What to check when buying a used ThinkPad T510 locally?

[esrevenge]

Hi - I found a good deal on a used T510 from a private seller on my cities for-sale boards.

Until now Ive only bought online refurbs from the Lenovo Outlet or ebay, which have some warranty, and 90day return, etc...

So what should I check when I meet to buy the laptop? Besides just turning it on? Anything specific to make sure the laptop is okay?

Have other people here had good luck in buying a used T510 or other Thinkpads locally from a private seller? (No warranty/no return.)

Thank you.

[killer]

I have found my T510 to be an excellent machine. It has the HD+ backlit LED screen and people are amazed at the image quality. The machine runs quietly with hardly any fan noise. When I ordered it I paid a bit extra for a 3 year warranty.

Would I buy one without warranty? That depends on the condition of the machine and the cost. You can use the in-built ThinkVantage toolbox to run tests and it is always worth checking the exact detailed specification before you enter into negotiation. Also check to see if the restore partition is still available. If not, ask the seller for the set of disks that were created to allow for a full factory restore.

Also check that it hasn't been stolen. If the vendor doesn't have the original billof sale then take a note of the machine type and model (written underneath) and serial number. A call to Lenovo will enable a check to be carried out.

I hope this helps.

[esrevenge]

Hi thanks for the info...I decided not to get it. Price was about half of anywhere else and it seemed a bit sketchy. I really doubt the seller would let me note down the serial number and look at the partition, show me his invoice and all that.

Currently I use a T60 and while its great I think I will upgrade soon. I will keep my eye on the Outlet.

Thanks again for the tips.