Five great (cheap) cars for college kids

June 18, 2012 12:15 PM

So you're 18 - you don't want to bum rides off your parents anymore. They're probably pretty sick of shuttling you around, but you don't live near public transit. Time to get your own set of wheels! But you're just starting college, so unless you've just hit Mega Millions, you're a bit strapped for cash.

Your parents might help you out a little for your first car, but as much as they love you they're not made of money. So whatever you get has to be less than ten grand - that's a good compromise on both age and reliability.But it's worthless if it's not safe and efficient, so here are five of the best used cars under ten grand. All prices reflect Kelley Blue Book "excellent" condition and dealer pricing.

Vincent Balestriere, Vincent.Balestriere@newsday.com