Buying advice

[rikrose]

I'm contemplating buying an S4 (B5). There's currently one for sale at Fontain Motors (fontain.co.uk) in Iver, and I went to test drive it today. The test drive has done nothing to dissuade me from buying one.

I want to know if anyone's had dealings with Fontain before - either good or bad. Am I going to part with my money and end up regretting it?

Likewise, I'm wondering how long the car is likely to last. The car, as I saw it, was in very good shape - I didn't see rust and the like, except for little patches on the underside (yes, I was on the floor with my light, and also had a good look around the engine bay). Is a B5 likely to still be a roadworthy car in 5 years?

In short, can the class please help me work out whether I'm likely to regret buying that car, given the dealer and age of the car?

[GrahamS4]

I bought from them in May.

Not 100% service, but overall quite pleased.

Make sure they give you the time you deserve. They are too busy for their own good.

Forget the fancy patter and multipoint checks - check, double check and tripple check the car before you buy and when you collect.

Watch for very low claim limits on the warranties.

Don't rely on them as a 2.7 specialist - get the car check once you have purchased.

Keep your eyes wide open and bargain hard and I think you'll be OK.

Do your research and go prepared.