There are a number of factors that affect the cost of owning a car both short term as well as long term. Here are a list of factors to consider when looking to spend as little money as possible when buying a used car:
1) the car must not be too expensive to buy
2) the car must be in good mechanical overall condition
3) parts for repairs must be readily available and affordable
4) the car must meet reasonable expectations of longevity
5) the car must be economical on fuel costs
6) the car must be economical on insurance costs
These are general guidelines that are based on the cost to buy, maintain, repair, insure and drive the car. A car that meets these requirements will have the greatest likelihood of costing the least both up front, but also in the long run when you factor in the ongoing costs of driving the car.
If you are shopping within a tight budget but require a car that will be consistently reliable for the foreseeable future then you really should be shopping for a four cylinder car that is front wheel drive and has four doors. Additionally you do not want the vehicle to be newer than 5 years old and no older than 12-15 years old.
Click here to learn more about the importance of the age of the used car