American Motors/advice

Advertisement

Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 7/13/2005


Question
Hello

  I am looking for a used american car for 2 to 5 thousand $'s, I need a small car that can save gas and last long time with fewer problems, please give me some makes and models that can fit my description.

Thanks for help

Fars  Karam

Answer
To be honest with you, I couldn't suggest an American car that fits your description. Per Consumer Reports, the most reliable used cars in your price range are:
Toyota Corolla/Geo Prism  1997-2000
Mazda protege 1997-1998
Nissan Sentra 1997-1998
Nissan Altima 1997-1998
Honda Civic 1997-1998
Toyota Echo ALL years
Toyota Camry 1994-1996 (4 cylinder)
All of these cars are capable of getting 30-40 mpg and have proven to be reliable, providing the previous owner has maintained them. Regardless of what you buy, bring it to a qualified auto mechanic for an inspection BEFORE you buy it. By paying a mechanic to inspect it before you buy, it could save you from getting a lemon. Try to find a garage and mechanic that are ASE certified, very important. Good Luck.
Kevin

American Motors

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Kevin Pilotte

Expertise

I can answer many technical questions relating to AMC vehicles prior to 1979. I also have experience with Rambler & Nash vehicles.

Experience

I am a former AMC technician, service writer and service manager. I have worked in AMC dealers in Illinois in the 70's. After college, I was a Field Service Rep for American Motors Sales Corporation, working out of the Chicago Zone office. I traveled to AMC dealers assisting in the diagnosis and repair of AMC vehicles. I was also the Area Training Manager for DeLorean Motor Company. I have 10+ years as an Automotive Instructor. I have modified and restored
numerous AMC vehicles. I have been working on AMC vehicles for over 30 years.

Organizations
I have been an ASE Certified Master Technician since 1975. This includes L1. I am also currently a Toyota Certified Master Diagnostic Technician.

Publications
I have articles in "American Motoring", the official publication of the American Motors Owners Association. They are the largest AMC club in the world.

Education/Credentials
I have a certificate I printed out from a website.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.