About to buy tonight - what do i check

[wiredmonkey]

Hi All, Im looking to buy a 2002 172 tonight. Ive driven these cars a few times and can feel if the car drives well but what are the general clioesque things to look out for?
Cheers

 

[MATT BLACK]

Check the PAS system - move the steering wheel from left to right whilst the engine is running - check all pipes for leaks etc.

Wheel bearing noise as its driving along

keep the car in 1st gear and hit the accelerator pedal up and down randomnly - any knocking noises will mean an engine mount is faulty

exhaust system - check for corrosion and blowing ( cat £360 - middle box £280 - back box £140 )

check the zenons bulbs are working and all the other lights ( £150 each zenon bulbs)

the engine has a lower tray attached to the subframe so any leaks will drop onto the tray and not the ground - have a good look around the engine to see if you can see any leaks

check both plip keys work as they are expensive

check tyres

check ABS - build some speed up and slam the brakes on - the front should judder and vibrate but not skid. If it does this the ABS is ok - also check for any grinding on braking ( pads and discs )

check oil - obvious + all other levels

do a full check on the dashboard instrument controls

check service history ( 12k intervals )

ask to see any warranty work that has been done.

Check the condition of the auxilary belt and cam belt - have they been changed ( 72k scheduled )

If everything is ok ............... get it bought !!

 

[_Kenny_]

this man knows his stuff!