Chassis leg checks

[PVN]

Hi,

I'm going to look at a 2003 MX5 tomorrow from a private seller. I've read all the horror stories about chassis leg rust around the anti-roll bar mount. Is there any way to check this area without removing the undertray? I don't imagine the vendor would be too pleased if I asked to remove it!

I guess if all else checks out I could book it for an inspection but I would like to get some idea for myself beforehand. The car is low mileage, approx. 50,000 miles, and with a full Mazda service history. The current owner has had it for six years and gives a plausible reason for selling.

Any advice gratefully received.

Thanks,

PVN

[S7Paul]

No, you have to remove the undertray or you'll potentially miss something expensive! When we were looking for a replacement for my daughter's written-off 1.8 Sport we went armed with a boot full of ramps, tools, trolley jack, etc. We warned the sellers beforehand, so there were no surprises. If anyone won't let you have a look, walk away. The cost of getting it fixed on a car that's only worth £2-3K is such that it's essential to know what you're buying.

I also took my camera, as I could photograph areas I couldn't see properly, and then zoom-in on the screen. And don't forget to check the sills and wheel arches too!

ETA: Low mileage and FSH are no guarantee of a rust-free car; you'll be amazed at how rusty everything looks under there, but luckily most of it (on wishbones, etc.) will be surface rust.

Edited by S7Paul on Thursday 17th July 20:44

[lilwashu]

I turn on the LED flash on my phone, set it to record video and point it at the area in question from the top of the engine bay. You can then get a pretty good idea of the condition.

You can also have a feel with your fingers, I put mine through the metal on one car which looked in pretty good shape otherwise. Bear in mind there is a largish circular hole on the bottom of the chassis legs by design.

[PVN]

Thanks for your replies. Sadly the car had severe rust in both sills, despite the vendor assuring me there was no rust on the car anywhere, so I walked away at that point. Doubtless the chassis legs would have been poor also.

Thanks again.

PVN