I've been looking to upgrade my "getting rustier by the day" Honda CRV. Prices are insane due to supply chain issues, chip shortages for new vehicles etc. Increased demand and so forth. I know all the issues causing this and understand them. Prices for used cars are very high.
What I don't get are the a-hole sellers. I've been looking at Honda Elements, great pin hauler plus work vehicle for me. Been looking for 5 months with cash in hand. I want one with less than 150K miles, as close to rust free as possible and reasonably well maintained. I worked in automotive service sales for 20 years and know what vehicles have problems.
Yesterday a 2006 Element with just 109K miles was listed on CL 2.5 hours away. Called seller to ask a few questions. Is it inspected? "Yes, till next month"
Red flag. If I was selling, I'd get new stickers. Not a deal breaker, I do 75% of my auto work myself. Can I look at it this Sunday (tomorrow)? NO. "All the notaries are closed. Me: "I'd just like to look it over, crawl underneath and test drive it. Get the VIN to get a CARFAX. I'll come back in a day or two with someone to drive me there so I can drive it home after title transfer." NO. "Why would you drive that far without just driving it home?" I'm concerned about underbody rust. "Can you raise the hood and text me a pic of the engine compartment?" These rust from the engine brackets down. NO, all the pictures are in my listing. Then she just hung up the phone. Total WTF. I believe I dodged a bullet with this one.
Are we now at the "Car Nazi" stage of used vehicle buying? "NO pictures for you!" I'm patient and will find one.