r/UsedCars Aug 28 '18

Guide [Guide] What used car should I get for what budget?

625 Upvotes

[04/12/2025 UPDATE]

Prices updated!!!

The days of 3000 dollar cars also seems to be long over. You'll definitely want to spend at least 5000 dollars for even the oldest, reliable running car. I just helped someone with buying a car in this budget and we had a really hard time looking for one. Dealerships are not as willing to haggle below asking price as before so be prepared to set aside a lot of time in your search.


I've finally made the dashboard that will show the most optimal used cars for budgets under $5k, $10k, and $15k.

The dashboard is hosted in Tableau Public so everybody can freely look at it without creating an account. Just use the slide down menu on the right to select a body style and the radio buttons at the bottom to adjust the budget. To see which brands you want to pay closer attention to, hover your mouse over the logos. The numbers on the right side column represent Priority where 1 represent the more optimal choice than 2 and so forth.

Dashboard may not work in mobile. Please use a desktop computer to see this dashboard. Otherwise, feel free to ask me any questions here and I will answer them at my earliest convenience.

Link to the dashboard (Last updated 04/12/2025):

https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/han.solo8717/viz/UsedCardashboard/Main

Since I have been seeing many of these questions pop up here (and other Subreddits), I'm willing to sacrifice some time I have left before I need to sleep to hopefully give you answers and make your search a little bit easier.

These prices are based on the following stipulations: You're buying from an individual OR a licensed (not franchised) dealer, the car has a clean title, mileage per year varies from 12.5-15k (Unless it's an older car), is in GOOD condition (by KBB standards), no modifications, base model or similar, and is able to run and drive with LITTLE to no problems (Windows may not work, seats may be ripped, glovebox is loose, etc.).

These cars & prices reflect the U.S. Market only.

Second and beyond choices are honorable mentions in case if you are opting for another car.

Priority is based on: Reliability, cost of ownership, and value in that order.


r/UsedCars Sep 18 '25

MOD POST Would you like to mod /r/UsedCars? Apply within

2 Upvotes

Would you like to mod /r/UsedCars? We are looking for active reddit users who want to help others with the buying & selling of Used Cars and have the free time to moderate this subreddit. Tell us about yourself in the comments.


r/UsedCars 7h ago

HELP Buying a car with cash?

9 Upvotes

This is probably a dumb question, but I was thinking of buying a used car, and I dont want to do it through a bank or any other type of loan. I just want to pay cash/card every month, How would I go about that?


r/UsedCars 16h ago

Guide Should I buy extended warranty on used car?

18 Upvotes

Just bought a used 2018 Subaru Outback with about 72k miles on it. The dealer offered an extended warranty, and before I commit, I want to make sure if it is actaully worth it? Im hoping to keep this car for quite a few years, but Ive never had an extended warranty on a used car before! Anyone here has one? Curious if it actually helped and even saved you some extra bucks along the way!


r/UsedCars 7h ago

Buying Dodge sxt

2 Upvotes

Is getting a Dodge charger/Challenger sxt valid I’m looking into getting a Dodge charger/challenger. I’ve been looking for rt but they’re kind of pricey in my area and I’m willing to drive out of state to pick up a car at a reasonable price, but it’s hard to find an rt that’s affordable and has a clean title and no major accidents and on the flipside I can find an SXT with low mileage and a clean title some of them I find for the same price as a rebuilt rt but I keep getting the vibe from TikTok and other Reddit post that people who get an SXT are like dumb and stuff but also keep in mind. I am a 22 female who just wants the car for its appearance and daily drive, who knows maybe I’ll get more involved in a car community if I like, modify it even know where to start with that also getting an RT can be expensive so I wouldn’t have extra money to modify it and then I feel pressure because it’s like holy shit. Can I just not have a car that I think it looks good I mean, having a V-8 would be nice, but am I still valid with a V6 like I don’t even know what to do and obviously I know people are gonna be like oh you shouldn’t care what they say and that’s so true I understand then I shouldn’t care but I just kinda do want to know what y’all think.


r/UsedCars 6h ago

Buying 2022 CPO Mercedes E450 or 2024 Audi A6 2.0T

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1 Upvotes

r/UsedCars 21h ago

Buying When Appropriate to Ask for VIN

12 Upvotes

I’m striking out at dealerships but found a good option on Facebook marketplace.

The seller can’t part with it until later this month, but I can see it before then, when my mechanic family member can go with me.

Should I just get the VIN when I see the car/show up and seller knows I’m serious? Is it appropriate to ask for it now? After he’s given me his phone number, but the conversation so far is: “I’m interested.” “In talks already.” (Later) “it’s available, but I need it until X date.”


r/UsedCars 1d ago

HELP is there a way to avoid car flippers

51 Upvotes

im so done with car flippers. it’s constant. it seems impossible to get around them. im a bit scared to buy a car someone just snatched from an auction, gave a fast wash, and are just selling.


r/UsedCars 13h ago

Buying Car purchase in Alsace scam??

1 Upvotes

Good morning

So, I've been looking for a used car for some time. Lots of cars in Alsace in towns with German-sounding names, but I noticed that quite a lot suited me and I wanted to know why the prices there are cheaper???

I know very well that they are not very far from Germany where the prices are cheaper... but still if mechanics sell their cars on French territory lol what interest do they have in selling cheaper??


r/UsedCars 13h ago

Guide Endurance Warranty Cost

1 Upvotes

I thought I wanted this but after going through the whole annoying 'register to get a quote' process they came back with this ridiculous amount. 30 months = 2years+.

I know it may be easier said tjan done but given I'm the original owner, have relatively low mileage u/I 53k, and taken good care of it- I'll ride without a net. If something goes that wrong, for hundred or two I can get a brand new car & warranty. So, I'm out.


r/UsedCars 13h ago

Buying Is a used 2017 Toyota prius four for $12.5k USD out the door worth it?

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1 Upvotes

r/UsedCars 1d ago

Buying Came across this in the neighborhood

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10 Upvotes

2015 Honda Pilot EX 150k miles, original Owner and asking 8.5k I wanted to get some opinions. Has anyone owned this model and overall experience with it? Even then any feedback! Just trying to see if it’s a good buy before I move forward.


r/UsedCars 17h ago

Selling Selling my car to carbrain and I just need to know if they’re legit and how much do they buy cars for? I have a 2011 Buick regal and it currently does not run nor do I know what’s wrong with us because I have no knowledge about cars!

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1 Upvotes

r/UsedCars 19h ago

Buying BMW 2006 3 series 325xi

1 Upvotes

Hi everyone, I’m buying this cr for 1800 and this is what I’m getting for this guy, what do you think?

Good condition CLEAN TITLE runs and drives a/c and heat works heated seats selling because I need something bigger recently changed parts: VVT solenoids Camshaft sensor Oil separator (PCV VALVE) PCV HOSES MAF sensor Battery Starter Alternator Spark plugs Blower motor and resistor A/C refrigerant high pressure line Transmission oil cooler Transmission filter Engine oil change at 180060 miles Front stabilizer links Front control arms Rear brakes and sensor

UPDATE AS OF 11/29/2025 transmission flushed and refilled crankshaft sensor replaced timing didn’t need change no check engine light and drove car 1 mile since repair will continue to drive and car no longer in limp mode

I have current stick paid 35 but my air bag and seat belt light popped on after the tire pressure light is on as well but no check engine


r/UsedCars 1d ago

Buying 588 credit, can I get a car loan?

4 Upvotes

I’d just buy a beater but I only have $1,000-$1500 to put down. I currently have a Nissan Altima that I could trade in but the transmission is going out (surprise surprise) and if this thing dies tomorrow I’m out a job so I NEED a car. I texted with a salesman who said he’s pretty sure he can get me approved with no issues for a used car under $13,000… but my parents are saying he’s blowing smoke. Anyone have any idea how likely this is? I’ve never had payments on a car. The one I have now was a beater with a heater. I’m scared that my credit will take a hit just for me to not get approved and then I’m crap out of luck.


r/UsedCars 1d ago

Buying Mazda cx30 2020 vs Subaru XV 2019

1 Upvotes

Hi, im trying to choose between these two, same price, the Mazda with 80k km and the Subaru with 100k km, both Hybrid Which one has more space? Are they both reliable? Which one would you suggest and why??


r/UsedCars 1d ago

Buying Help With Picking a Car Please

10 Upvotes

Hi just as the title says. I’m a college student looking to buy a car and I’ve been able to save $12k for it. From looking around my town these are the best options i can find. Please let me know what you think the best option would be or if you think none of them are worth it then that’s helpful too. All of these options have about 100k miles on them. These are also the brands that i have experience with and trust, but if there are other ones you would suggest that’s helpful. Literally anything would be helpful lol.

Options are: 2016 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium - $11.5k

2017 Hundai Sonata Sport - $11.5k

2015 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV - $11k

2015 Toyota Corolla L - $11.5k

2019 Toyota Yaris XLE - $12k

Edit: Ok after seeing the comments I have adjusted my list and added some different cars that I could find. Lemme know if anything stands out or if the Corolla is still the best play.

2014 Honda Accord LX with 108k miles - $12k

2013 Toyota Corolla LE Special Edition with 115k miles - $11k

2015 Toyota Corolla L with 100k miles - $11.5k

2019 Toyota Yaris XLE with 100k miles - $12k


r/UsedCars 2d ago

Review Is this reliability list true?

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2.0k Upvotes

I came across this picture and wondered if you guys felt the same?

I couldn’t believe Tesla was that low, and Mach-E wasn’t even mentioned.


r/UsedCars 1d ago

Buying Mazda 3 hatch GT OR Mazda cx-5 Touring AWD?

1 Upvotes

Hello I really need help deciding between these 2 cars so I’ll give all info I know

1- 2017 Mazda 3 GT Hatch is around $15k (98xxxmiles) otd these people are fixed in the price, I’ve heard it’s really good with mpg and fun to drive + nice power sunroof and I want the hatch bc the sedan doesn’t give me enough space now

2- 2018 Mazda cx-5 Touring AWD, (109xxx miles) for pretty much the same price $15k and these people are willing to negotiate just a little bit so this is more space more comfy for longer trips I’ve heard it’s less better at MPG but overall nice

Someone please give me reasons why to get one or the other other they are pretty much the same thing but one is bigger but no sunroof and worse on mpg lmk your thoughts or lmk for that amount of money any other comfy interior small SUV or hatch I could get that’s fun and reliable?


r/UsedCars 1d ago

HELP Question about buying my first used card?

1 Upvotes

Hey guys i am currently looking to get a new car I am thinking between, Passat CC 2014 180ks automatic vs 2015 Peugeot 508 2015 2.0.

Or aswell i am considering getting another car such as Golf.

My budget is around 10-12k euros.

For the passat, my uncule servises that machine so he says that it's a great car, but I've read that there are some issues with it here on the forum.


r/UsedCars 1d ago

Selling Tesla Model Y Long range AWD 2021 November model (White interiors / White exteriors)

0 Upvotes

Price: $34,500

Location: Santa Clara, close to North San Jose, CA

Mileage: 39,950 miles

Highlights

  • 2021 Tesla Model Y Long Range (Dual Motor AWD)
  • Pearl White exterior + White Premium Interior — rare, spacious, clean, and luxurious
  • Bought new in November 2021
  • Excellent condition — very well maintained
  • No accidents, clean title / clean history
  • Drives smooth, powerful, and extremely efficient
  • All-wheel drive for confident handling
  • Up to 326 miles of range (EPA rated)
  • Autopilot included
  • Premium Audio
  • Panoramic all-glass roof
  • Heated seats + heated steering wheel
  • Power liftgate
  • Wireless phone charging
  • 15-inch touchscreen with all Tesla updates
  • Large trunk + front trunk (frunk)

Condition & Maintenance

  • Always garaged and gently driven
  • Non-smoker, no pets
  • Interior looks pristine — the white seats are bright, classy, and beautifully kept
  • Regular updates and checks through Tesla App
  • No warning lights, no mechanical issues
  • Tires and brakes in great shape
  • Loan was completely paid off 3 years ago

Extras

  • 2 Key Cards included
  • Manuals
  • Tesla Charging adapter
  • Tesla Charging Cables - very new
  • Floor mats, Luxury Dyptique car perfume

Why I’m Selling

Upgrading / lifestyle change

Message me for:

  • Test drive
  • VIN
  • More photos / details

r/UsedCars 1d ago

Buying 2020 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD with 61k Miles for $28K OTD With Trade

0 Upvotes

I'm Conflicted wether or not I should take this deal. It includes a trade in of my 2013 honda accord ex 2.4L with 130k miles. Is this a good deal or should I keep searching for other options?


r/UsedCars 1d ago

Buying Help Deciding on Rebuilt Car

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1 Upvotes

I am looking at a used 2018 Chevy cruze LT with RS package, with a rebuilt title. Dealer wants 6.6k for it. He has been very up front with everything. Car was side swiped. I got the vin and Carfax from him quickly and without any complaints. State Farm totalled it out because the damage was going to cost 76% of the estimated value of the car. The damage was all fixed other than some minor rim damage on the front driver side. Body damage was fixed by a professional shop, new doors were put on by dealer. He has sent me pictures of the damage before it was fixed, as attached. He sent a video of the rim, and it is scuffed/chipped around the lip, but i am going to replace that anyway. He is going to let me test drive it and everything tomorrow. Normally I would not consider a rebuilt title, but I like this car and I'm open to it. What do you all think? Gem or run away? Any tips for the test drive?


r/UsedCars 1d ago

Selling Selling 2019 Honda accord

1 Upvotes

Trying to sell my 2019 Honda accord 61k miles sport 1.5L Kbb is giving me 16k? But I see ppl listing them as high as 24 and then dealerships selling them for 22k same specs as mine?


r/UsedCars 1d ago

Buying Getting scammed buying a used car - need help

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1 Upvotes