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Hi,
I have recently been looking at buying a first car for learning to drive in. I have found a Mitsubishi Colt Plus 2004 which was imported in August 2012 and has done 135 000 kms, on at $6500. Have been to see the car (with my father who was a mechanic for 15 years) and it seems to drive well - but then I purchased a Dog and Lemon guide for the car and the guide suggests to stay away from all CVT transmissions, especially after cars have done 80 000 kms. I was wondering what your take on this is and whether I should go ahead and get an AA Pre purchase Inspection done or just start looking at other cars if this one may have problems in the future - it is at the top of my budget and I wouldn't want to buy something that will have expensive problems in the future..

If you think this car would have problems I was wondering what other cars you would suggest I look at. I am wanting a small car (the Colt Plus is about the largest I would want), preferably at least 2000 in age around the 5k price (up to 6k) and automatic. I have also viewed a couple of Mazda Demios and like them as well (although both cars I viewed had different mechanical problems that my Dad picked up on)

Any help would be much appreciated!

Stay away from earlier CVT transmissions as they do not have the best reputation for reliability although admittedly Mitsubishi CVT's were one of the better ones. Vehicles to consider are the Mazda Demio, Toyota Vitz (beware - some are fitted with CVT transmissions), Daihatsu Sirion/Toyota Passo,Mazda 323/Familia or Nissan's Pulsar. These vehicles have good reputations but I would recommend you get a AA Pre-Purchase Inspection carried out before purchasing. It is a good thing you are taking your dad along to help you choose a vehicle - good luck with finding the right car and let us know if you have any more questions.