Hi,
I'm looking at buying a Clio 1.5 dci, mainly because of the great return on miles to the gallon and the relatively low insurance group (3).
Looking at what's within my budget, I am curious about any issues there may be with this engine and high miles. I see it needs a new clutch every 30,000 and a new cam belt ever 100,000?
Within my budget they seem to have mileage around 80-90K at the lowest, but most into 110-130K. Would it be a poor decision to buy this car with that many miles? Even if it does have a full service history?
Would it be wiser to find one that has a 'fresh' cam belt installed? Thanks for any advice/tips, they would be much appreciated :-).
Oh, and any cheap insurance is welcome - best I can find is 1350 (GBP) at the moment.
Thanks for your time,
Rich
Answer
Hi
With insurance premiums like that you are either a nutter with a history or a new driver?! Either way, take a look at our young driver nsurance section and in the Renault Clio insurance pages.
Using our magazine I can work back and see you are looking at 2001 year cars and looking to spend £2,000 - £2,500.
The 1.5 Dci is a fantastic engine: refined, thrifty and pokey too.
But 90,000 miles is a lot and you will run the risk of chunky repair bills. Certainly make sure the cam belt is changed on time or before you do a deal on a car if its getting close.
Flicking through the small car section of our magazine I can see there are some other good options for you:
- 2002 Peugeot 206 1.4 HDI. Just about the same money, but half the mileage. And the same 66 mpg
- 2002 Ford Fiesta 1.8 TD is in range money wise, but about 13 mpg less
- 2003 Fiat Punto 1.9 JTD is within budget, half the mileage and 58 mpg
Both the Fiat and Peugeot, because of the mileage should be less risky in repair terms.
Hope that helps
Matt
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