Tips on buying an used car

[Noob-Noob]

So you're suggesting the old model C-class as opposed to the new 3 series? One could even pick 328i, highly spec'd, whereas you could at most get the C200- previous gen within the budget

Its the old model Mercedes (2013/2014), but its newer than the BMW you are suggesting (2012).
OP also did not specify if he wants a economical car, or a High Performance car, a 328I is going to be very thirsty.

But that 328I is very nice, but i will still rather get the 200CDI, but personally i think the OP needs to go for a test drive in both of them and he has to decide what he likes.
If he is after performance and fuel is not a issue, then the 328i will of course be the better choice.
But if he wants a standard 2L engine, i'll seriously consider Merc.

 

[Goliath]

If you really spot a good deal, take it to Dekra for full inspection (think it'll set you back R1k or something), my 2c..

 

[vaultedskies]

Hi guys

My question was not really what car to get, but rather advice on buying used cars.

So far PostmanPot and Goliath have given some good tips:

1) Use the VIN to check the car's accident/insurance claim history
2) Check the service history for recurring issues
3) Take it to Dekra for a full inspection

I appreciate the car advice as well though. At the moment I'm thinking maybe a used Lexus, after reading this thread:

http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthr...r-for-not-much-money-(warning-contains-Lexus)

 

[jman]

Its the old model Mercedes (2013/2014), but its newer than the BMW you are suggesting (2012).
OP also did not specify if he wants a economical car, or a High Performance car, a 328I is going to be very thirsty.

But that 328I is very nice, but i will still rather get the 200CDI, but personally i think the OP needs to go for a test drive in both of them and he has to decide what he likes.
If he is after performance and fuel is not a issue, then the 328i will of course be the better choice.
But if he wants a standard 2L engine, i'll seriously consider Merc.

Yes, I hear you. I don't see any CDI's within budget though.

The 328i would be hard to resist if you take it on a test drive. But if economy is what you're after, I'd take the 320d, considering only C200's and C180's are within the budget.

But yes, the OP needs to go out and find his preference