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Learning, Sharing, and Teaching => Case Studies => Topic started by: pistolpete123 on September 24, 2017, 07:10:29 PM

Title: What car to buy?
Post by: pistolpete123 on September 24, 2017, 07:10:29 PM
Hi,

First time posting, but I do want to callout that I have read all of MMM's advice on car buying (e.g. honda fit, used, pay cash, etc.).

However, I would appreciate some specific advice on my situation in order to make a car purchasing decision. I intend to pay cash and would like a used car. I expect we will be having a new baby in the next 2-3 years, so I do highly value safety and potentially a bigger car (yes, read MMM's perspective on car size and risk of death). As a result, I care about the following (in priority): safety, reliability, mpg.

So - what car should I buy (car, year range, mile range)? My budget is somewhat flexible but really just care about safety, reliability and mpg -and want the cheapest car that can accomplish those 3 things.

Thoughts?
Title: Re: What car to buy?
Post by: YoungGranny on September 25, 2017, 07:52:34 AM
I think it might help to get a price range to give you more tailored advice. We have a 2007 Honda Civic which is super reliable, great mpgs, and has good safety ratings. IMHO, cars have come a pretty long way in this day and age so most 4-door sedans have good safety ratings and most brands have gotten more reliable (but of course the random lemon will always exist).

Good luck with the car buying process!
Title: Re: What car to buy?
Post by: CrispKale on September 26, 2017, 03:31:19 PM
I agree with YoungGranny the request is too broad at this point. Write down a list of cars (years and models) based on your basic criteria, research the safety info of your list at someplace like https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings (https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings), cut your list again based on safety. Then with cut down list research on various used auto sites the average price range in your area, cross reference the priced cars with https://www.edmunds.com/ (https://www.edmunds.com/) where you can read the consumer reviews. Cut the list again based on price and user reviews. You should then have a dealer/broker list to start negotiation.
Title: Re: What car to buy?
Post by: hoping2retire35 on September 27, 2017, 02:50:11 PM
Any sedan on his list is fine. Even if you plan to have 3+ kids that will still be years away before you need to upgrade to the minivan. So just get a honda fit or whichever one you like and be done with it. don't stress about it.