Tips on Buying Cars: Nervous lady requires advice on safest car to buy with cash, toyota rav 4, volkswagen rabbit

Question
Hi Danny,

I am so glad I found this site, I have spent the past few days having my mind boggled by all things auto on the internet. I have recently moved to L.A. from the UK and need to buy a car. I am a woman who has no clue when it comes to cars, and am swayed by appearance, fuel economy and safety.

I wanted to buy a new car, because I felt there would be less chance of problem or breakdown. I have a cash budget of around $20,000. Safety is of prime concern, small engine size/fuel efficiency is another consideration. I first wanted a Smart car (they are very popular back home, in fact small cars tend to dominate the road in the UK and I do prefer smaller vehicles) but it seems, after research they would just get crushed in an accident.

I then found that the Honda Fit has come top in its category for safety. However, again, it seems that if it was involved in an accident with an SUV your chances aren't very good.

I then looked at SUVs - it seems the Toyota Rav 4 is good on safety, however SUVs seem to be susceptible to rollover.

Another possibility is a Ford Focus or a Volkswagen Rabbit - both  good on safety.

So, to summarise, I wanted to get your advice on which of those (or another) car you would recommend for me.

I will be using it to drive around LA, visit family in Santa Barbara and probably a few times of year drive to as far as San Francisco or Vegas.

I also wondered whether it's best for me to buy a new car, considering I am keen to get a car with minimal risk of breakdown or mechanical problems. However I am aware that the first couple of years' depreciation is very steep. Therefore I would be open to buying a one or two year old car but as a lone female going to a car dealer would I just be sold a pup?

Many thanks in advance for your help!

Bee x


Answer
All your choice's were good ones. I think one of the safest and best deals out there is a Pre Owned Certified BMW. Read up on the safety. The Certified part gives you a warranty up to 100k miles and they take care of every detail (oil changes,wiper blades,all scheduled maint,etc...) the only thing you take or pay for are the tires. Look into it, start your search at autotrader.com and you should find what your looking for. If you need more help let me know.