Hey all... hoping someone can help advise my. I need to purchase a cheap car. I plan on buying a 1992 Civic LX 4 door w/ 157k miles. Car runs good, friend at work NEVER has had any problems with it.

What should I look for when examining it? What sort of preventative maintenence is advised? Timing belt has not been changed but looks in good condition.

ALSO, the car was in a fender bender and the hood is sort of crumpled up a bit. THis leaves gaps of about 6 inshces on the sides of the hood into the engine compartment. Is this something that could cause problems when it rains and snows with moisture and snow getting under the hood? Is this something I should fix or will the car operate with no problems.... I really don't want to put much $$ into it, just want reliable transportation.

THANKS ALL!

Ok, if that car has 157k on it, and that timing belt hasnt been changed, Im surprised it hasnt broken. It MUST be changed and SOON. They are supposed to be done at 90-100k. If the belt breaks, you're looking at major internal damage. As for the hood, you should fix it, at least get rid of the gaps. Water can get in and causes steam, which makes you not be able to see, and lets water in which over time can rust electrical connections, and water on a hot manifold or engine can cause cracks.

The car is also approaching the 60k service, which is to change the belts (in this case the timing belt too), distributor cap and rotor, plugs, adjust valves, change trans fluid,fuel and air filter. And when you change the timing belt, change the water pump.

As for other things to look for, you said he's a friend, so you kinda know his driving habits, and inspect things accordingly.