Car shopping

[sylvar]

When your mechanic tells you it's time to replace your car, take his advice.

We went to CarMax yesterday, me and Jodi and my mom, and sat in a bunch of different cars. I took an Aveo for a test drive, and while looking on their site today, found a 2003 Mazda Protege that I'd like to try also.

The Ford Focus doesn't seem to be comfortable for Jodi, which is a real shame because I loved it. The Aveo isn't bad, but Consumer Reports doesn't think much of it. I might also try a "traditional" car lot, one operated by a rental agency. They seem to have a decent selection, though I'd have to negotiate a mechanical inspection by my mechanic; CarMax would let me do this anyway, and return it within five days if I don't like what I hear.

We're trying to spend $12k or less. What would you recommend, dear reader?

Comments

[franthenut.livejournal.com]

Oh yes: Fords are notorious for being piles of crap. My mom had an Arrowstar and before the warentee was up near every peice but he frame and the seets had been replced. I'd avoid them unless they've been utterly gutted and remade.