Help with Budget and buying used Yaris

[klemmaniac]

Originally Posted by invader166

This is a bit of a dilemma...

Since you're considering a 3000+ mile ocasional trip, I stongly suggest avoiding the bare-basic CE trim Toyota models. No cruise control on a trip like that will not make your left foot happy...

However, a 3rd gen. Yaris with low milage in an LE trim, might be over your budget.

My advice, don't be afraid of higher milage on these 3rd gen. sub-compact cars from Honda or Toyota. They are built to last. Maintenance and upkeep, will not burn a hole in your pocket unless the vehicle wasn't properly maintained in the past. Just make sure you do a thorough inspection, and research about common problems, rust spots, maintenance history etc. to help you make an informed decision.

Be especially weary of previous accidents. With 2 accidents on file on my 2009 Yaris, before I bought it, let me tell you, i still can't het my front bumper to sit as it should...

Ok I'll definitely look for a model with cruise control - thank for the tip. I thought I might be being too conservative with my mileage limit of 30-40k. I've read other posts from owners who said that theirs was around 100k or more and didn't need anything but routine maintenance/oil. I'm think I should up my mileage limit to around 80k - does that sound reasonable for still having a good shot at minimal maintenance issues for a good while? At what mileage would you stop considering a listing if you were in my shoes?

Also I found a decent deal on a '15 model but it's made in France which worries me a bit. I'm reading about complaints on the interior materials - lack of durability, easily breaks, and also about parts being installed incorrectly at the factory. What was the last model made in Japan? 2013?

To the other poster thanks for the link but rentals are out of the question. I can't afford to take the risk.