3 Used Cars Retirees Could Consider Buying For $10,000 Or Less

If you're a retiree on a budget, the right car that will help you stay independent in your later years just may be a used car priced under $10,000 that scores high on safety, comfort, and affordability. It's smart to pick models with excellent crash-test results and helpful features like stability control and rearview cameras for extra safety. Reliability is also non-negotiable. After all, no one wants the hassle and expense of unexpected repairs. Plus, cars with simpler mechanics are often cheaper to fix than high-end newer vehicles, which helps keep ownership costs predictable, making life a bit easier for you.

Comfort is also vital for older drivers. Cars that make it easy to get in and out, have adjustable seats, and have clear visibility are top picks. Compact SUVs, with higher seating, often ease the strain of getting behind the wheel. Then, fuel efficiency; vehicles that deliver over 30 MPG on the highway help keep gas costs manageable. The below options include cars priced under $10,000, if you are buying used, that shine in these aspects.

The Honda brand made Money Digest's list of five cars that cost the least over time. But the 2013 Honda Fit is a top pick for retirees because it is affordable and practical. Kelley Blue Book estimates the 2013 Honda Fit to be between $5,993 and $7,504. 

It has a compact size, and spacious interior with a Magic Seat system that allows for versatile cargo space, perfect for groceries or mobility aids, without cramping passenger comfort. For safety, the 2013 Honda Fit has an Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure that can distribute collision force to protect occupants. It also comes with standard front and side curtain airbags and electric power steering, enhancing both safety and ease of driving in various conditions.

The 2013 Honda Fit can also save money on fuel. You get 28 miles per gallon when driving around town and 35 miles per gallon on the highway. This means you'll spend less money on gas over time because the car doesn't use a lot of fuel. The Fit's sturdy 1.5L four-cylinder engine keeps repair costs low, which is no surprise given Honda's reputation for reliability. Comfort hasn't been overlooked, either. The Fit's raised seats make getting in and out easy, which becomes easier on the joints. Large windows and an upright windshield ensure a clear view, which is safe, especially for those with aging eyes.

The 2007 Toyota Corolla is highly recommended for retirees because it's reliable and doesn't cost much to own or maintain. It is a prime pick for retirees who value safety — the Corolla received a 5-star rating for adult protection from Euro NCAP. It has a solid cabin structure, standard anti-lock brakes, and good crash test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), presented, partly, for its side airbags.

The Toyota Corolla features a height-adjustable driver's seat that can ease lower back strain, and its wide door openings and low step-in height can also help retirees with mobility concerns. It includes large, easy-to-use controls, such as simple knobs for adjusting the climate. The Corolla's 13.2-gallon fuel tank, coupled with its 29 MPG highway efficiency, means fewer trips to the gas station — ideal for retirees looking to cut down on chores.

The Corolla has a 1.8-liter engine and four-speed automatic transmission that runs over 200,000 miles with just basic care and low repair costs, averaging about $362 a year, one of the best deals when you compare to the $526 for other cars in its category. You can find many used Corollas for less than $10,000, but the 2007 Toyota Corolla can go for as low as $4,995 to $5,299. Also, insuring a Toyota Corolla won't break the bank. With USAA, expect to pay around $1,172 annually — that's just $98 each month. Geico's rates are also competitive, at about $1,354 per year, or $113 monthly.

The 2015 Hyundai Elantra could be an option for retirees who want both comfort and economical value. You can get a used version of this compact sedan between $6,719 for the SE Sedan 4D and $7,506 for the Limited Sedan 4D. The car is safe; the Elantra comes equipped with anti-lock brakes and six airbags, and adds a rearview camera on higher trims for easier parking and reversing.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it "Good" ratings for its performance in front and side-impact tests. The Elantra also features a Hyundai Blue Link telematics system that can send automatic crash notifications via an emergency SOS button. If your car is stolen, Blue Link can track it down, which is a vital feature since the Hyundai Elantra is one of the cars most prone to theft.

The Hyundai Elantra has an interior designed with comfort in mind and has a layout that keeps everything within the driver's reach. The seats support you well with plenty of room for stretching out, which is perfect for long trips or easing joint pain. Getting in and out is easy thanks to the wide door openings. The trunk's generous 14.8 cubic feet of space is more than enough for your mobility aids, shopping, or travel bags. It can save money on fuel too. The Elantra has a 2.0L engine that gives you 24 miles per gallon in the city and 33 on the highway, as per EPA ratings.