Dailey Driver Wanted

[Randalla]

I've been tasked with finding a dependable daily driver for my college age nephew, who will graduate this Spring. Specifically, I'm looking for a Honda or Toyota with no more than 130K miles, preferably with 4 doors, AC, auto transmission, decent body, paint and interior. If you know or hear of such an animal, I'd appreciate you letting me know. Thank you!

[Turboman280]

Randy, we used to have a Pontiac Vibe, which is a Toyota Matrix at heart. great transportation car, great utility with the hatchback. 1.8 toyota engine is stone reliable and no timing belt to replace. Vibe can be had for less than the Matrix, and the Corolla is the sedan equivalent. good mileage if you stay with the 1.8.

Not much in the driving excitement category, but other than that is is a great option.

[theAngryMarmot]

Although they say it is a "lifetime" timing chain on those engines - I would highly recommend any older/ 100K+ mile Toyota bought with that engine have it's timing chain checked. They do fail (my wife's 1.8 well maintained was perfectly reliable till the timing chain failed @ 130k requiring an engine replacement.) It isn't common but it does happen, and is worth a quick check. Other than that they are good transportation appliances.

My recommendation is a used 2015+ Mazda 3 if it is in the budget. They are cheap with low miles for a newer car, get great gas mileage (we see over 40mpg on the freeway easily,) and are actually entertaining to drive. Compared to my wife's Corolla we have had less issues and a lower cost of ownership. Her 2015 currently has ~110k miles on it without a single trip to the dealer for anything beyond routine services.

[Randalla]

Thanks for the reco's. Unfortunately, his budget tops out at about $5K, so that definitely limits options. Also possibly considering a Hyundai, based on my daughter's love and great experiences with her Elantra and Santa Fe.