MR2 mark 1 - what to look out for

[apocalypso]

Sorry if this has been covered (which I'm sure it has!) but the search function is broken at the moment. I'm going to look at a Mark 1 MR2 tomorrow and I could do with some pointers on what to look for. I have read Nick Challoner's buyers guide (www.challoner.com/mr2/tech/mk1bg.html) which is comprehensive but a bit too much to take in. Does anyone have any advice on some obvious things to look out for which would help me work out whether it's a good example or not?

Thanks

[rwd.wiganer]

Rust will be the main thing to look for! I recently saw a red mark 1 what appeared to be completely rotten from the rear quarters back!

[Wadeski]

RUST!

especially on sills, rear arches, around the windows and moonroof/T-bars....

[apocalypso]

I definitely see a pattern emerging here! I'll make sure rust is the first thing I look for, thanks.

[Marf]

Has anyone mentioned rust?

[firman]

Make sure there are no probs with 5th gear on over run and as already mentioned rust!

I picked this one uo a few weeks back

[RobCrezz]

Check oil filler cap and dipstick for mayo.

Check all the arches.

5th gear pop out.

suspension knocks and noises.

[deviant]

Crash damage.

Good tyres are a must and look for regular alignment checks if there is any history.

Around 60 - 70mph the steering wheel might start shaking. Its normally caused by flogged steering rack bushes, track rod ends or steering knuckles. They are sensative to being lowered and can also be caused by out of round tyres and rims in which case its a lot harder to sort cheaply.

As mentioned 5th gear pop out. Sit stationary and put it in 5th and keeping the hand brake on load up the transmission. You can also try accelerating hard in 5th gear.

[apocalypso]

Thanks everyone, I'll keep all of that in mind

Firman, that's a lovely looking car, you must be very pleased about it!

[firman]

apocalypso said:

Thanks everyone, I'll keep all of that in mind

Firman, that's a lovely looking car, you must be very pleased about it!

Yeah mate. If you have never owned one before you will be hooked in no time! Best of luck with yours and remember to stick some pics up in readers cars when you get it

[apocalypso]

Nope never had one but they've always appealed to me! Every time I've seen one I've felt quite envious. I almost ran in to the back of a traffic jam on the A34 last week because I was looking at one which was sitting next to me. When I've found one I'll get some pics up.

[RobCrezz]

apocalypso said:

Nope never had one but they've always appealed to me! Every time I've seen one I've felt quite envious. I almost ran in to the back of a traffic jam on the A34 last week because I was looking at one which was sitting next to me. When I've found one I'll get some pics up.

They are fantastic cars, if you find a good one you wont be disappointed.

[sadako]

Look for rust behind the front bumper too - really common. For the most part the mechanicals are bombproof though. Be warned that rainwater does go all over the alternator and they can need replacing but it is a 2 bolt/big hammer job. Even I could do it.

[deviant]

Oh yeah radiator supports go rusty...good point!

The distributor can leak oil to. Very easy fix though as its just a couple of rubber o-rings that perish.

[apocalypso]

Thanks everyone, that was a lot of help. I went to see one last night and checked for all of those things. There was quite a bit of rust; all the panels on the rear arches and the front bumper would have needed replacing. Also there were a few things that didn't feel right when driving - the gearbox felt a bit clunky and the steering was way off, it wouldn't drive in a straight line! So it was either in severe need of a wheel alignment (although the tyres were in quite good condition) or been involved in an accident. It was too dark to get underneath and have a good look. So sadly I'm going to give this one a miss. Just going to keep looking!

[firman]

Have you checked out the owners club forims? There are a few for sale on there and most of them are well looked after.

Linky
http://www.mr2mk1club.com/


Also drop this guy an email he may be able to help you out.

[e-mail]

[apocalypso]

cheers Firman, I'll check that out