SomewhatGroovy
Banned
Did you end up finding a good answer to this? I'm in the exact same situation (even down to the price range). I'm thinking about using TrueCar because they have some sort of relationship with Geico, who is handling my insurance claim on my existing soon-to-be-declared-totalled car.
Only food talk up in hyah, sir!
Honestly 404, shopping for a used car is a complete mind fuck and stressful.
I would just keep an eye out for inventory at applesi.com. The reason is they offer a base warranty package for any car you buy (per my post above). This covers engine and transmission. Yes, if your trans dies, you pay $100 deductible and they will repair or replace it for you. The problem is you're at the mercy of their inventory which isnt as extensive as other dealerships. My budget is under 10K all in and right now they dont have anything that fits either of these parameters.
I have looked at dealerships across town , found some cars which, on paper, sound good, but I am uncomfortable buying a used car from anyone who cannot guarantee that the transmission wont shit a brick the day after I drive it off the lot and I am certainly not going to buy a 'peace of mind' warranty from a third party insurance company that say they'll have your back but wont due to fine print 'but not if's. I have a mechanic who i trust and will be taking it to him to give me the okay but its been a slow process.
Still looking.