Gonna buy a sidekick - what caution areas are there?

tuner-automotive · 01-21-2007, 08:12 AM

Hello all.
VERY new to the suzuki world but not to the automotive world.
I have been turning wrenches on all years of VW's , Chevy trucks , Isuzu's and Subaru's for the past 10 years.

Im going to look at a 91 Sidekick w/130k miles on it.
It has no pwer options and its a 4dr , 4x4 , Auto tranny.
What are the most common faults I should look for when checking it over before buying?

Im purchasing it as i need something with room and 4x4 but would like a decent gas mileage.
The sidekick seems like a good candidate .
The 80hp engine is alittle bit of a bummer.
Seems under powered .

suzuguy · 01-21-2007, 10:09 AM

i am serious when i say there is no real things to really look for. i would say take it for a long drive and also put it in the woods to check to see that all 4wd stuff (transfer case,driveshafts,hubs ) are all o.k. also look to see that oilpan is in good shape because it is nasty to replace. make sure all electrical is fine and she is not burning oil or leaking .

tuner-automotive · 01-21-2007, 10:13 AM

heres the add..........
1991 sidekick,4dr,4x4,auto trans,power steering,white with gray int. new head,new timing belt,new tire,cd player,needs little = $1100

Shconer · 01-22-2007, 01:10 AM

I would be cautious of all the new stuff. Find out who did the head ask how long ago it was done if they have any receipts. Check for any leaks, if the engine has any blow-by there will usually be oil around the PVC valve and on the bottom of the hood. Pull all the dip sticks and check the oil condition. I'm guessing it has high millage and it says needs little, how little. Check for rust in the rear fenders, around the windshield, and under the car especially along the sides. Make sure all the locks, windows, and seat belts work. Yes 80 HP isn't much and it is underpowered but remember it only weighs 2800 LBS. If it were me I would get a newer one, 16 years is a long time, I would look at a 1.6L 16V (100 HP) manual nothing older than a 94, unless it's in good shape or a 1.8L Sport(120 HP) or 2.0L Sport(approx. 140 HP).

nascarmaniac · 01-22-2007, 06:54 AM

They also tend to rot really bad at the rear body mounts right by the rear tires.

tuner-automotive · 01-22-2007, 08:57 AM

It has 133k miles.
Has reciepts for all the work.
Owned by a guy in the airforce .
He is a heavy eq. mechanic.
Id love a 16V but cant find one and $1000 seems good for a straight rig with low miles.
I saw it last night but was unable to drive it as he was called into work for eq. repair emergency.
Has brand new BFG tires aswell, thats a plus since i need to drive it from salem oregon (valley 500 foot elevation) to Mt Hood (5500 foot elevation ) once ot twice a week.
Basically i want something thats gonna get me good gas mileage and be good in snow and ice.

suzboy · 01-22-2007, 12:42 PM

overall if it checks out to be o.k. then i'd say you will get the vehicle you are looking for. just don't be too ready to ignore the facts of the recent repairs. it will need some more as it is 16 years old.

tuner-automotive · 01-22-2007, 12:46 PM

Oh , but of course.
Im 35 , w/wife and child.
Ive had and repaired many a car.
Mostly older MKII VW's.

Shconer · 01-22-2007, 08:03 PM

Repairs cost money so it may be more economical to go with something newer, but if it looks good and the price is right.