Contacting the last owner

[zoom star]

I have just purchased a vehicle,and although it is in very good condition, some hefty service bills are in the pile of history.
I am contemplating, sending a stamped addressed envelope to the last owner,asking if he would not mind giving me any highs or lows, of the vehicle whilst he owned it.
Did he put it in the garage because it was time to change,spent enough, or more signs of impending doom.
Has anyone done this, was it worth while,or if you were the one sent a letter you would bin it.

[Mr SFJ]

Personally, for something like how it was previously stored I wouldn't reply, but if it was relating to something like S/H or even a spare key (contemplated this recently) I would reply, just for piece of mind.

[TooMany2cvs]

I've done it, too - previous owner was very helpful and (once he got over the initial surprise) understood exactly why I was calling and what I wanted to know.

[Limpet]

I'd happily answer sensible questions about a car I'd sold on, and would have no issue asking people the same. I don't think I'd go as far as an SAE though - a call probably would be the best option assuming you could find the phone number.

[Davel]

Done it a few times asking if they'd mind me ringing them to ask about their previous car.

Never had an issue although one guy was pretty unhelpful - the rest were great.

[turboteeth]

Many many years ago I had an imported 1995 Impreza WRX which I sold to a trader. The person that eventually bought it off the forecourt kept it for a few years but when he went to sell it on an HPI check threw up an issue with outstanding finance. He then managed to trace me via my father to see if I could shed any light on it which I was happy to do - but the really odd thing was he had exactly the same christian and surname as me (and it's not a common name)...we ended up working out that we were distant relations and spoke for about an hour as to who's mother married who! In fact I dont think we ever did work out who had the outstanding finance!!

I probably would not contact a previous owner as if I thought something was a bit dodgy I wouldnt buy the car in the first place...

[12lee]

May not get a reply...

[V8forweekends]

I've posted the Reg number of my old Jag on a Jag forum in so it comes up easily on a Google search - I have the valet key and some minor spares and would be happy to explain to any future owner of the car why it ended my love affair with Jags.