I've been looking for a 2012 - 2013 Toyota Camry with a V6 with under 150,000 miles for several months in my area with no luck. One came up 2 months ago and sold in minutes. I've now switched my sites on a 2013 Toyota Avalon XLE Premium that just came up from a private owner with 115,000 miles and a clean carfax except for 1 minor accident. The car has spent it's life locally where I'm from and was never a rental car. The current 2nd owner bought the car back in 2017 with 64,000 miles for $16,999. The current owner said he changed the oil every 3,500 miles. He was asking $13,500 for the car, I offered $12,500 and we settled on $12,800. The current NADA clean retail listing is $14,250. Comparing that to other similar cars out there right now (2012-2013 Honda Accord, Toyota Camry), I'm thinking this is a good deal since most of the other cars I've seen have a salvage record.
Today is Tuesday 10/26/2021 and going to look at the car on Friday (2.5 hours away from me). I plan on looking for the following issues on the car, any other recommendations, considerations or opinions would be appreciated. Thank you
- Engine - Front Timing Cover Leak
- Engine - Water Pump Leak
- Transmission - Check fluid level and check for burnt smell
- Leaky struts and Front sway bar bushings
- Seat backs on driver / passenger seats
- Rear sunshade opperation
- Sunroof "clunk" issue
- Fuel door issues
- Radio issues??
That is a lot of money to gamble on a vehicle that hasn't been thoroughly inspected by a competent mechanic.
That's a decent price in today's market, but I would walk away if he won't let you take it to a mechanic for a thorough inspection. You should get it inspected.
