Looking to buy a reliable hatchback for ~8-9k from a dealer

MarkH748

Hi,

I'm not car guy at all and need to replace my 1.4 2003 corolla since it's starting to let me down and sounds awful. What shocked me was when I've brought it to a few different mechanics I was told that "those engines aren't the best". Since I've always assumed Corollas were bullet-proof I've realised I'm clueless and better ask people who know what they're talking about!

I was thinking of maybe a 2009/2009 MK5/6 Golf? Or a Civic? Something where replacement parts are easy to come by?

I'm not overly fussed about BHP since I'm actually quite happy with my corolla in terms of acceleration and speed. I'm just looking for advice on what to buy where I won't be told "those engines aren't the best" in future.

So basically, something reliable and cheap to run/maintain/replace parts would be ideal.

Apologies for my ignorance and advanced thanks for any advice!

Cheers,

Mark

bazz26

Normally those petrol Corollas are very reliable, what was the issue with yours? The older model had issues around excessive oil burning but that was sorted by the time your model was launched. Of course even the most reliable car will eventually develop problems if it hasn't been looked after properly but your mechanic's comments are bemusing all the same.

Maybe look at the Hyundai i30 or Kia Ceed, both are very reliable.

kay 9

Purchased a mk8 1.8 civic fd1 recently and I'm very happy with it. Can't see it giving much hassle.
As Bazz said, it's bemusing how you were told your corolla wasn't the best.

colm_mcm

There's a boardsie here selling his 09 1.4 civic. It was a long process helping him find the right one a few months ago. Now he has to sell it. Bought from a dealer a few months back. Might be worth considering. He's asking €7500
Petrol civics are massively reliable.