Brian said:
I am going to look into what you said about getting a classic used Prius. I think that it would be a great investment. And then save some for college. Great idea. I will let you know how that goes along after I look at a few.
One problem with the previous Prius is that it is a small sedan with a non-folding back seat. That can be a hassle to a college student who moves around a lot (i.e. moves his/her stuff between different dormitories, apartments, etc.).
In the realm of used cars, try to learn all about the makes and models in question, so that you can inspect them for problems. Especially learn about what important maintenance should be done on them, so you can find out whether a particular car has had the maintenance done. Once a car passes initial inspection, it may be a good idea to have it inspected by a mechanic who knows that kind of car.
If the used car you are considering is still available new (not redesigned), you may want to test drive a new one so that you can compare used ones that you test drive.
Some other used car hints:
* Does the car have the owner's manual, all keys, radio code (if needed), wheel lock key (if needed), spare tire, and tools?
* Does the car have maintenance records? (be especially careful if there are no records and the car is still under factory warranty, since if the dealer you take it to for warranty service determines that the failure was due to lack of maintenance, you won't have anything in your favor)
* Are the tires a matched set with even wear and no strange wear patterns? Are they the correct size and specification (load rating, pressure rating, speed rating) for the car?
* Under the hood, are all fluids at the correct level, and are the correct color? (many companies use special coolant rather than the generic green stuff; if the car you are considering needs special coolant, make sure that the correct color coolant is in it)
* Are there any signs of repaired crash damage? (one obvious indicator is a bent or damaged rear license plate)
* Do the check-engine and airbag lights light up when starting, then go out? (problems indicated by these lights tend to be expensive to fix)