QuestionI have been looking at many different used cars lately. I only have $2000 to spend on a used car. I know that's not very much but I just need it for a year or so. I also know I will need to put some more money and work into it after purchase.
My problem is which car would be the most reliable for that amount of money. I've only been able to find cars past 150k miles. I've been looking at old Volvo, BMW, and Toyota. I have heard mixed reviews about Volvo and BMW. Mainly that any repairs done or parts replaced will cost more than the car itself!
People have also told me stories of dealers using chemicals in the engine so it runs well for a month then breaks down. Do they really do that?
I am really not a car person! Please help!
Sincerely,
Car confused Heather
AnswerWell you are in a difficult situation. Pretty much any car you find for $2000 or less is a gamble. If it were me I would stay away from the expensive imports ie: BMW, Volvo, Acura's and such. A High mileage Honda or Toyota would probably give you the best bang for the buck, even if they are in that 200k mile area. If they have been taken care of, they still have a lot of life left. In the event you can not find a honda or toyota, just find the vehicle that is in the best condition you can find. If you have the ability to run a carfax report, that would be a big help, and I highly recommend you find a mechanic willing to check the vehicle over for you before you make the purchase. When you get cars narrowed down to a few, you might email me and let me know what they are,and I will tell you my opinion of the car, as for what it is. I personally would stay away from Dodge Neons, Dodge Stratus', Mitsubishis, and most plymouth cars in that price range. Like I said, when you find some that you think you have interest in, let me know details about them and I will tell you what I think. Good luck, you have a tough road ahead, and I will help all I can from a distance.
Jay
