Best Used Cars for College Students in Cedar Rapids: Cassill’s Top Picks for 2025

Starting College? Here’s What to Look for in a First Car

Whether you’re heading to Kirkwood, Mount Mercy, or the University of Iowa, having the right vehicle makes a big difference. At Cassill Motors, we help students and parents find reliable, affordable used cars perfect for campus life and Iowa commutes.

What Makes a Car "Student-Ready"?

• Affordable Price – We recommend looking under $15,000

• Good Gas Mileage – Save at the pump
• Safe & Reliable – Especially in Iowa weather
• Low Maintenance Costs – Because no one wants surprise repairs during finals week

Our Favorite Picks for Students (Under $15K)

• 2016–2018 Ford Focus

Fuel-efficient, compact, and easy to park on tight campuses.

• 2017 Hyundai Elantra

Modern features with high reliability ratings and low maintenance costs.

• 2016 Honda Civic

A fan favorite with strong resale value and proven reliability.

• 2015 Toyota Corolla

Known for long-term reliability and great gas mileage.

Financing for Students or First-Time Buyers

We understand many students are first-time buyers—or maybe a parent is co-signing. At Cassill, our finance team works with all credit situations and helps explain every step, including:

• Building credit responsibly
• Short-term and long-term financing options
• Warranty plans for peace of mind

Pro Tip: Schedule a Test Drive Before Move-In Day

The best time to shop is before fall classes start. Our selection of student-ready vehicles changes daily—stop in early for the best choice.

FAQs: Buying a Used Car as a College Student

Q: What’s the best used car for Iowa winters on a budget?

A: Look for compact cars with front-wheel drive and traction control. The Toyota Corolla and Ford Focus are both strong picks for slippery roads.

Q: Can I get financing if I have no credit history?

A: Yes! We help many first-time buyers build credit with manageable terms and fair rates. Co-signers can also help secure better approval odds.

Q: Are used cars from Cassill inspected?

A: Every vehicle we sell is inspected and reconditioned by our in-house service team—and most include a free Carfax history report.

Visit Cassill Motors in Cedar Rapids Today

Cassill Motors is family-owned and proudly helps Iowa families find dependable vehicles. Located at 2939 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, we serve students from all over Linn, Johnson, and Benton Counties.

Come see why our no-haggle pricing and trusted team make us the right choice for your first—or next—vehicle.