Crashed 02 WRX potential donor

[mmarreco]

I am considering buying this car to be my donor: 2002 WRX with 101K miles, damaged on front drivers side. From the pictures it seems that the front wheel took most of the hit - so certainly will need new control arms..

This car is local to me so I can go see it in person - can someone help on what I should be looking for in regards to overall mechanical condition?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Subaru-Impreza-WRX-Sedan-4-Door-2002-subaru-impreza-wrx-sedan-4-door-2-0-l-for-parts-or-restore-last-/321254437803?forcerrptr=true&hash=item4acc41b3ab&item=321254437803&pt=US_Cars_Trucks

[Xusia]

Wow, that looks like a really good donor/find! People more knowledgeable than I will probably chime in, but as with all front end hits if the engine doesn't run you should check for damage to the timing gears, belts, cover, etc. These are interference engines which means if the timing is off (for example, if the belt skipped a tooth, broke, or whatever), valve damage is likely. The damage doesn't look like this would be an issue, but it still worth looking at.

[mmarreco]

Thanks. I did ask the seller and he told me that he can turn the engine on but it shuts off immediately. I will go see it this weekend.

[Kalstar]

You should jump all over this.

[michael everson]

Pretty sure I saw that car for sale over a year ago. Same pictures. Just check it over good. I suspect its been sitting a long time.
Mike

[longislandwrx]

I only see one bolt on the intercooler bracket and bov. Possible vacuum leaks might explain the stalling It may just be the picture but it might have had more parts on it and been stripped and slapped back together to be closer to stock.

[billjr212]

Looks like a good find. May also want to take a look over that fuse panel to make sure nothing got crunched/severed/corroded since the lid is missing from the accident. Wouldn't think it would be a deal breaker anyway, but best to know early.

[gwarden]

Did you go look at this car yet?

[mmarreco]

Did you go look at this car yet?

Yes, saw it today. The car has been sitting idle for 13 months now. The engine bay is intact, however I cannot tell its condition for sure as it will not turn on. The owner tells me I should get the timing belt and head gaskets done right away. The shifter handle is completely loose, although he tells me it works fine (seems like a common problem on Subarus?). It's still on the first clutch so that probably needs to be changed..

I don't know, I am on the fence.. What do you guys think?

[Xusia]

If you can jump start it, I'd say go for it. If you can't - meaning you can't verify the engine runs - I'd pass.

On the other hand, assuming the engine is damaged, you could probably recoup all $2800 by selling other parts, meaning you'd have everything but the engine for free. Then you are free to source another engine (can you say H6??), or fix this engine.