Buying a used car comes with a lot of benefits, but there can still be some concern over how reliable the car may be. A used car has been driven and owned by at least one other person, has preexisting miles on it, and may have been through some mechanical challenges in the past. However, they are also capable of being extremely safe, more affordable than new cars, and featuring modern stylish designs. Luckily, there are ways to find reliable used cars and ensure that you get your hands on one.
When it comes to finding a used car you can trust, you want to look at models that are known to be reliable when they are new. These cars often stand the test of time when properly taken care of because of their impeccable design during creation.
Here are a few of the most popular reliable used cars for you to consider in your search for the perfect pre-owned vehicle.
1. Mazda3
If you’re in the market for a compact used car that’s known to be reliable, then you may be interested in something like the Mazda3. It’s a compact car that doesn’t feel compact, with plenty of room for extra storage and comfortable seating for five. These more luxurious vehicles are offered in both four-door sedan and five-door hatchback forms and often come with a powerful 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine.
Models as far back as the 2014 design can come equipped with features like blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert, making it a great option if safety is a primary concern. More current designs can also come with all-wheel drive.
2. Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry has been on the market for decades and continually scores as one of the most reliable used car options around. First launched in 1983, it is a mid-size sedan that offers drivers ample leg room for both front and rear seat passengers. This model has received incredible reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and more.
Designs as far back as 2012 offer modern touchscreen infotainment systems and surprising fuel efficiency at 38 MPG. While the Toyota Camry is often updated, it typically keeps its same overall style, making old and new versions easily identifiable on the road. Newer versions of this vehicle have impressive safety features, such as blind-spot warnings and rear-crossing traffic warnings.
3. Mazda MX5
If you’re looking for a reliable used car that doesn’t skimp on style, you’ll be impressed by the Mazda MX5. This vehicle first launched in the 1990s and quickly became one of the most popular sports cars on the market. It’s stylish in design and definitely not a family car, as this model only seats two passengers. Still, that doesn’t stop it from being a top choice among reliable used cars.
This vehicle is a great car for leisure drives, as the top can be pulled back in many models, and passengers can feel the wind through their hair. It’s perfect for long rides in nice weather, but you don’t have to have the top down to enjoy riding in this compact car. Mazda MX5s that don’t have the top-down feature are significantly quieter on the road and more weather resistant while still maintaining the sleek sporty design that the car is known for.
4. Honda Fit
The Honda Fit packs a lot of awesome features into a pretty small package. It is designed to make the most of its space and features a rear seat that both flips up and folds backward. Another upside is that this compact car was pretty popular during its run, making them readily available at many used car dealerships.
The five-door hatchback comes in a variety of bright colors, making it an appealing option for vehicle owners who aren’t afraid to stand out from the crowd. That mixed with its excellent fuel efficiency of up to 40 MPG makes the Honda fit one of the most popular compact used vehicles around.
5. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord has some competition in the used car market, but it still ranks consistently when it comes to reliability scores in J.D. Power’s ratings. Models made from 2016 to 2017 have impressive reliability ratings, with older models also scoring about 80/100. This vehicle features options like 278 horsepower and models with manual transmission. Affordability is one of the biggest draws to this vehicle for people looking for a reliable used car, as it’s often one of the most affordable cars on the lot.
6. Toyota Avalon
If you want all the reliability of a Toyota Camry in a slightly bigger model, then you’ll likely be interested in the Toyota Avalon. Older versions of this car have scored a 5/5 in reliability from Consumer Reports, just like its competitor the Toyota Camry. Unlike the Toyota Camry, the Toyota Avalon has been recently replaced by a newer version known as the Crown, so most Avalons you come across now will be used to some capacity. Look forward to enjoying standard safety features, plenty of style, and 301 horsepower with this vehicle.
7. Toyota Prius
When talking about reliable used cars, it’s hard not to bring up the Toyota Prius, one of the first hybrid vehicles to hit the market. With near-perfect reliability scores dating back to the 2010 version of this car, it’s safe to say that it’s among the most reliable used car options you’ll find out there. Potential buyers will have the option between the four-door sedan and the five-door hatchback when looking for models dating back to 2000. This vehicle is known to be extremely efficient, with some models able to get well over 50 MPG. As you’re deciding which reliable used car fits your style and needs, shop at a used car dealership you can trust, such as Ingram Park Pre-Owned Outlet. You’ll find both quality and variety on our lot. With a little prior knowledge and the right team behind you, your used car buying experience can be just as positive as buying a new car.
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