Is there a specific make or model I should get?

Question

My husband and I are looking for a second car and since it would be "my car" we're looking for a used one. Is there anything specail we should keep an eye out for? We're mainly going for a sedan but an suv isn't out of the question either...

Answer 1

Gas prices are not going down. Avoid SUVs unless you drive very few miles. (a friend has an Expedition, but he drives 4 miles a day, so no biggie.)

I think most post-2000 cars are very reliable. I'm very impressed with American cars, though many people will never forgive them for the 1970's and 1980's. I'm also impressed with the Koreans.

Lots of people think Hondas and Toyotas are much more reliable, so their resale value is much higher. Sounds like a good reason to avoid them... of course they give peace of mind, if you get a Honda and Toyota and it does break down, it won't feel like your fault :)

Consumer Reports magazine has very good info about 3-5 year reliability of various car makes and models.

Beware European cars, their repair costs can be extreme.

Answer 2

You should keep an eye out for high-end Japanese cars such as Lexus, wih not too high mileage. Lexus cars are luxury, they have both sedans and SUV's. Look out for the Lexus Es 330 or the Lexus Es 350. They were also rated the best in endurance. They can keep going for 200,000 miles without as many problems as another car such as a Ford, or GM car.

Answer 3

If your looking to buy new, then the Toyota Corolla is a great option, I own three of them, and they all constitantly get 35-40MPG on the highway, and slightly less in the city, they are problem free, (absolutely no maintance costs besides the usaul, oil and tires). They are clean running, and are comfortable even for tall people. (I'm 6'2")

Answer 4

You have to decide what it is that you want. I have an '03 Chevy Cavalier and it is a good, dependable car.