Logistical questions about buying a used Porsche
 

This is my first time buying a used car, so I have quite a few questions.

I've spent time looking for a car (911SC). It's in a different state, several hours away, but I like it quite a bit, and I now have a PPI scheduled. If that goes well, I'll be meeting up with the seller, exchanging money for the key + title and having a blast. I don't think it'll be quite that simple though.

First, is there anything I should know about the PPI, anything special I should ask for or anything I'll need to know how to interpret?

Second, if all that goes well, should I expect to pay the price the private seller gave, or that price + sales tax?

If the money successfully changes hands, what do I need to do to drive the car back (from NC to VA) ?

I'm already thinking about signing up for AAA (just in case), but that's about all I can think to do, and it really isn't a lot. Any advice and answers would be extremely appreciated.

Thanks.

Good LUCK!

PPI make sure they do a compression or leakdown test.

You should expect to pay the seller the price you and he agree on. When you register the car in your home state you will likely have to pay tax on the car.

Check you states DMV for regulations on obtaining temporary tags and make sure if you go through with the purchase that you insure the car immediately. Might want to speak with your insurance agent now just to get an idea.

If the PPI comes back clean driving it home you should be good with AAA and a cell phone. It's always the little stuff like a battery that gets drained.

Good luck with the PPI and your purchase!

Look for the big stuff....engine work, accident damage, etc. I would allow $2000 min for "found work" on any used car.

If you are unsure what to ask in PPI, then you don't have the right mechanic.

The whole point of the PPI is to tell you what you need to know.

Does the mechanic have ongoing dealings with the seller? Was he independently recommended? If the seller is in Chapel Hill, PM me. There are some crooks in that area.

^^^THIS

A good independent shop will be able to tell you everything bad and good with the car, and know what to look for, both bad and good. They should know without being told that the car needs a compression test, at the very least. They should also be able to competently do a leakdown check. A good shop that's done it before should actually have a checklist to follow.

Get the VIN number first and get a CARFAX to evaluate any accidents, etc. I would do this first before the PPI or have the shop order up the CARFAX for you and you both review before perfomring the PPI. If it has accident damage review the repairs with a magnifying glass!!

Bob

Everybody above has chimed in with some excellent advice.

Your PPI provider should be a reputable air-cooled specialist and not be affiliated in any way with the seller (and preferably have never worked on the car before).

If you want to check out the rep of the shop, search the forums or post asking for an opinion.

You will need insurance arranged and registration for the car before you drive it home.

Good luck!

Cheers,

d.

We do PPI's off the dealer checklist. It's extensive.
I'd want to see a printed list of some sort and know what sort of paperwork will come
with a PPI. Not just a "yup, looks good".

The registration bit varies, NC DMV last I had a reason to look said you had a few days to drive a newly acquired vehicle home, and your existing insurance would cover liability per NC state law.
I have always called my agent and insured the car on the spot before leaving when driving a new one home, and usually just took a tag from one of my other cars with me.

rex/dC x100

VA DMV offers a "3 day transit" tag. Paper. Can get online. Might need VIN of car you are acquiring. Works fine. Small fee.

https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/vehicles/#temp_permit.asp