Yeah, it's a judgement call. My 1998 F150 has a blue book value of around $800. That's all the insurance would pay. I carry liability only. My other truck is a nice 08 and I have full coverage. In Alabama if the cost of repair claim exceeds 75% of the book value the vehicle the vehicle must be totaled. A $600 claim would total my 98 truck. No way I could replace it for that.
As for used cars, I think that is a very good way to go. My wife's Ford Explorer was totaled a few years back. We bought a very nice 4 year old, mint condition, 70,000 mile fully loaded Eddie Bauer Explorer for $13000. A new one would have been over $40,000. I can buy 3 used ones for that. With Ford if a Ford vehicle has under 80,000 miles you can buy a
Ford extended warranty on the internet or from any Ford dealer. Even if you didn't buy the Ford from a Ford dealer. Covers about everything. Ran about $1500. Insurance is lower to on used cars because the value is less..
Cars are pricey in Huntsville. The internet is wonderful for car shopping. Bought the Explorer in Jasper and my truck in Tennessee.
I will probably never buy another brand new car. I would certainly buy the first production year of any vehicle. Too many bugs. 3rd year is good.
As far as your money, Jessica, buy used and invest the rest. A good investment would be the Lost Aztec Gold Mine of Maysville. A little start up capital from you and we will both be feelthy rich.