I bought an automatic 2002 Camry LE in 2021 for a good price, but it's previous owners did not take very good care of it so ended up having to put decent money into it over time. Currently at 172k miles
I recently hit a curb pretty bad, the passenger side suspension has been damaged and repair to get the car back running I have been quoted about $2-3000, which is around the market value of the car.
My options are between repairing this one, and getting another used one within my budget. I live in a smaller town and don't have very many options, but my top 2 currently are:
2008 Honda Accord LX, 120k miles - listed $7500
2007 Mazda CX-7 Sport, 140k miles - listed $5000
- Both owners (private sellers) have had the cars for about 5 years. I haven't tested either car yet, but the owners report no issues except for the Honda being a rental car before the guy owned it, and the Mazda needing a new battery within 10k. I am a single guy and don't particularly need an SUV. Would appreciate advice/input, including any other used make/model recommendations under $8k currently. Thank you!
Well I wouldn't put upwards of $3000 into a 21-year-old Camry. 😯
Note the '08 Accord is known for problems with brakes and engine (oil consumption), the Mazda for engine problems (timing chain). Be sure to have any car you're considering checked out by a good mechanic before purchase.
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Accord/2008/
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Mazda/CX-7/2007/
I would say keep the Camry. You know what exactly is wrong with it and seem to be taking better care of it than the previous owners. For me I wouldn't take another mystery car for that much money when I could spend a fraction and know what needs to be done.
That's what would make me happy, you should pick accordingly to what would make you happy.
