Hey all, I'm looking at a 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS with 108,000 miles. The dealers asking price is $4k. I got it checked out today and there's a few things wrong with it. The driver side ball joint may need replaced soon, the timing belt needs replaced, the rear wheel wells obviously had rust damage but were repaired as well as the muffler. The sunroof doesn't seem to leak but looks like the previous owner had used some sort of sealant to fix it at one point as it's visible.

The car seems to drive fine, however, when I initially started it, it idled at around 1600 rpms and then when the AC kicked on it idled at around 2.5k. This worries me a little but after doing some research it seems it could be a number of things such as a vacuum leak, throttle position sensor (i read it happens right after you start your car which is my case), fast idle air valve (FIAC). Any help on this would be greatly appreciated. I will also note that after driving it for a while the idle started to come down and go back towards normal.

Also, when I come to a complete stop while driving the car jolts, I have NO idea what is causing this but it's almost like it hiccups. I originally thought it was shifting down or something but I really don't know.

The dealer put brand new tires on the car just the other day.

They are willing to sell this car to me for $3,550 out the door (includes tax/plate/etc). This will include them replacing the timing belt and giving me a little 3 month warranty on engine/tranny with $100 deductable. Any advice in that area is appreciated as well as I'm not knowledgable at all with warranties. They will sell the car to me for $3,450 without the warranty.

Do you think this is a fair price? I kept trying to get it lower, but they literally wouldn't budge. Do you think the warranty is worth another $100?

Below are pictures, thanks a lot - I really appreciate any and all advice on this vehicle!





Unfortunately those are the only pictures I have.

Too expensive.

I appreciate the response! I was wondering what you think the car is worth then? It blue books for $3,985 in Fair condition for private party. I know KBB isn't the end all be al but I'm just saying.



Thanks!

Yess but What you said about the car is not "fair condition" plus you cna get it form a private party for way cheaper.

Perhaps I will keep looking then, didn't want to let this slip by me if it was a good deal.

Thanks for your opinion.


From KBB:

Fair
"Some mechanical or cosmetic defects and needs servicing but is still in reasonable running condition.
Clean title history, the paint, body and/or interior need work performed by a professional.
Tires may need to be replaced.
There may be some repairable rust damage."


Poor
Severe mechanical and/or cosmetic defects and is in poor running condition.
May have problems that cannot be readily fixed such as a damaged frame or a rusted-through body.
Branded title (salvage, flood, etc.) or unsubstantiated mileage.

I wouldn't say it was poor but I don't like KBB's definition of "fair" either. Mainly though dont buy a 20 y/o car from a dealership. your just throwing your money away.

Too expensive man! i bought mine in 2006, its 96 eclipse rs for 3500 n there was only 72K miles on it which was barely nothing for the age of the car! i know that gs n rs are a little bit different as far as comfort in the car but look out for the couple wrong stuff in it n how much it's gonna cost you to fix them! Good luck with your purchase...

I think i've seen that car before. are you in the pittsburgh/johnstown area?