Need Advice

[paseoh]

I'm buying a used Corolla '01.

The screws holding the intrument panel in place (around odometer, tachometer etc.) are all rusted.

should this concern me..........i.e. do you think the panel was replaced, why did the screws rust, has anyone seen this before?

PLEASE, any advice, the car seems good otherwise, but this rust issue is making me a bit uneasy

[St3ve]

I'm buying a used Corolla '01.

The screws holding the intrument panel in place (around odometer, tachometer etc.) are all rusted.

should this concern me..........i.e. do you think the panel was replaced, why did the screws rust, has anyone seen this before?

PLEASE, any advice, the car seems good otherwise, but this rust issue is making me a bit uneasy

←

Not really of any use, but if the alarm bells are ringing and you have a gut feeling...Walk Away

:)

[Mick24]

If it has an Analogue type speedo,and has been "clocked"(mileage altered) it is normally quite easy to spot because the numbers on the mileage counter never quite line up properly horizontally compared to a un-tampered one.

On the back of the speedo there is an interlock mechanism to keep the number spools in line and these normally break when tampered with.

If it's a Digital type speedo,it's almost impossible to tell if it has been clocked,because all you need is a Laptop and harness connector to alter it.

You just have to look at the rubbers on the pedals and gear shift knob for signs of wear not in keeping with the mileage.Look for service history(phone the dealer who serviced it last as they keep records of date of service and mileage) or contact the previous owner for an idea of the mileage.Have a look under the bonnet/hood for a Cam belt change sticker - this will have the date and mileage on it when the belt was changed.

The clues to the real mileage are there on any vehicle - you just got to find them.

Hope some of this is help to you.