http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/2590397832.html

LX, 147k miles, the body looks pretty clean from the pictures. there is just a small dent on the hood and it doesnt close fully. the wholesale guy said the only main issue is that the car overheats after about 15 mins of driving. hes firm on 1300, so is this a steal?

 

If you can confirm it is not the HG causing the overheating before buying it....Inspect that "dent", looks like the car hit something, the bow in the hood??? Then if the owner can confirm TB replacement, I'd want paperwork....I'd go for it.

 

What is a way I can find out if it is overheating from the HG?

 

Not sure, but I think you can tell by the smoke from the exhaust. Could be blue smoke? See if you can grab the vin and verify thru carfax. It is a steal, but if there is a hg problem, lower price less than $1k. Good luck.

 

Leak down check is usually the best way....IMO-EDIT-look at AZ for a "Block Tester", fluid is $8, kit is $25. If the owner is up front, they should alow you do do this before buying the car. I've seen the kits for $25~$30 at stores.