What kind of car should I get for my first time car for college?
After doing some research, everyone keeps telling me honda or toyota.
Any opinions? Budget is $5k
Just get a civic or a corolla. The Japanese car manufacturer have a great philosophy when it comes to improvement. Old models have had most of their defects corrected, and as such, are very reliable. I think a Toyota would be great for someone in your position.
If you prefer other brands, don't sweat it. Most mainstream cars are similar. The difference is marginal.
Now, here is what you should look out for.
- Make sure the car hasn't been involved into an accident
- Ask the owner
- Check if the "door gaps" are roughly equal
- Using your foot or hand, compare the spacing of the wheels of the left, and that of the right.
- Check for rust
- Look at the frame under the car
- Look at below the doors
- Ask how old the battery is. They are expensive, and it would be nice to be able to keep it.
- Check the tires. Those are also expensive. If you can find a car with good tires, you'll save tons of money. Driving with old dilapidated tires is dangerous.
- Listen for weird noises
- Look at the manufacturing date! I believe it is written inside the driver's door. A 2000 could have been manufactured on the Jan 1st 2000 or Dec 31 2000. That is 1 year difference!
- Look at the mileage. Even if the car looks good, things wear out. Don't buy if it has too much mileage as it WILL cause problems. Stuff is designed for a specified life. Trust me.
Honda
Yes, properly and well maintained Honda, Toyota and Mazda models have the best overall reliability ratings.
Look for a ten year old, give or take, Honda, Toyota or Mazda which the seller can show you proof of all service and maintenance records. If they can you have a potential winner.
BTW, you can find the current market value of any car you might wish to consider here:
https://www.edmunds.com/appraisal/
For $5000 you should be able to get a dead one
Yes, a Honda or Toyota would be a good choice. However, ANY used car can have problems, even if it's a Honda or Toyota. So have it checked out by a professional mechanic *before* your buy, especially one that only costs $5000.
Your friends are correct. You should also look at Mazda, Nissan and VW.
Honda or Toyota. Mazda too.
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