I'm wrestling with the horns of a dilemma, and could use some input from anyone who is familiar with this car and/or engine.
I have the opportunity to buy a 2006 Dodge Charger SE with the 3.5 v-6 engine, for about $1600.... maybe less.
The car has just over 220,000 miles on it, the body is clean and straight with no dents. Interior is also very clean. Automatic transmission.
Sounds like a great price, right? Just one problem - I have been told that it has an "engine knock."
I've done some research, and it seems that this engine is very prone to failure in the valve train. More specifically, the rocker arm assembly sits on four pins which hold it in place, and eventually one or more pins shear, leading to a shifting of the assembly and thus oil flow issues.
Here's a video of a more serious example of the tick:
... and here is a video showing other examples, and an explanation of the issue, for those who are not familiar with it:
Now, I have not had the opportunity to hear the actual sound of the "knock" coming from the engine in this car, but based on the mass of videos and forum threads all over the internet, I would say it's most likely this issue.
... So, those of you who know about this issue, or have experience, what do you think? Is it worth it?
I've been pricing out 2006 Dodge Chargers with the V6 here in the phoenix, and it seems they're going for between about $3500 and $6000.. depending on mileage and condition.
I'm considering making an offer of $1400 for the car.
I have the opportunity to buy a 2006 Dodge Charger SE with the 3.5 v-6 engine, for about $1600.... maybe less.
The car has just over 220,000 miles on it, the body is clean and straight with no dents. Interior is also very clean. Automatic transmission.
Sounds like a great price, right? Just one problem - I have been told that it has an "engine knock."
I've done some research, and it seems that this engine is very prone to failure in the valve train. More specifically, the rocker arm assembly sits on four pins which hold it in place, and eventually one or more pins shear, leading to a shifting of the assembly and thus oil flow issues.
Here's a video of a more serious example of the tick:
... and here is a video showing other examples, and an explanation of the issue, for those who are not familiar with it:
Now, I have not had the opportunity to hear the actual sound of the "knock" coming from the engine in this car, but based on the mass of videos and forum threads all over the internet, I would say it's most likely this issue.
... So, those of you who know about this issue, or have experience, what do you think? Is it worth it?
I've been pricing out 2006 Dodge Chargers with the V6 here in the phoenix, and it seems they're going for between about $3500 and $6000.. depending on mileage and condition.
I'm considering making an offer of $1400 for the car.