Not buying from a Toyota dealer...buyer beware?

gossamer88 · #1 (**permalink**) 06-16-2008, 07:25 PM

I found a really good deal on a 05 (V6, 2WD, Alloys, 35K miles, 3rd row) for 16K total. Problem is that the dealer is a used car dealership in CT. They mostly sell pre-owned leases. Test drove it and rode very well. A few surface nicks here and there that are not a big deal as overall the car is in pretty good shape inside and out.

Being that this is in another state, I would like a mechanic to look it over. I found a place called Lemon Protector. Has anyone heard of or use this service? Be curious to see if this is worth it.

gossamer88 · #2 (**permalink**) 06-18-2008, 09:58 AM

So we had the HL checked out by Lemon Protector. Cost us almost 300 bucks! But peace of mind can be expensive. Most everything checked out OK. Needs an oil changed and air filter, brakes good, tires also in good shape.

Looks like we're back in the saddle again with a Highlander! All I want now is the rear spoiler!

bepperb · #3 (**permalink**) 06-18-2008, 01:34 PM

It's still under warranty, right? If it hadn't been in an accident, I would have no problem buying it, and no need for the lemon protector. I do carfax, though.

gossamer88 · #4 (**permalink**) 06-18-2008, 05:34 PM

We have the CarFax. Comes up clean there as well. But if it's not reported, then the CarFax won't say. Sometimes I feel it's useless.

No warranty, but I feel good that it's in good shape. Toyota's reliabilty plays a factor in that not being a concern.

bepperb · #5 (**permalink**) 06-19-2008, 09:05 AM

The powertrain should still be under warranty until 60,000 miles, so you have some time there.

Yes, I had an accident with my Accord a few years ago, rear quarter panel replaced, nothing showed up on carfax even a few years later. But, if you open the doors and look for welds there (where a new quarter panel would be joined), and take a quick look under the front bumper at the aluminum plate (which is damaged in any collision), and just a general look around you should be easily convinced of whether it's been in a serious accident or not. Then just make sure the tires have even wear, and the other once-overs one would give a car otherwise.

If all that looks good... it hasn't been in an accident and you do have powertrain warranty you should be fine. The only things left to go wrong are things you can probably live with for a bit, and fix pretty easily. Being a Toyota helps. Few known issues, with the heater mostly, but if this is your second you already know about them.