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Shopping cars within 250 mi of your nearest EchoPark.
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Published March 08, 2024
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Picture this: you’re a recent college grad looking to purchase a car. Since you’re not exactly rolling in dough at this point in your career, you’re focusing your attention on budget-friendly options. You search countless online listings, comparing models and reviewing safety ratings.
However, finding high-quality used cars under $25,000 proves challenging. While test-driving cars, you notice hidden defects and high mileage concerns. You begin to wonder if it’s even possible to find used cars under $25k that are safe and reliable.
Fear not! While finding a good used car certainly isn’t easy, they do exist. Here’s what to consider when making your choice and how you can find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
What type of car should you buy? Used cars come in just as many varieties as new vehicles, leaving buyers spoiled with choice. Different vehicles serve different purposes, so it’s important to consider your specific needs.
Sedans are among the most common types of vehicles on the road today. They’re characterized by a three-box configuration and offer distinct compartments for the engine, passengers, and cargo. They strike the perfect balance between comfort and practicality and are the best choice for most drivers.
These vehicles are known for their fuel efficiency. They’re typically lighter and more aerodynamic than SUVs or trucks, contributing to better gas mileage. For this reason, sedans are an economical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel alike. Need a reliable car for getting to work every morning? And going on that family road trip? A sedan can do it all.
Efficient though they are, sedans aren’t without their limitations. One of their biggest downsides is that they generally offer less cargo space than SUVs and minivans, so if you’ve got a big family or are planning on welcoming any additions in the near future, you might want to look for a larger vehicle.
Sedans can also be challenging for those living in harsh climates. They don’t perform as well in the snow as SUVs or large-wheeled trucks. The last thing you want is to find yourself stranded in a blizzard, so choose wisely!
Thinking about getting a sedan? EchoPark offers a wide selection of sedans, including 200+ Nissan models for under $25,000. Popular models include:
Sport utility vehicles, known colloquially as SUVs, have come a long way from their rugged, off-road roots. Today, they appeal to many different types of drivers and are a great option for those who desire space.
Bear in mind, though, that SUVs tend to be less fuel-efficient than sedans and smaller vehicles. They also come with a higher price tag and maintenance costs, which can be an issue for those on a budget.
The good news is that technology is advancing every day, and while SUVs still aren’t the most environmentally friendly option, they’re continually improving. The advent of hybrid and electric vehicles has also helped lower SUV emissions.
Overall, SUVs are best suited for drivers who need extra space and versatility, but they may not be the best choice for those who just need to travel to and from work each day. If you’ve decided on an SUV, consider browsing EchoPark’s offerings. We have a robust inventory of SUVs, with an especially large selection of Jeeps and Fords. Here’s a quick look at some of our current models under $25,000:
Ready to step into the future? Consider purchasing a hybrid car, which combines the best of both worlds—an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors. This dual-source power system drives fuel efficiency and emits fewer pollutants than cars that run on gasoline alone.
Unsurprisingly, these cars are highly appealing to those wishing to reduce their carbon footprint. If you’re curious about electric cars but are hesitant to switch over entirely, a hybrid vehicle can be a great middle-ground solution.
In addition to lower emissions, hybrid cars are beneficial for their tax incentives. These can offset the initial purchase price and make your vehicle more affordable than you might think. Even with the tax breaks, however, hybrid cars still tend to be more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts. Prepare to shell out for upfront costs, as well as ongoing maintenance, such as battery replacement.
If you’re considering making the switch to a hybrid car, be sure to look through EchoPark’s selection of vehicles. We offer an impressive selection of the best used hybrid cars for under $25,000, including:
Purchasing a used car can be a smart financial move, but it’s still wise to budget carefully. You need to think about all the associated costs—not just the initial purchase price but ongoing payments and maintenance. Here are some tips for allocating your budget.
Before starting your search, outline your specific needs and budget. How much can you afford to spend? What are your nonnegotiables, and what features, if any, are you willing to sacrifice to save money?
Assess your income and existing financial obligations. Decide on a comfortable monthly payment if you plan on financing your purchase, thinking about how this new payment will fit in with your other expenses.
Remember, the goal is to find a balance that allows you to purchase a great car without compromising your financial stability. That’s definitely easier said than done, but by considering your needs and expectations ahead of time and doing your due diligence, you can find a reliable vehicle that doesn’t break the bank.
The purchase price of a used car is often the main focus for buyers, and rightfully so. It’s important to research and compare prices for whatever make or model you’re interested in. Be sure to take advantage of online tools to determine the market value of different cars, accounting for factors like age and mileage.
It can also be a good idea to set a maximum purchase price prior to your search. For example, if you have a budget of $25,000, you can filter out cars that are above that price range. EchoPark has multiple filters and search tools to make it easy for buyers to find exactly what they’re looking for.
And don't be afraid to negotiate with sellers for the best possible deal. The cheapest option may not be the best in terms of reliability and future repair costs, so consider shopping at the far end of your budget range, especially if you’re able to get a good deal.
Buyers tend to overlook the long-term costs when purchasing vehicles but don’t make that mistake. While you may be thinking most about the upfront expenses, remember that all cars—whether used or new—require maintenance to run well.
Even if your car arrives in perfect shape, there’s no telling what the future might hold. You could encounter all sorts of issues, from flat tires to more serious damage. The bottom line is there’s no getting around the ongoing costs, whether it be in terms of maintenance, repairs, or both.
As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If you want to avoid huge costs down the road, you should invest in smaller maintenance-related costs now. Test the battery. Change the oil. Make sure the engine is functioning properly.
By staying on top of things, you can keep your car running smoothly and ensure it’s fit to serve you and your family for many years to come.
The miles per gallon (MPG) a car can achieve has a major impact on its overall affordability. Basically, high fuel efficiency equals lower operating costs, which is especially important for those who drive frequently or cover long distances.
Compare the MPG of different vehicles and consider how each aligns with your driving habits. While a more fuel-efficient car might come with a higher purchase price, the amount you save on fuel over time can offset the initial cost.
If you really want to save on gas, consider getting a hybrid or electric model. These offer the greatest efficiency and lower operating costs.
Be prepared to purchase insurance for your car—unless you have no problem with spending hundreds, if not thousands, in the event of an accident. In the US, the average used car insurance premium is $52 per month, or just over $600 annually.
There are several factors that affect car insurance rates, including credit history, age, and gender. For example, a 20-year-old male with limited credit history can expect to pay more than a 40-year-old female with a credit score of 800.
Used car insurance typically falls into three categories: liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Liability insurance covers whatever damage you are at fault for in an accident. Collision insurance covers repair costs regardless of who was at fault, and comprehensive insurance protects cars from damages that aren’t the result of collision.
Liability insurance is required by law, but collision and comprehensive coverage are highly recommended. The more coverage you have, the less you’ll have to pay out of pocket if things go south—which, let’s face it, is likely to happen at some point.
Just because you’re getting a used car doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the amenities. In fact, the used car market has never been more generous with the features it offers. Here’s a closer look at the features and amenities you can (and should) expect with a car under $25,000.
Safety is paramount in cars, and used cars are no exception. Advanced airbag systems have become a standard and expected feature in most vehicles, even those at lower price points. Look for a car with comprehensive airbag coverage, including side-impact airbags.
Advanced systems like these also include sensors that adjust the deployment force based on the severity of the crash and the occupant’s size and seating position.
Having electronic stability control (ETC) and a traction control system (TCS) is key to maintaining control during abrupt maneuvers and handling slippery conditions. But how does this work? In a nutshell, ESC helps to prevent skidding and loss of control by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels, while TCS prevents wheel spin during acceleration by adjusting the engine output or applying brakes to specific wheels.
These technologies are particularly good to have in harsh weather conditions, so if you live in an area that experiences extreme weather, it’s a good idea to look for a car that offers quality ETC and TCS.
In May 2018, rearview cameras became required amenities on all new vehicles via regulation. These cameras can provide drivers with a clear view of what's behind them, making it easier to navigate in tight spaces and avoid accidents. In SUVs, which tend to have larger blind spots than other cars (due to their larger size), rearview cameras are especially useful. They can help drivers see objects or people that may be hidden from their view, such as children or pets, and can prevent collisions when backing up. Rearview cameras can also make parking a breeze, allowing drivers to park more accurately and safely. Undoubtedly, rearview cameras are an important safety feature that can benefit SUV drivers in many ways.
Climate control systems allow riders to set a specific temperature that the system maintains from that point forward. They’re a lot more convenient than manual controls, as they prevent drivers and passengers from having to constantly adjust settings.
If possible, choose a car with dual-zone or multi-zone systems so that occupants in different areas of the vehicle can set personalized temperatures.
Once considered a luxury, heated and ventilated seats are now common in most cars, even those under $25,000. Heated seats are especially valuable in cold climates, while ventilated seats offer relief from the heat by circulating air through the seat material.
The best modern cars come with sophisticated “infotainment” systems that include touchscreen displays, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. They can even be found in used budget cars.
These systems make navigation much easier. They also allow drivers to manage their music, calls, and text messages without taking their eyes off the road. All this to say, you definitely want to pick a car with a good infotainment system if you can find one that fits your budget.
Lane-keeping assist (LKA) and lane departure warning (LDW) systems use cameras and sensors to monitor lane markings and alert the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling.
LKA automatically steers the car back into its lane, helping to prevent accidents caused by inattention or drowsiness. While not required in a good car, these systems offer tremendous value and can help keep you and your passengers safe. Pick a car with these features if you can.
You’ve probably seen those push-button cars that don’t require plugging in a key to start. They’re not only incredibly convenient but safer than traditional key systems. They boost security by using encrypted signals that are harder for thieves to replicate.
Imagine being able to unlock your car simply by approaching it. Sounds pretty straightforward, right? That’s why you should look for a car with a keyless entry system. It can make your driving experience so much more convenient.
Sunroofs and moonroofs add an element of luxury to the vehicle’s cabin, making it feel more spacious and open. But what’s the difference between the two? A sunroof is typically a solid panel that can vent or slide open, while a moonroof features a glass panel with a sliding or tilting function.
Many used cars under $25,000 offer one or both of these options, so don’t hesitate to inquire about them while shopping around.
Most drivers prefer leather seats because they look better and are easier to clean than those made of fabric. Genuine leather can usually be found in higher-end models, but many cheat, used cars offer leatherette or premium synthetic alternatives that provide a similar aesthetic and comfort level.
So you’ve determined your budget and desired features, and now it’s time to start looking for the best-used cars under $25,000. EchoPark’s dealership experience is one you won’t forget. We offer best-in-class used car inspection to ensure you get something that’s both reliable and within budget. The easiest and simplest way to do this is to head over to our site, echopark.com.
On the home page, click on “Find your ride” or the “Shop cars” button in the navigation bar at the top of the screen. This will take you to our full inventory of used cars. However, we need to narrow this list down to just what we are looking for. Let’s start by clicking on the “Price & payment” dropdown menu under the “Let’s find a match!” tab. Click and drag on the right-hand dot to shrink the maximum price range down to $25,000, or just type your maximum price into the text box on the right. Voila! Automatically, the inventory has been filtered to only show you used vehicles within your price range.
Feel free to scroll through this selection until you find what you’re looking for. You can use the rest of the dropdown menus to further filter the inventory by make, model, body style, year, mileage, and more! On each listing, you’ll see the total price in green text. We offer efficient and easy no-haggle pricing. With EchoPark, what you see is what you get. Listed under the car’s title is the mileage that the vehicle currently has. Clicking on a listing will give you all the details for that vehicle including important stats like engine type, fuel economy, transmission, and the number of seats. Read through all the features and amenities to ensure that you find the best vehicle for your needs.
Once you’ve found a vehicle you’re interested in, you can then use our payment calculator to estimate your cost. Scroll down on a vehicle listing to our “Easy payment options” section. Here, you’ll see the estimated payment for that vehicle. However, you can get more details if you click “Payment Calculator.” The Payment Calculator lets you estimate your overall payment. Just fill out the information and the tool will instantly give you an estimated payment. We also offer a cash payment calculator and we can even help you estimate your total budget. Just click on “What’s my total budget?”, fill out some basic information, and we’ll email you our suggestions based on your details for your budget.
Once you’ve got your budget set up and you are ready to make your purchase, you can click on “Let’s chat,” “Buy online,” or “Test drive.” Click on the first two options will get you started on your purchasing journey. We make it fast and simple to buy your car completely online. Then, we can deliver it straight to your door. Interested in a test drive? Go ahead! Just use the button to set up your appointment and head down to our location. Be careful though, our cars do sell fast. Your preferred vehicle might be gone if you wait, so schedule your test drive as soon as possible!
Quality used cars under $25,000 can be hard to find, which is why it’s important to do your research and work with a trusted dealership. EchoPark makes it easy to browse and filter vehicles based on your desired criteria, taking the complexity out of the buying process.
Best of all, we offer test drives so that you can try vehicles out before buying. Ready to schedule a test drive? Enter your location to find an EchoPark dealership near you.
