Things to look for when buying an Integra.

[skorpionbite]

I am currently looking for a 95-96 integra LS, priced at around $ 5000 U.S. What things(both mechanical and aesthetics) should I investigate when looking at a potential buy?

[spyorg]

Aside from the obvious engine condition etc, (1) check that the ac is working (2) check that the radio/cdplayer/speakers/antenna works (3) ask if timing belt/water pump was replaced (4) check all power windows and moonroof (5) make sure all seatbelts are intact (6) check the alarm system...these things can really add on to the cost if you have to fix them later.

[eckoman_pdx]

Make sure it has a clean title. You do not want to mess around with a car that has a rebuilt title. Some states have a definate mark on the title of a car with a rebuilt title, others are harder to notice. A carfax search should tell you if the title is rebuilt or not.

Also find out if it has ever been in a wreck. If so, what happened, how bad? Was it fixed? Have the car checked over by someone, a pre-purchase inspection. Have the body checked to make sure it hasn't been in a wreck, the frame is ok, no rust, etc. Have the motor checked out, the brakes, have a compression test done on the motor.

Try to see all the service records he has. How often was it serviced, how often was the oil changed, etc. Find out when the timing belt was changed last, and ask to see the records to varify. The timing belt needs to be done every 60-80K miles. It's a good idea to have the water pump done at the same time, so was that done? Try and buy a non-modified one if you can. People who modified the cars may not have done everythig right, plus they tend to be driven harder.