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In your opinion what would be a better buy : 2007 1.3 Honda Civic Hybrid, 19,000km asking $23,990 or 2007 1.3 Honda Civic Hybrid, 52,000km asking $19,990? Both are from a Honda dealer, is it still necessary to get a AA pre purchase inspection? I have no knowledge at all about hybrid cars, are there anything that I should be aware of before making a decision eg. is it expensive to maintain/service, what is the resale value compared to a conventional car etc. Thanks.

I think I would be tempted toward the cheaper option if it were me. The mileage is in keeping with its age and I’m not sure I would gain anything if I paid another $4,000.

Your service costs should be no different than a conventional non-hybrid Civic but it would pay to confirm that with the Honda Dealer concerned. If they claim it is a little more expensive ask them to explain why, I would be interested to hear their answer.

Resale is a very interesting question; not sure I have the answer as history will determine whether hybrids in general will hold their value.

The hybrid battery replacement cost is the biggest fear for people as the car ages. If you keep the car for say 5-years it will be heading towards 10-years old and question marks start to get raised over the potential future battery life.

Both Honda and Toyota have extended the warranties on their hybrid batteries so it would pay to ask just what that warranty period is at present. And the replacement cost.

Hybrid technology is changing rapidly so what you see today could be very much outdated tomorrow but I guess you could say that about any vehicle.

The Civic hybrid system works in a way that creates a boost when driving under load or when additional power is required. Around town and running on its 1.3 litre petrol engine, it would be no more economical than a Honda Jazz and only slightly more economical than a conventional 1.8 or 2.0 litre Civic.

Thanks for your advice, much appreciated. The car is selling at a Honda car dealer, would I still need to get an AA pre purchase inspection? Thanks.

Yes it’s another peace of mind check. Try and negotiate a buy price that takes into account the cost of the pre purchase inspection.