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Hi Kevin,
Prefacing this comment with I mean no personal offense, just want you to make the most informed decision possible. Unless you're somewhat mechanically inclined, you may want to consider getting a pre-purchase inspection.
With online research and these forums, you can equip yourself pretty well to run through a checklist solo. Several threads have photos and detailed descriptions of the symptoms/fixes.
Not a comprehensive list, but here's the common issues discussed over the years (several I've also experienced):
1. Worn engine mount(s). The top passenger side is a recurring culprit and is usually easy to confirm with: (a) visual inspection (leaking residue or torn rubber), or (b) hood up, engine running, transmission in drive AND foot on brake, blip the throttle and observe engine movement (engine will "buck" and move excessively if a mount is worn).
2. Sagging sunscreen blind. Visually apparent. Make sure to open/close the sunscreen and cloth blind. It can cost $1k+ for proper fix.
3. Premature brake pad wear. Inspect pad life remaining and ask whether the factory pads have been changed out. In earlier years, several members have complained of pads wearing out <20-30k miles.
4. Faulty fuel vent valve. If bad, CEL typically lights up on dash and may have a rough idle, but usually still drives normally otherwise.
5. Suspension noise. A pretty general issue, but bad strut mounts/lower control arms are not uncommon. Test drive the car and listen for any weird clunks/rattles while making low speed turning maneuvers or going over speed bumps.
6. Bad shifter spring/"secure vehicle" error. There's a long thread titled "Transmission Error" with more information. Essentially a spring will go bad, throwing an error message on dash. If a fix is needed, a professional fix can be expensive and most of the cost is in the labor as it requires disassembling much of the center console to replace a small spring/entire shifter assembly. Most folks claim it's not a driveability/safety concern, but definitely an issue you want to be aware of.
Beyond the above list, ask about maintenance history. I'd like to know about oil (and other fluids) change interval, spark plugs, filters, battery, etc. were done at appropriate intervals.
Also, inspect the tread depth and tire condition (uneven wear/dry rot); signs of leaks (crusty white residue - coolant; black soot/greasy residue - oil) in/under engine bay; excessive rust (in snow heavy areas); and properly functioning equipment (interior/exterior lights, HVAC system, reverse camera if equipped).
Hope this helps and good luck with whatever car you end up choosing!
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