Quote Originally Posted by PoisonIvy View Post
First thing, you've come to the right place to 'research' your car. Read as much as you can here. 2nd, the number one way to kill a 2004 to 2008 Aveo is not change the timing belt, water pump and related pulleys on time. It should be every 60,000 miles max. Without knowing when/if they were last changed, you're in a bit of a jam. You can take your car to ANY mechanic. Ask around for a good mechanic in your area, that works out of a smaller shop.

No matter the beginning 'cost' of a car, they cost money to keep them going. Maintenance is the difference between a $2500 car that is mechanically sound, or a $2500 lawn ornament.
I second this. Since you don't know the maintenance history, get that timing belt replaced ASAP.

Spend the time and effort to find a good, honest mechanic. They will be worth their weight in gold. Ask a mechanically inclined friend where they take their car for service or bring them along when "interviewing" potential mechanics.