RACV mechanic or Alfa mecahnic (for inspection)?

[ex3e1989]

I am going to be looking at a few 156 selespeeds.

I was wondering if i'm better off going with an RACV comprehensive inspection ($210) or an Alfa Romeo Service inspection (bennica) for $165 written report.

Do you think the RACV guys will have a good idea of what to look out for in an Alfa? I also believe there is no conflict in interest by going with RACV since the Alfa guys have no incentive to say 'don't buy this car' to me.

[dehne]

well i would go with the alfa mech as they have knowledge with the sele and racv would have no idea and the alfa mech and specialy bennica who would be very honest

[ex3e1989]

yea that's the compromise i have to make between their knowledge and my paranoia about their honesty.

the guy said i will get a written report, what exactly does this report show and tell me?

[Simon Aarons]

I think you would be silly to take it to RACV over an Alfa specialist. If you are paranoid about honesty, the place you are going to take it to has been around for decades, you don't last for decades specialising in a certain marque if you are not honest with your customers.

[ex3e1989]

great point simon, i've decided to go with the alfa guy. ill be giving them a call soon.

[John Hanslow]

I have heard previously from car salesman that an RACV inspection is what you get to sell a hard to move car to the unsuspecting buyer.  I suppose it adds a bit of cred.  That was in the 90's and perhaps things have changed for the better.

And some of our club sponsors who are Alfa specialists charge about $100.  Good value as many posts here are from unsuspecting buyers who did not get the car checked out.  At the end of the day you take your car to get serviced by an Alfa specialist who knows the car and understands the car. You get a better idea of what is necessary, needs attention and fixing in the future.

More Importantly   with buying a car I would only use an Alfa Specialist who deal with the cars every day, know all the tricks, quick fixes or can warn you about a dodgy repair.  If you are local to Benincas (or the car is) then $165 is well spent - even if the car is not worth the purchasing.  You get an accurate idea on pricing for any repairs so that may be of use in purchase price negotioation.

Good luck with your purchase.

[ex3e1989]

thakns John.

i'm going to give monza a call today too, they only quoted $60. so i'll compare the services of monza and bennica then decide whichis better and go with them.