Generic Advice ('cause I don't own a Metro).
Before buying:
Look for known issues (sever rust at Metro's control arm mounts).
If you can't fix it yourself, be sure you have a written estimate from a shop willing to do the repair.
Immediately replace:
- Alternator belt ( Keep old one as spare if in fair condition. )
- Timing belt. ( Keep old one as spare if in fair condition. )
- Water pump ( This assumes you've got to remove it to R&R Timing belt. )
- Thermostat (OEM or good brand name eg. - GATES)
- Transmission oil. ( & Filter if it's an automatic. )
- Brake fluid.
- Power Steering Fluid
- Engine Coolant
- Coolant hoses. ( If at all questionable. )
Immediately Inspect and replace as necessary:
Brake linings and hardware.
Brake hoses ( for fraying or badly weather checked outer sheath. )
All exterior lights: brake, turn signal, clearance, hi/lo beams.
For frequent 1200 mile trips, if spare is a temporary, replace with a real rim and tire.
I like 99Metro's road kit, but would add a test light and duct tape.
Depending on where you're driving, I might also add a spare head light.