Used car idea

[tradosaurus]

After I part out my 2001 Honda Accord I'm going to be in the market for a used vehicle.

I will be able to spend $3,000 so I am going to be diligent in my search since time is not an issue.

The must have characteristics of the car I buy will be:
1) Manual transmission
2) 4 cylinder
3) 150,000 miles maximum
4) Timing belt must have been changed
5) Notes or receipts of claimed repairs or maintenance.
6) 1st of 2nd owner car.

I've narrowed down my car list in order of preference:
Honda Civic
Mazda Protege
Saturn LS1 or LS2
Nissan Altima
Hyundai Elantra
Ford Focus ZX3

Any other input?

[move]

compression tester

[bowtieguy]

i see lots of civics on craigslist these days below your price range. i'd like to have working a/c tho.

i wouldn't worry about receipts, but if they're available...good. start the car cold and check for exhaust smoke, and then fluid leaks after fully warm.

i believe the altima and focus might not yield in FE what your other choices would.

[Jay2TheRescue]

My dad had a devil of a time buying a MT Focus new, good luck finding one used. As far as Foci go, the 2nd generation models are better cars. My dad has a 2nd gen, my sister has a 1st gen. My sister's just does not drive as well as dad's (and both are dealer maintained in excellent condition) Dad's is better looking, more comfortable, quieter, etc. Its a nice little car. If a Focus in your price range comes up with the SYNC system on it, get it. You won't be sorry. Its a nice package.

[silversol]

tall order for only 3k

[tradosaurus]

Originally Posted by silversol

tall order for only 3k

Yeah, but that is why I'm giving my self until next summer.

The craigslist listings in Dallas Ft. Worth area have quite a few of the vehicles I mentioned above for $3000 or less.

It's just being patient in finding the hidden gem.

[bowtieguy]

lots around here...
http://orlando.craigslist.org/cto/2707784615.html
http://orlando.craigslist.org/cto/2707479883.html
http://orlando.craigslist.org/cto/2707017448.html
http://orlando.craigslist.org/cto/2701451934.html

[Kendaddy126]

Don't be afraid of a honda in need of a little work. Most parts are cheap and a novice mechanic can work on it. I got my Civic VX for 1300. I've see these things for as much as 4500! Now, I had to replace the radiator, the master cylinder, and there is a good dent in the rear quarter. i also had to replace the rear taillight. Sounds like a lot, but basically I spent $400 and a good days work. I also serviced everything in my budget... Spark plugs, wires, fuel filter, intake cleaning, oil change, air filter etc... I inspected the t-belt, and it looked new. Who knows, I plan on changing it in about 40k just to make sure. I love the thing. it does need an o2 sensor though.. one on order. Good luck

[GasSavers_BEEF]

you know, I have had really good luck out of my cavalier. I will say that it may be that I got one of the good ones.

it is very similar to a saturn and though you don't see 40s, you will see mid to upper 30s in it.

around my area they run $2-3k.

[Jay2TheRescue]

My nephew has a Cavalier, its a nice little car that's easy to work on, and parts are cheap.