Just a quick 2 min search of CL there I saw about 10 or more vehicles that could be solid contenders in the you could get it for $5k or less category with the keywords low miles and by owner.
Everything from loaded V8 explorer, to 4 banger S10 pickup to a 7.3 Powerstroke Superduty. And a really nice looking Acura MDX.
Also, since I been shopping recently, seems $5k is sort of a breakpoint between really good and possibly wth is that.
You WANT to buy an old car from a private owner, in his driveway where you can see what your getting, with some history and context behind it. Yes you can be fooled or lied to. But with a car lot, the chances of that are Much greater.
Good luck in your search.
