Finding a reliable second hand car.
Discussion
Any tips on finding a reliable second hand car. I'm not fussed for anything aesthetically pleasing just want something reliable. I would probably be looking in the 10-15 year old area. Something like a Honda Jazz would suit. I just no the market can be a mine field.
I know years ago used to be cars like the old nissan Micra ect that were seen as bullet proof. Is there any similar options now?
I know years ago used to be cars like the old nissan Micra ect that were seen as bullet proof. Is there any similar options now?
Oh and if you're not going to just get a Toyota but still want ultimate reliability avoiding anything turbocharged is a good idea. Older petrol engines without anything exciting going on will serve you well, for example a 1.25 Fiesta is going to be less likely to do you over than a 1.0 ecoboost one.
I daily a 2013 Mazda 2 1.3 NA petrol. We've owned the car for 10 years. Even running the original head bulbs - I don't understand how they haven't fused?! The battery was replaced approx 4/5 years ago. The only time its actually let me down is when the connector to the starter motor developed some corrosion and the car refused to start - my regular mechanic was very kind and replaced the connector FOC (pays to stick with the same garage) - back on the road next day. It does approx 10k miles per year as part of my work commute. Dings and dents on every corner from living in a car park frequented by people who can't drive.
I'd honestly be happy to drive this car anywhere - its very reliable and when it does break its the sort of car where parts are abundantly available and any mechanic can do the repairs - no marque specialist required.
I think most Mazda 2 petrol engines are knowing for being strong and able to withstand high miles. What seems to kill them is corrosion of the rear axle/torsion beam. Mine seems ok but when I service it this year and I'm going to spray some corrosion protection on there.
I'd honestly be happy to drive this car anywhere - its very reliable and when it does break its the sort of car where parts are abundantly available and any mechanic can do the repairs - no marque specialist required.
I think most Mazda 2 petrol engines are knowing for being strong and able to withstand high miles. What seems to kill them is corrosion of the rear axle/torsion beam. Mine seems ok but when I service it this year and I'm going to spray some corrosion protection on there.
Matt11 said:
Any tips on finding a reliable second hand car. I'm not fussed for anything aesthetically pleasing just want something reliable. I would probably be looking in the 10-15 year old area. Something like a Honda Jazz would suit. I just no the market can be a mine field.
I know years ago used to be cars like the old nissan Micra ect that were seen as bullet proof. Is there any similar options now?
Micra and Jazz not completely bullet proof - one of my son-in-laws managed to kill one of each.I know years ago used to be cars like the old nissan Micra ect that were seen as bullet proof. Is there any similar options now?
Martin350 said:
Honda Jazz is a good car.
My vote is also Toyota, Yaris and Aygo are great, cheap to run, reliable and decent enough to drive.
I bought an 80k mile Aygo a couple of years ago. It needed a clutch a few months in, but other than that it's just been fuel (very little!) and a couple of front tyres. Wouldn't recommend it if you want to do lots of motorway journeys. It's generally quite fun as you've really got to drive it to make progress.My vote is also Toyota, Yaris and Aygo are great, cheap to run, reliable and decent enough to drive.
I picked it by searching 'best cheap car' and one of the mags recommended it.
Auris, like this one below? Appears well maintained and in good nick, maybe a little thirsty but should have some life left in this motor.
Whatever you get, just check for rust as they are all getting on a bit.
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202606163...
Whatever you get, just check for rust as they are all getting on a bit.
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202606163...
Don't forget to have a good look underneath an older car.
You'll need a bright torch.
Corrosion limits the car's life, and "shock horror" even the Japanese cars corrode.
Subframes, the floor, inner sills, all need checking.
If the previous MOT's mention corrosion, check very carefully.
And don't assume clean MOT history means no rust, many MOT testers don't bother doing advisories.
Take the longest test drive you can get away with, and leave it idling when you get back, see if it holds temperature, and check for coolant leaks.
My best advice to you, take someone with you who knows cars.
You'll need a bright torch.
Corrosion limits the car's life, and "shock horror" even the Japanese cars corrode.
Subframes, the floor, inner sills, all need checking.
If the previous MOT's mention corrosion, check very carefully.
And don't assume clean MOT history means no rust, many MOT testers don't bother doing advisories.
Take the longest test drive you can get away with, and leave it idling when you get back, see if it holds temperature, and check for coolant leaks.
My best advice to you, take someone with you who knows cars.
Toyota and Honda, yes absolutely on the list. But don't disregard Ford or Vauxhall (Focus/Astra etc)
They don't have the rust issues and their naturally aspirated petrol engines of 10-15 years ago, are very hardy solid things, and dare I say it cheaper to run parts and servicing wise.
Good luck.
They don't have the rust issues and their naturally aspirated petrol engines of 10-15 years ago, are very hardy solid things, and dare I say it cheaper to run parts and servicing wise.
Good luck.
Matt11 said:
Any tips on finding a reliable second hand car. I'm not fussed for anything aesthetically pleasing just want something reliable. I would probably be looking in the 10-15 year old area. Something like a Honda Jazz would suit. I just no the market can be a mine field.
I know years ago used to be cars like the old nissan Micra ect that were seen as bullet proof. Is there any similar options now?
Why do people sell 10 year old cars?I know years ago used to be cars like the old nissan Micra ect that were seen as bullet proof. Is there any similar options now?
Quite often it's because the trips to the garage are becoming more frequent or expensive.
There are loads of 10-15 year old cars out there which are fine, and not ever so valuable, but the good ones may not be for sale.
People often hang on to these things until the trouble starts.
You are talking about 2010 onwards cars, where complication is worse than previous era.
Personally, I would look for something as simple as possible, with nothing worrying in the MOT history, you are picking a single example of a car, not the average Jazz or whatever. I would generally avoid anything that's done very low mileage in the last few years.
Ideally, buy from an owner or dealer you feel you can trust.
Ideally, at a price you can afford it to be a minor mistake.
If it was as fool proof as 'just buy any xyz', a lot more people would be doing it.
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