

Couldn't agree more...

 

A non running car with body work needed is a poor choice and at $1400, he is asking probably twice what it is worth.

 

I think you should tell him to divide that price by 10, something a along the lines of 140.00 is all its worth. tell him to take it or leave it. It sure as hell isnt worth 1400.00

 

And chances are you still won't be trouble free. I bought mine in good shape, and have still needed to work on a few things, some preventative maintainence, and addressing other minor issues. Patience is definitely key, I waited over a year, and spent a bit more than I originally wanted to, but I ended up pretty happy with the car I got.

 

Thanks for the help guys. I thot this deal sounded like a rip off! I was just wondering if any of you guys knew anyone selling an FC around NorCal?

 

just broaden your search a little, there is a bit for sale all over the place, and being from the NW i know there is a few in oregon
Just keep looking until ya find one thats good for ya, the second ya rush into one, is the second ya get something thats only going to last a month or two.