Used Hatchback Automatic - which one to go for..?

[brierly]

Hi all, I'm looking to buy a used automatic but I'm not sure which is likely to be the most reliable, specifically in terms of the automatic gearbox.

Since automatic gearboxes are so very expensive to fix, reliability is a priority. I have up to £3.5k to spend and am considering a VW Golf or Audi A3 (I'm looking at petrol and diesel), between around years 2004 - 2007 (the car needs to be a hatchback).

I've not looked at French cars because I'm worried about gearbox reliability - is this a fair concern? I've considered a Honda Jazz or Civic - anyone have any thoughts on reliability of these models?

If anyone has any experience with automatics such as these, good or bad, I'd be most grateful for your thoughts. Thanks!

[Deerfoot]

brierly said:

I've considered a Honda Jazz or Civic - anyone have any thoughts on reliability of these models?

Avoid the Honda i-Shift gearbox if you're considering a Honda.

[Toltec]

There is always the e46 compact, we have had a 325ti for nearly ten years and the gearbox has never been an issue, neither has anything else really. Front suspension bushes needed doing a couple of years ago, the fan controller failed and the rear wiper motor died, all of which are well known issues and simple to fix. It's still on the original exhaust system too.

[vikingaero]

James Ruppert of Bangernomics fame interviewed and Automatic Transmission Specialist from Sussex.

The specialist said to buy anything 4 speed Japanese or Korean for reliability. Next choice was 4 or 5 speed European. The guy said to avoid anything 6,7,8 speed, DSG/Powershift and anything automated manual. The only exception to all this was the CVT in the original Jazz and Prius.

I would agree about French automatics. Around 2000 to 2010 they used chocolate components. Essentially the simpler the box the better.

[mike13]

Nissan Note, torque converter gearbox, mine's hasn't missed a beat!

[Yiliterate]

Without wishing to tempt fate, I haven't had any issues with the auto box on my 2005 Merc A-Class so far (coming up for four years ownership).

[raspy]

brierly said:

Hi all, I'm looking to buy a used automatic but I'm not sure which is likely to be the most reliable, specifically in terms of the automatic gearbox.

Since automatic gearboxes are so very expensive to fix, reliability is a priority. I have up to £3.5k to spend and am considering a VW Golf or Audi A3 (I'm looking at petrol and diesel), between around years 2004 - 2007 (the car needs to be a hatchback).

I've not looked at French cars because I'm worried about gearbox reliability - is this a fair concern? I've considered a Honda Jazz or Civic - anyone have any thoughts on reliability of these models?

If anyone has any experience with automatics such as these, good or bad, I'd be most grateful for your thoughts. Thanks!

Any 9-12 year old car with an automatic transmission won't necessarily be operating 'as new' - I would personally suggest taking it on a long test drive, making sure the engine is cold before you begin. Drive a few different cars of the models you are considering to see how the automatic transmission feels in each one. The experience may vary.

Also, check to see if the transmission has been serviced in the past (i.e fluid change etc)

[jkh112]

mike13 said:

Nissan Note, torque converter gearbox, mine's hasn't missed a beat!

Seconded.

[em177]

jkh112 said:

Seconded.

And Nissan Cube if you're after something a bit more quirky

[brierly]

Thanks everyone! This is most insightful. I think I have some decision making and testing driving to do!

[Matt UK]

Nissan Micra?