As we often say on this forum, at your price level condition matters more than make or model. Try to find something that looks as if it's been looked after, and if possible has some service history.

If you want some form of a steer in a direction, the advantage of Fords (Fiesta and Focus) is that there are lots to choose from; otherwise go for a Toyota, Honda or Mazda.

Avoid diesels.

How long is piece of string? Any car that has been well maintained and serviced is what you want.Look how worn the discs are, how worn are the tyres, is the clutch ok is there any smoke coming out of the exhaust,does it have a 12month MOT without any advisories.

People on here can advise on models with a good chance of being reliable, but in the end you can't buy an 'average' car. You can only buy one example, which may turn out to be good or not so good. You, or a trusted and knowledgeable mate, must judge for yourselves. There are thousands to choose from, so maybe try a place where you know someone has found a bargain before?

Just wonder if anyone could give me a heads up on whats the most reliable car I can get for a budget of £1500

One that you have known for a decent time that has not given the owner trouble is as good an indication you will get about reliability. That is no garantee that they are not selling because they are aware of it becoming a money pit but hopefully they would be honest enough.

I once bought a car off my dad. 3 years old, 30,000 miles, fully serviced (every 5000 miles in the 70's). 2 days after handing him the money the head gasket went, then the battery, then the starter motor. The final straw was when the bottom literally fell out of the petrol tank and dropped 10 gallons of 4* on the drive the night before I was going on holiday in it.

Sold it in the local rag, just about broke even. Saw the car regularly for several years. Spoke to the guy who bought it once, siad it was the best car he had ever had, not a single problem.

My advice is to ask around family and friends.

Back in 2005, we had an nine year old Mondeo estate. We were offered £1000 trade in.

Instead we gave it to some friends. Its still running fine today.