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Find out if the cambelt has been replaced recently (Ask for proof) as it would need replacing at this mileage and it could cost a few hundred dollars (maybe $600). Test the clutch operation to ensure it feels good and not slipping or shuddering. Also check that the gearbox operates correctly during a test drive. Ask if the vehicle has been involved in an accident or if it currently has rust or had any rust removed in the past (Rust has a tendency to come back). Buying in this price bracket is always a high risk - buyer beware.

hey - so went to a car yard and couldn't find any Japanese wagons, but came across this Ford Mondeo - 2001 done 214,790 kms though. took it for a test drive and it drove really well. thinking of getting an AA inspection on it. any advice on Modeo's and reliability?
http://www.u-sell.co.nz/main/browse/6784-2001-ford-mondeo--for-sale.html

As good as this car looks, we would consider it to be high risk, particularly at this mileage.

hi - I test drove this car. it drove ok, wasn't the smoothest and felt like it was surging forward a bit when i drove it - could of been my clutch control but wondered if there was anything else that it could be.
the car has only been serviced by the owner in the last year....
any thoughts on this car would be appreciated....

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/mitsubishi/libero/auction-521396396.htm

The mileage is high and it doesn't have a good service history so it will be a high risk car. It shouldn't surge, there is possibly something wrong with it. In this price range and this mileage you can expect to get something that will need some repairs. Buyer beware.