Picking a Winner

[cslsuperfan]

Originally Posted by Velux

The main concern around buying a CSL for me is its usage history (not service history which is a fundamental requirement for any "questor"). I am informed by one reputable dealer that 1 track mile equates to 25 road miles, which means that a 35k mile tracked CSL has an astronomical mileage in road terms. Whether buying privately or from a dealer, there are no guarantees to be had around usage history and that is what is concerning me most at the minute. I would rather buy a 70k road mileage car than a 35k tracked one. Of course it would be naïve to assume that a CSL has never been near a track - there may be a couple out there granted, but I am highly unlikely to find one.

What should I be looking out for to pick the right car aside from a warranty?! Thanks in advance for any advice. I want to take the plunge this year but am just a bit tentative as you can see. Some of you have had at least one CSL so I know you will have seen it all before and know what good looks like for a new buyer like me.

Velux

totally understand your concerns about buying a "pup". If you're looking to buy in 2014 then keep your eyes on forum cars coming up for sale. Any register owner selling their cesil will be more than up front with you about the car's history. Ideally for your peace of mind spend a few bob on a comprehensive check of the car before you take the plunge. it might involve a bit of extra hassle for an owner selling but any genuine seller would agree. Monkey and giraffe(both members on here and M Tech mechanics/CSL specialists) would be happy to help.

[GregorJP]

From my experience of buying my car (I've had it for 3 years now), I was less bothered about whether it had been tracked and more bothered about whether it had suffered any of the common ailments that can afflict the CSL, and whether these ailments had been fixed. Unfortunately, my car suffered many of them and I have had to have them fixed (most under warranty). The things I am aware of are:

- Subframe cracking
- Graunching in the SMG box (especially between 3rd and 4th)
- Dodgy brakes (remedied by upgrading to BBK)
- Alternator failure
- Top end overheating/VANOS issues (can be caused by heating up on track use/oil cooling issues)
- Knackered or tired trim (carbon flippers, CSL kickplates and front badging, rear seat console, wheel scuffing or deterioration, worn steering wheel)
- Excessive clutch slur
- Missing pieces from airbox (ie. flap removed but not sold with the car)

Without a warranty, fixing these things can be very expensive. A thorough scout on the Technical Area of this forum can be instructive in terms of finding out the common issues and what to look for.

I've tracked my car only a few times, and I fully expect that its had the odd track excursion when owned by others. The critical thing to look for is whether they have skimped or economised on upkeep and maintenance. I'd rather buy one with AP brakes, KWs and a Supersprint that has been on track but been carefully and expensively maintained than a standard example that has second-rate tyres, worn trim and a questionable service schedule.

[LeinsCSL]

^^^ Don't forget the interior mirror waiting to feck up the centre console