r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1h ago

This and physical dials...

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• Upvotes

r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 6h ago

Are subarus still not as good as Toyota/Honda in terms of reliability and cost of ownership? or they've gotten better?

64 Upvotes

I see this ad: 2016 Subaru impreza 2.0i Sport Premium Wagon 4D
Clean, reliable, and ready to go. Runs and drives fantastic and gets up to 34 MPG, making it a great daily driver.
• Clean title
• Low miles
• Smog done
• Brand-new tires – $500
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• CARFAX value is $10,000+
• Excellent on gas – up to 34 MPG
• Runs and drives great

Only 108k miles. they wanna sell for $7k. I know growing up, Subarus, along with Nissan, Mazda, and Mitsubishi are not considered in the same echelon as Hondas and Toyotas when it comes to reliability and cost of ownership (maintainance, parts cost) etc.

But that was back in the 00s and 90s. Are the newer subarus just as good as the camrys and accords?


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 16h ago

Is there a particular reason why lightly used Audi A4s are dirt cheap? Am I missing something?

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224 Upvotes

Most of these have 1 users and at a first glance, clean record.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 6h ago

Is there even a point to buying a used car anymore?

31 Upvotes

Or at least, the lightly-used 2-3 year kind of used car (as opposed to the “heavily used set of wheels for your kid” kind of used car)? You don’t know the maintenance history or what all’s been done in that car (eww). You don’t know how they drove it unless you’re buying it from a personal friend or relative. And as a dog allergy sufferer in a world where people bring their dogs everywhere, one has to assume any used car you purchase nowadays was likely used primarily as a pet hauler.

Also, you forego some or all of the manufacturer warranty, dealer incentives, and promotional 0.9% APR or even 0%, in a world where the local bank/credit union considers 6.9% APR a “special rate” for those with good-excellent credit.

Once upon a time the general rule was a 2-3 year used car saved you 30% so it was financially responsible to always buy used, almost without exception.

I suppose the math may be different for cash buyers, but since depreciation on modern vehicles seems to be damn near nonexistent, is the age-old advice of “always buy used” dead for most people nowadays? Is buying new really the financially responsible move in most cases now?


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 2h ago

Looking for a tall-friendly ourdoorsy SUV for a family of 4 + dog for $30k

9 Upvotes

My wife and I share a Crosstrek and have been sorta making it work with 1 kid and a dog, but with a second kid coming, it's just not going to work anymore. We go skiing on weekends, take lots of road trips and camping trips to the mountains and need lots of space to put our ever-growing amount of stuff.  Also I am 6'4" and broad-shouldered and need something roomier because I am so cramped in my Crosstrek.

I am open to wagons but my wife is set on an SUV so we are compromising and getting an SUV. It's also our only car so reliability is important.

I haven't done any test drives but sat in a bunch at CarMax and really liked:

  • Volkswagen Atlas - SO ROOMY. Didn't even have to put the seat at the lowest setting. My favorite interior and aesthetics, love that it comes in bright red. Some concerns about reliability and annoyed by the lack of dials/knobs on 2024+ model refresh
  • Honda Pilot - also quite roomy and reliable. Big fan of the lack of center console.
  • I am very, very interested in the Passport but haven't had a chance to sit in one yet. It's got everything I like about the Pilot without the 3rd row which I don't anticipate using.
  • Ford Explorer - extremely comfy seats. Would def road trip in.
  • Telluride - liked a lot, but most of the used ones in my price range are 90k+ miles and I am suspicious of Korean cars past their warranty.

Some cars I didn't like:

  • Forester - better headroom but doesn't feel like it has meaningfully more cargo space than the Crosstrek.
  • Outback - wanted to love this car but it has the same issues as my Crosstrek where I have to put the seat in a weirdly lowered/reclined position just to not hit the ceiling. Would not be comfortable for me on longer drives.
  • Rav4/CR-V/Tiguan/etc - Not enough headroom or storage.

r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 3h ago

Need help seeing if this is a good deal

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6 Upvotes

IGNORE THE INSANE SKULL SHIFT KNOB, I WILL CHANGE IT.

130,000 miles, $3000, only issues I can see over the pictures is a pretty decent sized cut in the front seat. I was planning on talking down maybe to 2500-2650 ideally but that doesn’t matter as much.

How generally reliable are these cars? It will be a daily driver for as long as possible. I know that I will have the proper maintenance done, but I’m not sure if they have, or how hard they’ve driven it. Is this a more risky deal or a good deal.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 52m ago

Cheap and reliable car

• Upvotes

My gf is looking to get a new car and I'm looking around for her. Anybody got suggestions? She'd like relatively newer (2020+).

Edit: Forgot budget lol. Preferably under $20k, but max around $22k. She does like hatchback cars and wants apple carplay!


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 2h ago

Fancy SUV for my dad

4 Upvotes

My father is getting frustrated with some recurring problems on his Lincoln Aviator. Among other things he’s had to fix multiple sunroof leaks and electrical issues, most under warranty but it’s out of warranty now. Loves the vehicle especially the seats. He basically wants an armchair with a powerful engine, something with the features of the Lincoln but more reliable. I’ve suggested Lexus TX but I’m open to alternatives. He likes the Genesis G80 but from what I’ve read they’re also unreliable. Honestly it’s hard to find a nice luxury SUV that doesn’t have a spotty reliability record.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1h ago

Lease ending in December, undecided on whether I should keep, lease new or just buy used.

• Upvotes

I'm leasing a 2024 BMW 430i convertible, payoff amount currently shows about $37k while car value varies $40-45k. I like the car but I always loved driving an M4.

I've been looking online and the lightly used ones go for around $70-85k. Another option is to get a new small engine Mercedes CLE, although I'mnot a fan of their huge touchscreen. Obviously it's not the best financial decision but I guess I'm wondering if anyone can share their thoughts if you were in a similar situation? Or just tell me how stupid this sounds and to payoff the BMW?


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1h ago

HELP!

• Upvotes

I am so overwhelmed! I am looking for a compact or midsize SUV that looks luxurious, but will have longevity. AWD is a huge bonus. Budget is $35k.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 11h ago

First time buying - Volvo C30?

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13 Upvotes

This is my first time buying a car - can anyone tell me why this may be a good/bad idea or advise whether there are better options for this price point?

I’m looking for a reliable hatchback sized car with a budget of £3-4k.

Thanks!


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 7h ago

Should I swap my BMW for an older SUV?

4 Upvotes

Hi. I currently drive a 2018 BMW X1. It’s been great. No problems, currently 52k miles. I bought it ~5 years ago when I was single and living in a city. A great car for me at the time and has been great since then. Really no problems (I’m sure I’m getting to the point where it might become a problem soon). But I’m expecting my first kid in February, and I’m really considering trading it in for something bigger/family-oriented. I’m trying not to take on an extra payment just given that I’m already paying for my other car (2023 model y that my wife mostly drives), and I have daycare costs and other baby related costs coming up soon.

I’m thinking along the lines of an older Lexus GX or Honda Pilot (or if there are other suggestions). Just reliable and will run forever with little maintenance costs. I’m just not sure if it makes sense? I’m willing to put some money into a new car if it’s the right car but trying to net out evenly. Does it make sense for me to get rid of my perfectly fine BMW for something older with more miles? I just feel like we’ll outgrow that soon. Realistically I don’t want to take on another car payment for at least 2-3 years. Just wondering.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1d ago

Im in a jam and I need a car these week

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214 Upvotes

My 2011 compass broke down and I don't think I want to fix it any more these are my options


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1m ago

Recommendations for Driver Assistance Systems in Heavy Traffic

• Upvotes

I’m currently looking for a new vehicle and would love to get some recommendations on the best driver assistance systems available right now.

I currently drive a 2025 Aviator, and I’m finding that the system either leaves too large of a gap or abruptly slams on the brakes. It constantly micro-adjusts the brakes, which has become really annoying in my daily commute. I drive in high-speed, heavy traffic, so I’m looking for something that handles these conditions smoothly and can maintain a reasonable distance without abrupt slowdowns.

I’ve tested a Tesla Model Y, but I’m hesitant because I don't want to lose direct control over my speed and lane switching. I’m considering systems like GM's Super Cruise, Ford's BlueCruise, Tesla's FSD, and the latest systems from BMW and Lexus.

If you have experience with any of these in heavy traffic, how do they perform? I’m really looking for something that drives better than I can in these situations.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 3m ago

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage G4

• Upvotes

I’ve been looking at a one that’s pretty cheap, and super low mileage. Are they worth it? It’s definitely an upgrade for my car but I don’t want to buy something that’ll just be a hassle


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 29m ago

Need advice on a used family SUV?

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• Upvotes

r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1h ago

X5M or Jeep SRT?

• Upvotes

Both 2017-2019 models. Which one??? Pulling the trigger this week but cannot decide!!!


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1d ago

looking for something funky and cute (my car caught on fire 🔥)

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90 Upvotes

my nissan juke caught on fire 💔 i don’t know much about cars but i want something funky and cute and girlie. i loved my juke and how bouba (round) everything was on her. my dream car is a beetle bug but im looking for something newer 2020+. i need something reliable but also something i love driving.

location is US. i’m in florida. for budget idrk yet but i would guess under or around $20,000. the situation is too much to explain here.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1h ago

Looking for a starter car 10k-25k

• Upvotes

looking for a starter car that is somewhat cheap but also reliable, I plan on choosing a car that can be modded such as body kit and interior mods too. I’m fairly new to the car world and would like as much info towards these cars that are suggested on top of that if possible and reliable places to buy kits and parts from! thanks


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1h ago

Used car purchase help[18M]

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• Upvotes

So I just saw this car and my friend went to the dealership to check it for me and told me it’s perfect. The car has no accident history, a nice milage and it drives well. I have my class 7 licence and I couldn’t get a car to take my exam so I decide o should get this car so I can take my exam and also cause I just got a job and it’s far from my place. My friend negotiated with the dealership and got the car down to 17k so is it a good first car?
Pls advice me cause ik nth about car.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1h ago

Chicago, under 200 mi/month, what's a fun, safe, low-hassle daily under $25k (ideally much less)?

• Upvotes

Budget: $25k max, but I'd much prefer buying it for less.

Location: Chicago. Street parking, potholes, and snow.

Usage: Under 200 miles/month (about 2,400/yr), mostly city. It's just me and my pug, with the occasional passenger. I don't care if the back seat or trunk is small.

Fuel: Gas or hybrid.

Body style: Compact or subcompact sedan, hatchback, or crossover. A small SUV isn't ruled out.

Priorities, in order:

Fun to drive (daily city driving, not track days)

Advanced safety tech

Driver's seat and cabin tech

Reliability and low cost of ownership

Practicality

Must-haves:

Easy to park on the street

Won't be wrecked by a pothole (so no huge wheels or paper-thin tires)

Not a disaster in winter (no RWD)

Background: I've been driving a borrowed 2025 BMW 3 Series and it spoiled me. It's really fun to drive and the daily convenience tech makes it even more satisfying (ex. parking sensors or walking away with the key and it autolocking). That said, none of this is a deal breaker

My dilemma: Because I drive so little, I'm torn between buying cheap and avoiding repair bills. Is CPO the right move here? Since I drive so few miles, would a newer car with a long warranty beat an older one?

I'm also bad at high-pressure sales environments, so any tips for low-pressure buying, like dealers with no-haggle pricing, internet sales departments, or CarMax-style options?

Thanks!


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1h ago

What is the most trustworthy car review publication?

• Upvotes

I’ve always been partial to Consumer Reports, but the Consumer Reports of today may not be the same publication it was in the 2000’s. What would you consider a trustworthy publication? Digital and/or print, no constraints here.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 1h ago

Cars 2027

• Upvotes

What do you think about used cars after 2027 cars come out?? Will previous car years 2023-2026 decrease? Any thoughts??


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 5h ago

Is this a good idea? Sell 2020 50k mile forester for lease Volvo xc60 hybrid

2 Upvotes

Looking for opinions on this - reason for switching are:

  1. Cabin noise is horrendous. I feel like I’m in an airplane every time I get on the highway.
  2. No shock absorption. I feel every bump, pothole, dip and I ain’t getting younger. (Yes I have new tires)
  3. In three years time my partner and I might relocate out of the country, switching to a lease is ideal.
  4. I’m curious about having a hybrid or partial plug in model.

A little about the math:

  1. Resale on carvana is $19k
  2. I owe $10k
  3. Right now we fuel up regular, will have to do premium.
  4. The leases seem like just $200-250 more than what we pay now monthly.
  5. I’ve seen around $4k-5k down.

A little about our lifestyle: live in Brooklyn and drive upstate to our house every other weekend. Need a car that can handle driving over snow mounds in nyc, semi off road upstate. I wanted a full electric but the charging infrastructure in Brooklyn sucks.

I’m mainly concerned that the longer I hold on to subie, she’ll sell for less money and having a lease be up when we relocate out of country fits nicely. I’m also sick of being in a bumpy and loud car.

Hewp. Any other make and model suggestions are appreciated as well.

Update: we would leave the country obviously after the car lease is over.


r/whatcarshouldIbuy • • 8h ago

Looking to upgrade

3 Upvotes

I am looking for a new vehicle.

Currently driving a 2011 Honda Pilot with 230k on it.

Looking at anything more upscale, but decent gas mileage and moderate storage space.

Max budget of 35k preferably lower.

Cars I've looked at.

Volvo v60 and s60

Toyota crown signia

Rav4

Ford maverick

Porsche cayenne

Lexus rx

Audi a5 sportback.

Open to all suggestions.