Fiat Adria Coral 670 sk

[Dino B]

We are looking at a 2005 Fiat Adria Coral and wonder if there is anything we should look out for when buying. It looks good from the inside and out but we have yet to test drive it. Thanks

 

[Jake Royd]

One item you might check if you are getting near to buying is the cambelt replacement.
Fiats , generally , used as motorhomes will have a replacement interval of 5 years.
So a 2005 one should be coming up to having one in say 2020.
However if the change interval has not been done on time it could vary.
If it's close or overdue , you can use it as a bargaining counter.
Replacement costs vary but a good figure to have in mind is £400.

 

[Dino B]

Thank you.

 

[Gaston aires]

Well built vans are Adria, go for it.
Phil

 

[Jake Royd]

Another thing to note (which I failed to do when I bought our motorhome) is to check the age of the tyres.
Motorhome tyres , generally , do not wear out, but they do 'age out'. Due tomotorhomes not , generally, doing many miles per year.

Have a look on the tyre sidewall, usually , after the main designation (215 75/16 etc etc) you will see a 4 character code, looking something like '1210'. This would indicate the tyre was manufactured in month 12 of 2010.

Opinion varies as to how long and different manufacturers also vary but as a rule the tyres must be replaced if older than 10 years. Many buyers will look for them being no older than 5 years.

You could also check and see if they are van tyres or camper tyres.
Camper tyres will have a C or a CP mark after the main designation on the side wall.

Van tyres are generally OK but camper tyres are prefferd by many buyers.

Again a bargaining chip if there is a concern.

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[MikeD]

Buy a damp meter and check the van out. Do not take the dealers word or past records as proof of it being dry.

Any reading over 20% - investigate throughly

It should have a comprehensive service file at 14 years old. Check every habitation check and chassis service sheet. Check for any repairs especially damp repairs.

Check age of the tyres - if over five years old budget them for replacement. Cam belt also at five years.

Check the MOT history with DVLA.

Talk to the previous owners.

 

[Jake Royd]

Oh and it's worth joining MH Fun and getting the buyers guide free, lots of good advice there.
If I remember correctly a copy can be bought if you do not join.

 

[rosalan]

As with any second-hand van, investigate inside every locker with your nose. If it smells 'woody' that is good, any slightly off smell walk away. Looks are one thing but any hint of damp can equal very expensive repairs. Another showroom trick is to spay a pleasant deodorant to hide damp smells.