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carbuyer2014

I have come across an imported car of the make and model I am looking for that has done only 10,000kms in ten years. Are there any problems likely to occur in a car that has been sitting unused for much of its life? Thanks!

ABayliss

Assuming the mileage is genuine, such a low mileage is something of a double edged sword. On one hand, the car has had very little use, so should still have a lot of life left in it, on the other hand, some components still degrade over time and may still need replacing. A cambelt for example (assuming it's a belt driven engine) may still require replacing even though the mileage is low. Also, sometimes items such as electric window motors, brake cylinders etc seize up due to a lack of use - or fail once they start being used on a regular basis.
Having said that, I'd much rather have a low mileage car if it has been properly maintained than a high mileage one.

carbuyer2014

Thanks for your reply. Tricky decision, as I like the car but do appreciate the points you have made. Has the AA came across many horror stories regarding older, very low mileage cars? (I believe the mileage is genuine on this car as it matches the make year and condition of the tyres.) I'm just trying to get a feel for how big the risk is. No cam belt, but there are electric windows etc

ABayliss

No real horor stories and personally, I'd be prepared to take the plunge if everything seems to stack up and all systems are operating at present.
Basically, this car has had very little use so any major (expensive) components should have plenty of life left in them.
It would pay to have the car inspected to make sure the servicing is up to date, brake fluid is not old and all other fluids and systems are in servicable condition etc.