The Right Car for Me: Safe, inexpensive, Reliable daily-driver

Safe, inexpensive, Reliable daily-driver

Hi,

I'm in the market for my first car. I love cars, particularly sports cars. I'm a huge Z fan and I love Teslas. But sadly, they don't fit my budget.

So, I'm looking for a used car that is reliable enough to be used as a daily driver, a smooth rider, fun to drive and has a decent resale value. I don't worry about the mileage much but I don't want to get a car that spends most of its time in a repair shop.

Following are my minimum requirements:

Max price - $5000
Max mileage - 150,000
oldest year - 2000
no major accidents

I have looked at websites like autotrader, cargurus, carfax, cars.com etc. with the same filters as mentioned above. I created a list of cars that are on sale near me<Link to my car search table>. I read on consumerreports.org that there are a few car models that must be avoided and they are mentioned in the list as well.

My preference would be a car that is in the budget, but I would like it to be as new and feature packed as possible. Looks DO matter to me but they are not the only factor in my hunt. I want to stay away from any car that requires frequent repairs.

Please suggest me cars that fit the criteria. Also, if someone in the RTP area in NC is looking to sell a car, please feel free to contact me.

Thanks!

Priorities: Reliability & durability / Handling / Exterior styling

Will consider both new and used cars
Maximum mileage: 150000
Maximum age: 15 years

Maximum price: US $ 5000

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I would eliminate all German cars and Jaguars from the list because of frequent repairs and cost. The Ford Fiestas and Focuses have many problems, but are more European in their handling.

That Lexus IS350 caught my eye. Low price and mileage, but if you could find more (good) info you have a great deal.

The Mazdas give you great handling and reliability on a budget. I like the older 3's more than the older 6's.

Beware the 2004-2006 Nissan Maximas have widespread transmission failures.

Don't get the Jeep Compass or any Chryslers/Dodges/Jeeps etc. Terrible cars.

The 2006 Civic had a problem with the engine block exploding, but later years were fine.

I know the Camry is uncool, but it's smart to play it safe and it's comfortable.

The 2009 Chevy Malibu could be a good buy because it's newer and reliable. Main problem is failing power door locks.

2009 Fusion possibly. Reliable and newer midsize. Make sure the dashboard is not deteriorating.

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Safe, inexpensive, Reliable daily-driver

Response from LectroFuel

8:42 pm September 29, 2017