I just had my mechanic check a Forester that I'm considering.
His two notes: the powdery, dried-up antifreeze indicates there has been an overheating in the past (I know the radiator was recently replaced), and the oil on the steering components indicate a leak of unknown severity.
The seller is a dealer who bought the car recently at an auction. He doesn't know the history but the title is clean, and the Carfax is said to be clean too (I haven't seen it yet).
With the engine, I think it could be anything from an overfilled expansion tank to a serious engine-burning boil-over. Internal warping? HG? Engine replacement is about $3500.
For the steering, worst case scenario it could need replacing which is $600-$700 he said.
The car is a 1998 Forester S. Externally very clean and straight. He has it listed for $3995
Should I avoid these potential issues and keep shopping around?
His two notes: the powdery, dried-up antifreeze indicates there has been an overheating in the past (I know the radiator was recently replaced), and the oil on the steering components indicate a leak of unknown severity.
The seller is a dealer who bought the car recently at an auction. He doesn't know the history but the title is clean, and the Carfax is said to be clean too (I haven't seen it yet).
With the engine, I think it could be anything from an overfilled expansion tank to a serious engine-burning boil-over. Internal warping? HG? Engine replacement is about $3500.
For the steering, worst case scenario it could need replacing which is $600-$700 he said.
The car is a 1998 Forester S. Externally very clean and straight. He has it listed for $3995
Should I avoid these potential issues and keep shopping around?