So I need to buy a car. I don't want to spend very much because I don't drive much at all (approx 6K miles/year) and I don't give a crap about my car. I'm not worried about payments, but I really am not a car guy at all, so I refuse to spend very much money.

I'm looking for a car that can a) get me from place to place reliably, b) will last me at least 5 years, and c) will cost under $12K.

Does anyone have any tips on buying a used car? I could go higher in price but I really don't want to. i would love advice on makes, models, years, negotiating, or anything else involved with buying an auto from the secondary market. Any and all advice is sought and welcomed.

find someone that goes to auctions and get it there. Saved me 6K under bluebook value

buy the biggest suv you can find. Serious advice. They are selling for so cheap right now because everyone is afraid of the gas prices that the gas prices will never catch up to you. This is especially true with the amount that you claim to drive.

Another nice tool is the Kelly Blue Book.

You can go in here and get an actual idea of what a used vehicle should be selling for in your area. Shop around for something you like, go home and check the KBB price and see if the dealer is close or not and if it is something you want you have this information to use while you are talking to the dealer.

Also, never be afraid to walk away and leave a used car salesperson. The last thing they want you to do is leave without buying and will keep trying to sell you until you do leave. If you know what the honest value of a car is, you have a better chance of walking away with a fair deal.

The SUV purchase is not without merit either. If you really do not do a lot of driving this is a great idea.

Buy a 2-3 yr old Toyota Camry imo. Best investment I've ever made.

Check for new cars in your used car price range. They have warranties and are hurting so bad for business right now that they are giving spectacular deals. Some are even giving lifetime extended warranties for free.

For just a couple of grand more consider a brand new Nissan Versa or Honda Fit. Very economical, reliable, and driver friendly.