The Most Reliable Cars to Buy Used: 8 Models You Should Look out For
Quality pre-owned vehicles have numerous advantages. Choosing from different models, editions, and specs can be intimidating, given the many options available in the market. Some of the things you need to consider include maintenance costs, mileage, driving comfort, and overall usage and reliability.
Car reliability ratings determine how well vehicles hold up and their chances of encountering problems and needing repairs. It also shows general owner satisfaction. Vehicles with outstanding reliability tend to be easier to maintain and have fewer complications, enabling them to last longer.
Second-hand vehicle dealerships are filled with many choices. What rides should you be on the lookout for? We’ve listed some of the most reliable used cars to buy if you spot them in a dealership near you.
What are the Best Used Cars to Buy?
Honda Civic
Originally released in 1972, the Honda Civic is one of the most reliable vehicles still in production today. This compact vehicle has a simple but sporty exterior. It is also one of the first production Honda models to have the VTEC engine, making it a fun daily driver.
The Honda Civic has a consistent and remarkable reliability rating, outstanding features, and low maintenance cost. On average, only 1% of annually manufactured cars from other companies last more than 200,000 miles. But 2.3% of Civics can go as far as 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Many drivers love the smooth handling, remarkable steering, and rugged capabilities of the full-size Silverado 1500. After all, what can you expect from a reliable truck built for off-road adventures?
Some features worth highlighting include its efficient fuel economy and driving range. Another attribute that sets the Silverado apart from its competitors is the chiming sound its doors make whenever you close them. Moreover, repairs and upgrades are quick and easy to fix, as replacement parts are affordable and easy to come by.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius became available in the market in 1997 in Japan and four years later in the United States. It has since become representative of what a parallel hybrid vehicle can do. Under the hood lies its gasoline engine and electric motor for maximum performance on the road.
The Prius paved the way for all of the hybrid vehicles we have today and is still one of the most reliable hybrids out there. Moreover, the Prius is substantially cheaper to maintain at a little above $400, whereas the average maintenance costs around $650.
Honda Accord
If you’re in the market for a reliable midsize vehicle, look no further than the Honda Accord. This economy car is one of the longest-running production cars in the industry, offering remarkable fuel economy and different body styles.
The Honda Accord also stands out from its competitors with Honda Sensing, the car manufacturer’s exclusive intelligent suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. For instance, the Lane Keeping Assist System adjusts your steering to keep you centered in your lane. Other versions of the Accord can also have a VTEC or a turbocharged engine, making it a fun and fast daily driver.
Ford Fusion
Three generations of Ford Fusions have stood the test of time since 2006. The Fusion has consistently maintained its reliable performance, safety, and innovative technology features. They come in various configurations to meet customer needs. For instance, the 2020 Ford Fusion has four powertrain options and six trim levels, depending on your preferences.
Affordability is another reason a Ford Fusion is a great preowned vehicle. It doesn’t have a high depreciation rate, and if you decide to resell it, you can still get a decent profit out of it.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry will surely make the list when you say reliable used cars. Toyota is known for producing the most reliable vehicles that can last for decades, and the Camry is no exception.
This four-door sedan can comfortably fit five people and has all the features you need for a safe ride. It has the Toyota Safety Sense, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Alert.
Moreover, it now has anti-lock brakes that have become a standard in more recent Toyota Camry releases. This new feature provides easier handling and improved safety, which garnered positive feedback from various Camry owners.
Mazda 3
Has a second-hand Mazda 3 caught your eye? You’re in luck because it is one of the most reliable used cars to buy in the market, depending on which year model you’re looking at. It was first released in 2003 and had all the trimmings of a more expensive car. It has an efficient and powerful engine for a compact vehicle.
Despite its seemingly small frame, the Mazda 3 is surprisingly spacious and has plenty of legroom for passengers. Whether you get a manual or automatic transmission, maneuvering this vehicle will be smooth. Furthermore, while airbags are a standard for the driver and passenger seats, you can also upgrade to side and curtain airbags for better collision safety.
Honda CR-V
Another vehicle from Honda is on our list of the most reliable used cars to buy. On average, Americans drive around 14,000 miles annually, and the Honda CR-V offers 300,000 miles of reliable service. That’s more than 20 years of driving. It truly lives up to its name as one of the longest-lasting compact SUVs.
When vehicles try to provide more space to accommodate more people, there is the issue of a heavier and sturdier frame, reducing a ride’s overall fuel economy. However, that is not the case with the CR-V, as it provides enough room without compromising its weight. The CR-V saw lots of improvement over the years, including the introduction of a hybrid powertrain as part of its different trim levels.
Purchase the Most Reliable Used Car for You
Just because a vehicle is pre-owned doesn’t mean it has reduced performance. In fact, getting a preowned ride provides you with all its outstanding features at a fraction of the price.
You can go back to previous year models from generations back and still be guaranteed promising results. The numbers don’t lie; they are a testament to the dedication car manufacturers have put into constantly improving their vehicles.
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