SVTcarguy

Thanks for the input. I will for sure have a mechanic take a look and do these tests!

I always have a leak down and compression test as well as a 60-90+ point inspection done by a neutral shop/dealer of my finding/research. (must have a 4.5 star with many honest reviews) that has never worked on the car. I have the dealer I find scan the vin to show if it's been worked on. I always have the dealer/shop fax or email me the results, and inform the service manager not to inform the seller that I am having that done. I like to keep the seller assuming they are in control.

Never trust the seller period. I had a seller tell me all was well, he did not know I had had the dealer fax me the results. He even offered to refund me the payment. I told him I'd email him a contract. When he opened the email and saw I had the poor compression test results, he quickly began apologizing and offered to sell me the car for $3500 less. I didn't bite.

That's my advice. Play Colombo if buying or selling. The world is very full of scammers and they don't stay ahead by being telegraphic.