Possible new owner here..pls advise...

Just joined your forum......hello!



I know cars in general but not a mechanic. Have always loved these cars from a distance. Just found a used one w/ 165 k in dark green for $2600. Dont know the specifics yet......cant even recall year..........sorry,... but it is awd, auto. Pls tell me where to look on line, or what to look out for on these cars w/ such hi miles.....I also own a 92 Legacy w/ 132k that runs like a top. THANKS

[Weebitob]

Welcome to the SVX World Network.

I am probably just as proficient at automotive mechanics as you are if not less so I may have a hard time articulating some of the potential problems a hih mileage SVX may have.

One I can though is if the SVX has rear wheel bearing problems problems you would usually hear a squealing sound coming from the back, sometimes it constant or sometimes it reaccuring, its just something you should look out for.

Another one which I ran into with the SVX, is uneven brake pads, which is not too expensive to fix but can be quite annoying or even dangerous if your ride vibrates and shakes a bit each time you apply the brakes.

There are also tranny problems that can occur on high mileage SVXs, but other members on this forum could probably explain that one better.

Regardless though, you should always check a potential your car buying with your trusted local mechanic, ask the current owner if he can bring the SVX there before you make a purchase.

Well, hopefully you can get that SVX you always wanted, maybe if it is even not that one. If not though good luck with any car you decide to purchase.

[dcarrb]

Originally Posted by joelrkaplan

Pls tell me where to look on line, or what to look out for on these cars w/ such hi miles...

Greetings. I think you've come to the best place to research potential problems with an SVX, but you will have to so some reading.

High mileage is no problem; it's how the car has been treated over those miles that matters. The transmission (all were automatics from the factory, BTW) has probably the greatest potential for wrecking your maintenance budget. It's like any other older car, really: If you buy one that's been thrashed and/or neglected it's liable to cost you, but luck-upon one that's been treated right and you'll be rewarded with a sweet ride. Good luck.

dcb

[TomsSVX]

There are three main things to look deeply for when buying an SVX with any kind of mileage.

- The rear bearings tend to go out fairly quickly on these car especially if they were inproperly replaced. You will rear a roar out of the rear of the car. Like a bad tire, it will be consistant with the speed of the vehicle, louder when you go faster... If there is no noise, the bearings should be ok

- The auto trans tends to overheat due to poor cooling from the factory. Be sure that the shifts are firm and that the rpms do not flare between shifts. Also take slow sharp turns to be sure the rear clutchs is not binding.

- Also look for smoke when comming to a stop as the front seals tend to leak after running at high rpms, also this smoke could be a powersteering leak or a transmission cooler line leak.

That is about it aside from any normal car inspection. Just make sure you check these things out

Tom

[Aredubjay]

First off, WELCOME to the Network!

Secondly, we can't direct you to a better source of information for these cars -- you are at the Premier SVX information source! These forums were created by SVXers for SVXers -- you'll learn tips, tricks, personal experiences and personal frustrations -- we're a "therapy group" if you will.

The search button is one of your most valuable assets, however, there are those of us who are happy to re-re-re-re-answer some of the most FAQ's. If you see a post by someone whom you think would be able to speak to a certain situation, or, someone who lives close to you, feel free to PM or Email them -- you won't find a friendlier or more helpful group of folks.

Again, welcome.

[AppStateSVX]

one thing i would definitely recommend is getting the transmission checked, that is the only real major problem with the SVX, and would be well worth every penny to get done.

[Earthworm]

You may find this helpful:

Hot to the SVXipedia on http://svx-iw.com/ then click "General Information" followed by "What to Look For in a Used SVX"

[The Goat]

Buy it.

I was where you are six weeks ago. These cars are a) beautiful, b) fun c) rare.

I have yet to have my first major expenditure on the vehicle (aside from a tranny cable) - so I'm probably a bit biased.

Keep a backup car if possible, but...just buy it. Especially if the tranny is solid.

[Chiketkd]

Originally Posted by TomsSVX

There are three main things to look deeply for when buying an SVX with any kind of mileage.

- The rear bearings tend to go out fairly quickly on these car especially if they were inproperly replaced. You will rear a roar out of the rear of the car. Like a bad tire, it will be consistant with the speed of the vehicle, louder when you go faster... If there is no noise, the bearings should be ok

- The auto trans tends to overheat due to poor cooling from the factory. Be sure that the shifts are firm and that the rpms do not flare between shifts. Also take slow sharp turns to be sure the rear clutchs is not binding.

- Also look for smoke when comming to a stop as the front seals tend to leak after running at high rpms, also this smoke could be a powersteering leak or a transmission cooler line leak.

That is about it aside from any normal car inspection. Just make sure you check these things out

Tom

Ditto. If the car passes these tests, buy it in heart beat at that price!!!

[ensteele]

Welcome to the site. If you follow some of these simple things to do before buying the car, you should get a good one. Good luck.