Something to be getting on with.

http://www.cavalierturbo.com/buying.htm

Andy K Buying Guide specific to GSi 4x4 and turbo 4x4 models


If you do nothing else you must check :

 The coolant fluid bottle - Check water is normal, not mayonnaise thick sludge. Anything slightly floating on the surface, walk away. He may be trying to hide it. This will be a porous head and will cost a around of £300 + labour

 Check the 4x4 works by flooring it on gravel, grass or wet road.
 Check the 4x4 and ABS lights come on when you turn the ignition on and go out and stay out when driving.

 Check whether they know about, having to keep all 4 tyres with equal tread.
 Usual VIN numbers check
 HPI check
 Check for rusty rear wheel arches.
 Note how far the gear stick moves when you floor it, it shows how badly its been ramped.
 They are a really hard car to tell if they have been clocked. Condition of gearstick leather gaiter is the only thing that can give a clue but even low mileage ones can go.


When you buy one :-

 Change the cam belt and top plastic pulleys regardless of mileage (even if 40K) or if its had a new belt.
 Change 4x4 transfer box fluid approx 6 litres
 Change PAS fluid if black/grey not red
 Change the engine oil regularly as its a turbo
 Front bottom arms are a problem but you can't do much about them.
 Ones with no e/w or sunroofs are police ones. Worth about half as much.