Now a days the price for used car are going high. With $3000 budget you have to shop around.IF you drive standard car may get better deal than automatic one. Your friend is right, Japanese car last longer than American. I am driving Hoda with 225K and hoping to add another 100K or until its drivable with little cost. You must be aware of mainteance cost in coming future as you are buying a used car. Mechanics are like butcher and they will ripe you off depending upon your knowledge on automible. IF someone says - timing belt is changed, Tuned up, exel shaft or exhaust has been changed is good for you. Better have a mechanic look and recommend if possible and VIN check is must. You will know if the audiometer is run backward and shown low mileage. You must see if it is leaking or not. If the engine is too clean have 2nd thought why too clean. I have seen people cleanig the engine and make them nice.