Purchasing tips

stormbind

New user
Aug 14, 2011
1
0
London
Hi all,

I'm looking at buying a low-spec Cougar on Sunday evening (that's today..)

I wanted the 2000cc zetec to keep insurance down. I have taken it for a test drive and its drives really well. There's no sunroof to worry about and the cambelts may or may-not have been done, but it has a service record.

Before parting with cash, what should I look out for?
 
pulsing of the lights on start up, then it should calm down after a few seconds, check the wishbones and rear subframe, make sure all electrics work properly, it can be a minefield on first ownership, little things that go wrong niggle rather than irritate, and expect to get your hands dirty a little bit, i do miss getting filthy working on the capri, i'm old school, the car is like a space shuttle to me hahahahahaha but i do love it to bits ;-)
 
The only advice I can give, not being mechanically minded at all, is remember that you're looking at an old car, it won't be perfect so treat it the same as any other viewing & check it over..............everywhere.

Cougars tend to be reliable & solid in the main, check the wishbone bushes, (front lower suspension arms), if they're knackered you'll need to replace the complete unit, not really an expensive fix but one you can do without.
The rear subframe is starting to make an appearance on the forum more recently.

The moral is:- Check it then check it again, if all seems well & you like it.............buy it!!

When, (if), things go wrong there is a wealth of knowledge & experience on this forum with people willing to help you at the drop of a hat.

Welcome to the forum btw :)