Getting a used Indigo CS for dirt cheap: Does is make a sensible buy?

My purpose is to set my hands properly on the car/master driving, short city rides, and saving myself from the rain these days.

BHPian wheelspinner recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hi team,

I'm getting 2010-2012 Tata Indigos eCS/CS with CR4 engine for dirt cheap like Rs. 50,000 - Rs. 70,000. They were used as private registration cabs I believe.

My purpose is to set my hands properly on the car/master driving, short city rides, and saving myself from the rain these days.

On the odo, they have 80,000 - 1,00,000 Km. Not that I trust it. But can judge the overall condition to determine it. Overall, there is wear and tear on the body. Scratches, dents, and other minor damages. Nothing too major on the outside.

What to check in the Indigo engine/mechanical aspects? Is there a checklist? I will definitely take along a mechanic. I'm aware Indigos are known to be a maintenance nightmare, but I am willing to take a gamble (I have a high risk tolerance and quite used to huge financial losses in my investments).

My goal is to use it for a couple years. Then as soon as used car prices come back to normal, invest more into a better car. As right now, I feel it doesn't make sense to buy a used car by paying so much. Is it worth going for this car in 2023 as a first car if on a tight budget?

Here's what BHPian svsantosh had to say on the matter:

Tight budget, 50K Indigo with a fake-1-Lac ODO is ok, but share some pictures here; as detailed as possible.

As long the car moves forward, and stops a few seconds after you press the brake, a 50K Indigo cannot go wrong. Dont expect wonders from the AC and power steering, alignment and suspension. It can be a glorified omni van that runs on Diesel.

The Crdi was at best a DIY project at TATA they took 1 full generation to master. I had the Indigo CS (TDI) for nearly 50,000Kms, and out of the showroom it sure was a upgrade from an Alto but very very far from what a refined automobile is meant to be these days. I am not talking Skoda or Ford refinement, the TATA was not even close to how smooth an Alto can drive or sound.

Make sure to top up radiator water, engine oil, brake oil every weekend and that car will putter along for a few years more.

Here's what BHPian audioholic had to say on the matter:

I am not sure about the car giving you driving training, but you will definitely master the art of car maintenance, make a lot of mechanic friends and also make you explore the scrapyard of your city. You can use it as a shelter during rain for sure but the short city rides depend on whether it starts or needs a look by the mechanic.

Sorry to dampen your spirit, but if you are looking for a dirt cheap car then you should look at an Alto in the 1-1.5L budget. There’s a reason these old Tata cars are cheap compared to their initial price.

Here's what BHPian Oppanna had to say on the matter:

One word - Avoid

I am not aware of your location. With that budget you should be able to get a Maruti 800 or early generations of Maruti Alto.

Like others mentioned you will not master the art of driving, but you may master the art of maintenance if you are ok in getting your hands greased and you will know all mechanics and spares shop details at your fingertip.

However please share the pics and video of the car which you are talking about. That would help us to understand little better and guide you accordingly.

Here's what BHPian raptor_diwan had to say on the matter:

Since you're comfortable with taking risks, remember that even though you can handle uncertainties well, unexpected repair costs might accumulate. So, having some extra money set aside for potential repairs could be a smart move.

However, if you already have some extra money available, why not consider buying a better car instead of this one? Relying on the assumption that the initial 70k investment will guarantee smooth performance isn't a safe bet. In reality, you might end up needing to spend a significant amount of money and time on repairs. I'd recommend increasing your budget and thinking of the extra amount as a fund for maintaining or fixing the Indigo. you could opt for a good quality Alto or Celerio and enjoy a worry-free driving experience.

Here's what BHPian anjan_c2007 had to say on the matter:

I have had some bitter experiences with Tata Indica diesel cabs around 2008 and 2013. The two were hired on different dates and were hardly 2 or 3 years old. The one in 2008 finished its trip from Bhubhaneshwar to Puri and back during the day, running quite OK with its powerful AC. Passenger space was excellent and ahead of the competition. We went along the beach road with a superb view of thd Bay of Bengal also stopping at tourist spots enroute, including the Konark temple. While returning, luckily just after entering Bhubaneswar, the cab stalled and after the driver soon lost hopes of restarting it, we took a three wheeler to reach our halting place.

The second one stalled within Bangalore in 2013 while on an intracity drive.

Hence, though I have never owned an Indica or Indigo, I have always told about these stalled Indicas to wannabe buyers. So if you buy one then you need to be prepared to be caught by sudden surprises it throws, stalling, hefty repair bills and more.

Feel sad that such a safe and solidly built car with the Ital Design styling failed only due to its reliability being suspect. On the fuel consumption front it was too frugal. And their numbers on roads have dwindled today as most owners have parted company with the car.

Here's what BHPian condor had to say on the matter:

No. Get any Maruti. You may put in more, but you can get better resale than the Indigo. Or get a decent small Maruti even if you have to stretch it, and then use it a few years before you upgrade.

Here's what BHPian Dry Ice had to say on the matter:

Commercial use is a bigger red flag than the brand (Tata) here. No way a diesel cab was run for just 1 lakh kms in 10 years. That equates to less than a 1000 kms a month! It wouldn’t make any financial sense for the owner/operator at that kind of mileage.

Commercial cars usually have a much poorer maintenance record. You are much more likely to find a jugaad fix in these cars than say a personal car.

Look for signs of usage elsewhere like the tyres, brakes, interiors, steering wheel, gear lever etc.

An old Maruti might be a safe bet (as many have advised above) for a first car on a budget.

Lastly, try and find an owner selling the car directly instead of buying something from a platform. Plenty of threads on TBHP that can help you navigate this better.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.