The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're On a Budget

If you’re on a budget and need to purchase a car it can feel as though it’s slim pickings. Thankfully, there are plenty of great options available even to those on a tight budget. Let’s take a look.

The list of must-haves

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you don’t have must-haves. Typically people look for:

  • Great fuel consumption
  • A car with low maintenance
  • Inexpensive repairs
  • Known to hold up well over time

The top five

Here’s a look at the top five vehicles that are ideal for budget-minded shoppers.

  • Acura TL: If you're looking for a vehicle that has a reputation of reliability, look no further than the Acura TL. Its fuel consumption is nothing to blink at either as it boasts 17/27 mpg on the city then highway. What's great is that you don't have to sacrifice luxury for price, as this vehicle is loaded with features.

  • Honda Odyssey: This vehicle provides a great budget option for those looking for a minivan. Its design is typical of minivans, and you'll find that the fold-flat third row of seating can really be handy. If you need roominess, this is a great option.

  • Hyundai Accent: How would you like a car that boasts fabulous fuel consumption on the highway and in the city, is peppy, stylish, and incredibly affordable? The Hyundai Accent is hard to beat in the price department, and if it's less than five years old the Hyundai 60,000-mile, five-year warranty will still be in effect.

  • Mazda Mazda3: Mazda is known for producing cars that are sporty, stylish, and handle well on the roads. This sedan is comfortable, won't cost you a fortune in gas, and may just surprise you with how much storage it offers.

  • Honda Civic: This is another car you’ll see popping up on multiple “best of” lists. The Kelley Blue Book describes this one as a "bulletproof used car," thanks to the quality of the vehicle. Enjoy 27/34 mpg in the city/highway, and enjoy how this one handles on the road. Not to worry this sedan is still large enough to seat a family if need be.

Final thoughts

There’s no reason that you can’t find the perfect car, even if you are on a budget. It just takes a little bit of patience, research, and advice from professionals to help you make the final decision.


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Jermaine

25 years of experience
382 reviews
Jermaine
25 years of experience
Dodge Durango V6-3.6L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Silver Spring, Maryland
Awesome mechanic! Very reliable !! Awesome personality! Explained everything and now I feel less stressed.
Hyundai Ioniq - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Chevy Chase, Maryland
Jermaine was very friendly, efficient and professional. He kindly explained to me those things that did not score well in the service report, so that it didn't come as a surprise, and I would know what to do about it.

Caz

18 years of experience
146 reviews
Caz
18 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz GLA250 L4-2.0L Turbo - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Woodstock, Georgia
Caz was extremely knowledgeable, personable and provided excellent service. He was on time for the appointment and answered and explained everything I asked concerning my vehicle. I will definitely use the company again and I would love to have Caz as my mechanic! Excellent!
Mercedes-Benz S550 - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Mableton, Georgia
Caz Arrived on time much earlier than scheduled. He was very professional in inspecting the car and made excellent recommendations.

Brian

19 years of experience
138 reviews
Brian
19 years of experience
Lexus RX350 V6-3.5L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - McDonough, Georgia
Brian was very informational and knowledgeable about the Inspection. He throughly inform me what issues on vehicle. Great Mechanic !!!
Ford Transit-350 HD - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - McDonough, Georgia
Great service. Honest , respectful and truly cares about making sure you get the best options possible at an affordable price. Finding a mechanic you can trust is rare. I highly recommend Brain.

Jay

24 years of experience
262 reviews
Jay
24 years of experience
Honda CR-V L4-2.4L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Glendale Heights, Illinois
Jay did a great job! Excellent at taking time to explain things about your car. And provided sound recommendation on repair. Courteous and responsive. I would definitely recommend Jay!
BMW 535i xDrive - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Des Plaines, Illinois
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