Would you buy this car for $1000?
Looking for cheap transportation to commute 500 miles. Dealer is selling a 1997 Honda Accord w/ auto with 150k miles.
Do you think this car is reliable enough to go on long trips like that through 120 degree deserts in the Summer?
Yep
A 20 year old car? Not without paying to have a very expert independent mechanic do a headlight to taillight complete inspection and evaluation.
I've had new cars, and all I can remember is having an old 1.3 Triumph Acclaim.
It drove on and on. It sailed through MOTs (compulsory yearly vehicle examinations) when other newer cars had a huge bill, It was economical. Cheap on tax, fuel, parts
So I never underestimate the reliability of older cars - if you think about it, it's still running after 20 years!
\high mileage accords can be ok if well maintained, but my answer is still no, not unless you'd be prepared to put about $500-$1000 into it beforehand for a complete all-points inspection, a tuneup, new belts and hoses, a coolant system flush, transmission flush if its automatic, a/c service, window tint, decent tires, an emergency roadside kit, a tool kit, some basic repair knowledge, a money reserve for emergency repairs, and a AAA membership for roadside assistance. I live in the desert and see dead cars every day in the summer and very unhappy occupants sweltering on the side of the road.
p.s. Commuting implies multiple trips. If that's what you have in mind, take a greyhound bus instead.
Knowing the age, mileage and price of this car is way too little to be able to decide how reliable it is.
You say commute 500 miles - is that a day or a week or a month or a year?
Its unlikely that any car a dealer can sell you for $1000 will make it 50 miles reliably. Let alone 500 in 120 degree heat.
Only if a had another couple of grand sitting around which I knew will be needed for immediately maintenance and repairs. You get what you pay for.
You need the car checked out by a mechanic. That car might be in top shape or all dogged out. That was an excellent car when it was new.
No
Honda's are good cars but deffintally get it checked by someone check for leaks and brakes stiff like that.
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