FS: 2001 Insight 144k miles needs Catalytic Converter $5-6k - GreenHybrid

noflash · #1 (**permalink**) 02-11-2008, 11:59 AM

Insights are rarely for sale in my area, so I had to go check this one out. It's been sitting in their back lot for at least 2 weeks.

It has 144,000 miles needs both cats replaced ("they are clogged" says dealer) and four new tires.

They will do that work and sell it for $6900 or sell it as is for $5k. I may be a little off on the numbers. I think that's how the numbers went.

I've never heard of "clogged cats" b/f.

Is this a good deal or a nightmare?

A $5000 beater that get 60mpg sounds nice.

BTW, it's a manual trans and it's that dark silver color.

What do you think?

nf

Harold · #2 (**permalink**) 02-11-2008, 06:39 PM

noflash, I would have them replace the cats first. Find out if the IMA pac has been replaced. I would ask about it at cleanmpg as well. I would love to have a Insight!H

msantos · #3 (**permalink**) 02-11-2008, 06:53 PM

144K miles is not that bad for a $7000 Insight. As Harold said, if the pack has been replaced I would find the "When" part. That would be the primary determinant.

Then I would look at the overall condition of the car and ask about the servicing history. A carfax would also help. If the dealer history is there then I would see if the servicing was done regularly and properly.
If no history is available then it becomes more of a guess and a hope that the previous owner(s) did not skip on service and updates.

Overall, it could be worth it but I would apply a good amount of due diligence first.

Cheers;

MSantos