Single Mum Needing Reliable Car Advice – Budget Around $25k, Tall Teen, Need Space & Warranty

magicalyogi on 09/05/2025 - 10:11

Hi everyone,

I'm a single mum with two pre-teen boys (one already 5'10" tall at 12!), and I’m in urgent need of a reliable, long-term vehicle that can accommodate growing kids. I’ve been driving a 14-year-old car that's now costing $2–3k every year in repairs, and it's due for another job I just can’t justify anymore.

I’ve saved up and can ideally spend around $20,000, but I’m willing to stretch up to $25,000–$30,000 if it truly means long-term reliability with a warranty, because I really can’t afford major repair costs down the line. Not working at the moment but managing expenses carefully with savings and support.

I'd love your thoughts on:

  • Best value new or demo cars for families with tall kids and long trips
  • Hybrid or electric cars – are they really more cost-effective long-term?
  • Where to sell my current car (for the best price) – it's old but still running
  • Any dealers or trusted brands with good aftercare service and warranties

Also – if anyone here works in the car industry, or knows someone trustworthy who deals with buying/selling used cars, I’d love some guidance. Just want to make sure I don’t get taken advantage of and can get a fair price for my current car. I’m in Melbourne and happy to share details via DM if that helps.

I’m a high DV survivor and currently dealing with a tough ex in court – I don’t need sympathy, just kindness and practical advice as I’m juggling a lot emotionally and financially. I feel a bit fragile right now due to a recent situation, so please be gentle if replying.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help. I really appreciate your time and any suggestions 🙏

Automotive Car

Comments

    • TEER3X on 09/05/2025 - 21:35
      +1

      One extra person perhaps?

    • Jazmin79 on 10/05/2025 - 09:19
      +4

      Because she is doing it on her own. No partner to rely on. The responsibility is solely on her.

      Btw, OP, well done on this inquiry. I am saving for future reference. I am a mum of three teens. I applaud you for raising your babies single-handedly. I can’t imagine how much that takes out of you but I know you are one amazing strong person and your kids will always be grateful for you. If you ever need a friend to text, PM me. I am in Melbourne too. 🫶🏼

      • MS Paint on 10/05/2025 - 09:33
        +2

        There are plenty of married women with partners that have absolutely no idea about cars as well but I take your point.

      • magicalyogi on 10/05/2025 - 22:49
        +1

        @Jasmin79 Thank you! With joined hands. Happy Mother's day in hands :)

  • 2jzzzz on 09/05/2025 - 14:03
    +3

    Outlander? As new as you can?

    • jv on 09/05/2025 - 14:24
      -1

      Outlander?

      "There can be only one"…

      • JimB on 09/05/2025 - 14:44
        +1

        That's a Toyota not Mitsubishi.

        In Australia & Japan, they call it the Kluger. Everywhere else in the world, it's called by a different name.

        • jv on 09/05/2025 - 14:46
          -1

          That's a Toyota not Mitsubishi.

          of the Clan MacLeod?

          • o0o on 09/05/2025 - 20:41
            +3

            @jv: lol you two are confusing me so here's my 2c

            Outlander is TV series (Jamie & Claire Fraser) and Mitsubishi have an Outlander SUV,
            Highlander (there can be only one) catchphrase is the Toyota Kluger in AU/JP, Toyota Highlander elsewhere and Movie = Connor MacLeod played by Christopher Lambert
            Hyundai though has the rights to "Highlander" in AU and is considered a variant ie Hyundai Tucson HIGHLANDER
            Toyota used to have a Hilux Highlander as well to make it more confusing.

            • tenpercent on 09/05/2025 - 20:45
              +1

              @o0o: And Outlander the TV series is about the (Scottish) highlander named Jamie Fraser who also has ties to clan MacKenzie (not clan MacLeod).

  • Kongzi on 09/05/2025 - 16:18
    -3

    B Y D

    • MS Paint on 09/05/2025 - 16:55
      +2

      Bring Your Daddy?

      • Kongzi on 09/05/2025 - 17:23
        +4

        Burn Your Dream

      • SJDR on 22/05/2025 - 20:46

        Bang Your Daddy

  • Benoffie on 09/05/2025 - 16:58
    +1

    I would say Toyota RAV4 but will instead say look for a Camry Hybrid.

    Why? RAVs have larger tyres (well, most do. Who really puts 17s on their RAV?). If it's just cabin space you're chasing, then the Camry is a great option.

    Also try government auctions. Just be mindful to check the agency it was owned by

    • tenpercent on 09/05/2025 - 20:31

      Any particular agencies to avoid?

      • Benoffie on 09/05/2025 - 21:07
        +1

        Think of all the ones that do dirty work vs clean work.

        Avoid agencies like CPS, DfE - teachers are pigs (as a teacher, I take my own wipes to work - foul beasts)

        Obviously, ones like Forestry etc are out bush etc.

        In SA it's a bit harder. Everything is run through FleetSA, so unless it's disclosed, you'd just want a thorough inspection.

  • Bignudge on 09/05/2025 - 18:15
    +9

    I can't offer much advice, but all I can say is stay far far away from a Holden Captiva or Cruze.

    That is all.

    EDIT: Also a Tiguan 2009 - 2011 Tiguan

    • Drakesy on 10/05/2025 - 17:05
      +3

      Or just any Holden or vw for that matter.

    • JimB on 12/05/2025 - 22:46

      I doubt they would want to trade in their 14yo car for a 14 to 16yo Tiguan or even older Craptiva or Cruze.

  • F-Storm on 09/05/2025 - 18:47
    +5

    Kia Cerato GT (or Sport +) heaps leg room in the back. 7 Year warranty from new. The GT gearbox does not like driving in start / stop traffic though. I would target 2022 plus models , leaves you warranty until 2029 and that was the last update for them. Oct 22 builds or greater which is the MY23 models.

    Although any cars you do look at , I would suggest check out ReDriven YouTube channel for the car you are considering.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OaZmRdMkGY

    • cameldownunder on 09/05/2025 - 21:48

      We have a very tall son, and we got a Kia Cerato 2021, 60K for 20K. With the extra safety package. If it runs like our 2008 Kia Sportage we will be very happy.
      Back passenger fit ok, would say 4 adults and no more.
      How to calculate the value of a cerato : 27K - 1K per 1000Km and 1 K per year
      vauation of out car 29K - 6K ( km ) - 4K ( age ) = 19K - Then try to get as close as possible to that

    • Flutterby on 10/05/2025 - 20:39

      "GT gearbox does not like driving in start / stop traffic"

      Dual clutch. Would avoid it personally.

    • Matt P on 11/05/2025 - 12:17

      Agree with Flutterby, avoid anything with a dual clutch. That said, new (old shape) Cerato base model brand new. Bargain hard. Should be able to be had mid 20s. Cheap to service. 7 year warranty.

  • Killswitchx77 on 09/05/2025 - 20:03
    +12

    Hey,
    Hope all is ok with you, sounds like you have been through a lot.
    I am a car-guy and have multiple friends who are mechanics.
    When your looking for something reliable with minimal unplanned maintenance, your best bet is to get something Japanese (Toyota, Honda, Mazda) with a simple Engine/Gearbox setup. Think, no turbo, no diesel etc.

    Give your kids are quite tall and will likely keep growing, my suggestion would be:
    Honda CRV 2.5
    Mazda CX5 2.5
    Toyota Rav4 / Camry

    Your best bet is to pay a little extra and buy from a larger dealership (ideally the same brand as the car) as they will generally only sell very clean "honest" examples. Ensure they have full service history.

    You will likely be able to get one of the above with some kind of warranty, but keep in mind that they are overall very reliable cars with tried and proven engines/gearboxes.

    Wish you all the best.

    • magicalyogi on 09/05/2025 - 20:42

      @Killswitchx77 Thank you so much! Would you recommend Honda HRV, considering the price is lower than CRV?

      • Killswitchx77 on 09/05/2025 - 21:21
        +1

        Yes the Honda HRV is a good car, its a little smaller than CRV, but if its big enough for you and the kids you cant go wrong with it.

  • Blargman2001 on 09/05/2025 - 20:31
    +1

    Rather than getting a used car or rolling the dice with a Chinese brand, a new Mitsubishi ASX is in your price range. You can get a demo for less than $30k and they come with the peace of mind of a 10 year warranty if serviced with Mitsubishi. Four average sized adults can fit comfortably inside. The technology inside isn't the newest, they don't drive as well as other brands but being a mature design also means they are also pretty reliable.

    • bhubb18 on 10/05/2025 - 12:30

      Depending on what you're taking ASX might be a little on the small side, but Outlander is a good option too.

      Boring AF, but fairly good in most other regards

  • kaleidoscope on 09/05/2025 - 20:51
    +3

    Any recommendations you shortlist from this thread, please do a test drive to get the feel for it and space. Good luck with everything else going on in your personal space. Its really tough these days

    • magicalyogi on 09/05/2025 - 20:52

      Thank you so much! Will do

      • kaleidoscope on 09/05/2025 - 20:54
        +1

        Also,

        (I use a vw tiguan and an entry level demo or previous year model could fit your budget). Compared to rav4 i feel more comfortable in it.

        Spec ups are mostly for higher power and more bells and whistles which you might not need. One thing i like with vw is even the entry level models have most of the tech similar to top trim

        • magicalyogi on 09/05/2025 - 21:04

          Thank you!

          • miwahni on 10/05/2025 - 01:25
            +2

            @magicalyogi: Just be aware I talked to my mechanic about a car from the VW stable and he gave me the following advice:
            1. Buy new
            2. Sell before warranty expires
            3. Don't bring to him for issues.

            So there's that…

            • Killswitchx77 on 10/05/2025 - 08:37
              +1

              @miwahni: Yes thats solid advice, over time they generally start to have maintenance issues. Brilliant cars to drive though when new and under warranty, I've owned a Golf and did exactly that. If expensive repairs are not something you want to risk, best not to buy one or keep one out of warranty

              • Matt P on 11/05/2025 - 12:29

                @Killswitchx77: VW you have to pick your engine/transmission combinations carefully. Wet clutch & 2l turbo petrol/diesel are usually the best/most reliable combinations.

                Either way, single mother no/single income i wouldn't recommend (coming from someone who owns 3)

                • Killswitchx77 on 11/05/2025 - 23:28

                  @Matt P: Yeah agreed, I have owned a wet clutch 2.0T model, no real issues either but I had it from new and sold before warranty ended

    • magicalyogi on 09/05/2025 - 21:31

      thank you!

      • Frankensnore on 11/05/2025 - 17:33
        +1

        of the above the one that is best suited to your requirements is mg zst, its under 25k, fits tall kids because its suv, and has ten years warranty.

        while it has ten year’s warranty, its not japanese cars though…. meaning you may experience issues but hey its under warranty….

    • TEER3X on 09/05/2025 - 21:34

      Hyundai is Korean, though yeah, they do also manufacture in China among other countries.

      • congo on 09/05/2025 - 22:26

        Yeah I know. I got the Elantra trophy myself, under $25K new, but that was many years ago.

  • monty168 on 09/05/2025 - 21:23
    -1

    used EV, one with low mileage and still under factory warranty.

  • SanguinarySeraph on 09/05/2025 - 23:08
    +1

    Camry or Mazda 6 (not diesel) for leg room - newer model under warranty with higher mileage as long as the service history is good.

    Service history is key for mechanicals. I’d be less concerned about a 2yr car with 100k on it than a 10yr car with 20k on it.

  • loropy9 on 10/05/2025 - 00:18

    To get a price on your car go on carsales and check the cars atound your area with similar kms and age to your car. Sell it privately, cash in hand.

  • recpippu on 10/05/2025 - 00:56

    I will give two suggestions different from the popular list
    1. 2020+ ford escape. Still in warranty, and spacious for your kids. Prices are low due to the model going out of sale in AU. 2.0l ecoboost powertrain is mostly reliable and there are reports (from USA) of this car/power train crossing 100000 miles already without any issues. I own one too.

    1. Suzuki Scross. - again this vehicle is not a commercial success in AU, but a lot of mechanicals are shared with other Suzuki cars like Vitara.

    Go and look for a 2-3 year old 20-40000 km driven one owner car with a 30-35 percentage depreciation from new car price.

  • Kidder on 10/05/2025 - 01:15
    +2

    2nd hand petrol CX5, without doubt.
    Industry experience.
    3 mates plus me run KE (2012-2016) CX5’s, now at 155-250KMs as baby / wife cars.
    They’re cockroaches, you can’t kill them and they also drive like hatchbacks.
    Cheap servicing too, cause nothing ever breaks…

    • Killswitchx77 on 10/05/2025 - 08:35
      +1

      My wife has the KF, same experience and I encouraged my sister in law to pick up a used KE. She has been very happy with it, also no issues

  • THICKnSLOW on 10/05/2025 - 05:34

    Based on your scenario, I would look at a 2nd hand Honda Jazz from 2010 onwards with a decent service history. It has lots of space for tall kids, frugal on fuel, simple to service with available spare parts.

    Why not keep existing car and pay for repairs for the next 10 or so years with the $30k though?

    • Matt P on 11/05/2025 - 12:31

      to your last point - more likely to be left stranded. Low value second hand car now that is 10 years older will be worth scrap. At least a new $30k car now will be worth 10k in 10 years time. More modern safety with a young family etc.. plus when the eldest is learning to drive (and thus more likely to make a mistake) the car will be safer.

  • Enterz on 10/05/2025 - 06:41

    You can get a reliable car for $5000, just get a mechanical inspection before you buy. Then the max cost of any repair is under $5k as you could just buy another one. Subaru Outback is my daily driver and very reliable and lots of space

  • Overclocked91 on 10/05/2025 - 07:44

    RAV4 for sure. Worth the money. 2016-2017 model

  • dono2 on 10/05/2025 - 07:44
    +2

    Ozbargin people seem to love the Chinese cars, I wouldn't touch them personally.

    Look to the car auctions in your state Pickels etc. Can get some great deals there on 1-3+ years cars.

    Pay for the price history database, look up what the cars you want are going for at the auctions, then you have a price guide to work off.

    • bhubb18 on 10/05/2025 - 12:32

      Even with long warranties on them, service can be dismal and getting parts is another issue in itself - Let alone questionable build quality (which is admittedly improving a lot with time)

      • Drakesy on 12/05/2025 - 00:45

        Keep in mind even Japanese brands have huge waitlists for parts at the moment.

  • SuperMid on 10/05/2025 - 07:51

    Newer model ford mondeo station wagon for tall kids

    • bhubb18 on 10/05/2025 - 12:33

      Pretty sure the gearboxes in these are atrocious. My dad had a mondeo, and while it was nice it just never felt like a car that made sense to me haha. YMMV though, was just a little too oddball for me with weird controls etc.

  • casho on 10/05/2025 - 08:39

    Subaru XV is good value and has lots of rear legroom

    • bhubb18 on 10/05/2025 - 12:34

      Pretty small boot though.
      Forester is a good upgrade, bit more power. Outback is another good option but they are pretty big (but then you get a huge cabin and boot too).

      Subaru CVTs have some poor history, and they are definitely thirstier than other 4 cylinders in the same categories too

      • 2025 on 10/05/2025 - 23:13

        Outbacks seem to fly under the radar for a lot of people when comparing SUVs, no one realises how roomy they are, and that the rear cargo space is larger than a lot of SUV shaped vehicles.

        Sadly though, the new vehicle pricing starts beyond OPs range, and their 5 year warranty is a bit of a let down, which makes used even less attractive due to the small remaining balance of the warranty.

  • Parasite on 10/05/2025 - 09:37

    Just to provide a perspective on the EV. I drive an EV now and spend around 1/10 of what I used to on fuel. For me it's been a game changer but they won't suit everyone.

    You can get a used MG ZS EV or Hyundai Ioniq in the mid to low 20's with not that many kilometres on the dial. Used EVs have also already taken a big depreciation hit.

    Caveats being you need to be able to charge at home ideally with a smart meter to access the low off peak electricity rates (and also be able to charge at times the off peak rates are available). If you have access to solar even better. Car insurance might be higher, servicing should be cheaper depending on what EV you buy.

    You also need to have a good idea of how many kilometres you drive on a daily basis and if you would be able to replenish this amount in the off peak charging window.

    If you are renting and envisage having to change properties without access to a PowerPoint this would also be a consideration.

    If you are going to road trip often away from home using public charging then there isn't a huge difference in savings from petrol.

    For me 95% of my driving is close to home so odd time I may have to use a public charger on a road trip isn't that much of an issue, the savings the rest of the time make up for it.

  • CL123 on 10/05/2025 - 10:50

    I did not read all the above comments so sorry if I am repeating what others have said.

    I have been looking at the longest warranty vehicles that usually also come with set price servicing and continuing road service if you get the yearly services and for 10 years there is Mitsubishi and MG. Apparently a search also says Nissan is 10 years although I was not aware of that.

    I also got this from a search - In Australia, several car brands offer a 7-year warranty on their new vehicles. These include Kia, GWM/Haval, Skoda, and SsangYong. I thought BYD was also 7 but comes up at 6.

    I like the idea of long warranties and set price servicing as you can budget for that and 7 - 10 years is a great time frame to pretty much know the costs financially.

    I have no idea of models especailly those that will accomodate very tall teens but I would say these are the brands to look for if you want the certainty of warranty and costs. I have also seen with some manufacturers you can pre buy servicing for at least 5 years ahead of time and i believe that includes parts but may differ from brands.

    I also have an old car (27 year old KIA) and while she still works, I can't drive her far without an engine light coming on. This is very restrictive but I don't feel it is worth the costs to repair whatever the issue is or for someone to spend time finding the exact issues. I love my car and have an issue giving her up since she does still work so I Haven't made up my mind what I will do yet but just keeping my eyes open to a good deal and something that inspires me to make the move.

    Good luck in your search and also with your personal situation. I hope you can eventually work out whatever you have to in your favour and you can take that stress and pressure off and finally relax and be at peace. Take good care and best wishes. :-)

    • magicalyogi on 10/05/2025 - 10:57
      +1

      Thank you so much for your kind words. Totally agree with this part - I do feel that the warranty part of a new car seems to remove a lot of stress I am handling with the repairs of the current old car.

      • Frankensnore on 11/05/2025 - 17:35
        +1

        just be mindful though , chinese cars are still young on the market.

        you may have trouble claiming your warranties.

      • CL123 on 20/05/2025 - 10:39

        Hi @magicalyogi. I'd love to know what you end up buying when you do and the reasons behind your decision. While I don't have the height issue I am still keeping an eye out for a new car myself and with all this research you are doing it will be helpful for me to know any pros/cons you found with certain vehicles in your price range and what got you over the line with what you decided on.

        No pressure. Just if you have time. Thanks. :-)

      • SJDR on 22/05/2025 - 20:53
        +1

        Please, for the love of God, do not buy a Chinese car (EV's excepted, possibly).
        There's been some great advise in this thread re: Japanese cars or Korean (Hyundai/Kia).
        Sure an MG may have a long warranty but you do not want the hassle of it being back at the dealer half the time while they give you the runaround.

  • Cyphar on 10/05/2025 - 10:55
    +2

    I bought Suzuki Ignis and my two teenagers, one 6'3, the other 6'4 sit comfortably in it with leg room even when I drive, and I'm 6'2. It's high up like the smaller SUV's and has decent boot room. The back seats fold down too. The Ignis is ending this year, but Suzuki are good with maintaining it. You can get a near new model for $18k. It's easy to maintain too. Very little under the hood. I highly recommend it! I also get about 700km out of it on a full tank which costs me about $40-$50 to fill.

  • Lastchancetosee on 10/05/2025 - 11:04

    Great to see a help me find a car post with so much detail for a change.

  • fairyflossgrapes on 10/05/2025 - 12:10

    Hi OP. Not super knowledgeable on the car side of things but I'd suggest one of the ones with a longer warranty if you can get new/near new (eg: Mitsu, Kia, etc).

    Just wanted to say I'm sorry to read about everything else going on your life and if you aren't already, please reach out to services like Orange Door and Good Shepherd who can support you through the court process. You may also be able to engage a free lawyer through your local community legal centre or Legal Aid if you haven't already done so. Good luck with everything!

  • Joda on 10/05/2025 - 12:34

    The fuel consumption is 13.2 l at the moment

    What car do you have?
    Depending on the car and whats wrong with it - fixing it up might be better value in the long run.

  • LSGH on 10/05/2025 - 14:31

    if you have a garage with a powerpoint…look at the used Atto 3s

  • Aerith-Waifu on 10/05/2025 - 15:23

    Just don’t get a BMWX1…….

  • Bearlion on 10/05/2025 - 17:48

    it's clear the rav4 is out if budget so go kia or hyandai

    • Flutterby on 10/05/2025 - 20:44

      Their gear box is a concern. The usual dual clutch issue.

  • ChickenAdobo on 10/05/2025 - 18:23

    Demo 2024 mg4 excite 51 can be found at less than 30k. They would be 10 years warranty on them.

  • Trying2SaveABuck on 10/05/2025 - 19:03

    25k - if you want new hit up one of the Chinese budget Ice cars
    MG or Haval BOTH have long warrenties and good entry points for pricing

    if you want a 2nd hand car anything Japanese with a decent service history CRV, RAV4, X-trail etc you could get a few years old for something in the 20-25k range

    out of European cars these are 'often' the most expensive to maintain but a VW tiguan or Skoda kodiaq might also work

  • ReaperX22 on 10/05/2025 - 19:26
    +1

    One thing to be wary of. Any used car can still have problems you don't see until it's too late..

    My friend got a relatively low km CRV (much older and cheaper than you're looking at) but needed a handful of things done to bring it up 'to spec'.

    I would keep your budget closer to 20k and put aside a couple grand to get a service done (so you know the proper intervals and that it was done properly, even if the last one was only a few months ago 'supposedly' unless they have receipts to provide)

    And also assume something like tyres might need replacing in some cases, and keep in mind the km already driven, some cars might be closer to their major service than others, which will creep up on you faster than you'd expect.

    Others have recommended most cars I would've already (Honda hrv/crv, older hrv is pretty dated and compact but probably more room than you expect it to. Any good sized Toyota etc. Forester was mentioned too, though ensure it's had any transmission servicing done on time).

  • justgooddeals on 10/05/2025 - 19:46

    Mitsubishi ASX 1-2 years old or Suzuki Vitara 2-3 years old.

    Only brand new cars for under $25K that might be good for small family (think Kia Picanto too small) are Haval Jolion, MG ZST Vibe or Chery Tiggo 4.

    Pick of those new cars would be Chery Tiggo 4

  • Flutterby on 10/05/2025 - 20:42
    +1

    https://www.sydneycitysuzuki.com.au/specials/

    Boring car, but Suzuki is rather bullet proof - Vitara should be on offer for a few K less at dealership for 2024. Simply no one wants them.

  • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 10/05/2025 - 20:50

    OP, get a couple of year old Toyota Camry Hybrid.
    I own the sports one, very cheap to run (does over 1500 km for me for about AUD 150 using premium fuel approx 65 L- so approx 10 cents a KM), cheap to service, had plenty of space and comfortable even for tall teens. I am filling once every two or three months, as I don't drive too much.
    All the best.

  • acersaurus on 10/05/2025 - 22:31
    +1

    I'd go the Camry from 2012 or newer, you don't even need to spend $20k. You could spend $14k for one with less than 150,000kms.

    Benefits:

    Bulletproof reliability.
    5 star ANCAP, 5 star used car safety ratings.
    Good fuel economy of 7.8l/combined in the version from 2012.
    Decent legroom.

  • Paolo89ita on 11/05/2025 - 06:13

    Depend on how many km you doing a day .

    I bought from Auction 2020 Nissan leaf , considering even over 1000$ delivery to get door to door , in the end costed me 19.000$ driveway .

    Had only 28.000 km , basically like a new car even the smell, had all service and still have 3 years warranty on battery and 5 years warranty on the car.

    The problem with warranty you need do service and I believe the cost of the service during the years could cost more of the warranty worth .

    I used to do service my self on my Audi and Mercedes and save probably over 10.000$ in 10 year , basically for me always has been worth to buy car with 4-5 years and low km , to be still relatable and without need of warranty , and cost half price of new and with the savings of service the difference become huge in 10 years.

    With The Nissan leaf , for what I see looks like doesn’t need a real service , the service looks like is more about checks but not about replacing things , in the end I think have only liquid cooler, service should be cheaper compared to petrol or diesel.

    Of coarse all part like tyres and braking when needed and Air condition filter.
    In theory ev car should be more reliable , so more peace of mind.

    The problem of Nissan leaf is the autonomy , if you surfing long distance , my car cover around 200 km with full battery , but heater example will cut you 10% autonomy

    And if you drive high speed 100/110 will last even less , around 150 km

    So basically if you need like me drive around , to go work and have solar or you can have EV night rate and charge at 5 cent is really worth . Become very reliable car and literally drive free . I was paying skeins 50$ a week petrol and now I literally drive for free .

    But if flu driving long distance can become annoying, example if you do a trip of 400 km with 100/110 speed you will end up to charge 3 times and waste atleast 2 hours during your trip . The main problem is some charger are very expensive at 0.65$ kw basically make the cost almost like petrol with the annoying time of recharge . And sometime , especially where is cheaper to charge example at 0.20$ can be already other car and bees wait .

    But if you do kind of 50-60 km a day and you have place at home where you can charge yourself , can be really worth . Example with ev night rate you can charge at 5 cent kw. With simple slow charger you can connect to any PowerPoint at home , you will charge around 10 kw for only 0.50$ and 10 kw is enough for driving around 50-60 km in the city .

    Basically if you drive up to 50-60 km a day you can simply top up every night keep the battery close to full for only 0.50$charge while you sleeping so never waste any time .

    In case you drive more , could be worth installing quick charger what will cost around 700$ and car recharge around 25 kw in 4 hours for around 1.25$ what will be enough to drive for over 120 km in the city.

    • acersaurus on 11/05/2025 - 10:57

      Lots of people have the range concerns. Thing is most households have over 1 car, with the other being an ICE car. In such situations, take the ICE car for long journeys.

    • MrFrugalSpend on 12/05/2025 - 20:39

      OP:

      Tall Kids
      Long Trips
      Long Term Car

      … this does not equate with the Nissan Leaf

  • serpserpserp on 11/05/2025 - 10:52
    +1

    I have a family member in a similar situation as you OP. She bought a 2022 Subaru Forester. You can get them second hand for about 30k. They are pretty basic cars but are reliable and I was surprised at how roomy it is as a passenger (I'm 6'3") and fits her kids needs well.

  • zfind on 11/05/2025 - 16:11
    +2

    I haven’t seen many answers on how to sell your current car but at that age and value Facebook Marketplace is king. Here’s how to do it:

    1. Search the same model in your city and note prices and kilometres (this is essentially what most people buy based on).
    2. Gauge where yours fits on the price spectrum. Recent repairs unfortunately don’t factor too much into buyers’ decision-making.
    3. For a quick sale make yours $500-1000 cheaper than the most comparable. If you want the max you can get price it closer and wait it out.
    4. List out all repairs done and all negatives. Be very honest - it filters out timewasters and covers you later if something goes wrong (not that there’s any recourse on used cars). If you need help wording the ad ask a mechanically-minded friend or even PM someone on here (I’d be happy to help).
    5. Pop the ad up. If it’s cheap you’ll get heaps of messages, don’t spend too much time replying, just answer basic questions and get to the point of a time to come see it.
    6. At sale time let the buyer look at the car, show receipts, they can test drive it with you in the car. Have someone there with you if you feel you want a bit of security.
    7. Haggle a bit if there’s meat in your price and sell it - cash preferably.

    Carsales costs and is for costlier cars than yours. Gumtree is dead. Dealers will rob you. I say the above as a long-time car guy and someone who helped a female friend repair her current car for sale and find a new one in the meantime (2023 i30 with 30kkm for about $25k, 7 year warranty).

    Glad you’re free from abuse and hope you’re soon free of that person altogether. Happy Mothers Day 💐

  • conza on 11/05/2025 - 21:08
    +1

    I've had a small mazda from new for over 8 years, hasn't missed a beat, has locked in servicing cost, doesn't matter that it's out of warranty, there's NEVER a giant service cost, they smooth it out over multiple years, I think the largest one is $600, and normally the service is between 200-300. They alternate so there's a $500 here and a $450 is there, alternating years (so between 2-300 on most years).

    In most states, you'll be able to walk into a dealership, sit in a Mazda 3 near $30k, and just cold face look them in the eye and say "If you'll take $30k, you've got a deal." Don't budge, walk away if they're playing games, you'll get one.

    Before that, look around at the dealers in your area to find the colour/spec you want, you might not get the best best spec, but if it's a car on the lot, you can likely swing getting 10% off, 15% is not impossible.

  • BartholemewH on 11/05/2025 - 21:18
    +1

    Tremendous leg room, particularly in the rear? Skoda Superb 2016 on.

  • Bammers on 11/05/2025 - 22:45
    +1

    I picked up a 2020 Camry Ascent Sport with 120,000kms on it last year from a dealer who most likely picked it up at auction.

    It had a full logbook service (just make sure that it was serviced on time and per schedule) Normally these are leased via some kind of fleet management provider who ensures they stick to service schedule but for your own benefit just make sure it's been done.

    It was purchased originally for an eastern suburb's council in Sydney and is still under warranty with Toyota for a few months on the original 5 years, Toyota also extends engine and driveline warranty from 5 to 7 years if you keep to your annual service schedule (as shown on this page https://www.toyota.com.au/owners/warranty) I'm sure there's some fine print somewhere but you know it is what it is.

    I wanted a reliable family car on a similar budget to you. I picked it up for 20k (which I thought was a bargain) and has been trouble free thus far - goes in for its first service this month since I purchased it.

  • AustriaBargain on 12/05/2025 - 14:48
    +1

    You could get a cheaper car with the view of giving it to the teen when they get their license, then get yourself a nicer car.

  • MrFrugalSpend on 12/05/2025 - 20:09
    +3

    Go Japanese or Korean. Think Subaru, Toyota, Hyundai, Kia etc

    As for your personal situation… you didn't ask for it but I'd like to offer you some free advice. When you find a new prospective partner… don't go for another d!ckhead! … It may sound like that goes without saying, but from observed experience, IT DOESN'T! In my years, I've seen numerous women - family, friends, and acquaintances, leave an abusive or coercive-controlling or criminal or substance-abusing A…HOLE, and end up with yet another d!ckhead that is obvious is a d!ckhead to apparently everyone but her! Perhaps not quite as bad (at least at first, but they start out that way), but certainly still trouble at home… because apparently that is her "type" of man she is apparently attracted to, despite the history. Don't do it! You've got to ask honest questions of yourself, and a friend or family member who meets and spends time with the new prospect, I think (and tell them to actually be honest and be willing and open to their feedback, don't shoot the messenger), and if there are red flags - cut and run early!

    • magicalyogi on 12/05/2025 - 20:52
      +1

      Absolutely! Thank you

    • Make it so on 13/05/2025 - 17:15
      +1

      Subaru owner here. Yes, good safety. But require transmission fluid change before each 90,000k ($1650), or else your CVT will die. So you'd have to check this got done. Despite doing it, our CVT still died. I'm less keen to recommend Subaru now.

      • MrFrugalSpend on 13/05/2025 - 21:48

        good to know - they've always ended up a close second on my choices so I've never experienced this - CVT is why I ultimately didn't got that way last purchase

  • noideaa on 19/05/2025 - 16:34

    I don't know about the new push to start models but the Corolla hatchbacks are virtually indestructible and are very forgiving cars.

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