The original post: /r/whatcarshouldibuy by /u/yoomfi on 2024-05-02 12:59:33.

Hi all, I’m starting to think about purchasing a new (read:used) car in the next year or so but I’m trying to figure out how to set my expectations so I know how much I should be budgeting. I know used car prices are insane right now so I really don’t know what’s the new normal and what’s ridiculous.

I’m 27F, and I currently drive a 2011 Nissan Altima that I got for free from a relative that was moving to another state. I got that car when I was 24 and it had around 100k miles on it, and now it has 150k. I know that car has a… certain stigma, and I have had to pay for some pricey repairs. But the cost of the repairs still doesn’t come close to equaling a $500 a month payment, so while I’d love a newer car a high price point is going to be hard to swallow.

I really know nothing about cars so I don’t know what brand would be best for me. I’d like a car that can last a long time and that’s not too difficult to repair, safe, comfortable interiors and good sound system would be nice but I don’t need cameras or text to speech or anything. I don’t forsee myself spending more than $25k, but if it’s impossible to find anything of quality for that price point I guess I’ll just go lick my wounds and save up for a couple more years. I just really have no idea what’s “normal” in this market.