Buying A Used Car

Shopping for and finding the right used car is more challenging than you might think. It is best to know before you start shopping how much you can afford. Since most people finance their cars be sure to come up with a payment you know you can afford. And don’t forget to consider the cost of insurance. That nice shiny sports car may look nice but its insurance premiums are bound to be hefty.

Should you pick an older car that’s loaded with options, or a newer car that has lower mileage but fewer features for a similar price? It’s important that you look at the places you go, how many people you need to carry, why you’re driving, and your driving style. Then, match those criteria with your budget. 

Here is a list of some of the older top used cars to consider.

1. Toyota Camry 2002-2006

As of July 2010, 90% of all Toyota Camrys sold since 1995 were still on the road. This remarkable statistic shows the car’s durability and reliability. 

Camrys are the gold standard of reliability. Though they aren’t the most stylish cars, they’re practical, fuel-efficient and have a proven track record for standing the test of time.

2. Toyota Sienna 2004- 2010 

The Sienna is great if you’re starting a family and want a safe, reliable car on a budget. Some models even have all-wheel drive for better handling. There aren’t going to be hundreds of options here, but you’ll  still have some choices if you stick to this model year range.

3. Ford Escape 2001-2007

Ford debuted the Escape in 2000 for the 2001 model year. As the manufacturer’s first SUV, lots of Escapes were sold immediately. This means that it’s even easier to snag one now, and for $5,000 or less.

Like all Ford models, parts are standard, easy to come by, and inexpensive. The cargo area is large and you get your money’s worth with an SUV at this price point. 

4. Ford Focus, 2008 to 2011

The Ford Focus is a popular choice when you’re looking for an inexpensive used car because it’s priced at an affordable price point new. This means you can get a more recent model for less. 

Because it’s popular, and the mechanics aren’t overly complicated, it’s easy to fix if something breaks. There are a lot of Ford Focuses for sale, too. This means you’ll get more choice and options on different cars. 

Stay away from 2014 Focus, Ford changed the transmission and it has had a lot of problems.

5. Honda Civic, 2006 to 2010

Honda sells hundreds of thousands of Civics in the US every year. This means that there are thousands of Civics across the country for under $5,000, too.

The best part about Civics is that there is a range of models, all of which are affordable. You’ve got the coupe, sedan, and even a hybrid to pick from. There are always a lot of Civics for sale, and in this model year range, you should be able to find one pretty easily.