Posted: Sep 17 2005 at 11:16pm | IP Logged

I test drove a 2004 Titan crewcab tonight that is fully loaded, big tow package, leather, sunroof, DVD, etc.

Quick rundown:  It only has 12,500 miles on it.  I get back after the test drive and tell the salesman I want to run a Carfax VIN check, which they do for me.  He then begins to explain to me that he believes there was an oxygen sensor problem on this vehicle, and Nissan did a "buyback" on the vehicle, and is now placing it back on the market after fixing the problem.  First idiotic question, why did they not just fix it for the original owner if it is a minor problem, why did they do a buyback?

I have the Carfax report in front of me, and it states there was a manufacturer BUYBACK or LEMON reported.  This is the first time I have seen or dealt with this, is it still worth pursuing the vehicle, it may still be under warranty, but I do not need or have time to deal with the hassle 6 months down the road??? 

Anyone familiar with manufacturer buybacks???  How do I know if it is a buyback or actually a Lemon.  Any help will be appreciated, it is sitting in my driveway until I make a decision by Monday!

Posted: Sep 18 2005 at 11:33am | IP Logged

It all depends upon what you want to do.  Buybacks are not necessarily a bad thing.  Look at Toyotas old T100s.  They were awesome trucks, but they started recalling and buying back.  A LOT of people didn't want that to happen so they just kept theirs. 

I believe the easiest thing to do would be to call the regional office with the VIN.  They will tell you exactly what they have in their records.  Also if you play your cards right, you can have an extended warranty tacked on for FREE.  Just play the "I'm not too sure being a buy back, I don't want something to go wrong after the warranty is up." 

If the dealership is wanting to make a deal to get it off their lot, they'll do just about anything.

BTW... where is this truck, and is it Silver?    Kidding, I couldn't afford it right now anyway.

Posted: Jan 15 2006 at 5:14pm | IP Logged

I have one you can buy before Nissan buys it back from me