I prefer anything older because they have no or fewer unreliable, complicated, expensive computers to do things we never needed computers for before. All of my many vehicles are '95 models or older. A '99 model is already going to have lots of computers.
As far as "customer-friendly" business practices, I put Hyundai on top of the list, Toyota next, then Chrysler. Volkswagen and BMW are at the very bottom of the list with GM being next.
As for the mileage, that isn't as big a factor as it was 20 or 30 years ago. Every manufacturer has their good and bad engines, but with regular maintenance, most engines can go well over 200,000 miles today. Metal alloys and engine oils are much better than 25 years ago. What you DO want to look at though is the timing belt. They should be replaced sooner than most manufacturers recommend, especially if this car has an "interference" engine. Most import engines are. That means if the timing belt breaks, serious damage occurs to the valves. The typical repair will cost at least $2500.00. Timing belt replacement is somewhat involved and kind of expensive, but you can factor that cost into what you offer for the car. Unless the seller can produce a receipt with that car's vehicle ID number showing the belt was replaced recently, assume it will need to be done soon.
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Thursday, March 1st, 2012 AT 11:00 PM
