Looking for a car for my 16yr old

[dan765]

Something that can get to school and back. Maybe trips up to an hour one way. Nothing serious.

Looking at these 3 cars today.

https://www.natewade.com/inventory/...-edition-awd-station-wagon-jf1gh6b60ah828389/

https://www.natewade.com/inventory/...y-2-5i-premium-awd-4dr-car-4s3bmbc65c3037038/

https://www.natewade.com/inventory/used-2008-subaru-impreza-sedan-i-awd-4dr-car-jf1ge61678h521659/

My question is, in general, how reliable are these cars? Any universal issues to look out for? When does the AWD system start to have issues?

 

[slacktide_bitog]

For the lowest priced cars, it's all about condition. You have to take each example individually.

All of those Subarus have the EJ, which is famous for head gasket problems

Subaru started using the FB engine in
2011 on the Forester
2012 on the Impreza
2013 on the Legacy/Outback

The 2011-2013 Forester gets you the new engine with the old transmission. The FB25 and the 4-speed auto (later years is the CVT)

No issues with the AWD itself, but they do eat CV axles due to the side-to-side motion of the engine. Ever want to see *inner* CV joints fail? Check out Subaru

The AWD Matrix/Vibe is another good choice. There's also the Suzuki SX4.

 

[gfh77665]

You live in Charleston, South Carolina, and are buying cheap cars in Utah?

 

[dan765]

You live in Charleston, South Carolina, and are buying cheap cars in Utah?

Sorry, need to change my sig. I’m in Utah now

 

[SC Maintenance]

The 2011-2013 Forester gets you the new engine with the old transmission. The FB25 and the 4-speed auto

So if I ever wanted to try a subi - this would be the one?

 

[ripcord]

There is a pretty good chance of your young driver having a fender bender in their first year. A stout front bumper would be a plus.

I like minivans for young drivers. In my opinion, the least cool of a car for their first one, the better. Slow is really good, too. A minivan makes it clear that cars are for utility, not impressing your friends and doing stupid stuff. They tend to be pretty safe, also, at least for front seat occupants.

The best part is you can make them run all kinds of errands for you with it, too.

 

[dan765]

Here's another one I'm going to look at at the same dealership

https://www.natewade.com/inventory/used-2010-mazda-mazda3-i-touring-fwd-4dr-car-jm1bl1sg1a1153241/

Any general thoughts about this one?

 

[2009Caraman]

Here's another one I'm going to look at at the same dealership

https://www.natewade.com/inventory/used-2010-mazda-mazda3-i-touring-fwd-4dr-car-jm1bl1sg1a1153241/

Any general thoughts about this one?

Can never go wrong with a rust free mazda

 

[OFFRD]

I wouldn't touch an old Subaru unless you like carrying jugs of oil in the trunk.

 

[D60]

The last '11 Forester I serviced with the FB burned a quart every thousand, sometimes worse. It'll teach the kid to check his oil -- or he'll destroy his engine. One or the other.

Best car for a teen is a mini truck, regular cab, 4 cyl, manual trans. Can't fit many friends, none of his friends can drive the manual and the 4cyl is slow.

A minivan is a PARTAY and get-laid wagon. He can pile 12 friends in there (I did it with my parents' '91 Caravan when I used to sneak out and steal the van -- true story. Wasn't cool enough to get laid, though)

 

[dadto2]

The last '11 Forester I serviced with the FB burned a quart every thousand, sometimes worse. It'll teach the kid to check his oil -- or he'll destroy his engine. One or the other.

Best car for a teen is a mini truck, regular cab, 4 cyl, manual trans. Can't fit many friends, none of his friends can drive the manual and the 4cyl is slow.

A minivan is a PARTAY and get-laid wagon. He can pile 12 friends in there (I did it with my parents' '91 Caravan when I used to sneak out and steal the van -- true story. Wasn't cool enough to get laid, though)

Truck is a good idea for limited passengers. My kid drives a Ranger that is the same year as him lol.

Careful though... Kids can cram in. I fit 9 people and 2 half kegs in my Chevette one time when I was in college.

 

[dan765]

H

I wouldn't touch an old Subaru unless you like carrying jugs of oil in the trunk.

How old is old?

 

[02SE]

The 200 mph tape on the first one, adds a sporty flare.

 

[Nukeman7]

Here's another one I'm going to look at at the same dealership

https://www.natewade.com/inventory/used-2010-mazda-mazda3-i-touring-fwd-4dr-car-jm1bl1sg1a1153241/

Any general thoughts about this one?

Assuming they are in similar condition, pick Mazda over Subaru every day...unless it is snowing.

 

[ripcord]

Assuming they are in similar condition, pick Mazda over Subaru every day...unless it is snowing.

An old tow truck driver ounce told me that AWD just helps you get further into the ditch.

 

[02SE]

Assuming they are in similar condition, pick Mazda over Subaru every day...unless it is snowing.

Salt Lake City CAN get some big snow storms, but they also have serious serious snow removal equipment. There are traction laws which can take effect in the canyons during snow storms where the vehicle needs to have appropriate tires, 4wd/AWD, chains, etc.

 

[zzyzzx]

Obligatory:

 

[Nukeman7]

Salt Lake City CAN get some big snow storms, but they also have serious serious snow removal equipment. There are traction laws which can take effect in the canyons during snow storms where the vehicle needs to have appropriate tires, 4wd/AWD, chains, etc.

Absolutely agree with AWD Subaru for the snow belt. I suggested the Mazda 3 FWD since the O.P. is in South Carolina.

 

[gfh77665]

The Mazda for sure.

 

[RooflessVW]

There is a pretty good chance of your young driver having a fender bender in their first year. A stout front bumper would be a plus.

I like minivans for young drivers. In my opinion, the least cool of a car for their first one, the better. Slow is really good, too. A minivan makes it clear that cars are for utility, not impressing your friends and doing stupid stuff. They tend to be pretty safe, also, at least for front seat occupants.

The best part is you can make them run all kinds of errands for you with it, too.

I would have had plenty of "fun" with a minivan in HS.