buying via photos

[Nesquik]

I've been looking to buy from states via photo's only, is there any unbiased VW experts in the USA that can check buses out for me. I don't want to buy what looks like a good deal then turn's out to be a heap of c*%p. Many thanks :?

 

[mattp]

The us is HUGE, so whilst there may be many people who would look it is unlikely to be a short trip for them.

The samba?

 

[rpp123456]

Providing you have a load of photos, an experienced person should get a good idea of the general condition of a van. Speaking from experience though, make sure you put a side a decent size contingency pot as there will always be things that need sorting that you weren't expecting.

 

[Clem]

Put up a link to the advert?

We'll all wade in

 

[Shorty]

Reporting for duty Sir!

 

[Marriedblonde]

I like many others have bought from the us based just on pics. Get loads of pics and if the seller has nothing to hide they will provide pics of whatever you need on the bus

Even if you get someone to inspect it in the us you will have to take the word...

J.

 

[aspro]

Loads of pics as mentioned above. Request close ups of all the standard problem areas. If the seller has something to hide you'll soon find out.

If you don't want to take the risk on pics alone (and I don't blame you) find the closest local garage and contact a machanic who would be willing to do an independant inspection for you. Offer him some cash and most folks would be willing to help out.

 

[KevH]

The risk involved is obvious and you don't seem happy to rely only on pics. I don't blame you. I recently saw a rusting shell, bought and imported at a cost of over £6k, that was beyond repair when seen in the flesh. Money down the drain.

As has been said, the chances of locating a bus and an 'expert' in the same area are slim. It can be done, as others have said. But why not use the services of an established importer? It may cost a £1k or two more but you can inspect before you buy, and get your hands on it more quickly.

Its your call.

 

[AGC]

I have been lucky and had no shocks when buying from photos HOWEVER apart from asking for lots of photos of all areas you must ask every question that you can think of and dont assume anything. For example I asked if any thing was missing that I should expect to be with the van and found out that one van was missing all the wiring loom!! This info was not forthcomming and it would have been down to me if it arrived without it!!
I think the biggest problem is vague descriptions and deciphering what certain phrases really mean (example.... "signs of useage", "normal wear and tear for a 40 year old vehicle", " motor and running gear will just needs a wake up/freshen up" etc etc)
I think its also worth noting that importers or USA sellers are, in the main, scraping the bottom of the barrel for vans now, especially the lower cost vans IMO