For $3,500 you will only get higher mileage vehicles… shop on Facebook marketplace look for a Toyota (scion) or honda… an older Buick is also very reliable and try and buy from an actual owner who can give you history, not some flipper. Most of the bigger dealerships will not have anything in that price range. And the local used lots will be a real dice roll for quality and help.

Like this guy: https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/2041156532741870/

Buick with just over 100k miles, tags show 2023 so its getting driven and most likely cared for. Good luck