Used car shopping on a budget? As a dollar stretches less
and less, finding a good car on a small budget can be frustrating. You don't have
to sacrifice reliability or quality for budget. We have compiled a combined
list of the top ten vehicles that experts say are the best used cars under
$5,000. They are reliable and reasonably priced, and won't break the bank.
2004 and Under Ford Focus
Shoppers looking in the $5,000 are almost always looking for
practicality and fuel efficiency. There’s a version for everyone, which is one
of the reasons it’s been Ford’s top selling model. There’s no need to worry
about mileage either. Even ones that have been marginally maintained are barely
broken in at 100k miles.
2002 and Under Volkswagen Jetta
The Jetta is Volkswagen’s top selling model in the US.
Buyers love the sophisticated materials, expert engineering and strong engines.
Jetta buyers are more satisfied with their purchase than other models. They're
built to last and fuel efficient. Some configurations can get up to 35 city/45
highway, which is excellent fuel efficiency for a car designed over a decade
ago. It’s a solid model that is reliable and even offers a little something
extra in the style department.
1999 and Under Honda Civic
People who know good cars won’t need the internet to tell
them that a Honda Civic should be a top choice if you’re looking for value and
longevity. The Civic is one of the best made cars in history, and many have
lived long past the 200,000 mile marker. In the “worry-free everyday driver”
segment, the Civic can’t be beat. $5,000 is a small chunk of change for a
vehicle that could potentially last through the zombie apocalypse.
2002 and Under Honda CR-V
When it comes to long lasting engines, Honda frequently tops
the list. The smaller crossover CR-V is no exception. It has everything that
SUV drivers look for… go anywhere capability, space, and safety. Honda’s CR-V
also boasts a 4-cylinder gas sipping engine and iconic longevity. The wheels
will fall off before the motor goes. You may have to drive it into a tree to
get it to stop running.
2002 and Under Honda Accord
Obviously, Honda’s superior engineering and engine design
makes pretty much any Honda model appropriate for this list, which is why you will have to look for older models to get under the $5,000 mark. The Accord
isn't for flash, unless you’re into flashing your smarts, of course. It’s room,
comfort, reliability and re-sale value that has made the model so popular.
2002 and Under Ford
Ranger
The Ford Ranger has been a favorite with truck buyers
looking for a smaller pick up that is capable to do the work of a huge gas
hogging full size. Ford’s innovative engineering puts even the older models on
the same level engineering as much later model pick-ups. It’s a standard for
reliability and longevity. If you've ever owned one, you'd know what all the
fuss is about.
2002 and Under Hyundai Elantra
Hyundai’s Elantra is one of the most highly recommended cars
on the market, and the Elantra earned that title with exceptional build
quality, low maintenance costs and outstanding reliability. Its enduring style
puts even the older models on par with models of today, and Hyundai’s unmatched
10-year warranty means that most of these models were exceptionally maintained.
Any 1990's Wrangler
Jeep’s Wrangler is the ultimate in off-road affordability.
Specifically in the older models before the Jeep came out of the “niche” and
into the main stream. It’s rough and tumble image is particularly valuable to
used buyers since the model design hasn't changed much over the years, making a
1992 Wrangler not much different in the looks department as the newer models.
2005 and Under Chevrolet Aveo
Later resigned as the Sonic, the Aveo is a sub-compact sedan
or hatchback with a peppy 4 cylinder engine and excellent fuel economy. By
2005, Chevrolet had brought the model up to speed with Honda and other
sub-compact leaders. It’s a top notch model for reliability. If you can get one
for less than 5,000, it’s a good buy.
Volvo 740/940
Volvo offered the 740 in a sedan and wagon. It was Volvo’s
attempt to attract luxury buyers who already knew that Volvo was well-built and
number one in safety. It was later replaced by the 850, but many remain on the
road today because of Volvo’s extraordinary gift for building reliable quality
engines.
We have a huge selection of cars, trucks, SUVs and vans. Check out our inventory used vehicles under $5,000 and try out our handy price tool to search in your price range.
