I think I may have found my car...

[John]

How handy are you or your friends? I have been driving a "give away" car for a year now. It took about 15 days and $1000 to fix it up, new paint and tires. I'm looking for another one to replace it.
Also, I would not have spent that time on a Cavalier or anything with an automatic.

 

[ChrisPlatt]

Consumer Reports annual auto issue (April) is always worth a look.

In my experience their used car frequency of repair (reliabilty) ratings
are quite accurate. These can help you decide which models to avoid.

Look for the list of recommended used cars in various price ranges, too.

Good luck,
Chris

 

[jan normandale]

Now all I'm trying to do is to find a job to finance the down payment.

Sitting at a very small dealership in town is a shiny yellow 2003 Chevy Cavalier. I'm going to go check it out tomorrow, but it's pretty much everything I wanted in a car. It's not red (long story, not related to insurance), it would get good gas milage, it's sporty without being a sports car (it's a 4 door), it's yellow (not a real need, but I really wanted a yellow car), and it's new enough that I wouldn't have to worry as much about it breaking down on me. The only real problem is the price: we're talking $6200, more than I wanted to pay for my first car.

So yeah, applying for jobs wherever I can find a cooking job in town tomorrow.

Stephanie, good luck on your job search/work as you pursue your dream car. I see from your byline that you are simplifying your cameras, and film. Good idea. Focus is easier with fewer variables.

Jan