Balancing your social life with your budget as a student in Oregon is no easy task. But this is an opportunity to learn how to budget well while navigating the complexities and rewards of adult life. In this article, we’ll suggest nine of the best cars you should consider as a student in Oregon that cost less than $4000. We’ll also give you some tips on how to budget for the payments as well as the fuel, maintenance, and preservation of your new car.

Honda Civic

A used 2005-2008 Honda Civic will prove to be a reliable second-hand vehicle that’s not only affordable to maintain but also fuel efficient if it’s kept in good condition. The parts are easy to come by and won’t cost you much if something serious breaks down on the car, making this brand one of the most popular among students in Oregon.

Depending on the car’s mileage and condition, it should be no problem finding cheap car insurance in Oregon for a car like the Honda Civic. It’s also one of the safest used cars you can pick in that particular timeline and will serve you well during your student years.

Toyota Corolla

Toyota is known for its durable and long-lasting cars, and it’s been true of the brand for decades now. You’ll want to find a model that’s between 2004 and 2007 if you want to spend less than $4000, and this price will be well worth investing in since these cars have low maintenance costs and last a long time.

Ford Focus

Even with an above-average mileage, the Ford Focus is an excellent choice for students in the state of Oregon. That’s because they’re compact, cheap to insure, and not expensive to maintain. Your local mechanic will never struggle to find parts for this car, even with models between 2008 and 2011, which should fetch a price of under $4000.

Mazda3

The 2004 – 2007 Mazda3 models are easy to find at used car dealerships. As far as used cars go, they are one of the nicest to drive and are still cheap to maintain. The high number of these cars on the road is a testament to how long they last and how reliable they are, making them a great choice for students with a budget of under $4000.

Subaru Impreza

If you’re looking for a car that’s affordable but still impressive in performance, the Subaru Impreza won’t disappoint. These cars are perfect for students in Oregon because they are designed to traverse snowy and wet roads with ease. Look for a model between 2005 and 2008, and you’re sure to find a price that’s comfortable for you.

Hyundai Elantra

Hyundai took the world by storm post-2000 with thousands of cars entering the market. And those who took a chance on the brand were impressed by its reliability and stylish designs. The Elantra has always been an affordable model, and the 2006 to 2010 models should go for just under $4000 in Oregon. One good reason to choose this car is due to its brilliant fuel economy, which will save you on your budget if you drive long distances.

Chevrolet Malibu

Get your friends to hop in for a road trip in the Chevrolet Malibu. The 2006 to 2009 models are spacious, comfortable, and perfect for long drives. Your maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs should be low with this car, so if American cars are your preference, this is one of the best choices you can make as a student.

Nissan Sentra

Nissan is always a good way to go when buying a used car. The 2006 to 2010 models were known for their reliability, and there are still plenty of them in circulation at a good price. These cars also have ample trunk space, making them a popular choice among used car options.

Volkswagen Jetta

While the maintenance costs on the Volkswagen Jetta may be on the higher side, it’s worth considering this car because it generally doesn’t need much maintenance at all. The 2005 to 2008 models are great-looking cars that are sturdy and last a long time. It’s the perfect choice as a first car because of its unwavering reliability and low fuel costs.

If you’re among the millions of people around the world who trust German cars, these models will reinforce Volkswagen’s reputation and provide you with a car that will last you way past your college years.

Final Thoughts

Write some of these options on a list and take it with you as you go car shopping. Remember that you may find some of these options at a much lower price than $4000, depending on the mileage, but try to find one that’s been well-serviced and still has years of life left.