I would advise that you get the newest and lowest milage car that you can afford,preferably an 04 or later , also it is worth waiting a few months as the prices are sure to drop this coming year.
Although a very popular car and demand is high ,there are also a lot of cars available.
The later cars are coming out of warranty periods and MOT tests due so another large batch of cars will be entering the used market ,all driving down the prices.
Clutch ,Brakes,and Exhaust,and tyres are the common items that will require replacement so if possible find a car that has had all these replaced or reduce the asking price of the car with a haggle (bear in mind the costs are £1000+ ,£400,£400,£400 respectively)
Private sales are where the best buys are but also the most risky,I always try to buy from well heeled owners as they have the money to get servicing and repairs done if cars out of warranty and can afford the drop their asking price!!!
Once you get a car the first thing to do is to get it serviced and inspected ,replace any parts reccommended and give yourself some trouble free milage from the outset using a little of the budget put away for the unseen.
My 2p worth |