Almost won an auction car, need advice on Renault Koleos 2012

Hi guys,

I bid and was the highest bidder of Renault KoleosH45 PHASE II Privilege 2012, with 46,000km, however, they said it was not met the reserve price they wish and want some $ to sell to me, to make it $17,000. My question is, is it worth to buy this European/Korean car, I almost don't have any experience in car.

Some information about the car:

. unregistered
. 4WD
. I believe it is the top range of the model, with the valuation between $16,000-23,000
. Constantly Variable Transmission?? (wth is this??)
. I believe this one I talking about

Please give me advice on this vehicle, is it worth to buy and take a risk? My need is a car for family and big room, also high so easy to see.

and this is the report they show.

EDIT: Thank you for all your opinions and advice. I decide NOT to risk my money on this offer. Need more time to research and should focus on Japanese cars.

Thank you very much!

Comments

  • 2012 and only traveled 46km? That can't be right.

    • I meant 46,000

  • +8

    lol OP its 46,000 km's and not 46km.

    Seriously. Why did you bother bidding if you have no idea about the car. What would have happened if you won the auction and met reserve.

    Get out to a car yard and actually have a look/ask for a test drive. Stop being lazy.

    • -3

      sound like crazy huh? I know I am. As I know, they don't let you test drive, but can look/quick inspect the car.

  • +4

    If you don't know what a CVT is I seriously advise that you do not buy from an auction.
    Auctions can be a bigger trap than car yards for those not in the know.
    Do some more research, speak to friends or family, get more info …
    As for a small euro 4wd… never. For the money you are looking at you should be able to secure something more sensible.

    "I believe it is the top range of the model,"
    You are tempted to spend $17k on a car that you know virtually nothing about?

    • haha I know nothing about this one except some information. I researched on redbook and did some google search and it is the ultimate range of this model. In addition to this, when I was at a auction, I saw a couple one a Renault Koleos at a price of $14,500 ~~$15,000, with a happy face so that made me impress this car. Can you tell me why I should steer away from 4wd small euro car?

  • +5

    Ugh, it's unregistered and has a whole bunch of panel damage and a window not working? That'd probably cost a bit to fix, as well as requiring a roadworthy inspection. I'd see if you could get one of these done before you commit to buy if you are keen. Also looks like it needs new tires (at least 3) which is probably $500+ depending on the quality you want.

    For 17k? No deal for me. European cars are expensive as hell.

    • thank you for your advice. then no deal

    • +1

      Agreed.

      Don't buy European as they are expensive to maintain.

      Go to carsguide or car sales and have a browse. See which cars and models there are more to choose from (=ideally lower maintenance).

      Buy Japanese, for example older Kluger which matches your price range.

      Test drive few before buying! I bough a RAV4 and drove 3 of them before making my decision. The one I chose was the cheapest, not because it was the cheapest but because it was best to drive, exterior and mechanically was in best condition even it had 30k more in the odometer. Price does not mean anything, only tells you how greedy the seller is.

      • how much did you pay for rav 4? which year and how many km? I agree some higher km car is still in better condition than low K, depends who drive and keep it

        • 2006 with 145k on the clock. It was about $13,000 few months back, bought it from dealer that had it for 6 months and was desperate to sell it :)

          The car feels like new, engine is responsive and gearbox works fine. It drives very stable on the highway and is awesome in city as well.

          It is a great 2nd car for our family, have taken it for 2 road trips already and driven 10k in a few months we had it.

          Everything inside out feels new except some dings and small scratches outside (those are not my concern when I buy a car, only great to point them out to bargain the price:). And had to change tyres last week and that was nearly $1000.

          I do recommend Toyota :)

  • +3

    I wouldn't buy it, I will buy Japanese cars,value for money and more reliable :)

    • actually I keep an eye on Rav 4 and CX-5 with the same budget, maybe wait until next time

    • +1

      I have a Koleos. It is actually based on the Nissan X-Trail underneath so realibility and maintenance are not an issue. Also, as less people are looking for them you can get great deals for secondhand ones.

      With that said, this auction car looks like trouble. No RWC and damage should be warning signs.
      These are good cars, but I would look at getting one from a dealer with a warranty.

      Also, you mention you wanted big room. I like our Koleos but I don't find it big.

      It really comes down to what you are after, it's intended use and what your budget is.

      • thank you for your advice. is Koleos 5 years warranty? if so it should be fine, or not? Anyway, I think I will deny the offer and wait for another deal on a Japanese SUV

  • +2

    Unlike some of the other posters, i actually own one and have done so for 5 years. I would recommend based on value for money, how it drives and the technology. It has the same chasis as an xtrail (among other parts). They arent that expensive to maintain or service (nissan dealer services). That said do your research and satisfy yourself this is the car for you.

    • Finally have a voice from real owner. I just want a SUV car with big room and high, drive comfortable and safe. Because I am a noob, I'm so afraid of high maintenant and part prices. 80% people when I ask for advice tell me to steer clear from European cars that make me so hesitate from buying this.

  • Probably a good reason the dealers in the room didn't buy it, even under reserve price…

    • nope, bid online, not in any room

      • +3

        You know what I mean.
        Under reserve price and the dealers didn't buy… Says something

  • +1

    Might be hard to insure until you have repaired the damage. I'd walk away.

  • +1

    Might also want to consider Hyundai i35. The recent ones are not bad I heard.
    For an unregistered auction car you cant test drive and has obvious issues I wouldnt expect to pay more than 1/3 to 1/2 of the normal price range.
    If you dont know how to fix most things I wouldnt touch it altogether, I can get very expensive.

  • +1

    Steer away from European cars. I did that mistake…. Every part is through the roof.. Mechanics ask for much more to fix these Damn things!

  • why even bid on an auction car if you know nothing about cars ? For the most part you go off appearance and engine sound. Unless your a RACV inspector you cant even drive it. It could end up costing thousands of dollars to fix the transmission, driveline, suspension etc. With used auction cars you dont get a warranty like you do with dealer used cars either.

    • The best thing is I should avoid auction car by any means because even if I went to there to inspect, I know nothing

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