I've got some questions... Options

[aspen]

So, I'm looking at buying a Celica as my first car, and I took a look at a '94 GT today, and I've got some general questions.


It's got some rust on it, just mostly in a few nicks, but the primary place seemed to be a little 3 quarter sized patch of rust behind the passenger rear wheel. I'm just worried that the undercarriage could be full of rust, but I don't know if this is a common issue or not.

Also, I searched and didn't find any, but I'm just wondering if there are any major issues or things to watch out for.


Thanks!

[97-SX]

Don't know of any specific issues but I like to steer clear of anything with rmore than a bit of surface rust.

[Kwanza26]

Rust is more-so due to geography than design... in your case... probably geography. As far as potential problems go, these cars aren't known for any "particular" problems like say the single cam Toyota V6 trucks or DSM crankwalk. Best advice, look for leaks, listen for "odd" sounds, feel the steering, feel the suspension and don't settle, especially if it's your first car. Some cars start having minor maintenance issues fairly early, while others run on original equipment past 200,000 miles. It just depends...

[GriffGirl]

Take it to a mechanic or a tire or brake shop and ask if they'd be willing to throw the car up on a lift for you so you can inspect the undercarriage from rust. If the car is from the east coast, you're very likely to find rust under it, in which case, stay away from it, it'll be a NIGHTMARE to do any work on in the future. You can find the origin of the car by running its carfax history.

Any honest person selling a car should be more than willing to accompany you to a shop so you can have the car looked over before buying it. If they're unwilling to accommodate you, pass it by.

[frosty]

^unless he sells it to ya for $100. ^