Hello,

I have a chance to buy a used 2002 WRX with 36,000 miles on it for 8K. The catch is is that the car has a salvage title. Another reason i can get it this cheap is my brother is friends with the dealers owner. Now im not sure exactly what happend to it but im pretty sure there ISNT any frame damage. If this is the case would you buy it considering its a salvaged car? Im thinking about buying the car and reselling it. How much do you think i could sell it for? Thanks in advance

Not only am I not surprised that it's been wrecked before, but I'm sure the engine and transmission have seen plenty of abuse. I would never buy a used WRX/STi for myself, as you can bet money they've been hammered on. If it's a salvage title, I wouldn't pay more than $10k for it.

Exactly what I was about to say. I would never in my life buy a used wrx. You know how many ungratefull 16yr olds I see driving them around in my town? It pisses me off frankly that all the 16 yr olds can get those cars from mommy and daddy. For example...before I left my job tinting for the subaru dealers. I say a brand new 04 wrx drive into the dealership with 2 week old temp tags...with the hazards on. Popped the hood and from across the parking lot I could see all the oil and coolant spewing from the car. Another example. At the 2nd subaru dealership I tinted for. I almost bout an 02 wrx with 36k miles. Good scenario same car with the same miles . Only reason I didn't buy it. Mechanic flat out told me. ABUSED...as he began replacing the transmission. If this car has a salvage title. I would completely run away. But thats just me.

 

This is the reason I drive a legacy gt

Someday I will own a brand new wrx...and I will baby it. Because at this rate...they won't be around and they will be rare.

I know i wouldn't buy a used wrx for myself either. But i plan on selling this and trying to make some money. The normal american wouldn't care if it's used or not.

I would stay away too. I share the view that a WRX is to be bought brand spanking new.

 

Imagine the long term problems caused by the first buyer thrashing the poor engine from cold!

I know i wouldn't buy a used wrx for myself either. But i plan on selling this and trying to make some money. The normal american wouldn't care if it's used or not.

No smart shopper would by a s-titled vehicle.

You might find a dumb 16 year old to buy it but only if they have cash.

Lending iinstitutions will not loan money on a s-titled vehicle so you would have to find someone that would pay cash also.

Do some research and find out how it was maintained, and why it was salvaged out. Some states require a car be salvaged just because tha air bags popped off. Maybe it was stolen and joyrided from an otherwise responsible owner/driver. Maybe it took a bath (flood damage), if so and it was restored by a competent company it may be fine.

 

Yes, selling it may be problematic, but if you intend to keep it and drive it yourself, and if you've got the do-re-mi, it's certainly a cheap fast ride.

I would consider an "R" title wrx but I would want to know some history. I would get a subaru dealer to run the vin and see if there is any history etc. I would also put in the budget a new gear set for the car too. Also, I would look for some leftover evidence of mods to the car too.

 

Just like the guy above me said....if you got the bucks...you could have one heck of a cheap fast ride.

 

Matt <---prowling ebay for hurt wrx's (preferably a 5sp wagon)