Looking at an s2k...but
 

hey, just wanted some input about what you guys think...Im looking at a car with 30k miles, its a 2000 year....but doesnt have any maintenance records. Oil changes have been done, however. Right now the seller is the 2nd owner who has had it for 3 years. Just wondering what you guys think...if the car checks out ok with the mechanic...leakdown/compression...and if it drives well...is it safe to say its fine since its a honda ? :p

Yes. A good service history is a plus, but at 30k it won't have much of a service history anyway. Too much emphasis is placed on Honda service histories. Have it thoroughly inspected and base your decision on that. Sounds like a good car.

This is kind of related to your topic, but how would one document the regular scheduled maintenance if it were to be done themselves?

I know my car is due for the 15k service, but in looking at what they would do, why pay the $150 for something I could easily do? The downside is I would not have any documentation if I did it.

+1 on the fact that at 30k it won't have much of a service history anyways. i would make sure take it to a mechanic you can trust to check it out and run a carfax if you can.

You know.. I've never kept the maintenance records (not even of oil changes) for my Camry. If I try to sell it, I'll have a pretty hard time. :(

Don't feel bad. I've sold several cars with no service records and never had a problem.

ok guys sounds good I appreciate the feedback. The car will be insected monday by a mechanic and road tested, etc.

It is true, well I guess if you did your oil changes and stuff at home, you could kee receipts,etc.

I ran a Canadian version of carfax...carproof...it says there is a lien on the car. Which would make sense the seller said he had 2 payments to go. So I asked him for paperwork. Would it make sense to subtract the lien amount from how much im willing to buy the vehicle for?

the seller should have to pay off the loan before he can get the pink slip. that is how most banks do it.

seems to be the way after researching it some more. In order to transfer the title of the car the seller must have it which is hard to do if the bank has the title...thats the way i see it

I know last car I traded in I got top dollar for because I had so much documentation. I was anal about keeping every recipt. It probably got me an extra $800.00 from the dealership.