Buying a used car - 6.5k max budget

runrabbit · 28-04-2010 02:19PM #1

I posted on here a couple of days ago and got some great advice, I now know what I have to spend and a little more about what I need so would appreciate more opinions!

I have until the end of May to pick out a new used car for myself. At the end of May my current car will be going to a new home! I have an absolute maximum of 6.5K to spend - would prefer to spend more like 6k. My main priorities are that it be very reliable and economical, after that

Car type: no idea about brand (that's where I need your help), has to be a 5-door
Engine: Max 1.3L
Age: 06 or thereabouts (want this car to last me as many years as possible with as little maintenance as possible - my mileage is tiny!)
Mileage: nothing too massive

I really need ideas about the best things to go for in that price range. I had my eye on a couple of ford fiestas on carzone but they are already sold. The rest are out of my price-range. So after that I'm really unsure. Thanks in advance!

robtri · 28-04-2010 02:35PM

astra 1.3CDTI

ticks the boxes for you...

http://www.carzone.ie/search/Opel/Astra/1.3CDTI-/201014197500800/advert?channel=CARS

runrabbit · 28-04-2010 02:48PM

Lovely car - and though over my budget seems like very good value (I didn't think I'd be able to afford anything near an Astra - I love them!). I doubt i'd be able to knock €500 off it though and I'm already stretching to €6.5K

I have some concerns re. private sellers versus dealers, any thoughts?

robtri · 28-04-2010 03:01PM

runrabbit wrote: »

Lovely car - and though over my budget seems like very good value (I didn't think I'd be able to afford anything near an Astra - I love them!). I doubt i'd be able to knock €500 off it though and I'm already stretching to €6.5K

I have some concerns re. private sellers versus dealers, any thoughts?

you should be able to knock of 500 and maybe a touch more....

its abuyers market at the moment... dont be afraid to haggle....
99% of ads on carzone imo have a buffer zone built in for haggling......

private sale is fine, and am sure numerous boardies here can vouch private sales...

just do your homework, full motor check, get a mechanic to look it over, check and ASK about any damages or known issues,
check service history.....
and you should be fine.....

runrabbit · 28-04-2010 07:35PM

What do people make of the Suzuki Ignis. I've spotted a very low mileage one at a reasonable price at my local garage, it's where I've been getting my car serviced for years so I do trust the guys.

I've only seen it online and it looks a bit ugly... kinda like a cross between an estate and an SUV. I'd probably have to get a look at it in person to make a proper judgement, I can't picture what size it is!

Buying a used car - 6.5k max budget

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