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Agree with the smaller issues that add up quickly when parts have VW branding. Not the most economical total cost of ownership for a commuter car.
Focus is a good option or Nissan Sentra, they seem to stay a little less expensive than the Corolla counterpart and are a reliable car. Altima is also a vailable in that price but mileage will be higher. Mitsubishi Lancer (base) also fits the billing but will not have the same comfort level as a Sentra or a Focus, but probably can get a little newer for same price.
Mazda Protege was a great car for reliability and was the precursor to the Mazda3. It was also shared platform with the Escort and Mercury Tracer of the same era.
So dont use genuine parts, you dont have a warranty anyway - just use aftermarket from a reputable brand. They are usually exactly the same thing from exactly the same factory - just no badge on it.
My vote, too, though I've been perfectly happy with the 2.0
Your price range should put you in the 2004-2007 range.
I have 2, '03s-- one a manual and one auto. Super reliable cars with good features.
Been slammed at work. Devoting the weekend to finding the right car. I've got several I want to look at. Mazda 3 and 6, the aforementioned focus, and a rav4.
Been slammed at work. Devoting the weekend to finding the right car. I've got several I want to look at. Mazda 3 and 6, the aforementioned focus, and a rav4.
would also put some money aside for the vehicles you really like and are actually thinking of purchasing to take to be put on a lift and inspected by your local independent mechanic before you make any final decision as well OP..
Do not buy a Passat or Jetta there's a reason why these cars are dirt cheap when it comes to resell. They can pretty much eat holes in you wallet and your bum.
Complete anecdote here, but I have an '05 HCH, 355K miles and have never had issues with the battery (I bought it at 40K miles).
That is not the norm at all. I am glad for you.
Don in Austin
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Couldn't leave positive feedback for this.
