V1 Possible donor problems

[Friedhouse]

Was looking into a donor car. This guy said it has some engine issues, leaks oil, power steering going out etc. I'm ok with having to fix a few things, but don't want to have to open up the engine if possible. This is a 2007 SS w/ 70k supposedly. Haven't gone to check it out in person yet. The videos he sent me below seem odd, maybe timing, throttle body/MAF, or vac leak? Anyone have any ideas as to what this could be?

 

[Ross]

Sounds like it is running on 3 cylinders. Keep looking, or hope the block is good if you are rebuilding it.
Or maybe use it for everything but the engine, and buy a new engine.

 

[DCMoney]

Can they send you a scan of the current CEL codes?

Personally I'd steer clear of that donor unless you're willing to rebuild the engine.

 

[escapepilot]

Almost sounds like someone switched plug wires or timing is screwed or something. If the price reflects the current state of drivability, I say go for it. It’s going to be hard for him to sell with it running like that so make an offer that won’t hurt too much if the engine is shot. You would still wind up with a lot of useable parts and if the supercharger itself is good...well, those are getting harder to find.

 

[Friedhouse]

I'll plan on doing a compression test if I go to see it. It sounds pretty beat up, and he is asking $1800..

 

[escapepilot]

$1800 sounds high to me. Engine sounds like crap, something is up with that driver window (who cares that we don’t need it - negotiating tool), paint looks horrible, and who knows what else may have issues. If it passes a compression check, make an offer inline with it possibly having other issues or tell him you’ll think about it and see if he comes down.

 

[Corgithulhu]

I would try and go a lot lower than that until you know what the issue is. I picked up an 07 SS with 180k and a salvage title from cosmetic/irrelevant to me damage for $1200. It went like stink and was perfectly healthy for the age - it was just cheap because it had a couple mismatched panels and it couldn't be titled as it sat.