Looking at a car with 90,000 miles on it. The timing belt and water pump were replaced at 60,000. The power door lock and power window on the right side of the car do not work. The paint looks like it might be in need of polishing, but other than that, it seems to be in perfect shape.

1. How much would you pay for this car?
2. How much would it cost/how difficult would it be to fix the lock and window?
3. In general, how reliable are these cars?

 

fixing the window and the locks may not be a big deal, could be fairly cheap if you use used parts. These cars are as reliable as any 17 year old car. They run great but need alot of maintenance to keep them in good shape. The one you are looking at needs a timing belt right about now, its not only the mileage, but the age of the belt also. (90,000 in 17 yrs is about 5k a year, 6 yrs is too long)As for the price, the last convertable I had was the last convertable Ill ever have.
(but thats just me)

 

More than likely the window switch and lock are connection problems.

When was the timinng belt done last (age wise). I would not go over 4 years on a timing belt, no matter the mileage, so you could probably plan on replacing that as soon as you get the car. Age is worse than mileage on a T belt in my opinion.

 

The timing belt and water pump were replaced in 1999.

I've never owned a Porsche before, so if I do decide to buy the car, where should I go/how much will it cost to replace the timing belt?

And is there anything like an engine tune-up that's going to need to be done soon?

 

as far as the belt goes...I'm having that done now. The estimate they gave me is $600CDN
From the records the previous owner did it for $1400CDN

So...it varies...I think shopping is definitely a good idea

 

Ok.

Would you trust a Volkswagen/Audi/Mercedes dealer or mechanic to do this, or do you think I should go to a place that specializes in servicing Porsches?

 

It isn't rocket science, but they need to be familiar with the cars to know how to tension the belt properly. If they have no experience with it, then find a shop that does, and has access to a P9201 tensioner tool. I wouldnt even start the car on an 8 year old belt.