So I am in the market for a G35 Coupe and found one that is to my liking.

What I found is a 2004 G35 Coupe Blk/Blk with powder-coated black wheels.

It has 58,000 miles and is in pristine condition (taking the seller's word) he is asking $16,500.

Here's where the predicament comes, he is located in Arizona, and I am in San Diego, CA. I told him that it will cause issues with time and money if his word did not match my opinion, to which he agreed he would drive the car to LA in order for me to purchase it and also let me know that it does have CA plates and stock cats intact for smog purposes.

He seems completely legit and has 500+ posts on the g35 forum. What he wants is a $500 deposit from me to insure that I am not a scammer... Should I do it? Or should I just keep looking locally?

 

Also is it mine or his responsibility to smog the car?

 

I would make a contract that both you and him sign saying that the deposit is refunable. if you are not 100% satified with the car. I don't know what the going rate for G35s are so I can't tell you if it's a good deal or not....

I've driven all over the place to look at and buy cars, it's not that big of a deal. Before you commit to anything make sure he sends you a bunch of clear photos of the entire car so you know what your getting into.

 

Yeah the whole smog situation is beginning to be a bit sketchy. He says it has CA plates, but he cannot smog it because he lives in AZ?

Not sure if that statement is true because I always thought that if the car has registered CA plates, the car was registered to a CA address...

He seems to be a bit pushy for a buyers market, so I will show him my door and look elsewhere.

 

my buddy has a red one up here in reno for sale, he cant sell it for 15,500....i think its an 04 as well

 

Contact a mechanic in his area, have the seller drive it over, and have the car inspected. Hopefully the mechanic won't be susceptible to bribery.

 

Damn, I didn't realize the G35 is selling so cheap these days. That's a steal! Just because he has a handful of posts doesn't mean he is a "good" person. You never know when you're gonna get scammed. On the other hand, he could be a very nice guy and just wants to make sure you are going to show up. I'd be hesitant to do it. Is there any chance there is a G in your area for the same price? Sometimes you just have to wait it out.

 

I'm going to AZ this weekend. I can look at it for you if you wish?

 

^ That's a nice offer. Take Raj up on this.

It doesn't really sound like there are any flags. Could you not send him a certified check and have the ability to cancel/retract it if the vehicle isn't as expected when it arrives?

 

WTF you doin in my town? I didnt give you permission to enter!