Some context: i've never needed a car, because i've mostly lived in cities where you can get around using transit.

I've recently moved to a rural area where unless you have a car, you're shit outta luck on the weekends, because there are either no buses or one bus a day to move around. I can make it decently far riding a bike, but it is not a substitute for a car, unfortunately. I make a modest salary, and while i don't have a lot in the way of savings, i just saw a car the next town over for sale for a very low price (under 1000). I spoke to the owner and they were very clear that the car is pretty old (1999) and needs some work, but that it still works regardless.

Considering that the car would be mostly a convenience, and that gas/insurance shouldn't be too much of a expense... am I dumb for jumping in on this bargain? might I be in over my head in case the car needs a whole bunch of repairs?

  • xXthrowawayXx [none/use name]
    ·
    2 years ago

    Can it be a good deal? Yes. Can you end up in over your head with a worthless rust bucket? Yes.

    The usual advice applies: have the car checked out by a mechanic you trust before buying. Especially with old cars shit is starting to break that isn’t on the main sequence of repairs or big stuff can be on the way out.

    Keep the cost of a tow in the car somewhere.

    If you grow to rely on the car, build or buy a two car carport so it’s got a little protection from the elements and look around for a spare shitty old car.

    It’s a lot easier to deal with a breakdown when you can just use the other car till the broke one is fixed.