Looking for a good beater for high school grad

[chronical]

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

[Denny]

I would stick to a Honda or Toyota in that price range that has been well cared for. Sounds like they'll need a dependable car.

[BradM]

I agree with Dennis. I picked up an 01 v6 accord with 130k on it for $3500. It's been dead nuts reliable but the ac isn't doing the best.

[Nash B.]

Prizms/Corollas are solid and cheap.

[slow99]

Hope someone here has something, but I agree with the above - Honda or Toyota.

[BradM]

Prizms/Corollas are solid and cheap.

I haven't seen a geo anything in the past 5 years.

[Denny]

I haven't seen a geo anything in the past 5 years.

Not to digress too much, but I saw a Beretta on the road yesterday, moving under its own power.

[Nash B.]

I haven't seen a geo anything in the past 5 years.

The Geo models became Chevrolets in '98.

[HarrisonTX]

Is this the battered woman thread?

[BP]

$3k is a pretty good budget. Definitely look for the Toyotas and Hondas already mentioned but keep in mind that every other person in their situation is looking for the same cars so their prices are inflated.

Older Scion Xbs are available in that price range as are CRVs and high mileage Rav 4s. You get a lot more car for your money with the small SUVs. You also aren't too far from buying a Prius. People are scared of 10 year old traction batteries so the 05-06 ones are relatively cheap. Sure you might have to spend $1500 on it in a few years but the rest of the drivetrain will last 500k miles.

[Baron Von Crowder]

miata, obviously.

[BP]

miata, obviously.

Of course. Happen to know of any that might be available?

[Baron Von Crowder]

Of course. Happen to know of any that might be available?

one or two.

[BLAKE]

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.

[1carcrazyguy]

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.

Just watch out for the exploding sunroofs.