Wheels on a Budget: How to Score an Affordable Used Car for College

Heading off to college is an exciting time filled with new experiences. But it can also be stressful trying to figure out how you’ll get around campus and town without breaking the bank. Buying a used car is often the most affordable option for students on a tight budget. Here’s a guide to finding the best used cars for college that won’t drain your savings.

What to Look for in a Used Car

When car shopping on a budget, there are a few key factors to consider:

• Reliability – Look for cars with a solid reputation for lasting many miles with minimal issues. Japanese and Korean brands like Toyota, Honda and Kia are known for reliability.
• Good gas mileage – With gas prices fluctuating, good fuel efficiency will save you money at the pump. Aim for a combined MPG of at least 25-30.
• Low maintenance costs – Cars with easy DIY repairs and inexpensive parts are ideal to minimize maintenance expenses.
• Safety features – Make sure any car has essential safety tech like ABS, traction control and airbags.
• Comfort – Choose a roomy, comfortable ride to handle road trips and hauling around friends.
• Personality – Opt for a stylish, fun car that reflects your personality. You’ll be driving it daily after all!

The Best Used Cars for College Students

Here are 12 of the top used cars to consider if you’re a student seeking an affordable, reliable ride:

Toyota Corolla

• $6,000-10,000
• 28-37 MPG
• Reliable, efficient commuter
• Spacious interior
• Excellent value

The Corolla hits all the right notes for students needing an economical, fuss-free compact car. Toyota’s reputation for longevity means a used Corolla can easily last over 200,000 miles.

Honda Civic

• $7,000-12,000
• 28-40 MPG
• Fun driving dynamics
• Advanced safety tech available
• Low ownership costs

Civics are perennially popular for their sporty handling, roomy interior and excellent fuel economy. Used models offer tons of value as affordable, efficient daily drivers.

Mazda 3

• $8,000-13,000
• 28-37 MPG
• Sharp handling and acceleration
• Upscale interior
• Hatchback flexibility

The sporty compact Mazda 3 is engaging to drive with its agile handling. As a used buy, it combines reliability with sophistication at an affordable price.

Kia Soul

• $9,000-14,000
• 24-31 MPG
• Boxy design allows cargo space
• High safety scores
• Fun and versatile

The box-shaped Kia Soul hatchback provides a surprising amount of flexible cargo room. It’s also affordable to buy used and economical to own long-term.

Hyundai Elantra

• $8,000-12,000
• 28-38 MPG
• Modern styling
• Lots of tech and safety features
• Great warranty coverage

The Elantra compact sedan has bold styling along with a quiet, comfortable ride. Hyundai’s long warranties transfer to used models, providing added peace of mind.

Nissan Sentra

• $7,000-11,000
• 29-34 MPG
• Low ownership costs
• Spacious rear seats
• Good safety ratings

Offering roomy accommodations, nimble handling and excellent fuel economy, the Sentra is an affordable used car that’s well-suited for students.

Toyota Prius

• $8,000-12,000
• 48-58 MPG
• Ultra-efficient hybrid
• Hatchback functionality
• Proven reliability

With its incredibly high mpg and hatchback versatility, the used Prius is a perfect option for students seeking maximum fuel efficiency on a budget.

Honda Fit

• $7,000-11,000
• 29-36 MPG
• Super flexible interior space
• Fun driving experience
• Inexpensive to own

The subcompact Fit squeezes tons of interior room into a small package. It’s thrifty, nimble, and spacious enough for moving into the dorms.

Ford Focus

• $6,000-10,000
• 26-36 MPG
• Sharp handling
• High safety scores
• Hatchback utility

Fun to drive with upscale features, the compact Focus is an affordable used car that offers style, performance and functionality ideal for students.

Scion tC

• $7,000-12,000
• 23-31 MPG
• Sporty coupe styling
• Tuner car potential
• Toyota reliability

Scion’s sporty coupe has bold styling and is engineered to be customized. It combines efficiency, style and Toyota quality at used prices students can afford.

Subaru Impreza

• $8,000-13,000
• 24-34 MPG
• All-wheel drive safety
• Good ground clearance
• Fun driving feel

The AWD Impreza offers extra traction and handling confidence in snow or rain. Affordable used models are safe, spacious and economical.

Volkswagen Golf

• $7,000-12,000
• 25-38 MPG
• Upscale interior
• Responsive handling
• Spacious hatchback

This sporty hatchback has a premium feel at an attainable price. The Golf offers a stylish, fuel-efficient and versatile used car option.

Questions to Ask the Seller

Shopping for a used car requires careful inspection. Be sure to ask the seller these key questions:

• How many owners has the car had? Fewer is better.
• What ongoing maintenance has been done and are there records?
• Has the car been in any accidents? Ask to see a vehicle history report.
• Are there any mechanical issues or check engine lights?
• Can you take the car for an independent inspection? Most sellers will agree if they have nothing to hide.
• Why are you selling the car? Listen for concerning red flags.
• Can you provide service records showing oil changes done regularly?
• Does the car have a clean title? If not, walk away.
• Can you go for a test drive? Be sure to listen for any odd noises.

Financing Tips for Used Cars

As a student with limited credit history, financing a used car can be tricky. Here are some tips to make it more affordable:

• Save up – Have at least $2,000-3,000 on hand for a down payment to lower monthly payments.
• Ask parents to co-sign the loan to help you qualify and get better rates.
• Apply for financing from a credit union – they often offer better loan terms than banks to members.
• Consider a loan from your bank or credit union – they may approve you based on your relationship.
• Shop around for the best financing rates and know your credit score.
• Opt for loan terms of 36 months or less to get lower monthly payments.
• Making higher monthly payments can allow you to pay off the loan faster and save on interest.

FAQ About Buying Used Cars

What mileage is best for a used car for a student?

Look for cars with less than 60,000-70,000 miles. High mileage cars are riskier and start needing more repairs.

What’s the sweet spot for used car prices on a student budget?

Plan to spend $5,000-10,000 for a solid used car as a student. Models over 10 years old often require more maintenance.

Should I buy from a dealership or private seller?

Dealerships make the process easier but charge more. Private-party cars are usually cheaper but carry more risk.

How can I inspect a used car myself?

Check fluids, lights, AC, electronics. Look for leaks, rust and accident damage. Test drive for issues.

What paperwork do I need when buying privately?

Request the title, bill of sale, vehicle history report and maintenance records from the seller.

How can I be sure I’m not buying a lemon?

Have a mechanic inspect any used car before purchasing to identify potential problems not apparent to you.

Is it better to pay cash or finance when buying used?

Pay cash if you have enough savings to afford it, as financing adds interest charges.

Choose the Right Used Car for College

Finding the perfect used car for college requires planning your budget, researching options and thoroughly inspecting any car before purchasing. But take your time and you can end up with an affordable, reliable used car that will serve you well for years at school and beyond. The freedom of having your own wheels to cruise around campus and town will make all the effort worthwhile!