Would you buy this car?

[Captain Beer]

I have a budget of around R140k. I'm looking at a 2008 Honda Accord (eighth generation). It's the 2L Exec, has 125,000 on the clock, full service history etc. I've found one that's going for R129K. Good deal or not? What else would you recommend. Family and friends are nagging me to rather buy a new car, or at least something with a lower mileage. I really don't feel like ending up in a Polo Vivo or an Etios. What would you do? Cheers.

 

[Paul_S]

Sounds like a good deal and Honda's are known for their reliability.
125,000km isn't a lot on a non-abused, good quality vehicle.

Don't listen to family and friends regarding a new vehicle - the repayments are not worth it.
I bought my first new car two years ago and I will never do it again. The repayments and insurance on a R200K car is the same as the repayments on a R600K bond.

The Etios is one of the most ugly vehicles on the road.

 

[ponder]

I would not worry about the engine or drivetrain but seeing you are in CT I would have the car properly inspected for rust. Maybe google any know issues with the car.

 

[froot]

The Hondas are great value for money if you can get one (in mint condition) for a steal. They're somewhat pricey to maintain but as long as you take care of them they're a good buy.

If you can get a second hand car that will at the end of the day, make you sleep well at night and what you feel is better value for money than a new car, by all means, go for it.

 

[crysis]

Check the interior and make sure its good. Its a good old trick to see how the car was treated in its life. If its ok, buy, if its all broken and messy, walk away.

 

[spiderz]

Honda Accord was once rated as one of the most reliable cars. Need to find that report again ..

 

[AlphaBravo]

Honda is generally a great quality car. Other options in the same level maybe the Volvo V40. Seems to be some bargains for Volvo these days. Otherwise KIA got some good deals on that price bracket but not as high quality as Honda.

 

[werewolf2]

I have a budget of around R140k. I'm looking at a 2008 Honda Accord (eighth generation). It's the 2L Exec, has 125,000 on the clock, full service history etc. I've found one that's going for R129K. Good deal or not? What else would you recommend. Family and friends are nagging me to rather buy a new car, or at least something with a lower mileage. I really don't feel like ending up in a Polo Vivo or an Etios. What would you do? Cheers.

I've seen a 2008 2.4 with a stick (new shape) for around R125k. Check gumtree or autotrader.

The accord is generally well-built but ask for service history around oil changes and the like (high revving engines).
Personally, I think 2.0i is a bit small for the car (low torque engines) but drive it and decide for yourself.

I think the engines are good for 300k km with care, manuals for 150k before clutches, chassis for 400-500k km assuming not a lot of off-road driving.

 

[Captain Beer]

Shot for all the replies. The car is up in Joburg and I'm in CT, just have to find someone to go have a look at it, if it's in good nick then it's mine.

 

[DJ...]

I would not worry about the engine or drivetrain but seeing you are in CT I would have the car properly inspected for rust. Maybe google any know issues with the car.

Battery running flat is a known issue with the car. The battery is typically too small for the vehicle...