I think I started poking around here in COVID times, when I realized that the Crossfires seem to be a relative bargain for the performance/style/build quality package.

What I found the other day was a FB Marketplace listing for a 2004 Crossfire Coupe, 124,000 miles with the listed problems of:
"Carrier bearing is bad, fuel pump relay is bad. N needs front brakes."
Selling for $2,000

I've read the DIY notes on the carrier bearing and fuel pump relay--and I'm assuming that 'brakes is brakes' - just did both of our vehicles last year. Carrier bearing seems obvious (although not easy working without a lift), the relay discussion is offers guidance for repair and it looks like you can get them repaired/rebuilt now? (Some confusion--the seller claims the car is running--I thought it the fuel pump relay was bad it won't run?)

So my question--buy one for cheap with known problems or buy one that is in better condition. (The reason I ask--the last beater I bought--1999 Volvo--turned out to have pretty much everything wrong with it--and although I got it running reliably with everything but the AC working, it never felt reliable)

Thoughts?

 

All I can do is tell you my story. Just over 2 years ago I purchased an insurance writeoff rebuilt title 2005 Crossfire convertible. I knew the rebuilder and felt good about the car for $3000. I have since put over $6000 into the car to bring everything up to spec. Not knowing the service history on the car...I did just about all wear items. I helped save a car that was going to be parted out and crushed. Would I do it again....probably not. I can say I have had GREAT help from this site and was lucky to fine wonderful smart people in Tampa to help with the car.

 

The fuel pump relay is a simple swap out of the RCM. Instructions are on Utube. Cost about 175.00. These cars are 16 - 18 years old and require some repairs as most cars do. Many people, if they are not mechaniclly inclined get rid of the because mechanics that know them are hard to find but just about everything you need to know is on this site or Utube. I would offer 1700 and see what the say. Parts are worth more than that.

 

Good advice, but offer 1200 cash, or quick pickup. Not worth much to the seller. Just Wants to rid himself of a problem

 

You have to determine whether you really want a crossfire then set a budget. Be prepared to spend as much on repairs and maintenance as you would be paying for this car itself. You can send the RCM to a forum member from Arizona who will refurbish it four around $50 currently. If the calipers and lines are good then brakes should not be a problem. There are drilled and slotted rotor kits with ceramic pads Between 250 and $400 for all four wheels or you might be able to have your rotors resurfaced and just get a good set of pads. I would recommend flushing all fluids and replacing all filters. Consider the condition of the tires and the cost of replacing them. You would definitely want to hear the engine run if at all possible. Make sure that all the electronics and air conditioning work. Last fall we bought a 2004 Limited coupe with 36,000 miles for $4200 and have since probably spent $2000 getting it back into the condition we wanted it to be. This car has 12 spark plugs and getting a good replacement set of NGK iridium nine plugs will run you at least $75. With 124,000 miles you’ll probably want to do the spark plugs, transmission filter, fuel filter etc. if the car is otherwise in very good condition it could be worth it and you would end up with a very nice ride after performing repairs and maintenance but there are also some very nice low mileage crossfires out there four between $7000 and $9000 from original owners who may have complete service records. It is usually best to start off with the nicest example you can afford but if the initial cost is low enough and you can perform a lot of the work yourself there are bargains to be found. Another option would be sending it to Josh at the Mercedes swap shop to have a V-8 installed. From what I’ve seen and read you can have it done for $6000 including parts or $3000 if you supply the engine and necessary parts. A nice option if the car you start with is cheap enough and in good enough condition to be worth the investment.

 

Thanks guys for the comments--I'm going to let this one go. I'll clean up more of the other projects backlogs and come back to this.