Is it worth to buy such a car, what could happen with all the rust?

Tiny
SHLOIMY
  • MEMBER
  • 2008 CHEVROLET UPLANDER
  • 2,700 MILES
The vehicle listed above is an Extended Sports Van, 3.9l v6 ohv 12v ffv. Automatic. Flex fuel. Overall mechanical condition of vehicle is good. Vehicle runs and drives with no warning lights on. The body of vehicle has some light dents/scratches and a rusted rocker panel. Vehicle underbody is heavily rusted with holes in floor. Brakes lines are rusted as well. Vehicle frame is rotted with a hole on the right front side. Vehicle brakes are sound but rusty. Tires are good with good tread. Lights and glass in/on vehicle are good. Transmission shifts smoothly with no issues. The engine is good. Vehicle does have multiple oil leaks near the front cover/oil pan gasket. Heat and A/C operative but A/C may need to be charged. Steering is good but vehicle does have a loose right front wheel bearing. Interior is clean but does have some wear and light staining. It is recommended that vehicle be towed upon pickup due to frame rot.
Saturday, May 20th, 2023 AT 9:56 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

If everything you mentioned is rusted, I don't feel comfortable saying to buy it. If there are holes in the frame, rockers, and floor, it sounds like you are buying an engine and transmission. Also, these vehicles are known to have the lower radiator support fall apart from rust as well. Based on what you described, I wouldn't get it unless you want to put a lot more money into it than it's worth.

I am in PA, and this would never pass state safety inspection. I'm not sure where you are located, but you may want to consult an inspection tech to see what he or she tells you.

Take care and let me know if you have other questions.

Joe
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Saturday, May 20th, 2023 AT 11:56 PM
Tiny
SHLOIMY
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  • 5 POSTS
The car is currently up for bid at an incredibly affordable price of around $1,500. The question is, is it worth it? Can the car even be driven? And if so, how long could it last?
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Sunday, May 21st, 2023 AT 6:23 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

Based on the description, I wouldn't think it's worth buying. If it is rusted as badly as you mentioned, it won't be safe.

Joe
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Sunday, May 21st, 2023 AT 7:14 PM

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