306 xnd `93 is it a good buy?

Discussion in 'Peugeot 306' started by David, Mar 4, 2005.

  1. David

    David Guest

    My son is thinking of buying a 1993 5 door 306 XND with 110K on the clock
    for £500 from a car mechanic mate. The car starts first time, doesn't look
    to bad and drives OK. What sort of things should he check out on the car?
    What are the major cost items for repair?

    regards,

    David
     
    David, Mar 4, 2005
    #1
  2. David

    Nik&Andy Guest

    David,

    Look out for leaking head gasket and that it starts ok when cold, other than
    that these engines are fairly bullet-proof.
    Make sure the window demister works ok, and there is no damp anywhere in the
    vehicle.
    If it has power steering, check for leaks.
    Listen for loud whining noise from the alternator (there shouldn't be one)
    check all electrics.
    If it has ABS, take it to a stretch of gravel or very wet slipy road and
    test it.
    Check the condition of the tyres and exhaust (Good bargaining points)

    At that price I suspect the cambelt is due, along with a good service and
    seeing too.
    Possibly the brakes will need checking too.
    (Unless you know the guy very well, do not take his word on the cambelt
    'just been done mate')
    In my experience, if somebody says the cambelt was done not so long back, it
    means 4-6 years ago.

    They are reasonable cars at this price bracket.

    Andy
     
    Nik&Andy, Mar 4, 2005
    #2
  3. Hi, Andy

    thanks for the advice. I have had a few replies now and all have
    suggested that the 306 would be a good buy. On Saturday I had a look
    at the car with my son and was amazed at the rust free condition of
    the bodywork. The car started straight off from cold, with no black
    smoke! The only dampness I could find inside was ’cos his car mechanic
    mate (seller) had replaced the heater matrix the day before. There was
    no obvious leaks or bits hanging off. The clutch seemed a bit
    "heavy" but other than that I reckon that we will be buying, subject
    to a ramp inspection and MOT,

    thanks again,

    David
     
    tealandsilver, Mar 7, 2005
    #3
  4. David

    brian Guest

    Hi, Andy
    If the heater matrix had started to leak, just be aware that it might have
    been caused by pressure in the cooling system, which in turn could mean a
    head gasket on the way.
    The matrix is also aluminium, and will rot away if there is insufficient
    protection in the coolant. This in turn will also affect the cylender head -
    Guess how I know?
     
    brian, Mar 7, 2005
    #4
Ask a Question

Want to reply to this thread or ask your own question?

You'll need to choose a username for the site, which only take a couple of moments (here). After that, you can post your question and our members will help you out.