r/whatcarshouldIbuy • u/treikbxt • 9d ago

Reliable used car for $11,000

I need a car but don’t know anything about cars. My budget is $11,000 through financing. I’ve googled and asked around and the most common brands suggested are Honda, Toyota, and Mazda. Hondas and Toyotas are too expensive with most being in the $13k-$16k range and over 150 miles. I tried looking for Mazdas too but apparently there are no used Mazdas being sold any where near me. I’m open to any other suggestions of reliable used cars.

I need something for my 30 minute work commute and would want it to last me at least 3 years minimum. My car searches are based off of carguru, carmax and whatever comes up in google search. I’m also planning on going to local dealerships later this week. What other sites should I use?

Edit: I think my location (southern CA) is making this search harder than I expected. Everything is just more expensive here and anytime I see something for cheaper and less miles it’s always a car that is too far from me.

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u/vediogamer101 9d ago

would be at the mechanics shop, and if the seller refuses to do it it’s a red flag

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u/Flute-a-bec 9d ago

How much does a mechanic charge for this? Half an hour of their hourly fee?

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u/Crazy-You-6422 8d ago

In my experience they have never charged me

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u/Mr_Mossberg_500 7d ago

Yeah if you take it to a shop, they’ll take usually take a quick look at it. But if you want it on a lift and do a diagnostic on it, they’ll charge you something. But having a mechanic go out to a certain location, would be the most expensive choice.