Expert: Ray Paulsen - 11/1/2008

Question
We are purchasing our first car and have a budget of five thousand dollars. We test drove a 2004 Chev Malibu with a 3.5 v6 today and are thinking of getting it was very clean and quiet, didn't look like any body work has been done or changed, but has 180,000 km on it. We are in southeastern Ontario and the asking price is $4995 including etest certification and 7 month powertrain warranty. He said he was willing to come down to help us make the taxes fit our budget. Do you think this is a bad deal? It's definitely the newest car we have been able to afford. Thanks alot in advance.

Answer
Hi jody

We are located on the same turf as I am located in the GTA, I like the Malibu but with 180K you better make sure you get transportation that will outlast your investment.

(1) If your buying from an Ontario dealer ? did you see a history report from UCDA ?
(2)Having an independent inspection done by a mechanic is a must or you walk away from deal, it's worth the extra money.
(3) The balance 7 month P/T warranty, is that from GM ?, if it's not 99% says it's useless.

I assume it's a base model, you don't get much today under $5000.
If vehicle checks out, $4000. will be more than fair with those Km.

Check out my website to make sure you have covered all the bases.  http://www.usedcartips.org/

Good Luck

Ray