The DU Lounge

Switch insurance companies every couple of years too. Insurance companies never reward loyalty other than with some token acknowledgement. You can also save quite a bit by getting credit for taking a defensive driving course and raising the deductible to $1,000 or so. AARP offers defensive driving courses all over the country (you can usually get in free by being a member).

If you are looking for a low budget car, consider a Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic. They last forever and require very little in terms of annual maintenance (oil, tires, air filter, brake pads, etc.). The Corolla has used a timing chain since about 1998. Honda Civic uses a timing chain too back to 2006. You still have to replace the serpentine belt occasionally, however.