I like to buy cars that need work and fix them up. I recently did this to an old vw cabriolet and I fell in love with convertibles. I used to drive a 2009 mini and have missed it since i sold it. While hunting for a fixer upper I came across a 2005 convertible, seems like what I need.

It's a 2005 S convertible with 177k miles on it- manual. Guy is asking $2,300, he's just trying to get rid of it before winter. Fixed up seems to be worth much more than that.

It has a small coolant leak from heater core and needs some odds and ends. Body panels, brake work etc. I plan on putting 500-1000 into it to make it perfect. I do all of my own work.

I was just wondering if there are any major red flags I should be looking for while inspecting this car. I'm not familiar with this model and any advice would be great. I'm just trying to avoid needing to replace any major/very expensive components. Thanks so much

 

#1 make sure the convertible top is working correctly has that can quickly be thousands $$$ to fix

 

Thanks, Yeah top is in perfect shape so I figure it the car does develop any serious issues while fixing her up I could just part her out to recoup the $2000 i plan on offering.

 

Might be a good idea to get a PPI done before you purchase if you can. That way you know exactly what will need to be done ahead of time.

 

As a Convertible owner myself. The to and full option of the top should be inspected. Make sure the cables are fine. 54347174761 and the linkage 54347174763

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...tible-top.html





That can be one of the most expensive repairs.

 

Convertible advise. Buy a Sidewalk edition.

 

If you can find them, sometimes in the LOSC edition its quite hard.