Tips on Buying Cars: Confused buying a car, chevy aveo, bud ford

Question
Dear Mr.Bud Ford,

I have recetly moved to Farmington Hills, MI.
My work location is in Renaissance Ctr,Detroit, MI.Its a drive of around 65 miles(to+fro) everyday.

I am planning to buy a compact car, maybe used car or a new one.
As snow is going to be here very soon, have to think of a car which will not take me and itself to body shop every now and then.

My budget is minimum, aorund $8000-$9000

I sincerely need tips to buy a car which is going to be a good deal.

Meanwhile, I was browsing thru internet and found out that thers a Chevy "Aveo" which is available a little above $9000 for a brand new one.

Do you have any tips if I could maybe go for a brand new car with a little bucks more.

My need for a car is mainly for travelling to work and back home.I don't intend to go for long drives or mountain drives using the vehicle.
Also, I am not interested in lot of additional features like power windows or power locks.
But maybe I will want the ABS system.Also,I will be the only person using the car.

Looking forward for your valued tips.

Thanks,
Sushma.

Answer
Hi Sushma.  As you probably know the price of the car is not the only expense.  You have to think about gas mileage, frequency of repairs, dependability, warranty, insurance, taxes, tags and much more.  There are several small cars on the market for under 9,000 that get good to great mileage.  However they are very small and do not have great visibility.  Being in Detroit(where I lived for several years) it is mentally difficult to buy a car not produced there but you should not let that be too much of a factor, unless you work for GM or Ford.  Edmunds.com is an excellent site for the beginning work on selection.  They will tell you price, warranty and any rebates or special programs currently available.  They will also have a section on road tests which you can read.  Let me know if you come across any specific questions which I can help you with.  Best of Luck, Bud