Good morning, I am in the process of purchasing a 1998 honda accord 4cylinder 4dr. With 174000 miles in good condition, and the car lot wants $5600 for it. I feel that it is a good deal, but am a little nervous due to the mileage. In the past I had a an acura with 277,000 ,iles and it held up well, but just want to know what should I look for before buying the car. Any suggestions?

Personally, while Honda does in general make a pretty good car. I would not pay $5,600 for one with 174,000 miles. You don't know how it was maintained and driven. And THAT more than anything determines if the transmission or egine will last another month much less years longer.

Just because a car looks pretty, doesn't mean it wasn't neglected or abused mechanically. Or wasn't reconstructed from an accident that was totalled or was a flood damaged car that were repaired. It takes a very skilled and trained eye to find clues most people will not see.

Considering you can get a brand a brand new car for twice that amount.

However, assuming you are in the USA, I'd start with a carfax report. And pay an independent mechanic to give it a complete going over before you make any decisions to get it. You won't have any warranty with a cat that old.

Thanks a lot!! Car fax is a little high, but I found a website called vin history.com who is a little less. Does itmatter?

If you are ready to spend that kind of money on an old car... spend the few bucks for a Carfax. They are the gold standard at this time (meaning they may be imitated but not matched)... and might turn up info that can make you walk away from that car. Between that and a private inspection by a mechanic without a vested interest there are no better ways to protect yourself on a used car.