Thinking about buying a GEN 1

[biggdave92]

Found a 2000 5 spd with 82k miles. Check engine light is on. It is an auction so the only info i will be able to gather is from a vin# check and inspecting it myself. Could possibly get a great deal!

i have a 2012 insight. i really dont know anything about gen 1.

what should i look for?

Thanks for any help!

[biggdave92]

should i rent a diagnostic tool from the auto parts store to scan it?

[Insight for life]

def rent a scanner. and make sure it not only read the codes but interprets them. also make sure you can drive it and check the regen and assist. check for a syncro grind going down 2nd and 3rd.

[biggdave92]

cant test drive. not allowed. thanks for the help!

[Insight for life]

im used to dealer auctions where you can drive them sorry.when you put the code reader on make sure the i/m monitors are not flashing. that would indicate a recent battery reset or clearing of codes.

[freezin4]

Expect to have a battery that will be needing TLC or replacement in an auction car. Its a $2000 expense for a new one, or $100-700 for grid chargers. Bid accordingly.
Most other things are cheap, except the trans fix at $800 (but you can live with grinding for years) , and the CAT converter.
Bridgestone Potenza RE92 tires are essential for max MPG, so budget $350-400 if not so equipped and this is a factor for you over somewhat better ride of other (cheaper) tires.
Good luck...welcome to the other side of the forum
Where are you located?

[biggdave92]

Could i replace the battery myself? Would that save any money?

Would the grid charger fix the problem or just put a bandaid on it?

Thanks!

[TopFuelTim]

Originally Posted by biggdave92

Could i replace the battery myself? Would that save any money?

Would the grid charger fix the problem or just put a bandaid on it?

Thanks!

Welcome! Yes, you can replace the battery yourself if you have moderate mechanical skills (like the ability to change your own brake pads/shoes). You can find step by step directions on this forum. Always be aware that you are dealing with high voltage, and act accordingly.

The grid charger is a way of extending a good deal more life from an IMA battery, as you can balance the cells. I have also reconditioned a couple of batteries with Mike D's grid charger, but again, it is a way to extend the useful life of the battery. It won't make them new again.

My 0.02 worth,
Tim Glover

[jime]

Originally Posted by TopFuelTim

Welcome! Yes, you can replace the battery yourself if you have moderate mechanical skills (like the ability to change your own brake pads/shoes). You can find step by step directions on this forum. Always be aware that you are dealing with high voltage, and act accordingly.

The grid charger is a way of extending a good deal more life from an IMA battery, as you can balance the cells. I have also reconditioned a couple of batteries with Mike D's grid charger, but again, it is a way to extend the useful life of the battery. It won't make them new again.

My 0.02 worth,
Tim Glover

Good advice from everyone, IMO. At 82K, you will probably get a usable transmission. The battery is highly questionable, but if you like to tinker, it might be a good buy. Check the Carfax! Look at the overall condition of the car. If it shows signs of abuse, I wouldn't bid much. If they allow you to start the car, you could check a few things and see if the clutch engages. The car is probably worth $1000-1500 just for salvage parts, so expect someone to bid it up to that level.

[biggdave92]

in a pic of the odometer, the current MPG is 52.4. Could that be an indicator of a good or bad battery?

thanks for the info fellas!