Should I or should I not.. Tis the question

funkymunkeez

Hey people of the world. Quick question I need some opinions on purchasing a cash 2008 Cadillac SRX with 131,000 miles on it. Don't know allot about these vehicles but this one seems in great shape. Dealer is selling for 6500. I drive a 2006 Mazda 3 with 100k also in great shape. Is this a worthy substitute? I really like the SRX but I don't want my desires to cloud my judgement and I know my Mazda 3 will probably outlast the caddy. Your thoughts please

stever

The price sounds "right" when I look appraise it here. Our Consumer Reviews are mostly good (most cars these days are pretty reliable).

The trick is avoiding the lemons. I suppose the dealer offered to show you a Carfax or AutoCheck?

henryn

Cadillacs are expensive cars. Service and parts for a Cadillac, especially at the dealer, can be VERY expensive.

I have owned several, presently have a 2006 DTS as my daily driver. But I purchased this one back in March of this year as a one owner new car trade in with only 35k miles. I don't think I would want to own a 7 year old, out of warranty used Caddy with 131k miles.

oldfarmer50

I have to agree with henryn. 131k miles on any car is a repair bill waiting to happen. I've read that modern cars are designed to last 150k miles so that car is close to it's design lifetime limits.

funkymunkeez

Thank you guys for the imput. Steven yes she did offer for me to see the carfax. It has one owner and was taken care of. But I asked the mechanic and the ball bearings had to be replaced which is all that's been done to the car since 2008. Henryn and oldfarmer I appreciate the advice. I realize buying a cash car at any point is a gamble. I can't afford a new caddy but I love to drive them #poorpeoplebroblems

Mr_Shiftright

Well you might spring for a complete mechanical inspection and see what the car's immediate needs might be. Even if it's in great shape more or less, if say it needs tires, front brakes and has a leak of some sort here or there, that $6500 car becomes an instant $8000 car before you've driven it 100 miles.

I figure a modern car is good for $175K--that's a statistical lifespan. So it's life is about 75-80% over.

Price is fair enough. I'd say that the mechanical inspection would tip the balance one way or the other.

funkymunkeez

Thanks for the tip I'll see about getting it inspected. That's a tough call though, sounds like even if it's in mint condition it won't be long before I'm car shopping again.