Hi everyone. I have a chance to buy a second xtype. It is newer than my current and I May be able to get it for under $600. It may need a new engine, but I won't know until I look into it more.

So my question is this, Would it be worth it even if in means buying a used engine ($600) and having it installed? Any ideas on labor for an engine swap? Any recommendations on a good therapist? etc.

 

For under 600 id get it as a parts car

 

Need a second car for a boy going to college. Thought the AWD might be nice for those snowy days.

 

You're definitely not crazy.

Couple things to think about though. Find out as much as you can about the car and why it ended up needing a new engine in the first place. Could be a sign of general neglect by the previous owner. You spend $1500-$2000 to get a used engine put in and then find out it alos needs a lot of other work, it could become a pretty frustrating purchase and start nickel and dimeing you to death. So, maybe you find something for a few thousand dollars that you can drive and test. Could be a better solution in the long run.

The other thing would be if it is a newer model without the viscous coupling in the transfer case make sure it has the DSC. If one of teh reasons you buy it is because of the AWD, if you don't have the DSC the performance in the snow won't be what you envision.

Good luck. Let us know how you make out.

 

Its a 2004. Does that have the Viscous Coupling?

 

I believe that change was made in 2004. I don't remember if it was the entire year range or was implemented with the later builds. Someone here will chime in or I'm sure you could find out with a quick search here. What you will want to look for is the DSC button on the area by the shifter. It is an icon of a skidding car. If it has that then you are good. I had a 2005 and the DSC and I made it through 7 Wisconsin winters just fine.

 

I wondered what that button was in the photos of other cars. I have a 2003 xtype that does better in snow than my SUV.

 

My 05 does just fine in the snow (took it out last year in nearly 2 feet of unplowed white stuff) without any electronic controls. The rear does like to pass you but provided you know how to drive, it isn't an issue and pulls just fine in most of the nasty stuff with decent all seasons.

 

Well I decided to pass on the car. After seeing the additional damage and understanding what it would cost to replace everything, I can get a runner for less. I will keep looking.