2006 Skoda Octavia w/non-working AC

[Lcats]

I am trying to buy a cheapish reliable used estate car. Not many cars like this in my area, and since we don't currently have a car we cannot travel to far away places where most dealerships seem to be located.

Saw a 2006 Octavia today. Seems to be in good condition, low mileage (82000), service history in skoda garage.The owner asked for 2750.

The bad thing about it: AC isn't working. Above that the guy selling it only had it for 2 months. Claims he bought it for his wife, but it's too long, so they bought a different car for her and selling this one.

He claims "they didn't use the A/C" or the car itself, so haven't got around to fixing it. The guy isn't especially shifty or anything like that.

I have no way of knowing whether it is the gas, or the compressor failure (I heard these are common with skodas).

To me it smells fishy. Should I spend money and time and to have the a/c and the car itself checked by a garage. I mean, I could try to do it myself following the you tube guide but I don't really have any experience with the mechanical side of cars (like the most I ever did is checked the oil and coolant), so not sure how much I should trust myself.

A more general question: would it be better to just take a day off and visit some dealership to buy a car rather than continue to try and buy a car from private owner.

[ZX10R NIN]

Price up the cost of a new A/C pump including fitting & take this off the price either that or get a cheap hire (go with your partner or a friend so they can drive it home) car give yourself five cars to look at & go from there (either private or trade) go to the furthest one first & work your way home you'll easily find the right car.

Ask the right questions (like does the A/C work etc) & do the right checks before adding any car to the list & you'll find one that suits you easily enough.

[xjay1337]

Just scan it with VCDS.

Probably one of the pressure sensors. Common issue. £130 fix

Even a new AC compressor is not that expensive from Ebay or a car being broken.

Could also have a leaky AC condensor.
Last one I got cost £35 from Euros with a discount code applied.

for your budget (under £3k it seems?) you will need to accept some issues.

[littlebasher]

Ah, the old "Bought for my wife but she doesn't like it" bobbins

IMO, usually one of two reasons - a shonky driveway trader or he's since discovered the car is fked

Out of interest., try putting his mobile number into google and see what it comes up with.

[Petroleum Gas]

Be careful sir you may get your pants pulled down on this one. Walk away and look for another.

[Lcats]

Thanks for your answers.

Yes, so we decided to abandon this car, rent a car and go see cars at some dealers. So what would be the right questions to ask about the cars? I guess a working A/C is now on the list I will appreciate other suggestions.

[xjay1337]

littlebasher said:

Ah, the old "Bought for my wife but she doesn't like it" bobbins

IMO, usually one of two reasons - a shonky driveway trader or he's since discovered the car is fked

Out of interest., try putting his mobile number into google and see what it comes up with.

To be fair my Mrs bought an Altea from my mate as a run around.
She hates the car , cos it's too big for her and the turbo whines. but there is nothing wrong with it, and the turbo whine is just "one of those things" this car does.

I've done 3500 miles in it no problems and gave her my new Fiesta instead.! .