any tips ,advice& experience welcome

Try Craigslist and take a mechanic with you to check it out!

When i got my car 3yrs ago my partner did a search on the internet for a family sized family car, that was economical to run, cheap to insure and reliable. The car that fitted all the criteria was the Mondeo. So easy to drive and comfortable, i have had no major problems with the car, just the normal wear and tear brakes etc. I would recommend this car but its up to the individual.

Look for a Honda- Great vehicle

Try a Ford Escort. i had an 2001 and had great luck with it. Mine got 30 MPG on the highway and about 26 in town. They are not very expensive even new!

Just avoid anything with a blue oval, then you cant go wrong.

go to autotrader.com and find your car and use accurate auto insurance it's the best and it's cheap..

Get a copy of Kelly's Blue Book and it will give you a lot of information necessary to buy a used car. Go on line too, Lots of good sites concerning used cars.

Don't forget-when buying a used car---buyer beware! Remember it is a USED car.

Take a look at the Hondas and Toyotas. Stay away from early models of the Hyundai.

When you find one will you lets us all know