I recently saw a 1996 honda civic for sale at $6,000- it had a body kit, underlights, rims, airbags, and it was in good condition but it had the engine light on... so I was wondering if I should take the risk of buying the car like that, or not.

I have had bad experience with buying used cars. When you buy a used car you don't know what kind of problems you are getting with it. A 96 is so old if it were me I'd look into a newer car.

Without knowing what codes are being thrown, you really can't evaluate what you are getting into. It could indicate the computer is shot or other serious problems. Have a qualified mechanic check it out first.

A pre purchase inspection by a certified ASE technician is the best money spent if you're really serious about the car.

You can get a lot more civic than a 96 for 6k. Keep shopping

Every used car I buy, I spring the 45 bucks to have a mechanic look it over.

Paying $6,000 for a 1996 civic is way too much. Plus, buying a car like that with a bodykit and lights would have the cops behind you every time you go for a ride. They immediately put you into that stereotype. Keep shopping around and don't be discouraged from buying used cars. Do what kp2171 said and just be on the lookout for problems.