OK, looking at helping out a friends mom. She really needs a vehicle but can't afford much at all. I found a 1995 Geo Prizm, A/T with 177k on it. Everything works, no lights and the only issue is the headliner is ripped all to pieces. I checked the transmission fluid and it was to my surprise still red. Not dark at all. My only concern is the owner doesn't have a clue as to when the timing belt has ever been changed. So I'm thinking it is the original one. How hard is it to change out along with the water pump and tensioner? Tires were in good shape AC was working fine. I can get this vehicle for $900.
Vehicle 2 is a 2002 Honda Civic XLE, A/T with 287k miles on 1.7L. It had over heated and so they pulled the head and had it shaved and checked and they put it back on with all new water pump, tensioner pulley, belt, new radiator, cap, battery and thermostat. It drove fine as well. The transmission fluid on it was pretty dark brown. Couldn't see any other issues. Tires on it were good as well. They want $1,500 firm. No moving on the price.
So the question is which to I take a chance on? I mean if I got the Geo I would do the timing belt for sure and water pump. Would not take a chance. So the cost of that would still bring it below the Civic I would think. Especially if I tackle it myself. From what I saw on Youtube it isn't to hard.
Suggestions? The Geo is basically a Toyota engine and tranny correct?
Vehicle 2 is a 2002 Honda Civic XLE, A/T with 287k miles on 1.7L. It had over heated and so they pulled the head and had it shaved and checked and they put it back on with all new water pump, tensioner pulley, belt, new radiator, cap, battery and thermostat. It drove fine as well. The transmission fluid on it was pretty dark brown. Couldn't see any other issues. Tires on it were good as well. They want $1,500 firm. No moving on the price.
So the question is which to I take a chance on? I mean if I got the Geo I would do the timing belt for sure and water pump. Would not take a chance. So the cost of that would still bring it below the Civic I would think. Especially if I tackle it myself. From what I saw on Youtube it isn't to hard.
Suggestions? The Geo is basically a Toyota engine and tranny correct?