I would say that if you want a "reliable" car that you aren't going to spend a lot of money on repairs on, you need to spend at least $5000. However, it does depend on how long you want the car to go without repairing much. Some cars can be way cheaper, but may only last a year or two more.

Also, keep in mind that any car you buy is going to have to pass an emissions test in the state of Washington (I am assuming you are in WA). Some older cars might not pass emissions, and will even more likely not pass if they are running poorly. So, something to consider.

10,000 is definitely too much. That's half of what I make in a year.

I didn't think about the emissions test. I'll keep that in mind.

Perhaps I should rephrase the question slightly: I probably will have to buy a car with the cash I can save, since getting financing at a dealership would not be easy for me. Is there such a thing as a reasonably reliable car that can be bought for under $3000 or so, or would any car bought for that price end up costing more than it's worth?

I keep finding cars that "run great" for under $1000 on craigslist. Is that a totally unrealistic price?

I'm also looking for specific brand names--preferably a brand that has a reputation for producing long-lived but unstylish cars. I'm thinking of something along the lines of an 80s volvo.

Well, it really depends. You can find cars that will run for under $3000...how long they will run is another question. I've had cars that I purchased for like $500 and they ran for awhile...maybe even a year or two (I can't recall now), but eventually there were major car repairs that would cost more than the car was worth. Any car you might buy, you should check out the kelly blue book price for that car to get an idea of what it is worth now and in the condition that it is in. A good way to save money on a car is to get one without power windows, air, etc., because that will bump the price up and those are sort of non-essentials. Also, those kinds of things tend to break in older cars and they aren't always cheap to fix. Still, summer without A/C? Grrr.

Do make sure it has heat though. You can't really go without that in the Pacific NW!

I really don't know about getting a car from as far back as the 80s unless you want to fix it up. Maybe if you find a gem. Volvos are also pretty popular cars.

You might also consider a "Certified Pre-Owned" car that will most likely come with a warranty. I think these are usually sold by dealers. That way if something does go wrong you are covered for awhile at least.

If you are buying from a regular person, be sure to inquire about why they might be selling it. Hopefully they would tell you the truth. Some people just might be moving or not need a car anymore. Others are trying to unload a piece of shit that is costing them a fortune to get fixed!

I don't envy you. It is stressful trying to find the right car. Take your time and look around for the right car...it will be worth it.