Used Seat Toledo Saloon 1999 - 2005 review

If you're considering a high-mileage 1.8 petrol, then make sure the timing belt has been changed. If it does break, it's not just a question of a new belt, because the whole engine gets wrecked in the process. Although no such problems afflict the V5, it's not the easiest powerplant in the world to work on.

Diesel engines are not faultless, either. There can be major glitches with electronic control units, and the turbochargers can stick - ruining performance and economy - especially if the oil has not been regularly changed. All Toledos need servicing every 10,000 miles, so if the service record looks sketchy, draw the correct conclusions and walk away.

There are a few recall issues to address, too, including a possible fault with passenger airbags and the risk of tension cracks on the brake servo vacuum pipe. Also, bolts on the fuel pump cover are susceptible to breaking.