Looking to buy a car as a 18 y/o with no experience

I want to purchase a 09-13 Nissan Maxima but have no idea on how to go about it. I have about $2000-$3500 in cash. I have a job and insurance would be covered by my parents. I was recommended by my family to look for a car in a rebuilt or accident auction, but I don't know what the reliability to that is. Should I go about financing? Just not sure how to do this. Are there other cars like the Maxima that you guys could recommend too? via /r/cars http://ift.tt/2sShLJ6