Hello,

I'm new to the forums and looking for some advice. I'm in central PA and am looking to purchase a crossfire convertible.

Here's what I'm looking for:

2005-2006 Roadster Limited. Mileage under 70K in decent cosmetic shape and sound mechanically
my price range tops out at 13.5K.

Here is what I am finding in that price range:

Cars with beat up interiors and cars with mechanical flaws.

I looked at two Aero Blue ones yesterday outside of Philadelphia

#1. 66k miles, two tone interior, manual...the "light" color of the two tone was very discolored throughout, the chrome door pulls on the inside had the chrome flaking and peeling. Both headlights fogged. Asking 13,395.

#2 76K miles, dark grey interior, auto. Interior was in much better shape and had none of the issues of the first car, except for fogged headlights. Salesperson informed me that the 12,995 price on the internet was low because the car needed new rotors, a wheel bearing and b/c it had snow tires installed.(?). Price for a the car to be fixed was around $15,000.

I test drove car #2 thinking we might be able to negotiate price. My wife indicated that the passenger seat didn't move up or down (Is it supposed to? The button pushed up and down but seat didn't move)
we stopped at the side of the road to check it out free of salesperson eyes, shut the car off and it would not start back up....had to call salesperson to pick us up. It finally started but then threw a CEL.

Are my expectations too high? Is my budget too low? Are they simply overpriced in my area?
Do dark interiors hold up better than two tone? Should i worry about higher mileage cars?

I am getting frustrated and am about ready to start looking at Audi's and Nissan's (Gasp)

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

Passenger seat does NOT move up/down, only forward/backward/recline.
The car not starting is most likely the "mystery no start" scenario, 3 lugs on the RCM ( Relay Control Module ) need to be cleaned and re-soldered, easy job.

Did you check the rear window bond ? This has been an issue with the roadsters.

As to the interior, I can't say other than there are numerous good products to restore the leather.

Here is a list of items to be inspected/replaced IF you buy the car with 77K miles:
1. fix the RCM.
2. replace the CPS ( Crankshaft Position Sensor )
3. replace the serpentine belt.
4. Change the oil & filter ( Mobil1 0-40 - 8 qts and a Mann fleece filter )
5. flush cooling system and replace with 50/50 Zerex G05 / distilled water.
6. replace the plugs and plug wires ( needswings.com )
7. replace the air filters and the cabin filter.

 

Your expectation on price is a bit low, but that said you should find one in good working order for just a bit more.

 

Welcome to the forum! XF=FUN!!! :-)

 

I gave $14K OTD for my 05 Aero Blue Limited roadster. I had to travel to Seattle to get it. I havent HAD to do anything to it but replace the rear tires, air filters and oil once. The dealership I got it from had already replaced the CPS. I checked my RCM and noted some solder issues although I had never had a hint of a problem. I reflowed them just to be safe. Other than a few mods I just drive it every day like I stole it.
You can find something, just gotta keep looking.

 

You might be able to negotiate a good price on the one with the starting issue. It is an easy fix and they might not know this.

 

Thanks for all the information.

Sounds like i have some more homework to do to figure out what potential problems exist, which are easy fixes and which are deal busters.


I guess i have to be patient and find "the" car for me, after all, Winter is Coming.

Thanks again.
Lig.