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Should I buy a high-mileage diesel car?

I'm looking for a new car, costing around £3500, to replace my Mazda 6. I need a diesel for long journeys with good economy, comfort and reliability. I don't do a huge mileage, so a mileage of over 80,000 is not an issue.

Asked on 8 November 2012 by RP, Bexleyheath

Answered by Honest John
Buying a three-year-old diesel with 80,000 miles could be the biggest mistake of your life. It will very shortly need a need a diesel particulate filter at £1000 - £1500, and then a dual-mass flywheel and clutch at £1,000 - £1500. A diesel car that was reliable and cheap to run on a fleet for three years can be a financial money pit to the owner who gets it next.
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