car buying help

[Rising Phoenix]

My mom, 60, has had the same toyota camery for over 15 years......she is now faced with the option of putting more money, another 1000 bucks into the ancient artifact, or buying a new car. I am trying to help her find a new one, used, but not ancient. Something made within the last 3 years or so. She needs good mileage, who doesn't, it doesn't need to be huge, a sedan is fine. Any suggestions on a make or model......something dependable, not showy, that won't require tons of money to be put into repairs as she will be paying the loan off. She has good credit.....any suggestions would be appreciated.... I want to help her make a good decision.

[Suich]

1. VW Jetta

I bought a new one in 2002 and love it. No major problems but I've only put 18,000 miles on it.

Good luck!

[Captain Hilts]

12. VWs are expensive to maintain.

I love my 2000 Passat, but maintenance is expensive.

[midnight armadillo]

2. Toyota Corolla

If she likes Toyotas, that is. You'll find it's about as big inside as the older Camry! The new Camry's are big bloated boats, I can't stand them.

Another option might be a hatchback or wagon, like the Mazda 6 wagon (recently discontinued) or a Subaru Outback or Impreza. The flat loading floor when the hatch is open is v. convenient when unloading.

[flvegan]

3. Mazda 3.

Very reliable, cheap to insure and maintain, fun to drive. Great mileage. 4 door sedan and 4 door hatchbacks are available. Can't go wrong with one.

[mnhtnbb]

4. When she decides what she wants, tell her to check out CarMax.

[Robeson]

5. Well, considering her Toyota has lasted 15 years, maybe she ought to look at a...

...Toyota?

[Aristus]

6. Have her decide on a model, then I can give you some tips on how to complete the purchase.

My wife and I both used to sell cars. We know all the angles...

[reformedrethug]

7. shoot, I can use that help

looking to park the durango and pick up a smaller car, my distance to drive to work has doubled since I had to transfer. Personally I would love to find a nice Honda Civic, have driven several in the past when my wife's car was in the shop for maintenance (she works for Honda so we get free loaner's when they have to keep your car overnight). I love em!!!

[Aristus]

10. Sure. I could give you all kinds of tips.

What would you like to know?

[Rising Phoenix]

11. thanks

[rucky]

8. I'd get another Camry.

thems good cars

[madrchsod]

9. try this site.....

http://www.carsurvey.org/

[Captain Hilts]

13. Ford Fusion. It's Ford's version of the VW Passat. Sporty, but not too small, etc.