Modern Vespa

I'm looking at purchasing a 2008 MP3 400ie with 19k miles. It's in good condition, lots of maintenence records, clean title. He wants 3k. He does not have the master key, just 2 key fob. My question is is it even worth purchasing at this point? At that price is the headache of everything I've read about rekeying really still that expensive and difficult? Should I barter for a lower price, then deal with it? If so, what's a good number?

Buying a MP3 without the master key is like buying a 3 legged dog. Yes, it will run but it will limit your options.

Not having that master key will be a curse at some point, especially when trying to add additional keys.

3K seems awfully high for a near 20 year old scoot, especially a 1st gen MP3.

I say pass and get at least a 3rd gen MP3 (mid 2010s and newer). There were many, many improvements over the years

If you really want that bike, don't pay a penny over 2K and 1500 would be better depending on your shrewd negiotator skills

master key is a nice bonus to have, won't stop you from have keys cloned for additional spares. just ask AF1 or scooterwest they both have great key cloning they do.

as far as pricing. yeah might be a tad high, but it is a low mileage scooter, condition is everything though. how's the plastic panels, ie broken tabs cracks and what nots.

maintenance records IMO do add value and sell ability.

the 400's have really good reliability compared to the 500's engine wise.
there is also the factor of there were alot more accessories available for the 400's over the earlier 500's. alot of interchangeability from the 250's to the 400's.

I personally think a good price would be in the 2-2.5K range if it has new tires and recent fluid changes and that sort of thing.

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Well I bit the bullet and am purchasing it $1900 usd. No master key but at that price I'll risk it

1900 is a solid buy IMO. hell of a better deal than the 3K.

Well done.

Next step is to make sure the bike is fully up to date service wise, starting with fluids and filters especially brake fluid for the tilt lock and brakes and coolant. Ditto on lubing the headstock bearings.

Judging by the pic, the front tires are (over)due for a new set as well.

And make sure to get the key cloned pronto.

Yeah a clone will be an immediate purchase, along with the full tune up (something I do to all my new used scoots). I do have another quotation tho, is there a difference between the MP3 400 and the 400 ie?

And double check those service records when the drivebelt was last changed.

At 19K, it either should have just gotten one or is overdue for a new belt.

Of course even if the belt was changed at 18K miles BUT the job was done 10 years ago then the belt is perished due to time

same some folks drop the ie when describing the scoot but technically all the MP3's are ie, fuel injected versus carb.