Helping someone

[CycloneErik]

I know a young college student who is looking at two cars, a 2002 Kia Spectra or a 2002 Ford Focus.

What do you all know about repair costs and such on these? Does one have more issues than the other?

[brianhos]

I would expect the focus is a lot better value in the long run for him.

[cowboycurtis]

these types of cars are built so cheaply that i am suprised either one of them is still in very good shape. These kind of cars start to vibrate, shake and make rattling noises when you drive them off the lot. neither one of them is worth hardly anything. A perfect Focus with less than 80000 miles is lucky to be worth $3000. i would think you could find an accord or altima or something along those lines that would be a lot better

[Tre4ISU]

I know a young college student who is looking at two cars, a 2002 Kia Spectra or a 2002 Ford Focus.

What do you all know about repair costs and such on these? Does one have more issues than the other?

What price range is he in. He can find a better car for the same amount of money. It may be slightly older, but it will be better quality.

[CycloneErik]

Under $4000

[simply1]

2002 Kia Spectra Reliability - MSN Autos

2002 Ford Focus Reliability - MSN Autos

No idea on how many miles they can go though, what mileage are these cars?

[CycloneErik]

both about 75000 miles

[simply1]

2001 Honda Accord LX

1992 Toyota Camry

That said service history is so important, my dad's gone through several chevy cavaliers up or over 175,000 miles with religious oil changes and not a lot else gone wrong. Not for me necessarily, but..

[simply1]

Yeah tough call, I don't know if ford repairs are cheaper due to the number around and manufactured here versus the kia. Probably pretty easy to pick up parts, etc, on the focus.