possible 04 purchase

[solara04115]

Hey all!
This is my first post and I want to know everyones opinion on this car. I found this on craigslist and have talked to the owner many times, He is the only owner and has had it serviced at the dealership since day 1. The only think that scares me is the high miles. What can i expect to go wrong in the near future with this car? He also said the check engine light stays on. I need a very reliable car that can bring me all around florida with no problems. I have him down to a price of $6700 cash. Would you guys buy this car?? Thanks so much for all the help, I rly hope i can soon own a solara.
2004 Toyota Camry Solara 2 door Coupe - $7495


Powerful 157 hp 4 cyl. engine (accelerates like a 6 cyl), all standard equipment plus: automatic, power seats, power sunroof, spoiler, gold metallic.
Currently at 115,000 miles ( all of my past Toyotas and Hondas lasted me over 225,000 miles without any problems, that's usually when I trade up).

According to the on-board computer, city driving gets 24.7 mpg, highway driving gets a solid 34.5 mpg, overall average 28.5 mpg. (Your mileage may vary).

No longer need 2 cars, so I am selling this one. Good, clean condition; oil changed every 5,000 miles, all servicing performed at
Toyota dealership. Runs really great - no problems at all. Tires only 6 months old. Brakes replaced 9 months ago.

According to several internet auto web sites, average retail price for this model is $9,800 - $10,200. Average private sale for this model is $7900-$8400. Will sacrifice below average for only $7495. I have clear title.

[littlebookworm]

Before you consider buying this car, have it brought to a dealer YOU know and have it checked out. Solaras are good cars, but at that mileage, things can be worn out. The "check engine" light could mean a minor problem or an expensive repair. There's no way of telling without someone knowledgeable reading and interpreting the scan codes. Spent a few bucks and then you'll know what the car's worth. Get an estimate on any and all repairs that are needed to get the car up to par. That cost should be deducted from the selling price. The dealer should also be able to get a print-out of all repairs and maintenance work done on the car, since he says it was all done at a dealership. All you need is the VIN number to check the records. Good luck, but use some caution. Hy

[Gadgetjq]

Unless you have a code reader you can plug into the OBD II port (under the dash) so you'd know what the problem is I'd pass on the car. The ECU is trying to tell the current owner something is wrong and the owner is ignoring it. I'd wonder what else he's ignored and for how long.

On the other hand if you check the code and discover the problem is nothing but a leaky gas cap then maybe you can get a great deal.

Cheers

[toyomoho]

Good point. If the car was well keep by the owner they would be wondering why the light was on and have gone to the dealer.

Yet if the dealer has all the past service info would look further into the car. Suggest you don't buy the car unless you find out with any codes are. Buy or rent a code reader and check them yourself.

High mileage does not have to be a sale killer. Was this freeway?

Determine if the trans fluid was ever changed.

A lot Toyota problems are related to age plus miles. So many years exposed to the elements, coolant, oil, etc.