Originally posted by Snake2715:
Not only that the dash kit will run 300+ or so and is a bear to do without the glass removed.

The sideskirts could be used but take a look at the person who you are purchasing it from. Thats not always the best indicator but it gives you an idea.

Is the oil clean on the disptick? Does the distick have burned oil on it? Are teh pedals themselves really worn? Any of these and you can assume the owner may have neglected the vehicle or it has more mileage than stated.

Where are you located?

there are a few websites besides Autotrader.com....

Auto-Rv.com
automart.com
cars.com
Contour.org
fordcontour.org
etc.





The oil turns black fairly quickly. Doesn't mean the oil is "dirty" or that the car is "neglected." I would not consider this a reliable test, and I'd laugh at any potential buyer who tried to use this as a bargaining chip.

I'd show the buyer maintenance records and possibly even a recent oil analysis.

BTW, thanks Big Jim for the sideskirt advice. One of mine is a bit out of shape, by my own hand from a lift incident. Too bad I can't switch mechanics on that one.

Function before fashion. '96 Contour SE "Toss the Contour into a corner, and it's as easy to catch as a softball thrown by a preschooler." -Edmunds, 1998