Might be buying a Q45 tomorrow?

[q45inoceanside]

I've been working on deal to buy a Q45 down the street from me.

It's a 1994 w/ 205k on the clock, in fair shape.Couple small bumps/bruises, leaks power steering fluid!Tires are decent, paint needs some serious polishing.Interior is decent, I didn't spot any rips/tears/stains.Supposedly runs/drives fine, will find out tomorrow for sure.

Black w/ black interior.

Any gotcha's I should look for? Been reading the FAQ's and browsing the forum.But would appreciate a quick list of things to check/look for.You know all those "little things" you wish you would have spotted before you bought one. Called infinity, and it hasn't been dealer serviced since ~160k when they did the rear brakes.@150k it had a "major service"? for about $1200...

Thanks in advance, and with any luck I'll own one tomorrow

[RyanH]

Dude, Oside? I come from Vista myself. I have nothing to add other than that, sorry.

[redmanfx]

Man, your talking alot to look at with that mileage.

Check suspension - all rubber boots/shocks/springs and such as well as the entire steering rack for leaksCheck all the rubber under the plenumCheck fuel pump-buzz sound coming from behind the back seatCheck engine for noisesCheck pulley's and tensioners/bearings for siezure and change beltsCheck A/CGet the EGR system cleanedCheck cooling systemTransmission must be checked, transmission mount as well for vibrations

those are just the first things to check, but I can say you want to change all rubber for sure. Belts as well. Plan to spend another $5000 or so over the next year and a half to do more.

The cars are great but not for those who don't like maint. cost. The Q is a money whore for sure, but the rewards are most excellent indeed! My Q has 275K and still going!

[maxnix]

If nothing has been done in 40K, you will soon be in a world of hurt.

Get the Infiniti Senior Tech inspection.

Cars like these they should pay you to take away.

[q45inoceanside]

Highly doubt anybody can go 40k and do nothing to any car?

I simply stated the last Infinity dealer record was @ 160k, doesn't mean nothing has been done to the car.The service guy I spoke to, ran through a pretty extensive history from new to 160k.She or the previous owner could have taken it to independants?

I was hoping for some more useful information...Already read all the posts about mechanical problems, any car has them.

Was merely looking for interior/electrical/etc. stuff to keep an eye out for.

I was an auto mechanic for ~10 years, I can handle any maintenance issues.Won't catch me paying $120 an hour for somebody to do simple maintenance on any of my cars...Sure it's a PITA, but I'd rather spend the extra $$$ on my stuff than lining a dealerships pockets.

Taking it for a test drive tomorrow afternoon, so any info would be appreciated.
Modified by q45inoceanside at 12:10 AM 2/3/2007

[3Q Jay]

here's my G50 pre-buy checklist:

don't forget to take a pencil beam flashlight and look inside the valve cover

zerothread?id=108625


Modified by GQ Jay at 11:58 PM 2/2/2007

[q45inoceanside]

Thanks! That's a pretty complete list.

I started writing one similar, now I can just print yours out

[maxnix]

Highly doubt anybody can go 40k and do nothing to any car?

I simply stated the last Infinity dealer record was @ 160k, doesn't mean nothing has been done to the car.

Assumed non-performed maintenance is the quickest way to get in over one's head with replacement expenses. Maintaining the car is relatively inexpensive, replacing neglected and abused components is not.

If it's not documented, assume abuse and increased wear unless an inspection or measurment shows something different.

If you don't see regular fluid changes at the prescribed intervals, then one can estimate the life of those components and budget for replacements.

[Q45tech]

The worst Q we ever got for a prebuy inspection needed $11,000 at $65/hour.

Unlikely that the car will need half that since 94 with 205k and probably decent service to 160k. All depends on your standards and how close to brand new operation you want everything to be.

Expect the transmission to fail $3,000 minimum.........what is status of alternator and AC system compressor and evaporator [$2,000].

Diffs usually need replacing ~~200k.Bearings and suspension, shocks,

Don't pay more than $1500 considering how much you will have to spend.

[q45inoceanside]

I told them if the car runs/drives and everything works...The price I have negotiated so far is $800. Owner wanted $1500.If something major doesn't work, i.e. AC I'm not going to pay $800, and may not buy it??

The car has a clean carfax, looks like 3 previous owners.(hard to tell for sure w/ carfax)

The car passed CA smog on 11/27/06 w/ 204k.

Owner bought a different car, and this one has been sitting for 2 months.Currently it has a dead battery.When I took a quick look last week, the pos. batt. cable was loose, and the battery appeared to be new.

Given the price/condition I'm not expecting too much.Definately don't expect the car to function as new!

Searched and plenty of used engines/trans. in a couple different yards w/in 75 miles.One yard 3 miles away has AC compressor, alternator, power steering rack, etc.Given my past experience, I'm pretty confident I can handle replacing them myself.

[maxnix]

Used transmissions, alternators, power steering racks and pumps, and expecially AC compressors aren't worth the trouble unless you thrive on repeated labor as they will all fail sooner than OEM replacements.

[bullittandy]

I told them if the car runs/drives and everything works...The price I have negotiated so far is $800. Owner wanted $1500.If something major doesn't work, i.e. AC I'm not going to pay $800, and may not buy it??

The car has a clean carfax, looks like 3 previous owners.(hard to tell for sure w/ carfax)

The car passed CA smog on 11/27/06 w/ 204k.

Owner bought a different car, and this one has been sitting for 2 months.Currently it has a dead battery.When I took a quick look last week, the pos. batt. cable was loose, and the battery appeared to be new.

Given the price/condition I'm not expecting too much.Definately don't expect the car to function as new!

Searched and plenty of used engines/trans. in a couple different yards w/in 75 miles.One yard 3 miles away has AC compressor, alternator, power steering rack, etc.Given my past experience, I'm pretty confident I can handle replacing them myself.

Car sounds like a good buy. If you were a mechanic than this might be an even better buy.

All this talk about spending $5000-$10,000 on a used Q is based on making the car almost brand new. I don't know anybody other than a few psychos that try to restore a 10 year old car (and I'm pretty psycho about my cars).

For example, I spent $1000 replacing the front suspension on my 97 with 215K and noticed NO improvement in ride or handling.

Used parts are fine if you got the mileage from the original car. Of course they are riskier than OEM but they are also much cheaper. Besides, your labor is "free."

[q45inoceanside]

Used transmissions, alternators, power steering racks and pumps, and expecially AC compressors aren't worth the trouble unless you thrive on repeated labor as they will all fail sooner than OEM replacements.

Why are some people on here so negative?Yes, I realize it's a used car.Yes, I realize it's going to need some work.I was simply asking for some pointers on things to look for when I check it out.

$3000 - $5000, I find that unlikely/unnecessary.I can buy a used engine/transmission w/ under 100k for $1200 with a 1yr warranty and the yard is 7 miles from my house.

Yes, a used part may fail sooner than an OEM new replacement, big deal.If a new part is $400, and a used one is $125, and I don't have to pay someone $600 to install it...I could buy 4 used ones vs. the avg. joe who has to shell out $1000.I've owned many cars, and have had zero problems using used parts.

SoCal has a very high inventory of clean low mileage import cars/parts.Mostly due to dumb drivers, and higher than average luxury car sales than other states.

New stuff is fine, but I see no need to spend $3k on a transmission.Especially, if I can buy a used one for $600 w/ 75k on it that'll do the same job.

[ceningolmo]

Why are some people on here so negative?

True... but we're working on that. Maxnix and Q45Tech can be overly direct on ocassion. I can't speak on their behalf, but I don't think they mean any harm. It is worth taking their advice, though. They usually have the right answers.

The Q will do that to you over time. Given a years worth of maintenance, the Q will make a Nun swear like a sailor and throw wrenches like a major leaguer.

Quote »Yes, I realize it's a used car.Yes, I realize it's going to need some work.I was simply asking for some pointers on things to look for when I check it out.[/quote]True... you did. And, for that reason, you are likely to get answers. Whether it is the answer you want or not... answers you shall get.

Quote »$3000 - $5000, I find that unlikely/unnecessary.[/quote]Seems hard to believe doesn't it... yet, I assure you it will happen. Even a Q in great shape will suck up some serious $ in deferred maintenance during the first couple of years.

Quote »I can buy a used engine/transmission w/ under 100k for $1200 with a 1yr warranty and the yard is 7 miles from my house.[/quote]If you can... and they are in good shape... then you should because that is a hell of a deal. Typically at that price you are getting parts with no history... therefore, they may fail immediately.

For better or worse, the VH45 is a bit sensitive. And, the transmission is even more sensitive yet. Most factory transmission's were replaced under warranty due to damage from overheating. Even with the replacement, and the addition of a factory "transmission cooler", the transmission was prone to failure from overheating. Units taken from a yard may be significantly worn and should be bought with extreme caution.

Quote »Yes, a used part may fail sooner than an OEM new replacement, big deal.If a new part is $400, and a used one is $125, and I don't have to pay someone $600 to install it...I could buy 4 used ones vs. the avg. joe who has to shell out $1000.I've owned many cars, and have had zero problems using used parts.[/quote]True. And, there are plenty of parts on the Q that buying used is acceptable. Some members are more willing to buy used/refurbed than others. Maxnix typically falls in the "don't" category. Since I'm poor and don't know much... I typically fall in the "do" category. Each of us has to make our decisions based on the particulars of our situation...expect recommendations to be weighted toward the opinion of the poster.

Quote »New stuff is fine, but I see no need to spend $3k on a transmission.[/quote]It's really not a bad deal considering that you are getting an essentially brand new unit. If you can be assured, with proper maintenance, that it will give you a few hundred thousand miles of reliable service it might be worth it.

[Q451990]

I think there's a disconnect on the pricing here... q45inoceanside, as someone with extensive mechanical experience - is thinking something like "anything that goes wrong I can fix" and probably isn't thinking in terms of the value of his labor. Dennis, Brian, and most of us here are thinking in terms of the labor costs or at least the value of it.

In a nutshell - for $800 you won't loose much... you could part it out and pretty much break even. If you've read the FAQs here and have some basic mechanical knowledge - you're fine. As a reference point - I sold my old 1990 Q with 200K on the odometer about a year ago for about $600 - and it was considered a total loss! $3000+ in body damage at dealership body shop prices. The buyer brought a buddy with a pickup to haul the front bumper and fender - and the trunk was full of screws, clips, cladding and headlights. The car was in mechaniacally excellent condition though...

Anyhow - I think at $800 you're in good shape. Post up some pics if you buy her!

Heath

[maxnix]

1.) Why are some people on here so negative?Yes, I realize it's a used car.Yes, I realize it's going to need some work.I was simply asking for some pointers on things to look for when I check it out.

2.) $3000 - $5000, I find that unlikely/unnecessary.I can buy a used engine/transmission w/ under 100k for $1200 with a 1yr warranty and the yard is 7 miles from my house.

3.) New stuff is fine, but I see no need to spend $3k on a transmission.Especially, if I can buy a used one for $600 w/ 75k on it that'll do the same job.

1.) You asked for the truth and you put the negative spin on it. Not our problem. The service history or lack thereof is a great indicator of where to look more closely.

2.) You must have a lot of free time. Not all of us do.

3.) The point is, used will not "do the same job" either as well nor as long as the new part.

You have a lot of reading to do if you want to learn about maintaining a car. Many new owners come with a beater mentality because they have never had the opportunity to drive these cars in an as new state, so they never know of what the car is capable with a little effort expended in its and the owner's behalf.

To quote Q45tech, "Member's standards vary."

[bullittandy]

1.) You asked for the truth and you put the negative spin on it.

2.)Not our problem.

3.) You must have a lot of free time. Not all of us do.

1. HA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Maxnix, you're the most condescending person on this board (and all the others I visit).

2. Not YOUR problem, don't include others here.

3. He didn't ask YOU to replace parts more often, HE doesn't mind.

Another new member and another rude welcome, way to go man.

[q45inoceanside]

Still waiting to take it for a test drive.....seller is kind of a flake.(Couldn't find the keys....sigh)

I gave it a good once over today though.

All the fluids are clean and full.Inside the valve cover is nice and clean.transmission fluid is bright red, and zero burn smell.Interior is damn nice shape, just a little dirty.Other than the PS leak, I spotted no other fluid leaks.(Both boots on the rack are shot though)Rear CV boots look good, no holes/tears.Tires in excellent shape.She has all the manuals.

Hopefully tomorrow she'll find the keys and call.

[maxnix]

Is the PS leak on the rack? Check the fluid carefully. Racks are not cheap, but if you have the skill and tools, seal kit is reasonable.

[q45inoceanside]

Is the PS leak on the rack? Check the fluid carefully. Racks are not cheap, but if you have the skill and tools, seal kit is reasonable.

Hard to tell, but appears to be. Fluid is blown all over under there though.It would need a good cleaning before isolating the leak for sure.I wiped a few samples of ps fluid on paper to look for metallic debris, and a magnet didn't pick anything up either.Might be okay, might not be, I've seen some pretty nasty insides of racks.High mileage ones are usually not worth rebuilding, most have pretty deep grooves in the housing etc.

I know you hate used parts, but...$125 for one 7 miles away w/ 90 day warranty.$50 for one w/ 30 day warranty 75 miles away.Don't know what a new one costs, but I'm sure it's MUCH higher??

[Rex]

Maxnix's issue with used parts is too many Q owners see it as a way to "circumvent" the high cost of ownership for a used luxury sedan ... that ultimately bites them in the a$$, as they end up buying a 2nd (or 3rd) used one and paying double/triple in labor before junking the car or going with new (non-OEM) that doesn't last much longer than the used.

It's tight budget buyers, that think they've gotten a great deal (>$2500) for a clean (exterior) looking Q, that hits them with a couple bigger items int eh first 6 months, that he's trying to warn/scare straight.

A informed Q (90-96 at least) buyer should know the purchase price is no more than 1/2 the investment necessary to get more than 18 months or so out of any used luxury sedan. Keep in mind DIY labor is the secret weapon allowing most of us to afford to keep these cars on the road for as long as possible.

Anyone that thinks the Q is just a larger Maxima and expects the same cost of ownership is in for a rude awakening.

[maxnix]

New OEM ones are at least $1000.

Meridian refurbished ones are a few hundred from http://www.infinitipartsusa.com but a member on here works for them and can get them for a little less.

If only I could remember his name.

The rack and pinion is machined to 1/10,000th of an inch, hence disdain for used. Usually fluid is not changed, and seals fail first before serious damage to the internals occurs. All depends how much moisture is absorbed and converted to acid.

All in all, it sounds like an excellent candidate to restore if you so choose.