I'm looking to purchase a used car, what mileage etc should i be looking for and what should i avoid ?

Question

I know the obvious things like excessive mileage for the age of the car but would like more info from clued up people on this matter, thanks.

Answer 1

I would try and avoid anything over 55 000 miles. Check that the car has a good service history and also if they have any papers for repairs. If it`s been loved and looked after then it shouldn`t let you down. While the engine`s running go round the back and check the exhaust.. Any excessive smoke, steer well clear. Check tyres for wear, worn on the inside only spells trouble for the steering. make sure it`s original paintwork. You can go on the DVLA website to ascertain the car is what the numberplate says it is. Hopefully you can take along a friend or family member who know`s about cars. if not maybe worth paying for an AA worker to go along. If all else fails trust your instinct..If you sense something is not quite right then it isn`t. Good luck with your purchase.Hope it goes well for you..Got to say (cos of the job!) make sure you have mot,tax and insurance before you drive her home.

Answer 2

I just purchased two used cars and used carfax reports. There were several cars which had been in accidents where the damage had been pretty severe yet you couldn't tell it to look at them. While the cars possibly could have been ok the carfax report told me the seller was lying about one thing probably others too. I also found that dealers don't necessarily know the truth so they will say what you want to hear.

Answer 3

If in UK, get an HPI check done, and pay the AA to to an inspection for you.

These could save you a whole load of hassle later on.

Safest use cars are in the manufacturers approved used programmes, but you'll pay more.

Stick to Japanese made cars. More reliable, surveys back this up.

Answer 4

well it depends upon the price range u want to spend.. try sumthing like TOYOTA, HONDA, VW.. they are reliable cars and also good value for money ....