Like the subject states, I'm looking to buy a used car (private party sale) for my son's first car. Car is a 2008 Altima 2.5 (4 cyl with CVT). I know the history of the CVT and have done some research on the web about the car.

I've taken the car for a test drive and hooked and OBD2 scanner up...no codes and no apparent issues while driving. Got under the hood for an inspection of hoses, belts, etc. and had the alternator and battery tested. Also got on the ground and looked for leaks, and at the front end. No leaks, all boots looked ok with no apparent damage to tie rod ends, CV boot,etc.

Edited to add: the CarFax came back clean.

My questions are:

1) Are there any particular issues I should look at with this model/make/year of car?
2) Knowing what I've looked at as of now, should we take it to a mechanic for further evaluation before buying it.

I was going to ask the owner to have it smogged and pay for it. If it passes, I'd make an offer and repay for the smog.

Suggestions?

Thanks,

CT

The last time I bought a used car I took it to a mechanic to check it out. From your description, you did a more thorough inspection than the inspection I paid for.

So, for what it's worth, I don't think an independent inspection is going to do anything other than cost you some bucks.

Some history of small things like how many miles on it? Previous owner/maintenance? These would help me make my decision as to whether to purchase it or not.

Service the CVT with OEM Nissan fluid.

The weak point is the belt will slip and break with the wrong fluid in the transaxle.

Check the clutch on the alternator. It will make a whining or buzzing sound when it goes bad.

I think you’re on the right track. Ask if they have any records and get it smogged. If you like the results make an offer.

Is the emissions test required for where you live? If so, definitely have emissions checked before you buy

quote:

Originally posted by coloradohunter44:
Some history of small things like how many miles on it? Previous owner/maintenance? These would help me make my decision as to whether to purchase it or not.

They guy that's selling it now has had it for 6 months. His wife is pregnant and they need/want an SUV. At least that's what he says. She was pregnant, for sure when we saw her.

CarFax says 3+ owners. 91,000 miles. CarFax also shows it's never left the state I reside in, has 6 service records for maintenance--oil/filter change and a "drive belt" (serpentine belt?) replacement. Nothing out of the ordinary.

quote:

Originally posted by BigSwede:
Is the emissions test required for where you live? If so, definitely have emissions checked before you buy

Unfortunately, it is. I was going to ask him to pay to have it smogged and repay if it passed along with making an offer.

quote:

Originally posted by Mars_Attacks:
Service the CVT with OEM Nissan fluid.

The weak point is the belt will slip and break with the wrong fluid in the transaxle.

Check the clutch on the alternator. It will make a whining or buzzing sound when it goes bad.

Good information to know. Thanks.

Your best bet for safe and reliable cars, is to stick with Honda or Toyota. Civic/Corolla or Accord/Camry. The cost of ownership is low, they consistently are ranked in the top 10, and have excellent safety scores. Nissan has its issues, which is why they are cheap. I would take a 10 year old Honda/Toyota, over a 5 year old Nissan.

3+ prior owners is a red flag sign. Why that many owners and Carfax can tell you how long each owner kept the car.

In my experience, look for a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla.

^^^^^^^^^^^

I completely agree.

If you do decide to proceed with this car, I'd find a good shop that specializes in this brand and pay for an inspection. Not just a good shop but someone that does Japanese cars and works on a lot of these.
You will get the inspection plus their experience on trouble spots with this particular model and year.

Chasin Tails, where are you located? I have a great Honda Accord for sale cheap. (VERY nice, and I'd drive it anywhere with confidence.)
If you're willing to travel to the D/FW area, Email in my profile for details.

quote:

Originally posted by Unishot:
Chasin Tails, where are you located? I have a great Honda Accord for sale cheap. (VERY nice, and I'd drive it anywhere with confidence.)
If you're willing to travel to the D/FW area, Email in my profile for details.

Thanks for the offer. Wish we were closer. I’m a 17 hr drive and 1200 miles from you. Thanks again,though!

CT

I have owned 1 Nissan. A Murano. Sharp car . Great ride. But I got rid of it with only 40,000 miles. Many electrical problems from the dash going blank, to the keys not communicating with the car. On a recent trip the motor started running weird. Accelerated like it lost a couple of cylinders. The problems would come and go. And of course 90% of the issues occurred right after the warranty was over. One day everything was working properly so I traded it in and never looked back. Will never own another Nissan. Just my experience.

Camry had oil burning issue 26006-2011 I think. 4 cylinder
Look under the oil cap for sludge ?

honestly --

you're buying a 13 year old car

it's a roll of the dice

look for the obvious signs of abuse / damage like you're doing but it's seen the 'best years' already. don't overpay.

--------------------------------------

How many miles on this car?

Remember to check for loose steering, bushing rot, and shocks.

I bought a 2008 jeep knowing I'd need new bushings. But I ended up having to replace the entire suspension and tie rod ends. Doing the work yourself saves quite a bit of money if you're so inclined.

First car for a teenager?

Doesn't really matter, because if he is like most teenagers he will blow the motor in less than 6 months.

Bob