Realising you must be inundated with car questions; at this moment I feel I must be the most desperate.
Having always been a passenger and never owning a car in my life (despite now approaching 38), after 5 years of using public transport (and taxis) to get the large Tesco shop home, I want a car.
However, I do know what car to go for and the more I look at websites the more puzzled I become. I spent last weekend traipsing round car showrooms, the trouble is I could see quite a few cars within my price range but have got scared and don't know which ones to concentrate on.
The car is for myself and my young daughter so priorities are safety, cost of running it each month and reliability.
From the reseach I have done I know I should probably be looking at a Ford something or other but the trouble is I don't really like Ford Focus's or the Fiesta's in my price range which is £4,000.
I realised from sitting in lots of cars that I liked height and I need a bit of space in the back for my daughter's long legs. And I could have bought a Vauxhall Meriva, a Renault Modus, a Honda Jazz, a Hyundai Getz and Matrix (although not so in love with them) and the various Fords.
When I read the reviews on the cars they were mixed so I got scared and have to say found Edinburgh's used car salesman less than inspiring.
Also, I quite like the Renault Modus but can't find a report on your website or on What Car? website which I found worrying.
Could you please, please give me the names of at least two cars to concentrate on?
Gillian Bordon
P.S. Would I be able to afford a VW Golf as I see loads of them around and like the look of them or should I just leave them alone? With thanks in anticipation.
OK Gillian,
Deep breath! As long as you follow these steps there is nothing to be scared about:
- Check the car's history with a data check / fault guide
- Ask for a service and 12 months M.O.T as part of the deal
- If the car doesn't have a warranty, look to get one
With those three steps, you shouldn't get any problems. But if you do, then they will be contained and easily fixed without shattering the bank balance.
Now, on to what to buy....
High seating positions and leg room do suggest that mini MPVS are a good idea.
Vauxhall Meriva, Renault Modus or Nissan Note are all a good idea.
Your budget buys 2004 year car with a 1.4 litre engine. Try them all and buy the one you like from the nicest man. Mileage should be 30-40,000.
Matt
P.S. Youcan afford a 2003 Golf, but it doesn't have the highest seating position.....