Predicament: shopping for a used car [Update: bought the 2007 Mazda 3 s]

[destrekor]

Tired thread concept, I know.

I find myself in need of a new vehicle... most likely; once the police release it from evidence, and the report is finished, I might find they have placed blame on someone, though they suspect it will be a no-fault accident as they have suggested as such from the beginning. Time will tell.

With that said, I have to check out the market regardless, but I can't really afford much. I'll have to get a loan for, well, basically anything, so I'm trying to keep under $6000-7000.

Of respectable vehicles, I've seen some (I think most are MY2007) Ford Fusions that I wish to check out, as well as some Pontiac G6 models. I've only had a chance so far to test-drive a 2005 Pontiac G6 with mileage under 90k.

Based on some other threads, I'm looking to what options I have for Camrys, Corollas, and Accords in my local area.
For those vehicles, what are honest values for mileage? I shudder when I see over 150k miles. In reality, I shudder with the thought of buying anything over 125k miles. Help diffuse my fears of those miles if it may be critical to choosing the best value car with the best chances of minimizing maintenance.
I don't expect to want to own any of these vehicles for more than 10 years - I have my eyes on Subaru WRX's for far too long, I just cannot afford them yet.

AWD would be wonderful, but the selection of affordable AWD sedans in the area is slim. I don't really want to go with any SUVs or Crossovers because I really want to maintain good fuel economy while still having some pep and maneuverability; with a heavier body and weaker engine just to match the economy, I'd be bored to death.
I saw a Nissan Xterra, but don't really want that fuel economy at this point in my life. If/when I can afford to minimize that concern later in life, as I so surely hope, we'll cross that bridge then.


Update: I had already posted it in this thread, but I figured I should update the OP. I ended up buying the 2007 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring.

 

[kitatech]

2005-2006 Camry LE with 80-100k miles would be in your wheelhouse....been running my 05 for 2 years/28k miles now with repairs (other than std maintenance) only to vertical stabilizer links ($100) and a motor mount (called "dogbone") for $75....the maintenance included changing all fluids and plugs (and valve cover gasket) for total $200....next up are new front pads, $100.

Other costs, optional at best, was sound deadening to one door, and paint to roof....total $400....oh...and upgraded wheels, from 15" steel to 17" alloys, cost of rims and tires after selling the 15s....$450

 

[destrekor]

Yeah, I haven't seen any Camry, Corolla, or Accord with 100k or less on it. I think most have been above 150k - at least, in the affordable range that is. Plenty with such mileage over $10k.

 

[T2urtle]

i skimmed thru... i picked up $6-7k budget, want a WRX later. Own less then 10 years. AWD sedan. But not far of x-over.

First thing comes to mind is Non-turbo 2005+ Legacy. AWD sedan.

My G35x fits your bill, minus MPG. But its going to be 150k. I've seen some on ebay and thought about getting another one.

My father is shopping an camry/accord and i feel your pain, the miles and price are all OVER the board.

 

[destrekor]

i skimmed thru... i picked up $6-7k budget, want a WRX later. Own less then 10 years. AWD sedan. But not far of x-over.

First thing comes to mind is Non-turbo 2005+ Legacy. AWD sedan.

My G35x fits your bill, minus MPG. But its going to be 150k. I've seen some on ebay and thought about getting another one.

My father is shopping an camry/accord and i feel your pain, the miles and price are all OVER the board.

My first thought was a Legacy. Nope, none around that fit that bill. Almost all are closer to $10k or over, except for a 2003 that is between 50-100 miles away based on my search.

The Toledo market absolutely sucks for good used cards, apparently. That, and everybody loves their Subarus so they don't sell or trade in that often.

 

[Raizinman]

Whatever car fits your budget and environment make sure to:

1) Have it checked over by YOUR mechanic
2) Do a CarFAX

 

[destrekor]

Whatever car fits your budget and environment make sure to:

1) Have it checked over by YOUR mechanic
2) Do a CarFAX

Yeah, that's part of the overall plan. Unfortunately, a mechanic may say it all checks out, and then a couple of years later the transmission, water pump, radiator, and other bits and pieces start to fail.
True story, that happened to my Dakota. So much money got sunk into that damned thing.

 

[T2urtle]

Yeah, that's part of the overall plan. Unfortunately, a mechanic may say it all checks out, and then a couple of years later the transmission, water pump, radiator, and other bits and pieces start to fail.
True story, that happened to my Dakota. So much money got sunk into that damned thing.

Mechanics can attest to a car's current health and possible future issues. They can not see the future.

As with a person's health, one minute they are fine and the next minute they have cold or ebola.

But always get it checked out.

 

[destrekor]

Mechanics can attest to a car's current health and possible future issues. They can not see the future.

As with a person's health, one minute they are fine and the next minute they have cold or ebola.

But always get it checked out.

Yeah, I get that. That's why I am trying to start off on the right foot by having a car that not only has a clean bill of health at the moment, but is commonly accepted to be one that lasts.

Carcomplaints.com is starting to steer me away from the Pontiac G6. I had my eye on a 2005 GT model that seemed to be in good shape with less than 90k miles, and good options like heated leather but that seems to be a year to avoid. I do have a 2007 G6 on my list, and that seems to be better rated than the 2005-2006MYs, but still not ideal. The Fusion for those model years has a good rep.

I have found two 2009 Ford Focus models, one an SE, one an SES, with Sync (! if I don't have to add aftermarket audio to get bluetooth audio and phone connections, I would be quite pleased. It shouldn't be a major decision point, however), both under 90k (one at 75k)... but I don't know. I kind of like the idea of a mid-size sedan.

I have seen a few Mazda3 and Mazda6 models, but I don't know if I can get the good ones into the affordability range. Worth a shot, perhaps.

 

[Jumpem]

Just lease an economy car for under $150.

An AWD Impreza can be had for $159. See http://www.subaru.com/special-offers/index.html.

 

[Zivic]

do not get a G6...and preferably not anything with a GM badge in that price range.

I'd look for a toyota/honda

 

[ummduh]

do not get a G6...and preferably not anything with a GM badge in that price range.

I'd look for a toyota/honda

Lol, Yea, that.

 

[thedarkwolf]

Pontiac Vibe
Basically it is a toyota corrolla station wagon and it is available with AWD though AWD does a number on the fuel mileage. Toyota Matrix is the same thing but it carries a price premium for the toyota logo.

If you want to show how little of a crap you give there is also the Pontiac Aztec
People just give those things away now. They are beyond fugly but they are also very practicle and available with AWD. Not the greatest mileage but you can pick up a damn nice one for $3k or so so who cares lol.

 

[desy]

06/7 fusion awd
Pontiac Vibe awd
With your low budget Toyonda is unlikely as they command premium used but these two are usually depreciated deep and have good value

 

[destrekor]

Just so it's known, AWD isn't a requirement. I'd like it, because our winters can be crap, but I also cannot afford it in most cases at this time. If I was shopping new, it wouldn't be an issue.
(the lease idea of a base Impreza is not really a good option - a little more per month than I'd like right now, and I'd likely suffer overage fees for mileage)

I haven't really seen any AWDs in my price range, to be honest. I just looked at Pontiac Vibes, and all I'm seeing is the lowest tier Base models, and none with FWD from earlier years.

And to even find an AWD Fusion, I have to search out to around 50 miles away. And either price or high mileage creep back into the picture.
AWD selection around here is slim, sadly.

That said, I test drove a 2006 Fusion v6 today, and while that individual car I don't much like, I think it has potential. It was a little rattly. There's a 2009 Fusion about 30 min away with lower mileage, an SEL v6 with around 106k on it, that might be worth checking out. Steering and handling weren't super connected or sporty, but it wasn't dull either. Good roomy car, and good styling.

The other one I checked out was a 2007 Mazda3 s Grand Touring (2.3l I4), and man, I like that. I'm not sold on the smaller size, and I'd likely not settle for the Aux Input and instead require an aftermarket deck, but the Bose speaker package sounded great for a factory audio solution (don't shoot me, I love to have Bose too! ). It was a nimble little thing, and the trimmings of the Grand Touring package definitely help. Car was in great shape.

I still haven't decided if I want the smaller economy car, or if I feel I really need the step up in size and interior touches that make a Fusion SEL so attractive. It's got guts with the V6, but it's still missing the character, but I might not mind that. Then again, I might. :hmm:
Not sure if either of my top runners can actually be haggled down into the affordable range, but it sure would be nice to have either methinks. It just comes down to, which one do I actually first try to drive home that day with the best deal (or walk away).

 

[thedarkwolf]

One thing I forgot to say about the Pontiac Vibe is it soul sucking bore to drive lol. I picked up a 03 auto with 200k miles on it as beater a few years ago and while it was solid as a rock and super handy with the plastic rear storage area for my dogs/mtn bikes it was a borefest to drive and I couldn't take it for more than a year. Now maybe if it had been a 5 speed or better yet the GT version with the 180HP engine and a 6 speed I might have felt different.

 

[Scarpozzi]

If you can find a newer vehicle with high mileage, you're better off than getting a 10 year old vehicle. Basically, if the miles aren't spread long over time, the vehicle will likely be driven on longer trips (perceived as more highway miles) and you can make the assumption that rubber and plastic parts have less exposure to UV and seasonal temp swings that occur naturally.

I recommend downloading the carmax app on your phone and searching through their inventory to find possible models in your price range. Just know that their prices are typically a few grand over the low prices you can find at local dealers that get cars on trade. You just have to be firm with your max offer and they'll often come down to what they can. (in other words, don't pay much more than what you say is your max and don't forget doc fees and tag/title/taxes)

 

[destrekor]

If you can find a newer vehicle with high mileage, you're better off than getting a 10 year old vehicle. Basically, if the miles aren't spread long over time, the vehicle will likely be driven on longer trips (perceived as more highway miles) and you can make the assumption that rubber and plastic parts have less exposure to UV and seasonal temp swings that occur naturally.

I recommend downloading the carmax app on your phone and searching through their inventory to find possible models in your price range. Just know that their prices are typically a few grand over the low prices you can find at local dealers that get cars on trade. You just have to be firm with your max offer and they'll often come down to what they can. (in other words, don't pay much more than what you say is your max and don't forget doc fees and tag/title/taxes)

Nearest Carmax is over 2 hours away.

 

[Brinson]

Check hertzcarsales.com.

For Dallas (where I live, so just a random example) there are currently 17 cars under $10k. They are Versa/Cruze/Mazda2/Jetta/Spark/Sonic/Focus/Passet. All 2012/2013 years and all under 60k miles.

 

[destrekor]

I've got the 2007 Mazda 3 S Grand Touring at my mechanic getting a full inspection. Could have went with a lighter inspection but I want to cover all possible bases.

After that, we'll see what I can get the price down to. If it can go low enough and it checks out, it's the keeper. If not, I'm focusing on Fusions.

I haven't been able to find any of the other reliable cars in my price and/or ideal mileage range. I'm uncomfortable buying a used car with 150k, let alone over 100k. Close to 100k is expected, a little over or under. But some 120-130k ones are at the very bottom of my list.

 

[desy]

http://www.carcomplaints.com/Mazda/MAZDA3/

Looks like 07 was a pretty good year for the 3's and you'd be getting a car that would be a decent drive

 

[destrekor]

http://www.carcomplaints.com/Mazda/MAZDA3/

Looks like 07 was a pretty good year for the 3's and you'd be getting a car that would be a decent drive

That's the website I used to figure out the 3 is a viable option (among a bunch of other sources). That sight steered me away from the G6, and was very much in favor of 2007-2009 Fusions.

 

[destrekor]

Let's say I cannot get the Mazda3 for whatever reason:

there's a 2008 Fusion SEL v6 that I'm eyeing very strongly. The catch: it's over an hour away.
How I've approached the Mazda: test drive it, get all the details, take it to get inspected by selected mechanic, and then proceed to discuss possible price (which will be the day after, due to circumstances, a.k.a. tomorrow).

Can I really expect that to be an option when a vehicle is over an hour from my mechanic?

Is there something anyone else has done in this kind of circumstance? Just find some other mechanic in the region of the car? Try to get a recommendation from my mechanic? If there's a service record and recent maintenance from the dealer, take that as evidence enough in this specific situation?

 

[desy]

Triple A do inspections where you are at ?
They do around here pretty detailed ones

 

[destrekor]

Well I've no idea about AAA, however, it no longer matters.

I bought the 2007 Mazda3 S Grand Touring for about $7600 before tax, title, etc.

I couldn't get them to cut as much as I wanted. That said, the inspection turned up very little. Mechanically, everything checks out, though routine maintenance like spark plug replacement might need addressed in the near future (remember, the vehicle has almost 91,000 miles - I was viewing the maintenance schedules and some happens around 75k, 100k, etc). Other than that, the rear brakes were newly replaced by the dealer, but the front brakes are about 50% worn. The tires will need replaced in a moderate timeframe due to uneven wear, though the manifestation of annoyance is at a very very early stage. The more immediate concern, for annoyance purposes, is the 17" wheels are slightly misshapen, likely due to potholes.

I'm not sure which angle I want to tackle first: find the exact model of the Forte 17" wheels the last owner bought and replace the two front wheels, or hold off on that and buy either 15" or 16" wheels and throw winter shoes on for the season, while saving up for a either two (or four) replacement 17" wheels and a new set of all-seasons as we approach spring.

First will be an after-market audio solution: I need my bluetooth for music and hands-free phone. If I need to answer my phone, I don't even want to touch the damn thing. I'm investigating an Eonon head unit that, while the brand seems questionable to me, I am hearing Mazda3 owners who are quite happy, and the appropriate model integrates perfectly with the electronics of the car, including the trip computer/information display.

That's one thing about which I will have to be more mindful then ever before: potholes. Performance tires on 17" wheels for this model equal thinner cushioning = a wheels worst nightmare. Potholes and nice wheels don't often go hand in hand so well together.

I think I'm going to be very happy though. I had been researching accurate values for this car, and the original price (~$8999) was very much already a reasonable retail price. They had cut it from "list price" to roughly $8400 or $8500 before we started haggling. It wasn't much off from list, but the end price was better than all of KBB's measures for fair market value, except for private party. Considering they probably gave roughly $6500 to the last owner for trade-in, I figured this was about as far as we could get them down. I was afraid we couldn't even get that much off.