Alright, let’s get down to it. Times are tough, money’s tight and you need a car. Now when I say money’s tight, I’m saying you can’t even afford to pay attention, never mind a new car. So forget about one of those fancy $5,000 used cars. And don’t even think of one of those nice $1,200 rides. We’re talking three figures here. We’re talking $700, $600 or even less. Yes, we are talking about the “beater.” You know what I mean: the dented up rust bucket that looks like it should have been crushed during the Carter administration. Well, beggar’s can’t be choosers, right? You need wheels and someone out there needs to get that hooptie out of their yard. It’s a match made in heaven.
Yes, there are deals out there. Like I said, times are tough and many people are selling cars cheap because they need the money. The market is flooded with used cars under $1,000, and here’s a handy guide on how to find one that will get you down the road instead of leaving you on the side of it.
1. Where to look
The No. 1 place for a deal on a used car is Craigslist. You can sort by private owner or dealer. You can also narrow your search by setting a maximum and minimum price. Classified ads in the papers are another place to look. Many people just put a For Sale sign in the window, so keep your eyes open. Let your friends know what you’re after because word of mouth is still one of the best forms of advertising there is.
2. What you’ll find
In this price range, you will run the gambit of cars from piles of rust to “wow, I can’t believe that’s less than a thousand bucks.” You will find work trucks, mini-vans, four-door sedans, imports and even a worn out sports car or two. Whatever you’re looking for, you will find it for sale somewhere in the three figure budget you’re stuck with.
3. How to tell if it’s worth it
First off, you want a car that’s safe. Tires, brakes and lights need to be in good shape. Play with all the switches and knobs and make sure you know what works and what doesn’t. Some things you need – like headlights and windshield wipers. Others you can live without – like air conditioning. Are all the mirrors present and accounted for? How’s the windshield?
Badly worn seats aren’t really an issue. You can get covers for just about anything. Carpet stained and worn? Floor mats will work wonders. Let’s step outside and look at the body. Dings and scratches are to be expected as well as a dent or two. But if it’s been wrecked or the frame is damaged, walk away. It’s better off as a parts car and that’s not what you’re looking for. What about the engine? Run it and listen for any odd sounds like ticking or knocking. If it runs rough, it might just need a tune up or it could have a vacuum leak. Before starting, pop the radiator cap off and look at the coolant. Does it look milky? Put your nose in the overflow tank and give it a sniff. Does it smell like exhaust? There could be a head gasket issue and unless you’re getting the car dirt-cheap, and you have experience with tearing a motor apart, I would move on. When you take it for a drive listen to everything: the motor, the suspension and the transmission. Feel how it shifts. Does it slip? Does it make any noises? What about the rear-end? Is it quiet? Many times they will make a howling sound when they are about ready to go. Remember you’re broke, and that’s why you’re looking at the bottom-of-the-barrel for cars. You don’t need to spend a bunch of money on repairs. I believe in gut feelings. If something doesn’t feel right, walk away. There are thousands of cars for sale, so you’ll find what you need.
4. How to make the deal
When people sell cars this cheap, they either need the money or they just want it gone. Don’t be afraid to make an offer. Don’t hold back on pointing out the high mileage, the dents or the warm AC. Never let the seller know you like it. Make him think your settling for it. Make an offer 30 percent or 40 percent lower than what he’s asking. All he can say is no. Most likely he will counter-offer, and if you think it’s worth it and within your budget, make a deal. Make sure the seller has a title and there aren’t any liens or other issues.
There you have it. Before you know it you’ll be off your feet and on the road. Happy hunting!
