Hi Scotty,
How much mileage is too much for buying a used 2008 Toyota Solara? I have wanted one of these for awhile, but like you have said in your video, they can be hard to come by with lower mileage, good maintenance and decent condition. I have found a great looking bright red 2008 Solara with grey leather interior (automatic transmission) with 151,000 miles and asking price from used dealership of $8,400. My husband is more nervous about me buying it than I am, but I like that everything has been done it (timing belt, serpentine, water pump, etc). It's a two owner that looks very well taken care of down south. Thoughts? Should I steer clear? I would only plan to have it out on the weekends. I know Toyotas can essentially run forever as long as they are taken care of, but don't want to make a bad decision. Thank you in advance!
That sounds like too much money for a 16-year old Solara, but dealers are typically overpriced. Chances are they bought the car at auction for about 1/3 that price and don't know the history of it. (You can't count on Carfax.)
The mileage is really not bad for a car that age, less than 10K miles per year. If it was well-maintained it should have a lot of life left especially as a weekend toy. You'd want to have a good mechanic give the car a thorough inspection before purchase. If the dealer won't let you do this, run away.
Ok, thank you Chuck!
@slo42790, also see my comment about oil burning problems with 4-cylinder models.
One thing to be particularly aware of is that car was made when Toyota was having serious oil burning problems with their 4-cylinder engines due to defective piston rings. Those should be avoided. You didn't say whether that Solara was 4-cylinder or V6.
According KBB it's not worth $8k regardless. Doesn't matter if it's coupe or convertible, it's closer to $5.8k in very good condition.
This one is a V6 cylinder (3.3), and I have been looking at the V6. Any other thoughts? I appreciate your insight!
The V6 is fine, the oil burning problems were with the 4-cylinder engines. Assuming the car itself is OK, which can only be determined by a good mechanic, the main issue is the price.
The v6 is a good engine. And this could be a solid car. Just don't let the 'eye candy' distract you because the appearance is 'pretty" because the $8400 price is high. (It's not worth $8k) Dealers often slap higher prices on 'appealing' cars as a sales ploy. This gives potential buyers the illusion of a 'good deal' because they reduced the price a bit. Take @chucktobias advice here about having a mechanic inspect the car.
This My Car's Value will give you values of the car in your area.
Thank you all!!