Looking for an affordable and  "reliable" used car?  Many sellers on eBay motors claim that their used vehicle is a reliable one.  This means to some of these sellers that their used vehicle can reliably make it off the sales lot---but who knows after that...  Buyers of course have different ideas as to what is considered reliable.  

So, what is an affordable and reliable car?  Is it a car for $1500 that lasts a month without any major problems or is it a $2000 car that has been in an accident or flood but runs like new (for today)???

Time to use some common sense here: A new car is not even a reliable car in many cases. It just happens that the manufacturers warranty makes it seem reliable when the issues that it develops are not subtracted from the customer's pocket.

Consider this: an average new car payment costs $300/month plus full coverage insurance. An average new car lease might be less, but you will pay for mileage in excess of 12000/year.

So, we are at $250/month for a lease or $300/month for a purchase. (Don't forget to add full coverage insurance which is required in both instances).

Now, how long does it take to get to your $1500 budget? Roughly 5 months.

Here is my point---wouldn't you be much better off saving your $1500 for a "dependable ride" for instead a vehicle that you can in all probability drive for more than 5 months without any major problems? YES!!!

The solution begins not at $1500 or $2000, but instead at around $4000. Just remember, you get what you pay for. Reliability costs more than the $1500 or $2000 you are wanting to spend. There are some sellers on eBay that will make the most of your money and some that won't. Research your potential purchase on KBB.com, NADA.com, Edmunds.com.

Check the eBay motors listings carefully. Search for the model and years that you are interested in and sort by mileage. This will give you some insight as to whether or not you are choosing a vehicle that might be to the end of its expected life for its particular engine/transmission.

Some engines do have better performance and reliability than others. Two domestic ones that have a good track record are the GM 3.8 or 3800 and the Ford Duratech 3.0 24 valve (careful---they have a standard 3.0 12 valve too that is not rated as high.) A few to avoid are the Chrysler 2.7 and also many of the domestic 4 cylinders.  Honda, Toyota, and Nissan routinely show up on eBay listings with high mileage.  This means that they have a good power plant also.  And, of course there is BMW and Mercedes.  

Research is the key to stretching your dollar when searching for an affordable and reliable used car. Have a great day and happy car hunting!!!