need help buying a cheap used car

[juvefan]

started a new job that requires a reliable vehicle, lot's of driving, so i am thinking a lease would be a bad idea. the pay is rather low, so i am hoping to spend around $5-6k. is this even a worthwhile undertaking? should i look at craigslist or other private sales? any particular model to look for? or stay away from?

i know these types of threads are generally catered to more expensive vehicles, but that's the budget unfortunately.

thank you for the replies. i live in toronto canada btw.

 

[Steve Smith]

Craigslist, newspaper, private sale. A lease is a bad idea.

For something economical it is hard to beat one of the joint venture Toyota / GM vehicles like a Chevrolet Prizm or Pontiac Vibe. Those two can be had for less than their Toyota counterparts (Corolla or Matrix). Buy something which is inexpensive to operate and insure.

 

[sonick]

Just get a used civic or tercel.

 

[Logan]

Toyota is cheap to fix if they break down. Plus a 4 cylinder under 2.0L is gonna be super cheap on gas too.