* Maintenance history: A meticulously maintained Lumina with 160,000 miles could potentially have many more miles left in it. Conversely, a neglected car with that mileage is likely to be full of problems. Service records are crucial.
* Condition of the body: Rust, significant dents, or collision damage are major red flags. These indicate potential underlying mechanical issues or costly repairs.
* Mechanical condition: A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is absolutely essential. This should check the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and other vital systems for wear and tear.
* Price: The asking price needs to reflect the car's age, mileage, and condition. A fair price for a high-mileage Lumina is significantly lower than one with low mileage.
* Intended use: Is this a daily driver, a weekend car, or something else? The expectations for reliability should be adjusted accordingly. A Lumina with 160,000 miles might be suitable as a cheap second car, but less so as a primary vehicle that needs daily reliability.
In short, I wouldn't buy it without a thorough inspection and a realistic assessment of its condition and price. At 160,000 miles, it's entering the territory where significant repairs become increasingly likely. The risk of unexpected, and possibly expensive, repairs is high.
