Pre-purchase inspection?

[david.mt]

Having read issues of accident damaged/repair, mechanical issues, badly maintained and failing engines I have been thinking about enrolling some help with a purchase. I don't have the knowledge myself (or the time) to give a full inspection and spot the issues.

I have the option of the factory inspecting any potential purchase but you have to get the car to them. This is still an option for the final choice but are there any recommendations for someone who could travel to inspect a potential purchase. Happy to pay for the service and without liability as long as they are qualifed to comment and come highly recommended. Even better if there are a few options to get a good geographical coverage? Maybe an enthusiast who can spare the time?

This is a typical service in the Porsche market place so don't see why it should be any different for Ultimas - maybe even more important although the market is much smaller.

Would rather invest a few £ upfront and even reject some options rather than regret the purchase sometime later.

Thanks

[738 driver]

Porsche have a 'standard product' from their production line.

Most Ultima's are built with individuality which partly contributes to their attraction. Also regularly, the initial build/purchase spec will be modified by each of the particular cars' owners. Therefore its quite difficult for any assessor.....he is really limited on comparison with a 'standard product'

It's probably best to buy the car on the basis of its included factory recommended extras, general build quality and current condition.
Many experienced builders can help you or your expert in that area.

Unless its a very low mileage example (1500 or less) I would just keep an open mind on the engine that comes with the car, depending on which breed it is. It would not really be fair on anyone to base your purchase on findings from a mere test-run/inspection when considering the engine aspect, particularly if its a tuned version....unless of course you can transfer the balance of a warranty. Do be advised warranties tend to be 'quite tight' on tuned engines....even factory recommended ones.

Good luck with your purchase.

Edited by 738 driver on Wednesday 14th January 08:47

[Wilder]

Agree with the above. Many specs/engines are so different its hard to quantify or compare any two cars. These are designed to be used like Petes, and I really dont think one that has been used say on a track should be looked on as inferior or something to be concerned about. The quality of the build is more important, along with the specifications of the car itself.

[Steve_D]

I think the nearest you will get without using the factory is to find an owner/ex owner who is willing to come along and 'Hold your hand' whilst you do your inspection. I would suggest this would be a second viewing as your first would be to build your confidence that this is the car for you and avoid someone else's time wasted.
I could probably be persuaded to come look at something down south.

Steve

[andygtt]

There is such a person who i would trust over anyone else incl the factory, so give me a ring and will give you his number.
He's always mega busy tho!

[crafty]

Steve_D said:

'Hold your hand' whilst you do your inspection.

Are you buying a Canam?

[budala]

crafty said:

Steve_D said:

'Hold your hand' whilst you do your inspection.

Are you buying a Canam?

[The-Austringer]

There is a co called Car Checkers that do it via the AA, the no is 08000568040 or the RAC used to do a similar service,
but basically its just like having another MOT, which the car should have anyway !

[Paul.B]

Speak to Andy. I would concur with his choice. There are owners out there who would be willing to 'hold your hand' but Andy's recommendation or the factory would be best for final decision time.


Paul.B

[david.mt]

Ok...I do have a current owner who has kindly volunteered to help me with an inspection and hold my hand

However being an accountant I am pulling together a checklist of areas to fully inspect which should hopefully ensure no issues so if you have bought a second hand Ultima and then subsequently found a problem or can suggest areas that are not obvious but need to be properly inspected then please respond so we can go fully armed. I will collate all responses and post the results for future second hand buyers.

And no the preferred choice is not a Can-Am

Thanks

Edited by david.mt on Monday 19th January 23:47