I currently have a Civic with 260k and going strong, but I ran across a good deal on a CRV. It's AWD 2003 with 190k on it for a couple Grand. What should I look for when I look at it? I don't really know much about these but I trust Honda.

 

welcome to the forum. if it has all the maintenance records, then read thru them and see how the vehicle has been maintained. if no records, you're gambling with your money. check to see if all recalls have been completed, make sure the AWD is operational and listen for unusual noise from trans, and 4 wheel unit. drive vehicle at all speeds and turns to see if you feel vibrations. brake heavy to check for stopping, not lock up brakes. if you have anti skid on the vehicle, wet the smooth pavement and brake heavy to see if the anti-skid works properly.. should take a mechanic with you unless you are one.

 

Get a Carfax or some other record of the cars history. Although not always completely accurate if a legitimate mechanic and or dealer has worked on the car the record of what was done will be there. I've used them to call the dealer or mechanic to ask them questions about the service that was done and most have looked up their records and answered my questions.

 

For me, living in the northeast of USA, I would look for rust.
Too much rust and the body won't last long.
And if you can't lift the car due to the rust then you can't get it fixed.

After that, it is a matter of checking engine and transmission
Starts, runs, revs fine??
Transmission get up and go? Shifts smoothly?
Any fluid leaks? Could be from radiator, shocks, struts, engine, transmission??
Overheating? Smoke out the tail pipe?
And water intrusion into the cabin??
All lights turn on dash when key is first turned to on position? (most go off afterwards)??
Any noises while driving?