Or is it too expensive?
Firstly, Paul – the guy selling this motor seemed a pretty reasonable chap, and I appreciated him taking the time to show me the car, which I was considering as a first car for my daughter to learn to drive in.
I was the bloke who would not put a deposit down to secure this mighty steed!!
I went down to view the car and, externally, it looked fairly good. I was also allowed to take it out for a test drive. However, as soon as I got into the car it felt damp and foisty. On closer inspection, the seats had multiple damp patches and visible mould, everything was moist.
This would clearly need a wet valet to bring it back up to a reasonable standard, and while the clean itself may not be a major job although you do have to remove some of the trim to dry out behind, the underlying issue would still need to be addressed. The rear light seals are a common cause, allowing water to track across the headlining and into the spare wheel bay. Properly fixing this would require replacing the relevant seals, which represents additional cost and effort.
The clutch bite point was also high. While this may be adjustable, it is still something that would need to be taken into account.
When reviewing the paperwork, Paul was unable to locate a handbook or full service history, aside from a couple of service documents. I contacted Toyota directly, who confirmed servicing from 2020 to 2024, but they held no earlier records. The garage also advised that the front brake discs needed replacing, bushes and suspension struts misting oil. This was supported by the 2024 MOT advisory some 6,000 miles later, and there is no receipt or documentation to confirm that the discs were subsequently replaced.
An HPI check indicated that the car has had four previous owners rather than the two stated.
One of the receipts showed that the car had previously sustained a minor bump and repair. There is visible evidence that the shut lines do not align correctly.
The car was presented with one key only, no service handbook, and no MOT. My position was that I would want the car once it had been MOT’d, after which we could move forward with any negotiation. I did not feel it was appropriate to discuss price or put a deposit down until I knew exactly what I was buying.
Later that day, I was asked to transfer a £300 deposit into a bank account, with the remaining balance to be paid in cash.
I chased up to ask about the MOT and was informed it would be done on Friday, then it popped up on the MOT & HPI checker yesterday. Still wanting the car, I asked Paul if he would accept my reduced offer and was fobbed off, saying it has issues and best look elsewhere.
If anyone does fancy this motor, I have a Vehicle check I can fire over FOC. It appears to be as clear as a bobbin.
There are plenty more out there, so I am not bothered about that.........but is this what I have to expect when looking for a small motor for my daughter, its a real ball ache and waste of time and money, what happened to the day as a purchaser you felt like you were happy handing over your hard-earned and did not have to do all the chasing.