Used Cars: Buying a used car, mileage cars, car question

Question
QUESTION: Hello, I'm currently a college student and I'm looking into buying my 2nd used car. Let's just say I don't know much about cars and what to look for when buying a used car. Lately I have been searching craigslist.org for used cars being sold by private owners in my area. There is this one car, 1992 Honda Accord, that is of interest of me being sold for $3000. The seller states that there is 80,000 miles on the engine and 160,000 on the body. What the heck does that mean (160,000 miles on the engine?)? Is that a good deal? Here is the link for more info: http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/cto/833419659.html

ANSWER: Hello Dwayne,
What the seller is stating is that the engine was replaced and driven 80,000 kms, after, the rest of the car has gone 160,000 without changes. $3000 is a high price for a 92 accord.. just so you know (you should probably wonder how the vehicle was maintained if the engine was replaced at 80,000 kms the owner clearly did not take care of it as Hondas' hit over 300,000kms on the original engine)

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your quick response. I appreciate it. But what should I look for when buying a used car? Are how many miles the car has important? I'm looking to spend at 4000 on a used car. I would really appreciate some helpful tips to buying a used car. Thanks.

Answer
The main thing you should look for is the maintenance on the vehicle, there are many vehicles out there that have more miles but very well maintained! you must do a carfax on the car, and get it looked at by a trusted mechanic. Remember a car will last allot longer with high kms and well maintained over less kms and bagged to shit ! If its low kms and maintained you are lucky. (p.s. higher mileage cars you can get newer ones for less money)  Please don't forgot to rate my answers!