How to pull service records on a potential purchase?
 

I am investigating purchasing a C4S and it will likely be from a private seller in another state. There may not be the opportunity to have a mechanic inspect the car prior to purchase (is this a mistake?) The owner claims the car has had service work performed and I have no reason to doubt it. I am relying on the general honesty of the owner and the appearance and low mileage of the car as indicators of quality. (Good enough?) :confused:

Is there a way to investigate (via a VIN#) a particulars cars service history ahead of time?

Buying a car out of town is tough. You have to drive, or fly in, have very little time to make a decision, and leave again.

Any pointers?

Thanks a lot!

Brad,
First off, if it were me, I would hold out for a car that I could have inspected by a certified Porsche or Bosch shop. Your opinion and the sellers opinion of a nice car may be different. However, if you feel confident that the car is nice, go for it! As far as the service records, if the car was serviced at a Porsche dealership, then they shoud be on file with any licensed Porsche dealership. If they were done at a private shop, you'll need to call that shop and get the records directly from them. In many cases, the shop will require that the seller call them and give them permission to release the information to you. Again, I personally would get a Pre-Purchase Inspection done, regardless. That would reveal any hidden problems like low compression, oil leaks or prior body/frame damage. In any event, best of luck to you! I just bought my first 993 and I LOVE THESE CARS! I think a C4S would be even more fum when you look out that side-view mirror and see that fat butt following you around!

Paul <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />

Brad
IMO it's a BIG mistake not to have a PPI, especially w/a distant seller. Aside from the possibility the seller has concealed problems, there may be problems unknown to even the most honest seller & you'll be the one to pay for the repairs or live w/a defective vehicle.

Your local P dealer can run the VIN & tell you the selling dealer. I'd call that dealer & request service records - most will accomodate you. If the seller "claims service work was done," s/he should be able to give your records.

Buying a car long distance has added risks, but many have done it successfully (my car is from a CA seller). You just need to be careful, which, at this price point, should include a competent mechanical & body PPI, service records review, & title history.

Brad,

I'm in the process of buying an out of state car right now. As far as the service records go you can go to any Porsche dealer, with the Vin#, and they can pull up on their computer any work that was done under warranty no matter where it was done. Also check carfax.

I was fortunate enough to have a rennlist member check the car out for me before I had the PPI, which I definately recommend. Then fly out to look at the car yourself and if the car drives and looks great complete the sale.

Should the car your interested in be anywhere near Charleston, SC I'd be happy to look at it for you.

You guys are a big help. Any more tips? I'm listening! <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />

Well,

I just have to say...

Sixty-four cars (most of them sportscars - all of them interesting) bought & then sixty-three sold. All of them were wonderful / no trouble, and I have never implemented a PPI either buying, or when I was selling.

With that said please understand that I have a grasp on most aspects of an automobile.

I am not saying for you to follow my path, but I want to point out that you CAN buy a car (even a Porsche), without anymore than a smart "self check" (if that is all that can be implemented), and still come out with a car that is as fine as a great wine.

Please do use PPI's whenever you deem it necessary, but keep in mind, the world wont end if you just can't make that happen.

A PPI is just somebody's opinion, just like you have an opinion. Often times the "dealer" or whomever does the PPI knows less than you do about the breed anyway.

Just be smart. That never fails.