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FORD FALCON Used Car Review

The Ford Falcon was Australia's longest continuously running nameplate up to the cessation of local production in October 2016 - 56 years after it debuted as a US-based model. Ford's large car started to become more Australianised from the 1970s and it would eventually compete against the Holden Commodore in a famously fierce local rivalry. There were luxury models such as the Fairlane and LTD, ute spin-offs, and sportier models such as the XR6 Turbo and V8-powered XR8 of more recent times.

Pros

Cons

  • Roomy and comfortable interiors
  • Wide range of models
  • Excellent, torquey six-cylinder engines
  • Engineered specifically for Australian roads
  • Thirsty LPG engines
  • Taxi stigma
  • No longer in production
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
FordFalconAutomaticAir conditioning?: YesIs your car registered?: YesClear all

Top2012 Ford Falcon FG MK2 XR6T Blue 6 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Utility

  • 161222 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

"We are located 1.5 hours north of Sydney at the M1 Freeway at Newcastle. Finance options available to approved customers, Warranty options available We Can also assit with freight options Australia wide. We are a Local Family owned and operated Dealership Established for over 12 years . Contact our team for hassle free friendly service today. If the Vehicle is advertised - YES it is available - Call today to book your appointment! ."

$24,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Beresfield, NSW

Dealer used
26/04/2024

Top2010 Ford Falcon FG XR6 White 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 66154 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

****SALE PRICE 2010 Ford Falcon XR6 Sedan Sports Automatic -One owner -Log books -2 keys -Great condition -17 Inch alloy wheels -Multi function steering wheel -Sports suspension -Electric Seats -MUCH MORE Our commitment to you; Trust your journey with the biggest and most trusted luxury dealership servicing the Sutherland Shire. With a new state of the art facility and a new team with a refreshing bespoke style experience. We are committed to providing excellent service, knowledg

$19,450 Excl. Gov. Charges
Kirrawee, NSW

Dealer used
19 hours ago

Top2009 Ford Falcon FG Super Cab White 4 Speed Automatic Cab Chassis

  • 225250 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Looking for a reliable workhorse that won't break the bank? Look no further than this 2009 Ford Falcon Ute FG Cab Chassis Super Cab. Priced at just $9,995.00 AUD, this white beauty is ready to take on any job you throw its way. With a powerful 4.0Gi engine and a 1280kg payload capacity, this Falcon Ute is perfect for hauling all your gear with ease. The interior features black trim, adjustable steering column, cruise control, and more to ensure a comfortable ride every time. Safety is a top p

$9,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
27/04/2024

Top2009 Ford Falcon FG Super Cab White 4 Speed Sports Automatic Cab Chassis

  • 271721 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Buying a car just got so much Easier as we offer: Great Finance Packages Over the phone approvals Top trade-in value 1-5 Years Extended Warranty Roadside Assistance Guaranteed Clear Title Australia-wide transport Bad Credit? Pensioner? Ex Bankrupt? The Bank said NO? We Can Help with Easy Finance available so give us a chance... Whether you are looking for Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 We can make it happen with a

$7,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
27/04/2024

Top2014 Ford Falcon FG MK2 (LPi) White 6 Speed Automatic Cab Chassis

  • 86313 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Looking for a reliable ride that won't break the bank? Look no further than this 2014 FORD FALCON (LPI) FG MK2 LPG 4.0L 6 SP AUTOMATIC. This gem is a steal with its affordable price tag and impressive fuel efficiency. Safety first! Equipped with dual front airbags, anti-lock braking, and brake assist, you can cruise with peace of mind knowing you and your passengers are protected. The dynamic stability control and traction control system will keep you firmly on the road, even in challenging c

$17,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Blacktown, NSW

Dealer used
18 hours ago

Top2008 Ford Falcon FG XT Silver, Chrome 5 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Sedan

  • 181769 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

2008 FORD FALCON XT AUTO SEDAN PRESENTED IN SILVER. VERY TIDY AND WELL MAINTAINED SEDAN THAT IS SURE TO IMPRESS IN THIS CONDITION. DO NOT DELAY ENQUIRE TODAY. Call our experienced team NOW to secure this AMAZING INTERNET ONLY special price! Family owned Toyota dealership in PERTH, with over 500 quality used cars in stock, with an exceptional personal touch. WHERE THE GUEST ALWAYS COMES FIRST......Please Note - all our Internet specials are FIXED priced and not applicable with any other offer.

$10,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
26/04/2024

2010 Ford Falcon XR6 Silver Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 206427 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

2010 Ford Falcon XR6 Silver Sports Automatic Sedan

$9,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2013 Ford Falcon FG MK2 XR6 Blue 6 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Sedan

  • 205515 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

JUST ARRIVED Looking for a sleek and powerful sedan that won't break the bank? Check out this 2013 Ford Falcon XR6 FG MK2 in stunning blue! Packed with features like automatic climate control, alloy wheels, cruise control, and rear parking sensors, this car is sure to impress. With just over 200,000 km on the odometer, this Falcon is reliable and ready for its next adventure. Safety features like dual front airbags, stability control, and anti-lock braking give you peace of mind on the road.

$12,999 Drive Away^
Westcourt, QLD

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2015 Ford Falcon FG X XR6 Ute Super Cab 2dr Spts Auto 6sp, 542kg 4.0i (Sat Na Grey Sports Automatic

  • 133111 km
  • Ute
  • Auto

3MTHS OR 5,000KMS DEALER GAURANTEE DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A FULLY LOADED WORK HORSE!!! FOR ASSISTANCE IN PURCHASING THIS CAR PLEASE INQUIRE TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE TODAY!!! WE ARE CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN THE HEART OF C4S7LE H1LL OFF V1CTORI@ AVE, 30MINS FROM PARRAMATTA, HORNSBY AND SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK. LOCAL AREAS INCLUDE BELLA VISTA, KELLYVILLE, SEVEN HILLS, ROUSE HILL, PENNANT HILLS AND BAULKHAM HILLS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK, MONDAY THROUGH TO FRIDAY 9AM-5PM AND WEEKENDS

$28,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Castle Hill, NSW

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2011 Ford Falcon Ute FG MkII XR6 Ute Super Cab 2dr Spts Auto 6sp, 555kg 4.0i

  • 229007 km
  • Ute
  • Auto

Unleash your adventurous side with this robust 2011 Ford Falcon FG MkII XR6 Ute Super Cab! This 2-door sports automatic is designed to balance performance and efficiency, with a 6-cylinder, 4.0i engine that runs on unleaded fuel. It boasts a carrying capacity of 555kg, making it the perfect companion for heavy-duty tasks. The vehicle has clocked 229,007 kms and is in good condition, standing out in a sparkling shade of white. The utility body design of this Falcon Ute is both functional and s

$9,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2012 Ford Falcon FG MkII G6E EcoBoost Sedan 4dr Spts Auto 6sp, 2.0T

  • 171128 km
  • Other
  • Auto

Ladies and gents, feast your eyes on this four-wheeled wonder, the Ford Falcon FG MkII G6E EcoBoost Sedan, a mouthful of a name for a car that’s brimming with features. You see, this isn’t just any sedan. It’s a sports automatic. That’s right, sports! It's like a professional athlete, except instead of throwing balls or running laps, it smoothly switches gears on its own. You can practically feel the wind in your hair just thinking about it. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Let's

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2011 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Turbo Orange 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 45564 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

***WELCOME*** COME IN TO OUR WAREHOUSE IN MADDINGTON AND SEE HOW WE DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY! WE DONT SELL CARS, WE HELP PEOPLE BUY CARS! WE OFFER A FUN AND RELAXED NON-PUSHY BUYING EXPERIENCE! WE ARE NOT YOUR CONVENTIONAL, STERILE, ALL BUSINESS AND NO PERSONALITY CAR YARD OUR FRIENDLY TEAM ARE CUSTOMER FOCUSSED AND WE BOAST A FINE RANGE OF PRE-OWNED VEHICLES! WE DONT CLAIM TO BE THE BEST, BUT WE HAVENT FOUND ANYONE BETTER! PEACE OF MIND? WEVE GOT YOU COVERED! All of our vehicles undergo an ex

$35,611 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maddington, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2014 Ford Falcon XR6 FG II WITH WARRANTY

  • 225000 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 6

Experience the thrill of driving with this 2014 Ford Falcon XR6 FG II. This sleek black sedan boasts an automatic transmission and a powerful 6 cylinder engine, delivering an exhilarating blend of speed and control. With a high-quality interior that comfortably seats five, this Falcon offers ample space for both driver and passengers, ensuring every journey is a pleasure. Despite clocking 225,000 kilometers, this vehicle is in excellent condition, exemplifying Ford's reputation for durability

$10,490 Excl. Gov. Charges
Welshpool, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2014 Ford Falcon FG MK2 XR6T Blue 6 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Sedan

  • 181845 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

All Vehicles sold with Current Registration, All stamp duty and Govt charges included, Current RWC, Clear PPSR Finance Manager onsite with Access to over 30 Lenders Can quote payments over the phone No Deposit Good/Bad Credit Lowest, Bank-Beating Rates Employed or Self Employed Best Car Loan Options Australia Wide We are very proud of our facebook reviews and have over 33000 followers who enjoy our posts

$34,990 Drive Away^
Underwood, QLD

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2005 FORD FALCON 6CYL 4.0L AUTO 339,000KMs

  • 339000 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

2005 FORD FALCON 6CYL 4.0L AUTO 339,000KMs 🔥🔥🔥 CLEARANCE SALE 🔥🔥🔥 🏁 FORD FALCON 6CYL 4.0L AUTO 339,000KMs 🏁 REGISTRATION EXPIRY: 29/06/2024 🏁 ODO: 339,000KMs 🏁 CLEAR "PPSR" 🏁 WARRANTY 🏁 TOW BAR 🏁 AUTO 🏁 6CYL 🏁 RWC 🏁 4.0L 🏁🏁 REGISTRATION EXPIRY: 29/06/2024 🏁🏁 THE CAR COMES WITH DEALER WARRANTY 🏁🏁 THE CAR COMES WITH ROAD WORTHY CERTIFICATE 💥💥 WE HAVE ONSITE FINANCE AND WILL CERTAINLY GET YOU THE BEST POSSIBLE RATE AND SUITABLE TERMS ACCORDING TO YOUR CONDITION ✅ CE

$5,900 Excl. Gov. Charges
Slacks Creek, QLD

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2010 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Grey Semi Auto Sedan

  • 239493 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

VERY RARE OPPORTUNITY AND TO STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD BE QUICK THIS XR6 FALCON WONT LAST LONG!!! Has: XR8 BONNET, SPORTS EXHAUST, UPGRADED RIMS SOUNDS AWESOME! CLEANEST FALCON THAT YOU WILL FIND!!! WOW!!! Check this out!! Must be seen to be appreciated! Has to be one of the most cleanest falcons around! In absolutely immaculate condition comes with log book service history you wont find better! Be quick this wont last long! Be quick make this Ford Falcon XR6 your new car today it wont last l

$10,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bassendean, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2005 FORD FALCON XT 4 SP AUTO SEQ SPORTSHIFT 4D REGO TILL MAR 2025

$6,900Negotiable
Rankin Park, NSW

27/04/2024

2009 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Red 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 207945 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

FG XR6 SEDAN with good kms for its age. Strong 4.0 petrol ''barra'' motor and smooth AUTO gearbox. Smooth to drive and a popular Aussie choice * 4.0 PETROL MOTOR * ALLOY WHEELS * MULTI FUNCTION STEERING WHEEL * ELECTRIC WINDOWS AND MIRRORS * ICY COLD AIRCON * FULL SIZE SEDAN * SPACIOUS BOOT CLEAR PPSR PROVIDED FOR THIS CAR THAT CONFIRMS : *It’s NOT written Off *It’s NOT stolen *No Finance Owing *It’s not Hail damaged We are conveniently located in the heart of Victoria Park only 6kms

$10,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

1982 Ford Falcon XD GL Grey 3 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 6263 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 8 cyl 5.8L

1982 Ford Falcon XD S Pak - Top 60 at Summernats 31 (2018) - PAVTEK Built Long Block - Windsor Dart Block - 434ci Stroker Kit - Steel Crank Forged Steel Conrods - Forged Pistons - CHI Alloy Heads - Custom grind Hydraulic Roller cam - CHI High Rise Manifold - Holley HP Carburettor - 575hp at the Wheels - T56 Magnum 6 speed Manual Transmission - QuickTime Bellhousing - Custom Built Clutch - Hurst shifter - 1000hp Tailshaft built by Hardy Spicer - Fabricated 9” Diff Housing - Stran

$84,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Carss Park, NSW

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2007 Ford Falcon BF Mk II XR6 Ute Super Cab by Craig Lowndes Blue 4 Speed Sports Automatic Utility

  • 265795 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

***VALLEY CAR'S*** *2007 FORD FALCON XR6 AUTOMATIC IS IN VERY WELL CONDITIONS INSIDE/OUT,GREAT IDEAL FAMILY CAR/EVERYDAY CAR, DRIVES EXCELLENT, VERY TIDY ALL AROUND, CENTRAL LOCKING, TOW BAR 2KEYS MAGS PPSR CAR HISTORY, LOG BOOK, COMES WITH , FINANCE AVAILABLE AND OPTIONAL WARRANTY AVAILABLE UP TO 1-5 YEARS. EASY FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE ON SITE !!GREAT BARGAIN!!**DON'T MISS OUT** TRADE INS ARE WELCOME AND ALL TEST DRIVES ARE WELCOME. WE ARE LOCATED AT 56-58 ALEXANDRA STREET KURRI K

$7,999 Drive Away^
Kurri Kurri, NSW

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2016 Ford Falcon FG X XR8 Sprint Gold 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 43405 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 8 cyl 5.0L

Ford Falcon FG X XR8 Sprint - The Last of the Falcons, Unleash the Power of Australian Muscle! #331 of 750 & ONLY 28 EVER MADE IN VICTORY GOLD METALLIC WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION! Don't miss the opportunity to own a piece of Australian automotive history with the 2015 Ford Falcon FG X XR8 Sprint. This limited-edition XR8 Sprint represents the pinnacle of the Falcon lineage, showcasing the power and performance that defined Australian muscle cars. Elevate your driving experience with this col

$69,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maddington, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2001 Ford Falcon AUII Forte 4 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 194081 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

2001 FORD FALCON FORTE, AUTO, LOW K'S, SERVICE HISTORY, STOCK STANDARD ORIGINAL CAR, COMES WITH AIR AND STEER, ELECTRICS, REVERSE SENSORS. CLEAN IN SIDE OUT DRIVES GREAT, HAS FEW MARKS AROUND BODY, MECHANICALLY VERY GOOD. THIS INCLUDES RWC, PLUS ON ROADS WE ALSO HAVE FINANCE AND WARRANTY AVAILABLE ONSITE. CALL US NOW TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE.

$4,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Thomastown, VIC

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2010 FORD Falcon XR6

  • 275259 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

This XR6 has fantastic presentation and Drives like a dream. With all the great features that you expect plus the power and performance of the 4.0l Barra engine and finished in stunning dark Blue this is sure to sell quick. Experience our commitment to providing you with the best vehicles through a thorough quality inspection, safety check, and a clear PPSR report. 1. Service: We go the extra mile for excellence. Each vehicle receives a service, including an oil and filter change, before it's

$8,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Forrestfield, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2013 Ford Falcon FG MkII XR6 EcoLPi Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 122541 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Ford Falcon 2013 - FG MkII XR6 EcoLPi Sedan 4dr Spts Auto 6sp 4.0Gi This vehicle has travelled low kilometres for a 2013 model and presents and drives well, call us to organise an inspection and test drive. This vehicle has a current Roadworthy and is available for immediate delivery. Finance options are available and Trade-in welcome Guaranteed clear title, RWC Trade-Ins Welcome Finance approval available Warranty Available Independent pre purchase inspections welcome. We are a family

$14,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Coburg North, VIC

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2012 Ford Falcon FG MK2 XR6 Limited Edition 6 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Sedan

  • 199880 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Excellent condition , well maintained with service history, comes with leather seats, navigator, 19" wheels, sale with RWC . Located at Joe Robert Motors, 17 McIntosh street, Airport West. For more info call John: .

$17,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Airport West, VIC

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2013 Ford Falcon FG MkII XR6 EXTENDED CAB Grey Semi Auto Utility

  • 50930 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6

2013 Ford Falcon XR6. Auto. This Falcon is a 1 owner with log book service history. It is in excellent condition both inside and out. It comes with After market wheels, Tow bar, Soft tonneau cover and a Tub liner. All vehicles are sold with clear title. We also provide speedy and competitive finance options. Freight can be arranged for our interstate customer's. If you are planning on flying into the Sunshine Coast to inspect or buy feel free to ask us about our complimentary pick up and drop o

$28,750 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bells Creek, QLD

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2012 Ford Falcon FG MK2 XT Ecoboost Blue 6 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 56860 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Highly desirable Ford Falcon travelled very low kms presented in beautiful condition. Drives like a dream. Meticulously maintained inside and out with log book history. Loads of exciting features, fully workshop approved and will not last. Trade-ins welcome! We have competitive, same-day finance options and comprehensive protection plans from leading Australian providers. Our vehicles have been independently mechanically inspected and road tested for your peace of mind. With over

$15,989 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bentley, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2010 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Turbo Sedan 4dr Spts Auto 6sp, 4.0T

  • 195000 km
  • Other
  • Auto

Presenting a stunning example of automotive excellence, the 2010 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Turbo Sedan. With its thrilling sports automatic transmission and an impressive 4.0T engine, this vehicle perfectly blends everyday usability with the soul of a sports car. This is not just any sedan, but a car that stands out from the crowd, embodying a unique blend of style, performance and luxury. This Falcon XR6 Turbo Sedan is dressed to impress in an elegant shade of grey, a timeless colour that exemplifie

$19,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2009 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Blue 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 115877 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

2009 FG Ford Falcon XR6 Sedan Automatic. LOW KMs (115877KM) Rego: S936ALF Just into stock is this locally owned and completely stock FG XR6, the vehicle drives like a dream and has been very well looked after by its previous owner. Presented in the extremely popular sporty “Kinetic Blue” The vehicle Presents beautifully inside and out with only a few small marks around the body work. Make an appointment to have a look for yourself and find out how this could be your next vehicle

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Seaford, SA

Dealer used
27/04/2024

2008 Ford Falcon BF Mk III XT White 4 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 229302 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Looking for a spacious and reliable family vehicle? Look no further than this 2008 Ford Falcon BF Mk III XT Wagon! Priced at $7,999.00 AUD, this wagon is perfect for road trips or your daily commute. With a sleek white exterior and a comfortable velour trim interior, this Falcon is loaded with features to make your drive enjoyable. From air conditioning to cruise control, power windows to remote keyless entry, this vehicle has everything you need for a smooth ride. Equipped with disc brakes,

$7,999 Drive Away^
North Geelong, VIC

Dealer used
27/04/2024

Overview of the Ford Falcon

Overview of the Ford Falcon

The Ford Falcon was Australia's longest continuously running nameplate up to the cessation of local production in October 2016 - 56 years after it debuted as a US-based model.

Ford's large car started to become more Australianised from the 1970s and it would eventually compete against the Holden Commodore in a famously fierce local rivalry.

There were luxury models such as the Fairlane and LTD, ute spin-offs, and sportier models such as the XR6 Turbo and V8-powered XR8 of more recent times.

FORD FALCON GENERATIONS (SINCE 2002)

2002-2008

2008-2016

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption (not including ute models)

EcoBoost turbo 4-cylinder: 8.0-8.7 litres per 100km

LPG 6-cylinder: 11.7-13.5 litres per 100km

6-cylinder: 9.0 litres per 100km

6-cylinder turbo: 9.5-11.1 litres per 100km

V8: 13.6-13.7 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO FORD FALCON

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: FORD FALCON (FG, 2008-2016)

Watch out for a used Falcon that has been abused by a previous fleet-operator owner.

Clunks over bumps can mean worn suspension bushes.

A pulsing through the car when you apply the brakes probably means worn and warped front brake rotors. Sometimes these can be repaired, but usually new rotors are the best strategy.

The automatic transmission has an external fluid cooler, but these can fail, allowing coolant into the gearbox where it quickly wrecks both the mechanical and electronic functions of the automatic. Check the transmission fluid for milkiness that suggests the coolant and oil have mixed. If they have mixed, give that car a miss.

Make sure the central locking works perfectly, as this is an early sign of a failing body computer.

Check for low coolant level in the radiator. An O-ring at the back of the water pump is a common cause of coolant loss.