I am a recent college grad living in Los Angeles with a current salary of $35,000 at one job and an internship at the other. I used to drive a great 93 Honda Accord, but after 365,000 miles (my dad bought it brand new), it finally died this week.
I'm now in weird position. I need a car to get to my jobs, as they are too far for public transportation (the problem most Angelenos face). The other thing is that my salary job is VERY unstable due to my boss' extreme temperament. I'm doing all I can to actually move away from it to something else, but I have a feeling if I do, I will suffer a serious pay cut in exchange for a better work environment. Yet I'd need a car to even interview (I missed out on an opportunity this week because I couldn't get there soon enough through public transpo) My parents are in no finical situation to help me either.
All that being said, what would someone recommend about getting a car? Should I go new or used? How could I go about getting something with a rocky job situation where I may move to something with less income? My credit history is not long. Credit card with the bank and I've always paid on time and a large sum above minimum, but never able to fully pay off card in one shot (had to buy bed, car repair, suits for work, etc.)
Any advice would be appreciated, and thank you!