Advice on buying a damaged car? Worth it or not?

[Goliath205]

I am looking for a car for my other half to learn to drive in, ideally quite modern and safe with plenty of safety features like airbags and abs.

I have managed to find a 2005 renault modus for £1750 which is in my price range but it is damaged, nothing to affect the driving of the car, only cosmetic damage (heavy dent to the boot lid and drivers door).
Any advice on whether it would be worth buying and getting a good dent man to try and sort it out or should I steer clear altogether?
Obviously I would have a VERY good look round and test drive the car before buying.

Just wondered what peoples opinions were? Any previous experiences?

[Silent1]

Without knowing the value of Renault moduses is I heavily discounted to make or worth it a-la category d write off or is t just 100 quid knocked off
If its similar to a cat d then if you're repairing it then it's worth it as you can see how much work has gone Ito it and the original damage

[Goliath205]

Sorry yeh, should have said. An undamaged Modus of same spec/age/milage etc seems to go for between £3k - £4k so it seems to be heavily discounted.

I am capable of doing some repairs, for example if it isnt possible for someone to repair the dents I am capable of fitting a replacement door/boot, which would help save on costs too

[berni29]

Hi

As long as the chassis has not taken a hit, then panel damage would not neccessarily put me off.

Berni

[marky911]

Hi. If it's not recorded then that seems very good. if it is recorded, cat d, then it still seems ok, as general rule is 60-70% of proper market value, for a repaired car. Like you say check it thouroghly and if you're confident you can fix it on a budget, then have a go. Take photos of the damage before you fix it. This will put anyones mind at rest when you come to sell it. Remember to check the things you would on an undamaged car too, as say for example you ended up having to throw a clutch, catalytic convertor and some paint at it, you'd wipe out any savings instantly. But you'll know that already, I'm rambling. Damn nightshifts.

Edited by marky911 on Thursday 30th September 05:37