Am I crazy to do this?! (yes, i'm sure!!)

[kitcatkitten]

Well, I have finally found the car of my dreams. Having been to see a few privates this weekend, none of which worked out, i was perusing the interweb last night and came across one from a dealer which had everything on my "must have" list, and most things on my "would like to have" list. Only problem is that they're about 40 miles away and close at 6pm. Got a really hectic week at work so won't be able to get down there to see/drive the car while they're open (will be having a look at it one night after work though)

I know that mini coopers sell pretty quick so i basically agreed to buy the car and asked them to get all the paperwork ready for me to see on Saturday. The plan is that i'll go and see this thing tomorrow night (but not drive it) and then pay for it/check paperwork etc and drive it away Saturday (can't bear to wait another week!!).... So my question is this:

am I insane to not do a testdrive? (probably) but i figured that since it's the same age/mileage as the others and this dealer is doing some AA check on it I should be ok. to be honest i know sweet FA about cars anyway, having only driven my trusty fiesta and the 3 others that i drove this weekend! sorry for the rambling post but it'd be good to get your feedback on this.

thanks all!

[gonzo00]

please rethink this kit...always test drive before buying...PLEASE!

[kitcatkitten]

argh! i knew someone would say that. i know you're right. what am i looking out for on the test drive though?

[abbie1977]

I 100 percent agree with Gonzo00....please dont do this. Just be patient or you'll end up regretting it.

[babybow]

mini coopers do hold their price but you have to think about how old is it and the mileage. you need to test drive it first before you hand over any money

[figure]

Don't hand over payment until you've had a drive and are satisfied. Once you've signed the contract and hand over the money car and all (problems) is yours.

[gonzo00]

you're looking for any knocks,clunks also strange noises/handling problems..also get up to speed on a carridgeway and then change down a gear and accelerate whilst watching in the rearview mirror for any smoke from exhaust which would indicate engine probs! use your instinct..if in doubt walk away..there's always plenty more to buy out there!
ps. don't forget to check that EVERYTHING works..electric windows/sunroof...heaters etc as these can be expensive to fix..best o luck! :)

[Panic Button]

Is it a main Mini dealer, or a lot with a few cars on an old petrol station forecourt?

I would be less worried if it was a main dealer.

[~max~]

Sorry Kitcat....gonzo, how are you? Got some good news today, they're coming to fix my bathroom and replace the kitchen floor tomorrow!!! You'll be seeing a palace next! :O)

Sorry again...

[sara3]

oh my word! drive it, and make sure you get a good warranty.

good luck, I hear your desperation ;o)

[bigboots]

get on you hands and knees and check the tyres, these are run flats and cost about �100 each, in some parts of the country the car market is flat so dont hurry to buy the first car you see, a good road test and lots of haggeling

[gonzo00]

sorry kit...hi max..glad to hear you're getting it all fixed!...ps.dont be showing those workmen your lady garden..ahem...sorry,indoor garden!lol!

[~max~]

lol don't worry!
Funny though, he agreed to everything I asked him to do....probably helped that he was 5'4" and talking to my boobs...lol!
Can't wait though, gonna a fab flat soon!

Sorry Kit...

[gonzo00]

that whole face/boob thing really works! you naughty minx! catch ya laters!

[kitcatkitten]

hmmm. yes I thought as much. It's from a reputable dealer with a few minis and loads of audis/bmws. the warranty is 6 month and they say they've just put 4 new tyres on it.
thanks so much for all your answers. you are all right, i'm just too keen!
so if i test drove the car and stuff on saturday and filled out the paperwork, what's to stop me driving it away?

[Panic Button]

Nothing, except insurance.

Have you checked if the price is sensible?

http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/used-prices/

[TWR]

In haste, you will regret, if you dont have mech knowlege, You will regret, there are plenty out there I have given this advise on many occations the result being " YOU WERE RIGHT" to late now you have got it, Have you not been in the suituation yourself, think about what you are doing????

[stefos]

Just go for it girl! You only live once

[kitcatkitten]

thanks for all your advice guys. it turns out that i didn't go for that car in the end, only cos another one came along that is better! it's from the franchised dealership aswell so got a bit more confidence that it will be in good working order etc etc. picking the baby up next friday! hurrah!
they're ripping me off a bit but i guess 12 months warranty and a 120 point check or whatever is worth it... hahaha
Cat