Im having trouble finding a used car. Can you help?

Question

I'm looking to spend around $10,000 on a car. Im open to anything right now but i'm kind of leaning towards something fuel efficient due to the rise in gas prices. I really like the Subaru Impreza, Mitsubishi Lancer, Jeep Libery, Jeep Commander, Chevy Malibu, and just about anything that looks good. I want a reliable car and something that looks nice. For some reason I do not like the way Honda cars look although they are really good. But yes im 6'4'' and I need a car. If you have any opinions I'd grealy appreciate them. Thanks alot!

Answer 1

Here's some rules you should consider when buying a used car

(1) don't get sold on the paint job = meaning cars having good exterior, fancy CD radio, etc.

(2) look for car with sound ENGINE + TRANNY + SUSPENSION.

(3) test every button, k**b, switch, slider, etc.. Ex: even in the summer test out the heater & even in the winter test out the AC (if you can).  Slide the AC/heater to fan1, fan2, fan3, etc.  then slid the vent to defrost, front, bottom, etc.  Test the high beam, low beam, etc.  Test (flip) the visor.  Test the alarm.  Test all 4 doors.  Test the rear defogger.

TEST EVERYTHING.

(4) BEFORE the first start, open the engine bay and see if the engine is already warmed up.  Many engines starts well when already warmed up, but may have problems when cold (or cold start).

(5) test drive with the sound system off and window down. Listen for weird sound coming from the wheels & suspension.

(6) Look inside the engine bay to see if you can see see leaks, etc.  It is normal to see some oil and grease.  But too much means that the car is leaking oil somewhere.

(7) check the engine oil dip stick. If the oil is BRAND NEW CLEAN, the seller MIGHT be hiding something.  If the oil is jet black and /or smells like gasoline (or burnt), you might have engine problem).

(8) once you are satisfied with the above - you can NOW take it to the mechanic for the engine + tranny + suspension inspection.  He won't find everything, but he will find the obvious.

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MSNBC had a news story on where is the best places to buy used cars. The used car dealers were on the BOTTOM of the list. They are pros at negotiations (and you and I are rank amateurs), they are pros at hiding problems on their cars, etc.

The private sales (newspaper, etc.) were the best places. The seller will not tell you all the problems, but they don't know how to hide them.

And a private seller are at MOST they are equal in negotiation skills to you and me.

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My 94 Civic can get 41 MPG (and I was doing 72 for the mileage test). The engine + tranny + suspension runs like new. It ain't no beauty but it is rock solid. If I had to sell it, I would not get more than few thousand dollars. This is the KIND of car you want to look for. OK not the the CIVIC but the kind (old but mechanically sturdy)

Just take your time, as good old used cars are cheap but hard to come by.

good Luck...

Answer 2

Dude, use www.autotrader.com and check out the 1997 Mazda RX-7, or the Nissan 240SX (1997and up)

Answer 3

I guess you should also compare insurance quotes for these cars before buying one, for example here: http://autoinsurance.noneto.com

Some of your choises are expensive to insure.