Best Second Hand Cars For College Students

Having your own car as a college student is not necessary, but a convenience you’ll enjoy especially if you live outside campus. If you also happen to work far from where you live, you’ll save time from having to travel to and from work, campus and your home. However, having a car as a student can affect your finances and this is a big decision that you should take time to think about.

Top Things to Consider When Having a Car During College

Here are a few things to prepare for if you are buying a car while studying in college.

Paying for Insurance Premiums

If you have a car, you will need to insure it. Student car insurance can be costly. However, if your car is included in a family insurance coverage, a decrease in your monthly premiums can be enjoyed.

Parking Costs

Having a car on campus means you’ll have to use the parking space inside or near the campus. Parking permits can set you back around $583 per year in areas near or on campus.

Maintenance Costs and Emission Checks

Another thing to consider when having a car as a student is the cost of maintaining one. Regular tune ups, emission checks and occasional repair costs build up in time. If you prefer having your car washed by someone else, it does build up in costs too. On top of that the cost of gas and toll gates can cause a dent on your budget too.

Top Second Hand Cars Ideal for College Students

There are a few downsides, especially when it comes to your finances in having a car. However, the pros of having one is quite considerable too. It provides you regular transportation in and out of campus. You can make it a side hustle if you consider carpooling or using it for work. It is also your ticket to going home anytime you want too, as long as you have gas to fuel your drive. 

Here are some of the best second hand cars perfect for college students.

Mazda 3

The first generation models of the Mazda 3 are top-rated and high-quality compact cars. Even with age, they still look sharp, stylish and very versatile.

Mazdas are known to be created to stand out, thus you’ll get to enjoy several luxurious features, now on a discounted and more affordable car. Price range for Mazdas from 2004 to 2009 starts at $4,000 and can go as high as $15,000. If you are looking to spend less than $10,000 on a car, this would be a great buy to consider.

Honda CR-V

Spacious, versatile, and efficient are just a few of the adjectives that you can use to describe the Honda CR-V. Models from 2002 to 2006 fall on the  $4,900 to $13,000 price tag.

You can easily find a well-maintained 10-year old model at a price below $10,000. A great feature this car includes is the cargo area. The cargo floor can double as a picnic table.  It is the perfect on campus and off campus car for you. Whether you’re loading up books and projects on the back or going on a hike during the weekend, this car will serve you well.

Toyota Corolla

One of the most reliable brands and best selling cars in the world is the Toyota Corolla. It is perfect for teens and college students with its handy size and reliability.

If you are up for a fancier car, this is not the car for you. But if your aim is to stay low key and simply enjoy a decent ride you can use for school and for work, this is just the perfect.

Newer models from 2014 to 2017 start at $13,000 to $18,000. However, if you go for older models, you can easily get a well-kept Corolla below $10,000.

Again if you are prepared for the responsibility and the additional expenses of maintaining a car, having one during your college years would be so convenient. You can easily have late night study sessions and still be able to go home, safe and secure at the comfort of your private vehicle.

You can drive home anytime you want without worrying about booking a train ride in advance. Having a car gives you accessibility and extra comfort during a challenging, yet fun and memorable chapter of your life.