First test drive, need advice.

[gerlando]

I drove an Insight for the first time yesterday and I have some questions. The body and interior were very clean. The car failed to start on it's own and had to be jump started. Before driving off I noticed the battery charge was a bit below halfway. By the time I was done driving the battery charge had not budged at all. The engine wasn't nearly as smooth as previous Honda's I've driven. The dealer also told me the battery warranty was 8/80k so the car was out of coverage.

So my question is... are all of the things I experienced normal for an Insight? And was the dealer correct about the battery warranty or are all Insights covered at 10/150k. I tried digging through the warranty thread and it wasn't really clear to me.

[budomove]

yes, 10yrs/150k, but that insight had some serious issues. The IMA system either was not charging the battery, or the 12v battery is toast. As for the engine sound, because it is a 3cyl, it sounds rougher in general upon start up. I say test drive a few, and learn what they're supposed to sound like.

[Fred]

... Asking price for this Insight was $9900.

Have a friend who is competent with used autos go along with you to check out the car. See what he says.

As for the "Asking price ..." that is just what it is, an asking price - it's not the final price!

Any warranties coming with the car?

Keep in mind, you have a right to make an offer you're sure he'll refuse - he just might surprise you and say yes - but you won't know that until you try.

tyc / Proud Owner of "The Silver Bullet"

[gerlando]

I'm pretty good with used autos, in fact I've swore off buying new a while back. There's only 2 Insights currently for sale in the entire Pacific Northwest so getting multiple points of reference will require patience on my part. Unless there is a kind Insight owner in the Seattle area willing to let me hitch a ride around the block

[dice]

Where are at? I'd be happy to come down to seattle at take you for a ride, and check out the Insight you are looking at.