Need some fast buying advice!!

Rozwell28 · 01-02-2012, 11:31 AM

Hi guys,

I'd really appreciate some quick opinions regarding a BA II I'm looking at buying.

I know a guy who is selling a 2005 BA II ute underpriced by about 3k. He knows its underpriced, and doesnt care, its not well presented at all.

The ute only has 100,000km, and it seemed fine when I test drove it, but I cant get past the service history.

The 5000km 'peace of mind' service has been marked in the book, but then the 15,000 km AND the 30,000km services are blank. I believe they dont actually change the oil at the 5000km, so its POSSIBLE the first oil change that ute ever had was at 45,000km.

Given that it was a new engine, it makes me think there would've been a high particulate count in the oil- more than normal at least- as the engine wore itself in.

I feel like that's a terrible thing to do to an engine, but I like the car and it seems fine, plenty of power, no smoke etc, and I know the I6 is a strong rig.

My question is- should I just drop the whole thing based on that service history? Or would you look past it? I need a fresh opinion.

galaxy xr8 · 01-02-2012, 11:36 AM

You might be better putting this in the B-series section mate.

Rozwell28 · 01-02-2012, 11:39 AM

Damn sorry, I had an AU for so long its like a reflex now. Is there a way to move a thread without deleting and starting again?

ronwest · 01-02-2012, 11:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rozwell28

I need a fresh opinion.

I tend to go on available evidence.

A lot of people change their own engine oil/filter. He may well have done that.

I'd balance that by how neglected the ute looks. If it's really rough the chances are higher that he didn't care too much about mechanical things either.

I dunno, I'm an optimist.... I'd probably take a punt (providing it's not too ratty).

Rozwell28 · 01-02-2012, 11:46 AM

I doubt he would've done it- so safer to assume it wasnt done.

I've posted this in the B series section as well, so this can be deleted if moderators want.

ronwest · 01-02-2012, 11:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rozwell28

I doubt he would've done it

That being the case I'd probably pass on a 7 year old, neglected vehicle @ a saving of $3K.

pundit · 01-02-2012, 12:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ronwest

That being the case I'd probably pass on a 7 year old, neglected vehicle @ a saving of $3K.

What he said, can save more than 3k if you go to auction. But if your mechanically minded you can get BA motors for sub $400...