Is $1200 too much to pay for a 1993 Mercury Sable LS? The salesman says it only needs a battery.?

Question

He said that the car runs good. He also wants to sell me a 1990 Honda Civic for $1800? I do not know which one is a better deal. I do not have money to buy a brand new car! I just need something that is not a "gas hog" and if I need maintenance I can get the part. Please help me out.

Thanks!

Answer 1

You received a lot of good advice so far. One huge question? How many miles are on the cars? A 1990 Honda with less than 100,000 miles is worth the $1800. With 180,000 miles I'd be more inclined to offer about 700-800 bucks. Mainly because you will soon be putting money into this vehicle unless it was kept up immaculately. The Mercury I would stay away from. Actually the dealer sounds questionable as well. If it needs a battery, he should have put one in it. I buy blems locally for $25.00 that last me for years. As one writer wrote, could be electrical problems that could cost upwards of a thousand dollars to have repaired unless you know what you are doing and have a wholesale parts account. Take someone that knows cars with you and have them check it out and negotiate a price based on any issues they may find. Good Luck!

Answer 2

1200 for a car on a lot that needs work?
Even a battery - it should be replaced before you even think about it. 60.00 for a battery
It could also need a alternator -

As far as the Honda - it is already 18 years old - depending on the condition - and miles - it may be a better buy but not at that price - offer him 1000 for the Honda

Answer 3

I would have a good mechanic to go on the property and take a look. I would probably go for the Honda. But, NEVER EVER just take the salesmans word. Have some one who knows looks. Salesmans will tell you anything to make a sell. You don't want to buy a lemon.

Answer 4

First off, if a sales person tells you a car only "needs" something. Tell him, that you want it ALL in WRITING!. If he says all it needs is a battery, he shouldn't have any problems giving you a warranty (IN WRITING) on the rest of the car, right? If he changes his tune, which I'm sure he will, it will be an indication of the type of sales person you are dealing with.

If he is willing to stand behind his words, then you've got an honest sales person, if not, I'd be shopping elsewhere.

Answer 5

It sounds like a fuel problem to me. Have the pressure checked or if its a mechanical pump then it could be worn out. The fuel filter maybe clogged too if it hasn't been change in that many years.