Looking for a good beater for high school grad

[BP]

I'm no mechanic, but I've heard that well maintained hyundais/kias made in the last dozen or so years are very reliable. The challenge is finding one that's been well maintained.

Avoid the 04-05 Kia 1.6 and yes they are cheap and reliable. The rest of the build quality leaves a little to be desired though.

[IHaveAMustang]

http://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/cto/5127007998.html

I had a 2005 for 6 or so years and other than maintenance and replacing the gas cap every 2 years ( no clue why they go bad) it was solid. I sold it to a girl in Abilene for $5k with 158,000 miles on it. They use Camry Engines w/timing chains.

$900 to fix up whatever is wrong with this one.

[JC316]

I'm no mechanic, but I've heard that well maintained hyundais/kias made in the last dozen or so years are very reliable. The challenge is finding one that's been well maintained.

They are and maintenance doesn't seem to matter. Got my sisters 07 Spectra5 with 250 on the clock. Everything was original on it, right down to the belts. Finally gave up the rods. Slapped a used engine in for $500 and it's still going. 270K on the original drive accessories and transmission.

My aunt is buying her youngest her first car. She just graduated and will need a car for college/ work. Unfortunately, my uncle committed suicide a few years ago so it's only my aunt out there searching. I've been looking at some of the cars she has found and helping ensure she doesn't make a bad decision. I know they are looking to spend $3000. I was thinking an early 2000 or late 90's Civic or possible a fusion. Is there another make I should consider? Has anyone seen or know of a car for sale that is dependable? Thanks

I have two potential cars right now. An 04 ford Focus ZX3 5 speed, has 170K on it and it looks like brand new. We are asking $2800 out the door on it.

Second is a 98 Civic 5 speed 181K. It's fugly, serious hail damage on it. Interior is really nice. I don't have the a/c fixed on it yet, but I will soon. It will be in the sub 2K range.

[stang2be]

You might take a look on facebook. A few groups for cars 3k or less, 2k for less etc. Some junk some deals on there.

So glad I got lucky with my teens first car (2000 Civic Sedan with 103k and just needed tune up and timing belt) from a friend in the family for $2000 before they moved out of the country

[TX_Snake]

One of the techs at my shop has a Toyota Camry for sale in that price range. He is a master Toyota tech, so the car is maintained well. I can get you more info/pictures if you are interested.

[chronical]

One of the techs at my shop has a Toyota Camry for sale in that price range. He is a master Toyota tech, so the car is maintained well. I can get you more info/pictures if you are interested.

Please

[kennybo]

I heard Rihanna is a good beater.

[Rafa]

Any opinions on a 05' mazda6 2.3l?

[TX_Snake]

Here is his CL ad.

http://dallas.craigslist.org/ndf/cto/5121407036.html

[slowturbocar]

Can't go wrong with a Honda, super reliable if you do just regular maintenance.

[chronical]

I appreciate everyone's help. We were able to find her a good deal on a 2002 Honda Civic. Thanks again