Quote:
Originally Posted by windy millar
Thanks for your reply Puffster, I could contact the garage who carried out the work I suppose and I’ve looked at their Facebook profile with nothing but glowing reports. I did offer him 5k for the car which he couldn’t accept but has now been back in touch after being let down.
Unfortunately for him, I am currently in the Vendee on 2 week holiday but will contact him when I return but it also now turns out that it only has 1 key.
I’m tempted to leave it as there are plenty available in my price range, just not such a current model with business edition spec. I’m pretty tempted by some similar mileage E class Mercs for similar money now, I think I will just chill back on my hols and start some test drives when I return.
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To be honest, a timing belt & aux belt replacement is reasonable price wise on Volvo's, especially if you get the work done at a local independent specialist or a trusted garage. Although, I'd like to see a stamp or receipt for a timing belt replacement on a vehicle with that mileage too. If he's not prepared to accept your offer of £300 below the asking price, which would near enough pay for, or certainly contribute to the works that need to be done, then I'd be prepared to walk away & I'd tell him that. Afterall, you said this was at the top end of your budget, so any reduction in price will benefit you. Another way to look at it is that the seller has been back in contact with you, so he obviously hasn't forgot your offer. If its the car you want, the spec you want etc... I'd give him a number you're comfortable with & basically say take it or leave it. The ball is in your court, he wants the sell the car & you're willing to buy it at the price price. The car is £5,300, you offered £5k & he wouldn't accept it at the time. However, now that interest has fell through, he might be prepared to be a bit more negotiable on the price. Personally, I'd offer £4,700 & see what he says (With a view to paying £5k max). It might seem cheeky, but you have to negotiate the best deal for yourself. If there's no joy from that, walk away & you'll find something else. At least you know you tried to get the best deal you could!
You mentioned E Class Merc's, certainly a lovely car. However, you have to bear in mind that parts/running costs are expensive on these vehicles.