Mitsubishi Forum - Mitsubishi Enthusiast Forums

If you're not proficient in automotive, I'd say a competent mechanic is the only way to get a good assessment.

I personally despise these vehicles. They don't do anything particularly well; they aren't fuel efficient, they don't handle that well, they aren't fast, and they aren't the greatest quality. If the styling isn't to your liking, I would strongly suggest looking elsewhere. If the way the car looks is what sold you, then by all means.

I also really cannot stand the transmission in this car, but that's more likely down to my aggressive driving style. It can't ever decide which gear is most appropriate, and the ratios are weak, as they've been chosen for their fuel economy rather than performance. The manual transmission variant is much better, and the V6 offers considerably more grunt which makes up for the dismal performance. Fuel economy will suffer with the bigger more powerful powerplant, but will improve with the manual transmission (driving style dependent). Remember that the average life of a clutch is around 100k depending on the drivers skill level. If the vehicle has mileage close to this, negotiate $700-$1000 into the price for a clutch change.

The reason I'm able to give input, is a friend of mine took me along when she was looking at these cars. I drove a 2006 with under 100k on it, and it was atrocious. Numerous random things wrong with the car, poorly made/fitting interior panels, etc, among everything listed above.

When considering a vehicle for purchase, take into account what's been repaired or covered up. Take someone that knows how to inspect bodywork as well as mechanical condition. A vehicle that's been made to look pretty on the outside can be very deceiving, and dealerships are known for it. Honest battle scars, like seen on the rear quarter panel / bumper, is actually a good thing. Use this to your advantage when negotiating. I recommend not using the dealerships finance company either, they're scam artists. Contact who ever you have lines of credit with, and explain your impending vehicle purchase and see what they'll offer you. 9 times out of 10, their offers are considerably better. You must take into account the price paid after interest, as it's wildly different than the actual price you agree to. Do some google research on how this works, and it'll make you sick to your stomach but at least you'll be prepared. If you're paying cash for the vehicle, that gives you considerably more leverage. They will be reluctant to budge on the price if they know you have cash to play with, so keep that card close to you. Negotiate your price, then whip out the checkbook. Watch the salesman's face change when he realizes he won't be bending you over with his interest rates. He may even try to back out and adjust the price. Stand your ground!!!

Dealerships hate me....