Need advice, shopping for a new/used family car

[4x4mike]

Mike does have a valid point here.

I just wanted to quote this because it's been a long time since I've heard this.

Have you looked into used Nissan Altima's?
http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/cto/3783281930.html

My Dad has an '05 or '06 Altima and it's been a great car for him. I never noticed them before he got his and now I see them everywhere. He had had a company car for 25 years and bought this when he changed jobs. He wanted simple and reliable. I'd say that 95% of the ones I see are the 4 cylinder 2.5 liter and he can get 35 mpg with his without even trying. He does a lot of freeway driving down the valley and it's a comfortable car with a lot of space (interior and trunk).

[YotaFun]

I personally would avoid the 07+ Camry, just don't feel as solid, if you do, get and SE with the V6, but the mileage isn't that great then...

[Seanz0rz]

http://www.businessinsider.com/figur...f-a-car-2013-5

alot of common sense in that article, but it may help.

Friend had a 05 2.5L Altima and had massive transmission failure at about 95k. Alexus had a 04 3.5L Maxima and the trans was completely cooked by 140k. It seems like it was driven really hard, but either way, it was a failure. That 3.5L motor was FAST though!


Honda Element. Those are SO cool!

[Good Times]

o mean I totally forgot the Honda Element!!!

1st Gen: 2003-2008 $5-15k (19-24mpg)
2nd Gen: 2009-2010 $13-20k

Note that it does come in 2WD/AWD options.

Here's one near me:
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac...802739533.html

[slosurfer]

Just found out that April would be fine with a manual. Does that open me up to some used subarus now?

[DHC6twinotter]

If your willing to go used...

[Seanz0rz]

Yeah, a 5spd subie wagon would be awesome!

manual transmissions will be cheaper, more reliable (especially in used vehicles) and easier/cheaper to maintain.

[DHC6twinotter]

Also, if you end up looking at the Toyota Matrix, I would also look at the Pontiac Vibe. They are the same vehicle, but you may be able to pick up a Vibe cheaper.

The Lexus IS300 would also be a good used car, if you can find a low mileage one. Their fuel efficiency isn't as good as a newer car, but IMHO, they are one of the best vehicles ever built.

[YotaFun]

Keep a look out on the subies though.
Try to find a lower mileage one, a few guys at work have been picking up subies with higher mileage but with head gasket issues.
Since your already going through that issue on the 4Runner it might be something you want to avoid...

[slosurfer]

Dan, is that the one from Breaking Bad?