I need a day to day transportation car that last, with no major repairs, good on gas. My 2000 Chevolet needs $2000 repairs and I decided to buy a used car. After seeing Scotties videos, Honda or Toyota would be the best used cars with high millage. Craiglist has a
1992 Toyota Camry V6 XLE, 347,000 Mile sedan, Clean Title, Automatic 6 Cylinder, listed in good condition, asking for $1,500. This is what I can afford. Do you think I should purchase this car or the cars listed below?
Other offers: 2006 Toyota Avalon Sedan 206,320 Miles, 6 Cylinder, good condition, clean title asking $3,600. This is a little more cash than what I have until next month.
Other: 2002 Toyota Camry 149,000 miles, condition good, clean title, asking $4,000
This car is beyond my budget for a car and would put a strain on my finances.
Thank you Scottie or any of your advisers for your information. I am 74 and must have a transportation car as soon as possible.
Offer $2600 for the 2002 and get that. The 1992 will soon just leave you in the same situation you are in now.
Forum info for the avalon: https://carkiller.com/scottykilmer/qa/progressive-common-and-major-problems-toyota-and-honda-vehicles-not-to-buy/
"2006; Sudden Loss of Engine Oil With No Warning" and "2006-2008; Cracked Dashboard" by Kerem.
Forum info for the camry:
"2002; Stripped Head Bolts" and "2002; Transmission Failure" by Kerem
If I were you I'd do more research on these specific models and year, or maybe see if the problem was fixed/has occured on the car itself.
Mileage is really what you can afford, but whatever you do, do not go in debt for a car. Stick with what you can actually afford.
1992 Toyota Camry V6 XLE - Not really appealing with 350k miles. Waste of money imo it will most likely become a headache immediately if not soon.
2006 Toyota Avalon - Definitely beware of the oil leaks on that car they are major you would definitely want a mechanic to check it out and no way would I pay a dime more than 2500 if you are looking for a deal.
2002 Camry - hmm. This one seems alright if its in good shape and you can haggle but its the first year of the generation and typical to the automotive industry, it has some major common problems. Definitely worth no more than $2500, haggle hard
I'd say skip the first one, consider the next two if a mechanic says there are no problems and you get them <$2500, and keep on looking for a good deal.
You can generally find good condition 2003-2008 Toyota Corollas if you just need an A to B car you can see those all over craigslist for $3500. That would be a good option as well.
Good luck!
I would not buy a 30 year old car with 350k miles on it to daily drive. You are begging for issues.
