[DonRotolo]

When seeking a car that will last a long time, the biggest issue is that of rust. Rust cannot be repaired - the metal must be replaced. This lowers the value of any such car dramatically, regardless of mechanical condition.

OK, so for your first car, you'll be unlikely to keep it for more than a few years - so a little rust is OK as long as safety isn't compromised. That'll cut the price. (It'll be easy to find rust in MI)

Just because you're looking for a "cheap" car, don't SETTLE. It is OK to look at 20 or more cars to find that one sweet bargain. Find someone who's got some car knowledge to "vet" them for basics - the posts above are good advice. Once you find a car that's great, THEN spend the $100 to have a professional mechanic go over the car carefully to tell you what's wrong with it.
(Every used car has something wrong with it. Nobody sells a car that's got no problems)

This offers a few benefits:

1. You learn if there is something expensively wrong with the car, and can back out of the deal.
2. You can learn what minor stuff is wrong with it, and use that in negotiating for a lower price. (Don't be afraid to negotiate a lower price. If you get even $100 off in 15 minutes, where else can you make $400 an hour? Negotiating is a matter of guts, don't be afraid to say exactly what you want and mean. Nobody's feelings will be hurt. It's business.)
3. Now you have a list of the little stuff you need to fix (or get fixed). Try repairing stuff yourself, it's a lot easier than you think. Buy or borrow a manual for the car.

When you do buy a car, go online and find the forums (like Chief Delphi) where folks who own these cars congregate. Every brand has them. Ask, and you'll get answers.


Lastly: This is a phobia of mine, so take it with a grain of salt. But, in a collision, Mass Wins. The properly belted occupants of heavier vehicles tend to fare better in collisions than those in lighter vehicles. I hope you never have a collision.