Common problems to look out for when buying a DSM

[kingstonrock]

I'm in the market for a used car and I'm almost dead set on a 2g DSM.

I'm looking for a basic list of common problems to look out for when deciding to buy a certain car. I realize the newest DSMs are a good 5 years old, but are there any clear problems I can try to avoid to save me money in the future?

Thanks,
Eric

 

[LiquidOC]

look in the engine bay, see anything caked with grease? look underneath the car before and after you take it for a drive, after you take it for a drive and get it nice and warm, park it someplace that has no puddles or anything underneath it, and let it sit for a while. see anything underneath the car that wasn't there before? is it a turbo? check it for shaft play (the turbine moving up/down/in/out) other than that, look at the exhaust coming out of the tailpipe before and after it's warmed up, look smoky? really black or white? that's bad. listen to the engine, does it sound wierd? other than that, trust your gut.

NOTE: I think i hit all the major points, but i am by no means an expert in anything having to do with cars, ask me about computers, and i could take you anyday though

 

[UndergroundR32]

One problem I've already found is the 7 bolt flywheel on your crankshaft . Anyway, aside from critisizing your decision to buy a 2g, I would just do checks for the common tell tale signs of crankwalk, or the beginning of it. Also, for my own satisfaction I'd do a cylinder compression test.
http://members.shaw.ca/costall/1000Q/

 

[Defiant]

Avoid modded cars.

Look for one with a 2G BOV.

 

[kingstonrock]

Thanks for the replies, one question...

When you check the turbo for shaft play, do you mean physically grab the turbo and try to wiggle it or check to see if it shifts around at idle, or both?

Eric

 

[Sephroth57]

to check you would have to take the intake pipe off, stick your finger on the compressor wheel and move it around in and up up and down. minimal play is acceptable seeing as the turbo is prolly 5+ years old but if its really noticeable thats not good.

all this when the car is off of course