Hello fellow Mustachians! I could use some help figuring out a good used car to replace my beloved (now likely totaled) civic.
Today was not a great day. My car was rear-ended by a hot-shot sports car, who apparently didn't think much of me stopping to let a pedestrian use the clearly marked crosswalk. A sickening crunch and three hours later, I brought my beloved 2007 honda civic home, worse for wear. I've had this car since college, it is paid off, runs wonderfully, is relatively safe, and gets gas mileage.
For most of the last three years, I didn't use my car much, since I walk to work and my friends all live easy walking/biking distance. But as if the accident was divinely designed to mock me, I closed on my first home last week and my parents moved an hour south of me a few months ago. While I anticipate riding my bike or taking public transit to work most days from my house, I work late nights leaving work anywhere from 8pm-11pm at night and I visit my parents frequently (no public transit out that way). I could always justify keeping my car because (1) it was paid off and (2) my carrying costs were less than $75 a month (insurance, gas, and maintenance). I had planned to keep using her for least three more years or until she finally gave out.
Now my poor car is likely totaled. My car is likely not worth more than $3.5k (KBB puts trade in value anywhere from $2k-$3.4k and buying it from private party at $4.5-5.5k). The damage is likely more than 75% of the value: (1) Cosmetic damage; (2) the air bag appears compromised, i.e. its bugling weirdly; and (3) the car makes weird sounds when the clutch is disengaged.
If my car can be fixed, I'd rather just keep it, but from my research that may not be wise from both a safety standpoint and a financial stand point. Anyone have ideas on best used cars? Where to find them? What to look for? I wasn't prepared to even start this search for another three years. I don't want spend much more than $10k (less would be better since I just bought a house). In true Mustachian form, I will NOT FINANCE A CAR. Honestly, I just want the insurance company to give me exact car back. I would buy my exact car used, but I worry about finding a good one, considering age and mileage. How do I know they've kept it in good condition? I know that some on the forum have discussed great deals on used nissan leafs, but I worry about the range of the car for longer trips (maybe I should let that go).
Any help would helpful. Thanks to anyone who read all of this. I'm just a little emotional and bummed out.