I am looking at a 2011 Honda Ridgeline being sold by a small dealership that sells clean higher mileage used vehicles. I was concerned that with 159,000 miles there was no record of the front end service being done (timing belt and water pump). The dealer agreed to a PPI and even offered to have the Ridgeline taken to a mechanic of my choosing. My mechanic is in a town much farther away so I arranged to have the inspection done at a reputable shop closer that deals with Honda and Toyotas exclusively. The mechanic at that shop called me and said that the head gasket had been done. He also pointed out that the timing belt, water pump, and radiator had all been replaced as well. I asked if he thought it overheated and he said I can't say. I even suggested the possibility that the timing belt broke, but there is no real evidence of that as well. He also said without knowing the reasons for the work being done, and not knowing the quality of the work, its hard to know what to expect. The mechanic said "I would pass unless your getting a real good deal". He then said buy a Toyota. Sadly, I am only looking at vehicles because someone plowed into my FJ Cruiser while looking at their phone a few weeks ago, and I am trying to find something inexpensive to "hold me over". 

I then phoned my regular mechanic and talked to him about the inspection and what was found. He did not seem nearly as concerned that the head gasket had been done and stated he's done many. I expressed concern that the radiator had been replaced and perhaps the engine overheated. I wondered if there could be internal damage to the engine and he said its possible but unlikely if it's running as it should. Granted, he has not seen the vehicle, but he seemed much less negative regarding purchasing it. I want to stress that he has been my mechanic for thirty years and has always done quality work at reasonable rates. He is a mechanics mechanic if you know what I mean. If I choose to pursue purchasing, I feel like I need to get it to his shop, but he is an hour and a half away so...

Here is my two schools of thought:

One- just let it go and keep looking. The body, undercarriage, and interior are immaculate for the year, and there are extensive service records (mostly done at a dealer shop). There is no record, however, of the work described here being done. The dealer bought it at auction and says they did not do any of the work mentioned and don't have any more information.

Two- buy it. It runs good. The head gaskets have been done, it has a new radiator, water pump, and timing belt. Fluids all look clean. 

Other items found- The rear ujoint/driveshaft was worn, a rear shock was leaking, and the front stabalizer bushing were worn. I consider these items regarding suspension and drivetrain somewhat expected, as the mileage is high and these are things that show up on older used vehicles. I would negotiate these into already resonable price.

Any thoughts would be appreciated. Are there any other tests or inspections that would help?