So in other words, when they say its HPI checked it probably is? Do you
reckon they take p/x cars? And would I be able to test drive them first,
since they are sold "as seen".

Also, a bit off topic. I've got a J reg Ford Sierra Laser 1.8 with 98,000
on the clock (I think!! I bought it one year ago). I haven't had any major
problems with it apart from the engine burning a bit of oil. It passed it's
MOT first time around and is valid until june 04. sHow much would I get for
such a car? £3-400?

Cheers,

If the person couldn't afford the payments, they likely didn't spend much on
maintenance - so the oil etc could be very old.

You might not get a V5 (and they can take ages to come through now).  You
might not get a service book, or the spare keys (especailly important when a
red key is involved - some Fords and Fiats for example).

The tyres might be on their last legs (check the spare).  People often strip
off everything they can (eg tools from boot) in spite at the impending
repossession.

The declining value of used cars means that there are cases where it is
worthwhile handing the car back to the HP company (I think if you've paid
more than a third [or maybe a half] they cannot even blacklist you)

Does anyone know what the quality of repossesed cars are? The below site
sells really cheap cars that they claim are HPI checked and lawfully
aquired. Are this cars safe to buy? Has anyone had any experience with such
cars? They have over 1300 cars in their backyard so it's not some guy
running it from his front garden.

http://www.eastcoastsalvage.co.uk/

Any feedback would be much appreciated.

Thank you.