Q: I was just wondering if a 2007 Nissan Altima with 238000 miles on it for $1000 a bad deal? I wanted an explanation about whether

If the engine has good compression, oil pressure is good, there are no huge leaks, no unusual noises and the rest of the vehicle is still serviceable (tires, brakes, suspension), it’s a fantastic deal. However, if the engine needs to be rebuilt, or the transmission shifts poorly, the suspension is worn, the fuel and brake lines are rusted, and so forth, it’s an "average" to potentially very "poor" deal depending on just how bad the defects are and how numerous they are. If the engine and/or transmission needs to be rebuilt, the car might be worth $500 to $1,000 as is but that depends on the condition of the rest of the vehicle. If more than the engine /transmission needs to be rebuilt in the worst case scenario, the value of the car is basically no more than the scrap value of steel which is around 3 to 7 cents per pound.

Used car repair, restoration, and maintenance costs are highly dependent on the actual, as found, condition of the vehicle. The only way to get a reasonably precise estimate of costs you might face, and also to protect yourself in the transaction, is to request a pre-purchase vehicle inspection. That inspection, carried out by a certified Mechanic, dispatched to your location, will give you the exact data that you need to make a fully informed, intelligent decision and minimize your risk in buying a used car. If you look at the just cited link for YourMechanic’s inspection service, you will see a long list of the vehicle systems that must be inspected as well as details of YourMechanic’s inspection methodology. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.