Beginners Need-To-Know Roadster Buying Guide – Part 1
These days there are quite a few interesting roadsters available on the marketplace though varying manufacturers. If you’re on the lookout for a second-hand deal on one of these snappy two-seater cars, the following guide will help you decide which one to buy by providing a list of features to check.
Paint Work
Carefully scan the body of the car for deep scratches in the paint work or peeling lacquer. Keep an eye on the rear wheel arches as they are often prone to suffering stone chips. Also be aware that any replacement panels needed would have to be painted to match the car, so you don’t want to go for a discontinued colour. Lastly, make sure the colour is even all round and that there is no fading in certain areas as this will soon diminish the car’s looks.
Windows
Make sure you check all the windows for chips or scratches. If the front windscreen is heated it will obviously be more expensive to replace so you will want to get a percentage of the price knocked off the selling cost if there are any nicks. Also bear in mind that if you choose a roadster which has plastic side rear glass, this could mean that it will need to be removed when you have the car serviced, so do a check before you take it in so that no disputes arise. Also check that the wiper blades and electric operation of the windows operate smoothly.
Engine
Roadsters sport a timing chain rather than a cam belt. While this is less vulnerable than the cam belt, it can sometimes rattle – this is simply a characteristic of this type of car.
When it comes to the oil, check the dip-stick as well as the colour and texture of the oil. Also have a look at the inside of the oil filler cap is clean since if it has a grey sweaty sludge this would point to head-gasket problems.
Handbrake
The best way to check that the hand brake is in good condition is to switch off the car and put it in ‘Neutral’. Be aware that roadsters locks the wheels if you engage reverse before switching the ignition off – it is the equivalent of putting an automatic into ‘Park’.
Brakes
Your roadsters should handle a tight and tidy stop with no pulling to the sides. Depending on how the wheels are fitted, you might be able to check the extent of the wear on the brake pads and disks. Even a low mileage model can have a damaged disk, but generally the discs should be top notch for at least 20,000 miles, and depending on how much use the brakes have had, possibly two to three times that figure.
Steering
Roadsters should drive as if they’re on rails – when you take the car for a test spin the steering should feel tight and on point, no play. Check that there are no clunking sounds when moving from lock to lock. Most roadsters have power steering.
Remaps
Remapping involves replacing the software that manages the engine with new software to make it perform differently, such as to add to acceleration capabilities. While this would officially invalidate a warranty, many dealers won’t detect the remap. It’s up to you whether you want to take the risk.
Conclusion
A Roadster is both stylish and alot of fun to drive. Part 1 of this article series covers just some of the basics when it comes to checking out a potential buy. Before you commit yourself to any deal however, be sure to both do your online research to learn as much as you can about the exact model and also have the vehicle checked by a reputable motoring organisation such as the AA, a garage or a mechanic.
Author:
Anthony Blascara: owner of car mechanic business and Roadster expert.
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