I can't figure out what I should do...??

Question

Alright, I was in an accident a while back which totaled my car. I got money from the insurance company, and I've been borrowing my dad's vehicle until I find something. I need to hurry up and find a car, but it's been really hard for me because I can't make up my mind what I want. I'm at the point now where I just need to decide on a good, decent car and go with it because I've had his vehicle for a while.

I have actually found two totally different vehicles (one's a Toyota, and one's a Honda= both are used andgood cars) in which I feel either way I go should be an ok decision. The problem is, one is significantly more expensive than the other because it's newer and it has a lot less miles.

My question is, should I chance the less expensive vehicle which would allow me to save more money but I would chance the quality and dependability of the vehicle, or should I go with the more expensive (but PROBABLY more dependable) vehicle, still being able to save some (a little)money?

Answer 1

Don't shy away from a car just because it has a few extra miles. Have a mechanic go over both cars if you can. They should be able to spot any major problems or be able to tell you what maintenance will be required soon.

You might also want to check out Consumer Reports reliability ratings for the year and model of those cars... while I'm not a huge fan of CR, they do a decent job of pointing out which models tend to have persistent problems. Your local library should have their annual that lists this.

Both Hondas and Toyotas are generally good and dependable cars, but any car can have a problem that wasn't caught. Age increases the likelihood of these problems, but sometimes cars come off the assembly line with problems that never go away. Regardless, you should be able to take either car to 200,000+ miles with regular maintenance if it doesn't have any defects or hidden damage.

Be aware, though, that there are no guarantees, even with a warranty and a low mileage car. I personally bought a Honda Accord several years ago that was Honda Certified, only had about 14K on it, and looked great. The CarFax checked out as clean. Only later did I find that it had been in an accident, that the frame had been bent, and the bumper repainted... of course later on both airbags went off when I hit a bump, smacking my hand up to break the windshield, and the seat belts locked up. Total bill for repair was $3,000+ and neither the dealer nor Honda felt this was their problem despite my having bought the extended warranty. The car still runs great, but I'm VERY skeptical of any "Certified" used car programs. I also found out that CarFax doesn't have to list an accident unless damages amount to 25% of the total value...

Answer 2

How much mileage difference and what year and model cars are they? Different models have different maintenance cost entirely. Going blind on this I would consider what you intend to do with the money you save. Buying the more expensive car will give you more equity which would be important if you trade or sell it. If you have something else you could use the money for that is sensible then I would consider the less expensive car and if you a purchasing it from a dealer you could check into an extended warranty, but be careful on that. Far too many dealers hammer their customers on the warranties to the point where the customer has to blow the motor to get the value they paid for the warranty. Also check out what deductibles the warranty requires you to pay. Good luck and have a great year.

Answer 3

Depends of the amount of miles, if there is only a 30,000 to 50,000 difference, go cheap. Greater than that, you may have some small problems in the future. (Parts do break down after a time)

Since you are in an immediate need of a car, I would go cheap and save some cash for a new one at a later date.

Answer 4

You will get some kind of warranty on a good used car and you can purchase more time. Buy additional 3 yrs. bumper to bumper coverage for the cheaper one and you will not have to worry about major repairs for that time (or 36,000 miles more) AND you have the option to purchase additional years when that time is nearing. They will contact you about this when it's almost time for your warranty to expire. The 3 yrs is cheaper than the other car. Should be able to get additional coverage for around 500 or so for 3 yrs. There are several companies your dealer can give you prices for and explain what EXACTLY is covered.

Answer 5

Ya, it depends on the miles and year.

Typically, I'd say go with the Honda. I've had a couple of Toyotas and have not been impressed by their reliability. In my opinion, Toyota earned it's reliability rep in the 80's and early 90's.
Honda seems to be on top of their game. I know a few people with them and no complaints.

Answer 6

Totally depends on what kind of Honda and Toyota these are. Which is the more expensive one?

If the Toyota is more expensive, bu it because the real sale value is slightly better then Honda, and usually more dependable.

If the Honda is more expensive....well...buy the toyota.....just 'cause i like old yota's.......It really depends on the year make and model of each.

Go with your gut, they both make good cars that last and have good resale. Similar enough.

Answer 7

actually the question should be which one do you feel safer in and which one will last longer. another question you might want to answer is which one looks best on you? the newer car might still have part of the warranty on it, my advise to you is to take both cars to a trusted mechanic and have him look at them mechanically then take the information that you have and make your decision. good luck.

Answer 8

Go for the one that has a timing chain. A timing belt needs to be changed every 60,000 miles,and cost over $500 to do it.

Answer 9

Back in the old days, when Japanese cars were a rarity here in America, most American cars were shot after 100,000 miles.
Now a days, alomost all cars (American and Japanese) are good for more than double that. 200,000, even 300,000 miles on a modern car is quite possible today.

Answer 10

ask dad.