Cars play an important part of life in the United States. While we may love the idea of mass transit, it is not practical for most of the United States. So, we drive cars. Many people buy used cars. These are offered from dealers or from private owners.
Car maintenance, insurance, and value all come into play when deciding to buy (or sell) or repair a used car. Kelly Blue Book and Edmonds are two places to find out what a car is worth and worth the repair. A car is totaled when the cost to repair is greater than the value of a car.
Car Inspections
Some states (and countries) require an annual inspection. An official (government required) car inspection includes emissions, breaks, and lights (including break lights and turn signals). These are required in some states (and countries), but do not guarantee a car that is foolproof. Your car can still break down. Buying a used car has risks and also rewards (it is broken in) but may have maintenance expenses or repairs (After all, someone does not want it anymore). This article from Edmonds details the advantages and disadvantages of a mechanic inspection. Google "used car inspection" for a list of mechanics. You might rely on a friend or family member that is a car fanatic to help you decide on a car that you find on Next Door (a phone app) or with a For Sale sign. Having a mechanic go over your car before a road trip is a good idea to make sure you don't get stranded.
Buying (or Selling) a Used Car
If you are looking at a used car from a private owner, if you can take the car to your mechanic to see if it is in good running order.
Maintenance can be expensive since many cars survive well past 100,000 miles. One example is that the timing belt needs to be replaced. This means that the radiator is pulled, and the water pump is replaced with a new pump (when your water pump fails and your mileage is up, your mechanic will advise you to replace your timing belt). This is pricy maintenance, but worth the bucks if you want to keep your car another 100,000 miles.
An older car with a rough interior or exterior that still runs well enough to get around town is called a "beater". People will get an older car with high mileage for the "kids' car".
On another note, a good number of our Friends have Uber and Amazon and Door Dash side hustles. They strongly recommend these opportunities to see neighborhoods and amenities while making a few bucks.
