Topic: 95 Altima

[kenobe23]

There's a posting on Craigslist here, 95 Altima, 177000 K, $4900.

I haven't called yet, so I don't know anything else. That seems like a reasonable amount of Ks for a vehicle of that age. It seems like a reasonable price for Victoria, maybe a little low, but just about right. I could probably knock a few hundred $$ off...

What do you all think?

[ArticSteve]

If it was an Ontario car I'd say forget because those year Altimas are bad for rust, but being a BC car particularly on the island I'd think rust is not going to be an issue.

As for the price; what is the status of the timing belt and water pump? If recent then the price is fine.  At that age look for repairs on exhaust, rad, battery, rad hoses, starter, alternator, rear drums, clutch; pretty well everything.

[kenobe23]

That's pretty much what I was thinking. If there are lots of new parts and the owner has a solid maintenance record it could be a good buy. I'm going to call today to find out more information.

[kenobe23]

I'm going to look at it as soon as I get the chance. I'll report back with my findings.

[ArticSteve]

 

[kenobe23]

Okay, I took a long drive last night, and agreed to buy it pending a mechanical inspection. I got a very good feeling from the seller. He couldn't help telling me every little thing that ever happened to his car.

the car itself wa very clean, not a surprise considering an older couple owned and drove it. The only concern I hadm which I'm going to ask the mechanic about, was a somewhat rough idle. I don't know much about mechanics, so I don't know what could ahve caused this.

I negotiated a final price of $4500, which I'm happy to pay if the car checks out okay today. This is my first vehicle, so it's pretty exciting. Of course I'll post pics if everything works out okay.

[ArticSteve]

Sounds good.  If automatic have the mechanic change the tranny filter and fluid.  Make sure he uses the right fluid.  If standard shift change the fluid and use Redline syn tranny fluid.

[kenobe23]

I did what you suggested Steve.

The car checked out okay. I took it to a mechanic to whom I was referred by a friend. He said the car is in good shape generally. It will need a new front and rear exhaust at some point, but that's about it.

I got a good feeling about the owner. He bought the car new, and has taken it to the Nissan dealership for all of its servicing. There is very little wear on the seats, buttons, etc., and everything electric works.

I'm getting the car tomorrow morning, and I'll get my insurance then. I'll be paying about $1500 a year. It's a bit pricey, but I'll get knocked down with a little more experience.

[avtoller]

Congratulations. I hope you enjoy it and that it proves to be a good, reliable car. Don't forget:

  

[DriverJeff]

Kenobe, it sounds like you've done your homework, taken your time and got yourself a good deal on a good, solid car.  Congrats!  Many happy km's and of course...

 

[kenobe23]

Okay, I promise I'll take some pictures ASAP. It's a shame it's been rainy here the last few days. Oh well, it's 9 degrees right now, that makes up for the rain.

[safristi]

.

[Iso Octane]

Congrats!

I learned to drive on a '93 Altima.  I loved that car.  I could go on and on about all the little things that made the car so great.  How it was such a great value.  How it was a step ahead of the same year Accord and Camry in so many ways.  How I can still recognize the distinctive sound of the 150hp 2.4L starting up.