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Avoid ultra-low mileage used C4S?

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Old 07-01-2004, 01:30 AM
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Maxy
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Default Avoid ultra-low mileage used C4S?

Thinking of purchasing 02 C4S with just 1200 miles. The prior owner just never drove it. (His believeable story is that he had too many other interests/toys.) I have heard it said that ultra-low mileage could be a problem. Usually, I think, this situation arises with frequent short trips, rather than just hardly ever being driven. Otherwise, everything else about the car is attractive. Any thoughts on whether this is good or bad would be appreciated, thanks.

(Also, how important is a PPI if there is still an existing factory warranty?)

Thanks in advance.
Old 07-01-2004, 04:20 AM
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raidentech.com
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Please check carfax. Maybe a salvage vehicle.
Old 07-01-2004, 08:06 AM
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Bob in NY
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Just bought an 01 C4 Cab with 4500 miles 3 weeks ago and no problems. Have your dealer run the vin through the service dept to see if the car has any issues. You can also call Porsche USA and ask them to run the vin to determine if it was a buy back or lemon. Good Luck, if it checks out, you should $ave lots of money.
Old 07-01-2004, 08:23 AM
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amfp
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It is mandatory you get a PPI for a well known Porsche tech who knows these cars. I would check if the battery has not leaked, and change oil, brake fluids and maybe change fuel filter. If car had multiple owners in last two years, it may be a red flag. If it is the right color for you and price, I would not be hesitant to purchase it. Good luck.
Old 07-01-2004, 09:10 AM
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UberXY
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The local P-dealer here gets in legitimate low mile cars from customers frequently. Recently a 1200 mile TT showed up, having been brought in by the estate manager, as the owner was enjoying an extended stay at his european home.

Steve
99 996 (11,500 miles, by the way).
Old 07-01-2004, 09:29 AM
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OH997
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Be careful calling Porsche to find out if it was a lemon. I had Mercedes buy my E500 back last year and they termed it good will. They will do everything possible to avoid putting a lemon tag on the car.
Old 07-01-2004, 10:52 AM
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Maxy
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Thanks, all. Carfax is clean. Seller is the original owner and has sales records and the service record for the one oil change on the car. He is well known to the local dealer, because of many purchases over the years, but Harleys are his new habit.

The seller is pretty meticulous, in his house and other vehicles (good sign), and the car had two things I haven't seen, or at least noticed, before on other cars: 1. A small, sacrificial piece of plastic bolted underneath the front spoiler to protect against scrapes when going over driveways. 2. Fitted seat covers made out of a thick and cushiony Spandex like material that actually don't look bad at all. He said he got both from the dealer; is there an official name for the first part?

Thanks again.
Old 07-01-2004, 02:28 PM
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01 C4 Cab NYC
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I think its usually referred to as a chin spoiler... Sounds like a great deal, post pics when you get it. A PPI might still be a good idea, should only be about $200, but as you said its under warranty. You might wanna make sure the seat covers are allowing the leather to 'breathe' you don't wanna be trapping moisture or whatever under there...
Old 07-01-2004, 02:35 PM
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MetalSolid
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I heard it's common practice for a lot of people to disconnect the odometer...
Old 07-01-2004, 04:43 PM
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fahren affair
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Originally posted by MetalSolid
I heard it's common practice for a lot of people to disconnect the odometer...
on a modern porsche? how is that possible without disabling the entire ecu?
Old 07-01-2004, 07:11 PM
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okbarnett
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if its a 02, its under warrantee. The dealer said its a valid car. Whats the problem? buy it.



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