pwnzorz213

i dont know if i should buy this car, its a 98 civic lx with 200k miles on it, it has all original parts on it. the price is 3k. i am thinking of getting it because i will be able to pay it in payments over 15months, and dont have a car right now... based on this, would it be worth buying, would i need a new engine soon, if so how much would it cost, would i need to replace anything else soon, is the price too much.........

Schuy

Well you shouldnt worry too much about the miles as long as everything appears to be in good condition. Check the oil, coolant, brakewear, tire tread, how solid all the axles and steering joints are, etc. Honda engines can last well into the 300k range when they arent abused. The timing belt should probably be replaced if he previous owner hasnt already because if it snaps ur engine is f*cked over big time (dealer install - 500, parts - roughly 200-250). If everything checks out AND the timing belt HAS been replaced i would say you should consider it. But if the tires are crap, and/or the timing belt needs replacing, i would try to negotiate down from 3k...its only and lx and it has a **** ton of miles. I bought my 98 civic ex with 140k for 3600 which isnt really that much more for the 60k less miles. So basically what im saying is you should prolly see if you can negotiate the price down just a bit, maybe try and talk them into 2600 or even 2800 to cover some of the parts and hassle of having to replace the timing belt (assuming you have to, it requires lifting the engine off one of its mounts).

Hope this helped a little, i know it was a bit drawn out lol. I did a ton of research before i bought my civic.