I am trying to buy a reliable commuter car for under $4400 here in Houston Texas. My biggest concern is jerks rolling back the odometer.
On craigslist and facebook marketplace currently only one Corrolla listed that looks like it is probably OK (2009, stating it has 123,000 miles, automatic, $4400). I have found five Camry's - mostly 2005-06, all stating around 110-115,000 miles, automatic, all around $3900.
I am leaning towards buying a Scion XB. I have found five xb's - two of which are manual trans, one 2009 with 121000 mi, the other 2010 with 110000 - both around $3600. I am leaning towards the Scion xb's because: I assume it is more realistic that a Scion XB would be lower miles since most people are probably not buying it as a commuter vehicle. Plus, I prefer a manual for long term reliability.
Question: Does my logic sound correct about the Scion XB's being more likely to not have the odometer rolled back. Also, does a 2005 Camry with only 115000 miles selling for $3900 sound legitimate to you? (also...what do you think of Scion Xa's?)
Scotty always says that the KBB values are not real and I agree with him, but you can use that data to see what is the price range for cars you consider to buy in your area.
to make sure that the odometer is not roiled back, check car fax and follow the registration odometer. It can clearly tell you the truth.
And I think Scion xB are practical cars and if you like them, they are reliable too. Also if you can buy it with standard transmission, you add more reliability, cheaper to buy and also more fun!
good luck.
