HELP! Used Auto Research?

**JanieD** · 06-09-2010, 04:10 PM

Please share your advise, links, tips & information on researching for your next used auto purchase.

My plan was to gradually "restore" my beater, but the parts are impossible to find. I have repairs done, but it only seems to patch it up for awhile. I find myself going around in circles trying to keep it running. Feels like its time to consider getting a replacement.

I have another car beside my beater to drive, but would like to start looking/researching. I keep my cars forever & want one that will last 15 years or longer. Is that crazy to expect?

I love the Jeep Wranglers, but need more room in the back for our 2 medium sized dogs. I sort of like the Jeep Liberty & have located several (2004, 2006, 2007), but I'm losted. Could really use some guidance.

**mek42** · 06-09-2010, 04:44 PM

I don't know if Jeep is the answer for longevity. Would a Subaru work for you?

We signed up for Consumer Reports online (and are always disappointed because they only go back 10 years

) and this time around did a fixed time unlimited checks title search tool - either AutoCheck or a competitor (or, likely, I mixed parts of the names from both companies together).

For finding vehicles to look for, my first choice tool is Hank's Helper - it is a search engine for multiple Craigslisting (and other sources) for automobiles. Very powerful. Individuals generally yield better deals too, since both parties can find a place to both be happy without needing to pay for dealership overhead.

**nodmicks** · 06-09-2010, 05:04 PM

I don't hink 15 years is unrealistic as I see some pretty old cars driving happily along!

We are also looking right now. I love autotrader.com for searching. So far with our autos consumer reports has been right on the $!

**JanieD** · 06-11-2010, 05:32 PM

Thanks for the posts. I hate to admit it, but I think I've found what I want already. How bad is that? I'm holding off though since I want to avoid making a costly mistake.

Mek42 - DH isn't really into Subaru. I'd consider it if he was onboard, but right now it not in the running. Is AutoCheck like carfax? Sorry, I'm pretty much lost when it comes to car shopping... kind of hate it.

Nodmicks - Thanks for letting me know 15 years isn't too much to expect. I tend to keep my cars forever... well, almost.

Do you sign up & pay for the consumer reports?

Anyone have thoughts on JD Power ratings or their site?
Also, checking Kelly Blue Book & NADA. I like the CarMax approach to buying used (sounds like I've seen too many of their commericals). Honestly, I'd rather deal with them, pay a little more & avoid the high pressure sales & games other dealers play.

Any thoughts on CarMax, dealers, extended warranties, carfaxes & anything else I should be considering?

**Saule** · 06-12-2010, 09:37 AM

We are devoted to Toyotas, they've survived in the Midwest and in the heat of the desert for many years and many miles. My husband has a Chevy Prizm, which is really a Corolla, that we bought at Carmax, and it was really a stress-free experience. The car was in great condition, and we have had no problems with it, gosh it must be at least seven years that he has it - a 1998. I would buy a used car at Carmax again.