I'm expecting to get punched in the face here so that I can go about my business.
My 2001 Honda Accord has about 205k miles on it. I've done almost all the maintenance myself. It's been a great car and I would estimate that its only cost me about $2500 to maintain over the last 150,000 miles. However the issues it has are starting to pile up faster than I care to repair them and I want something different. I would like to get a hatchback or something big enough that I can put my bike inside of it without using a bike rack, so the Honda Fit and Matrix have been on my short list. I test drove a Fit, expecting to love it but I dont really care for it. I could drive one, I just dont love it. I drove a Matrix and like it. So a Matrix is a top contender. It seems I could get a great one under 10k that would last years.
I also drove a Honda Element and love it! The Elements seem pretty scarce, I've stumbled upon one that is real nice. Its a 2010 model EX - leather with 36,000 miles - Super new for 15k. Its in mint condition. The bluebook value is around 19-20k for private party sale. i I'm really tempted to buy this car, but I'm struggling with the feeling that however a good deal it may be, I'm buying more than I need. Punch me in the face or tell me to buy it.