What's The Cheapest New Car 2024

Alright, let's talk about the most budget-friendly option in the new car market for 2024. We're aiming to pinpoint the vehicle that gives you the most bang for your buck, focusing on its mechanical simplicity and potential for DIY maintenance. While features and styling play a role, our main concern here is affordability and ease of upkeep for the experienced DIYer.

The Contenders: Stripped Down, But Not Stranded

Several models typically vie for the title of "cheapest new car," and the exact winner can fluctuate depending on incentives, regional pricing, and package options. However, consistently hovering near the top are usually cars like the Nissan Versa (base model), Mitsubishi Mirage, and Kia Rio. Let's use a generic subcompact car, which has similar feature to the list above, as our example for technical analysis.

For the purpose of this discussion, we'll focus on a hypothetical "Economy Subcompact 2024," assuming it embodies the cost-effective engineering principles common to these vehicles.

Key Specs and Main Parts: Keeping It Simple

This hypothetical model will likely feature:

Engine: A small displacement (typically 1.0L to 1.6L) naturally aspirated (non-turbocharged) inline 3- or 4-cylinder gasoline engine. These engines are favored for their fuel economy and relatively simple construction. Expect a power output between 70 and 120 horsepower.
Transmission: A 5-speed manual transmission is the most common cost-cutting choice. Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) are becoming more prevalent but are generally more complex and potentially more expensive to repair.
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard for weight reduction, cost savings, and simplicity.
Suspension: MacPherson struts in the front and a torsion beam axle in the rear are almost guaranteed. These are cost-effective and provide adequate handling for daily driving.
Brakes: Disc brakes in the front, with drum brakes often used in the rear to save on production costs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is a standard safety feature.
Electrical System: A 12-volt electrical system, powering basic lights, instruments, and starting system.

Understanding the Wiring Diagram: A Deeper Dive

Let's imagine we have a simplified wiring diagram for the starting system of our "Economy Subcompact 2024." The diagram is available for download at the end of this article.

Purpose of the Diagram

The wiring diagram is crucial for:

Diagnosis: Tracing electrical faults, such as a no-start condition.
Repair: Identifying and replacing damaged wires or components.
Modification: Safely adding aftermarket accessories, like a new stereo or alarm system (though extreme caution is advised, especially with modern car electronics).
Understanding: Gaining a deeper knowledge of the vehicle's electrical system.

Symbols – Decoding the Lines, Colors, and Icons

Wiring diagrams use standardized symbols to represent components and wiring. Here's a breakdown:

Lines: Represent wires. Thicker lines may indicate higher current-carrying capacity. Dashed lines often represent ground connections.
Colors: Each color represents a different wire. A color code chart (usually found in the service manual) tells you what each color is used for (e.g., red for power, black for ground). Using the correct wire color is critical for proper circuit operation.
Icons: Represent components like the battery (a series of alternating short and long lines), the starter motor (a circle with an "S" inside), relays (a rectangle with a coil symbol inside), fuses (a zigzag line inside a rectangle), and switches (a line connecting or disconnecting two points).
Numbers: Usually indicate wire gauge (thickness) or component part numbers.

For example, a solid red line might represent a 12-gauge wire carrying power from the battery to the ignition switch. A black dashed line indicates a ground connection to the chassis.

How the Starting System Works

Let's analyze how the starting system depicted in our hypothetical diagram functions:

When the ignition key is turned to the "start" position, it closes a switch, sending power from the battery (positive terminal) to the starter relay.
The starter relay is an electromagnetic switch. When it receives power from the ignition switch, the relay coil energizes, creating a magnetic field.
This magnetic field pulls a contact (another switch) closed inside the relay.
Closing the relay contact allows high-current power from the battery (through a heavy-gauge wire) to flow directly to the starter motor. This high current is necessary to turn the engine over.
The starter motor engages with the engine's flywheel (via the starter solenoid and pinion gear), cranking the engine until it starts.
Once the engine starts, the ignition key is released, the starter relay de-energizes, and the starter motor disengages.

Real-World Use: Basic Troubleshooting Tips

If your "Economy Subcompact 2024" isn't starting, the wiring diagram can help you diagnose the problem:

No Crank, No Click: Check the battery voltage with a multimeter. If it's low (below 12 volts), the battery may be dead or severely discharged. Next, check the connections to the battery, starter, and ground. Corroded connections can prevent current flow. Finally, check the starter relay. You can often swap it with another identical relay (like the horn relay) to see if that resolves the issue.
No Crank, But You Hear a Click: This usually indicates a problem with the starter motor itself or the high-current connection between the battery and the starter. Check the heavy-gauge wire connecting the battery to the starter. You may need to replace the starter motor.
Crank, But No Start: This indicates a problem with the ignition system or fuel system. The wiring diagram for these systems will be needed for further troubleshooting.

Safety – Respecting the Electrical System

Working on a car's electrical system can be dangerous. Here are some crucial safety precautions:

Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any electrical components. This prevents accidental shorts and potential electrocution.
Use a Multimeter Safely: Understand how to use a multimeter correctly. Incorrect use can damage the meter or the vehicle's electrical system.
Avoid Working on Live Wires: Never work on live wires unless absolutely necessary for diagnostics, and then only with extreme caution and proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
Be Aware of Airbag Systems: Airbag systems are explosive devices. Improper handling can result in serious injury. Consult the service manual for proper procedures before working near airbags.
High-Current Circuits: The starter motor circuit carries very high current. A short circuit in this area can cause a fire. Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated.

Warning: The starter motor and its wiring are high-current components. A short circuit can cause a fire. Always disconnect the battery before working on the starter motor.

In Conclusion

While the "cheapest new car" might lack some of the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it can be a reliable and affordable option, especially for those comfortable with basic maintenance and repairs. Understanding the vehicle's electrical system, as illustrated by the simplified starting system diagram, is a valuable skill for any DIY mechanic. By being informed and taking proper safety precautions, you can keep your budget-friendly ride running smoothly for years to come. Remember that while this article provides general guidance, always refer to the specific service manual for your vehicle for accurate and detailed information.

You can download the simplified wiring diagram mentioned in this article here.