Tips for buying a used car/ signs of "RUN"?

[Rayy 7]

I decided to get a "new" car for myself. All the cars I've driven have been family gifts or handmedowns, I just wanted something different and more exciting to drive. Looking around for 04-07 WRX or STI in my surrounding area.

 

Was wondering if anyone would care to give me some insight on how to tackle either: buying, searching, payments, in general any red flags you would avoid, or even what would make you go "this is what I look for in a sale or person selling". I've helped my brothers do numerous private sales but the most involvement for me was just being the middle man bridging the language gap and helping to fill out titles, etc.

 

I've been browsing around CL, throtl, and very specifically for my tastes nasioc. 

 

 

 

 

[Kru 1,102]

Basic stuff I guess, make sure it runs and drives fine. Make sure there isn't any weird sounds coming from the suspension or engine bay. Aim for a car that isn't modified, especially turbo subies. Also helps to know when the last time the timing components and water pump were replaced.

[xvii 849]

Check for rust and mold. Depending on the age of the car of course...

 

The things I've seen.

[Krazychic 3,311]

Here's a pretty thorough checklist

 

Quote

Assuming the paperwork checks out, examine the car outside—natural light reveals more flaws. On vehicles from 1996 onward, use a scan tool—either rent one or equip a smartphone with the $99 GoPoint GL1 cable and app—to record any fault codes (an Internet search will reveal their meaning).

 

I've never heard of this being done but its worth looking into.

 

And another checklist - http://pop.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/06/54d1504cb1bd6_-_used-car-checklist.pdf