For the record the 1996 Proton 1.5 auto that has been passed throughout our family is still chugging along. The auto gearbox is probably one of the only parts that still works, and has never been serviced.

Thanks again for all the tips

i will check out the toyota corolla sounds good

Corolla would be a good starting point. I'd only add that the Kia Rio might be worth a look, not many about but with the long warranty many private owners tend to keep then well serviced.

You will not get a Kia Rio Auto for £1000 with a long warranty, it was not introduced on that model until Jan 2010.

Focus 1.6 auto is CVT, avoid.

thunderbird how come you say avoid cvt ??

thanks chris and im 24 and yes you were right 1.6 would add £400-£600 on my insurance per year

what do u think about toyota yaris 1.3 used if i tryed to increase my budget ???

and there is a lot of volkswagen autos are they any good ?

its hard choosing a low priced auto as i need small engine,economical car but then people say stay away from smaller autos as there not very good i guess thats the price i pay for not driving a manual ;-(

ok so avoid cvt, mmt, freetronic

would u think of this yaris

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TOYOTA-YARIS-1-3-16v-VVTi-AUTOMATIC-GLS-3DR-IN-SILVER-/110874406510?pt=Automobiles_UK&hash=item19d0a12e6e#ht_1142wt_1263

Though i would you just add this incase in can help anyone out in the future with the same question the list i got from research is

Kia Picanto

Daihatsu Sirion

Hyundai Accent

Suzuki Wagon R+

Hyundai Getz

Diahatsu Charade

Toyota Yaris

Honda Jazz

Nissan Micra

and others that were posted already