Are you in a (parking/gas focus) or rural area (reliability/distance focus)?
These dealers often have predatory interest rates (20%+).
Don't skip the inspection to save $100; it could cost you $2,000 later. buying a used car on minimum wage
Get quotes before you buy. Some older cars are surprisingly expensive to insure.
📍 Buy the most boring, well-maintained car you can find. Style is a luxury; transport is a necessity. To help you find the best options, let me know: What is your total cash budget or monthly payment limit ? How many miles do you drive per day? Are you in a (parking/gas focus) or rural
Check local credit unions first; they offer the lowest rates for low-income buyers. 🛠️ Inspecting on a Budget
A high-mileage car with service records is better than a low-mileage car with none. 💰 Financing & Budgeting The 20/4/10 Rule (Modified): Put 20% down. Finance for no more than 4 years. Keep total car costs under 10% of your take-home pay. Get quotes before you buy
Dark, burnt-smelling oil or cloudy coolant are major red flags.