Buyer’s Guide: List of the Best Used Car Under 2000

Buying a car has always been a challenge for many. It doesn’t matter if it is brand new or second-hand, there are plenty of factors that need to be considered, especially the budget. If you’re working on a tight budget, let’s say $2000 and below, there are still reliable used cars available out there that can get their job done and also fit the bill. 

Buying a used car with a tight budget doesn’t have to be a daunting task. To help you figure out which ones are the hidden gems available in the used market, we have compiled a list of options available for the best used car under 2000:

1. 7th Generation Toyota Corolla

Toyota has proven its worth when it comes to longevity and reliability. No wonder that we’ll start the list with the 7th Generation Toyota Corolla which includes the model year 1993-1997. Toyota Corolla has always been on the low end of the cost spectrum among compact cars which makes it a popular choice for those looking for cheap yet reliable daily transportation. 

The 7th Gen Toyota Corolla might not be the best compared to the newer generations of Toyota Corolla, but they fit the criteria of the best used car that you can buy for under $2000. They have two decades of proven efficiency when it comes to fuel economy and reliability.

The 7th Gen Toyota Corolla are basically durable with engines and powertrains that were carried over from previous generations. They also have good aftermarket support that makes it easy to look for replacement parts. Corrosion might be an issue due to their age but it can be addressed by proper repair and maintenance. Most 7th Gen Toyota Corolla under $2000 available in the market have more than 100,000 on their mileage but you can still use them up to 300,000 miles or more with proper and scheduled maintenance. 

2. 4th Generation Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan with plenty of interior space which makes it a practical family car. The standard powertrain of a Camry makes it fuel-efficient ideal for daily commute and even long road trips. They are considered to be extremely reliable because of its performance and safety enhancements. 

Thanks to the already-affordable MSRP, you won’t have to spend a fortune to get a pre-owned Toyota Camry. You’d be surprised that you’ll find a lot of model years from the 90s and early 2000s widely available for under $2000.  

3. 1st Generation Toyota RAV-4

Another Toyota made the list, but this one is a compact crossover SUV. The Toyota RAV-4 appeals to anyone looking for a vehicle with the benefits of an SUV and a fuel economy of a compact car. The 1st generation of Toyota RAV-4 which includes the model year 1996 to 2001 was constructed with the same platform as Toyota Corolla making it equally as reliable. 

Since it’s a popular vehicle in the US, upgrades can be easily done. Tire selection is also massive, you can improve its off-road use by installing Open Country Toyo tires for example. Looking for a pre-owned AWD RAV-4 for under $2000 can be a challenging task. Although, you can find a pre-owned front-wheel-drive version readily available.

4. Honda Accord

If you’re looking for a roomy sedan that fits your budget, then a Honda Accord may be the right choice for you. There are plenty of pre-owned models from 1996 until the early 2000s that you can buy for $2000 or less. It is highly recommended to go for the ones with the VTEC engine as they tend to run well and last longer. 

Honda Accord was built with good ergonomics. Its double-wishbone suspension improved its stability on the road. The improved handling is also an asset. Replacement parts are cheap and easy to find so you can work on it without problems. It can last for at least 300,000 miles or more with routine maintenance. 

5. 2005 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is another compact crossover SUV that made the list. The model year 2005 is the best model that you could buy for under $2000. Although, most pre-owned Honda CR-V for this price have a mileage of around 120,000 or more. Just like with the Toyota RAV-4, it would be hard to find a used AWD Honda CR-V for that price. A used front-wheel-drive version is widely available and would suffice as long as properly maintained by the previous owner. 

 You’ll be satisfied by its decent handling and reliability.  It also has a smooth engine, good fuel economy, and roomy cargo space and legroom for a comfortable ride. 

 This SUV is surprisingly rugged and tough. Many 4WD have been converted into off-road vehicles since it is easy to install proper off-road equipment to them. You can also change the wheels and tires to accommodate weather-specific tires or off-road tires.  

6. 6th Generation Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is quite a popular family-handed-down car because it’s durable, bulletproof, and inexpensive. You can still spot these old Honda Civic on the road since many still use them. It is a testament to its proven reliability and longevity. 

 Pre-owned 6th Generation Honda Civic from the model year 1996 to 2000 are widely available for under $2000. You can even haggle down the asking price to $1500. It’s a good deal for anyone looking for a pre-owned car. Parts are cheap and plenty too so it is easy to maintain and work on. 

7. Ford Crown Victoria

Ford Crown Victoria is well-known for being widely used by police forces all over the country. This full-size, 4-door sedan has a 4.6-liter V8 engine under the hood and good gas mileage on highways. It has a sturdy build that enables it to withstand many years of usage and countless hours of idling. 

There are ex-interceptors with about 120,000 miles for less than $2000 available if you want more power in terms of performance and longevity. Although there can be issues here and there, they can last for over 250,000 miles if well-taken care of. 

8. Ford Ranger

Who said you can’t buy a truck for only $2000? Ford Ranger is here to be your first choice if you’re looking for the most affordable second-hand mid-size truck. Ford Ranger is a popular alternative utility vehicle because it is inexpensive compared to the Ford F-Series truck and Toyota Tacoma. 

2nd and 3rd Gen Ford Rangers are incredibly sufficient as a work truck and an off-roading truck. They have a towing capacity that ranges from 2300 lb. to 6000 lb. depending on the model year and equipped towing package. They also have a variety of bed and cab configurations that you can choose from. Since there’s a lot of Ford Ranger currently in existence, replacement parts and even truck accessories are widely available and accessible. 

9. Nissan Sentra

The Nissan Sentra is a budget-friendly sedan that appeals to those looking for either sporty or economy driving. While the model year 1995 to 1999 doesn’t have the tech features and amenities of the latest model, they are known to be practical. They have excellent fuel mileage, well-controlled ride, and absence of body noise. 

 Given the low price point, it is easy to look for a pre-owned 1995 to 1999 Nissan Sentra for under $2000. There’s no doubt that it can compete head-on with Toyota and Honda when it comes to value for money. 

10. Nissan Maxima

Emphasized on its distinctive sporty appearance, the Nissan Maxima is a reasonably popular option for those who want a performance car for under $2000. Most Nissan Maxima you can find available for this price are from model years 1995 to 1999.

Nissan Maxima is known to have one of the best engines in its class. It is smooth and quiet and can provide plenty of power at your disposal. The transmission is also silky-smooth for comfortable rides and handling. It can also last long given that it has been properly maintained and serviced regularly.

Looking for a car under $2000 is not an easy task because you need to meticulously search for one that you can use for at least another 100,000 miles. You need to allot time, effort, and research to find the right car in good condition and with the best deal possible. There are always inexpensive pre-owned cars that are still fun to drive available out there.