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Hi Ive Just checked out a 2005 Caldina with a pre purchase inspection the car is a new import and I don't know the history. The report was good apart from a whining noise while driving which may have been the tires as they were pretty shot. The car is mechanically sound and structurally sound, but the power steering oil was dirty and I'm not sure when it had the last service. Im concerned that whining noise may indicate a problem with the transmission , which would be costly. Is there any way to tell if this might be the case without taking the car apart? If I find out that the transmission is stuffed somewhere in the 3 month warranty period am I covered by NZ Law? The noise is slight hard to hear it when I took it out for a drive. Any advice on this would be appreciated , thank you.

Hi there,
Those particular cars seem to be very good, and give little problems.
I would check that the transmission shifts smoothly, no clonking and slipping between gears.
Maybe get the transmission serviced and filter changed if it has one. The specialists will then be able to get an idea of what the inside looks like at the same time.
Consumers guarantees act covers for a reasonable amount of time. The product has to be fit for the purpose intended.

Thank you for your help, which gave me confidence to make my decision. I took the car for another drive no clonking or slipping so I don't think its serious. I purchased the Caldina yesterday and will get the transmission service done. Very happy with the car
Thanks again