Back to GuidesWhen it comes to buying the best-used car possible, there are two main factors that many buyers often consider. The first of which is cost, and with current new cars being so expensive, used vehicle prices are easier to swallow. Used car buyers also covet reliability. Nobody wants to drive their newly purchased vehicle off of a dealership’s lot just to break down one block away or pay thousands in repair bills the next week.
If you fall into the “many buyers” category, we can help. Read on to explore our list of the best-used cars you can buy that will not leave you stranded. Our ratings are based on both Consumer Reports and J.D. Power data from the past several years, helping you find the most reliable used cars possible in an automotive marketplace that remains hot in the midst of continued supply chain troubles.
1. Toyota Camry
2. Toyota Avalon
3. Mazda MX-5 Miata
4. Lincoln MKZ
5. Toyota Prius
6. Honda Fit
7. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
8. Honda Accord
9. Honda Civic
10. Hyundai Elantra
11. Lexus ES
12. Nissan Leaf
13. Toyota Corolla/Toyota Corolla Hybrid
14. Subaru Legacy
15. Chevrolet Corvette
1. Toyota Camry
Even those who know next to nothing about cars might suggest that the Toyota Camry is the best-used car to purchase. We would certainly not fight that idea. Not only has the Camry earned stellar reliability ratings from both Consumer Reports and J.D. Power year over year for the past decade, but it’s a well-rounded and inexpensive option as well.
Available with either a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine, it is an easy choice for those who also need decent fuel economy, a good amount of rear seat legroom, and a comfortable ride. It’s not especially fun to drive, nor will it substitute for larger, three-row SUVs, but you can get one with all-wheel-drive starting in the 2020 model year.
2018 to 2022 models are readily available on the market for between $15,000 and $25,000. J.D. Power does not award any of these model years lower than 82/100 for reliability. Consumer Reports gives 2018 and 2019 models a perfect reliability rating, while 2020 and 2022 models earn better-than-average ratings. If you want to spend even less, CR gives 2010-2017 models a 5/5 reliability rating as well.
Browse used Toyota Camry listings here.
2. Toyota Avalon
If you like the Toyota Camry but you want something a little ritzier and larger, the Toyota Avalon is the way to go. Like the Camry, Consumer Reports gives 2010-2019 models a perfect 5/5 reliability score. 2020 and 2021 models still earn a better-than-average rating from CR. 2013-2022 models earn no less than an 82/100 from J.D. Power.
Because of the decline in sedan sales over the past few years, Toyota has, unfortunately, discontinued the Avalon for 2023, replacing it with the Crown. 2019 models hit a sweet spot on the used market with modern styling, a good array of standard safety features, a smooth ride, 301 horsepower on tap, excellent safety ratings, and, of course, great reliability scores.
You can find them on the used market for between $20,000 and $30,000, and you should definitely consider one over that crossover SUV you have had your eye on at the dealership across the street.
Browse used Toyota Avalon listings here.
3. Mazda MX-5 Miata
Buyers who are looking for a sports car are not usually as concerned with reliability as buyers looking for a family vehicle, but the Mazda Miata proves that fun-to-drive cars do not have to come at the expense of fuel economy and costly repairs. It even bests its more practical siblings, the Mazda Mazda6 and Mazda3, as the automaker’s most typically reliable offering.
According to Consumer Reports, 2016, 2019, and 2021 are particularly good Miata model years you can get where reliability is concerned, and J.D. Power backs up those claims. All three of those model years fall within the MX-5’s fourth generation of production.
Pricing usually falls between $15,000 and $35,000, depending on the year and trim level. You can opt for a hardtop RF version, you can choose either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission, and the model year of your choice will dictate whether you will have 155 horsepower or 181 horsepower at your disposal.
Browse used Mazda MX-5 Miata listings here.
4. Lincoln MKZ
The Lincoln MKZ may seem like a surprising pick for this list, but with the exception of only average reliability ratings for both the 2016 and 2019 model years, Consumer Reports gives top marks to every other MKZ model year between 2014 and 2020. Again, J.D. Power fully supports CR’s ratings with great reliability scores from them as well.
Competing against the likes of other luxury midsize sedans like the Buick Regal, Lexus ES, and Acura TLX, the MKZ is not as ritzy nor is it as engaging to drive as its rivals, but it can go head-to-head against most of them and come out on top with its excellent reliability scores.
Front-wheel drive or all-wheel-drive models are available from anywhere between $10,000 and $40,000. 2014-2016 models will be less expensive, but 2017-2020 models feature more handsome styling, more safety features, and even a 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged engine option, as long as you are willing to pay for it. A hybrid version is even available.
Browse used Lincoln MKZ listings here.
5. Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius has proven to be one of the most reliable cars ever made. You have to travel all the way back to 2010 to find the first model that does not have a 5/5 reliability rating from Consumer Reports. J.D. Power is particularly fond of the 2011-2018 model years.
Even though used vehicle buyers will miss out on the handsomely restyled 2023 model, its looks and hype should keep already low used car prices down. Even 2021 and 2022 models are on sale for under $20,000, and if you are willing to forgo some of the most modern features of the newest models, you can pay as little as $6,000 for a high-mileage 2011 or 2012 example.
You should not expect anything remotely sporty or luxurious with a used Prius, but with the potential of getting well over 50 MPG and the little extra practicality that comes with its hatchback design, you will spend much less than a newer electric car and will most likely end up having fewer problems.
Browse used Toyota Prius listings here.
6. Honda Fit
Honda is a master automaker when it comes to cramming an insane amount of practicality in their vehicles. The now-defunct Honda Fit is possibly the best example of that. With cargo space and rear seat passenger space rivaling that of many small SUVs, this subcompact hatchback is also much more fun to drive than it appears.
2017 and 2019 are the best model years for Fit reliability, according to both Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, and there are few differences between the two. Both feature high safety scores, great fuel economy, plenty of available tech and safety features, and your choice of either a manual or automatic transmission.
Do not be fooled by the Fit’s diminutive 130-horsepower four-cylinder engine. It’s not great if outright acceleration is your thing, but it’s deceptively fun to drive, and you may find yourself going faster than you think around the corners while confidently transporting your family from point A to point B. You can find Fits all day on the used market for around $20,000 or less.
Browse used Honda Fit listings here.
7. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
German automakers like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW are known for producing some of the most luxurious vehicles on the market. With that, though, comes the reputation for expensive repairs and reliability issues. The 2020 and 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class bucks that trend and scores the highest marks possible in Consumer Reports reliability ratings for both of those model years.
Sedan, coupe, and convertible body styles are all available for your choosing. Engine options also range from a 255 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder to a brawny 503-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with several others in between. Naturally, you will also benefit from a high-end interior, a refined driving experience, and a well-rounded list of standard tech and safety features.
2020 and 2021 models are currently available on the used market for as little as $25,000 on models equipped with the smallest engine. Climbing the trim levels and adding features like all-wheel-drive and larger engine options can make used models skyrocket to over $70,000. Repairs that are needed may still end up being costly, but reliability ratings for these two model years indicate that they may not be needed all that often.
Browse used Mercedes-Benz C-Class listings here.
8. Honda Accord
Even though the Honda Accord may not have as consistently high of a reliability rating as its chief rival, the Toyota Camry, it’s no slouch. 9th generation models, consisting of the 2013-2017 model years, rank among the best. J.D. Power’s ratings do not dip below 82/100 throughout this model year range, and Consumer Reports ranks each model within these years higher than average, with 2016 and 2017 models earning the highest possible ratings.
Accord models within this range may not be as stylish or tech-heavy as newer models, but they are affordable, you can still choose the 278-horsepower V6 option, a manual transmission is still available, and you can even get the Accord Coupe, a body style that was discontinued for 2018.
Used 2013-2017 Accords in good condition are readily available for between $15,000 and $25,000, depending on the trim level and equipped features. You can find them for much cheaper than that if you have a smaller budget, though. The Honda Accord remains one of the best-used car options on the market for its well-roundedness, affordability, and overall packaging.
Browse used Honda Accord listings here.
9. Honda Civic
If you want to pay a little less than what you would pay for an Accord but you also want to stay within Honda territory, you can opt for the smaller Civic. 2020 and 2021 models earn particularly high-reliability marks from both Consumer Reports and J.D. Power compared to other used Civic models in the past several years.
Even though the Civic coupe was dropped for the 2021 model year ahead of its redesign in 2022, buyers can still find 2020 coupe models. To scratch your fun-to-drive itch, you can choose a hatchback with a six-speed manual transmission and opt for a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that gets a healthy 180 horsepower. More fuel-efficient models will have a continuously variable automatic transmission.
The most affordable models will have a 158-horsepower four-cylinder engine, but regardless of your powertrain of choice, you will likely get at least 35 MPG on the highway. Used models are easy to find for between $15,000 and $25,000, but if you are looking for a high-performance Type-R model, you will have to pay much more than that.
Browse used Honda Civic listings here.
10. Hyundai Elantra
If the Honda Civic does not suit your fancy, the Hyundai Elantra might. It competes against the Civic in the compact car segment, but it comes with a 10-year/100,00-mile warranty for some added peace of mind for buyers. The Elantra is more value-oriented and generally cheaper to buy than the Civic, but it does not feel as refined nor are its powertrain options as inspiring.
It still remains an affordable a comfortable choice for anybody’s transportation needs. The Elantra’s most reliable years are 2016 and 2019, according to both Consumer Reports and J.D. Power’s stellar ratings. 2019 models will come more well-equipped and with better styling but will cost more. Go with 2016 models for a wider range of pricing and trim level availability.
Regardless of which model year you choose, you will be rewarded with a comfortable ride, a spacious interior for a compact car, fuel-efficient engine options, and a relatively spacious cargo area. You can even go with the hatchback model for even more practicality. Nice used models are currently on sale for between $8,000 and $25,000 depending on your year and features of choice.
Browse used Hyundai Elantra listings here.
11. Lexus ES
It is no surprise to find yet another Toyota product on this list, given its reputation for reliability. This time it’s the Lexus ES, essentially a more luxurious Toyota Camry that is backed up by higher-end materials and an even cushier feel. The most reliable years for the ES are 2010-2019, according to Consumer Reports. J.D. Power backs up those ratings with some of the highest reliability ratings possible of their own.
The sweet spot for used ES models includes the 2016-2018 model years. These models feature modern styling, a spacious interior, excellent ride quality, a 268-horsepower V6 engine, and range in price on the used market from around $16,000 to $35,000.
If you like the ES but need all-wheel-drive, you can look for a 2019 model. It will be a bit pricier, offer more features, and be available with all-wheel-drive being the first model year of the 7th generation ES. The ES will not provide quite the luxury levels that a comparable BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Audi model can provide, but you will most assuredly spend less on repairs over time.
Browse used Lexus ES listings here.
12. Nissan Leaf
Buyers who want or need electric over internal combustion will likely find the Nissan Leaf to best fit their reliability needs. The Leaf has been around for a while now, so the used market has more of them around than most other electric cars. Consumer Reports ranks 2015 and 2016 models particularly high in reliability, but newer 2018, 2019, and 2020 models also earn better-than-average ratings.
2015 and 2016 Leaf models will be much more affordable than newer models, but they feature a short range, only 107 horsepower, and odd styling that some buyers may not find attractive. At between $6,000 and $15,000, though, 2015 and 2016 Leaf models are inexpensive enough to be compelling choices as commuter vehicles.
2018-2020 models benefit from more features, a better electric range, more horsepower, and a more attractive design, but they are much more expensive at up to $30,000 for the best-used examples. Any Leaf model, regardless of the model year, will provide a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and some practicality for its size with its hatchback design.
Browse used Nissan Leaf listings here.
13. Toyota Corolla/Toyota Corolla Hybrid
It is hard to go wrong with a Toyota Corolla from just about any year. With the exception of the 2020 model – in which Consumer Reports and J.D. Power still rank better than average for reliability – the Corolla earns top marks from both CR and J.D. Power across the board. It’s not as exciting to drive as the Honda Civic, nor does it have the stellar warranty that Hyundai and Kia do, but it more than gets the job done.
The key to the Corolla’s success is its reputation for reliability, its affordability, and its approachability. It already has excellent fuel economy, but if you need to one-up your game, you can also choose the Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Since its inception in 2020, it too earns a perfect reliability score from Consumer Reports.
2014 and subsequent model years are the best-used examples to find on a budget. They are available for as little as $5,000, but more feature-rich, and newer models will cost more. With the newest, most powerful models only producing up to 169 horsepower, you will not be going anywhere fast, but at least, you will always be able to get where you are going reliably.
Browse used Toyota Corolla/Toyota Corolla Hybrid listings here.
14. Subaru Legacy
The Subaru Legacy cannot compete with the Toyota Camry’s hold over the midsize car segment’s reliability prize, but it is more consistently reliable than rivals like the Volkswagen Passat, Nissan Altima, and Chevy Malibu. The added benefit of having standard all-wheel-drive with the reliability it does have is quite a compelling reason to consider it over others in the segment.
Consumer Reports puts the 2016 and 2017 model years at the forefront of their reliability ratings, with 2015, 2019, and 2021 models following closely behind. Its 175-horsepower base engine and CVT make it uninspiring to drive, but its excellent safety scores, spacious interior, and excellent fuel economy with its AWD system help make up for its few shortcomings.
Another thing that Subaru has going for it is its tendency to make cars that hold their value. That can be both a good and a bad thing for you. Good-used examples are still affordable, though. High-mileage 2016 examples can be found for $9,000 while top-end used models from 2017 can cost over $25,000.
Browse used Subaru Legacy listings here.
15. Chevrolet Corvette
You are most likely well aware that the iconic Chevrolet Corvette underwent a huge change in 2020 to become a fully initiated, mid-engine supercar. We love the C8, but when it comes to reliability, 2015-2019 models are the ones to get. J.D. Power agrees, and Consumer Reports even awards 2015 and 2019 models with the highest reliability ratings possible. 2016 and 2017 models earn better-than-average ratings.
You may also not be alone in thinking that the C7 Corvette might just be better than the new C8. Its rear-wheel drive layout and front-mounted V8 engine are true to the car’s history. It looks great on top of that. With at least 455 horsepower at your disposal, and up to 650 available on the top models, you will certainly not be wanting for speed.
Sure, we know that most Corvette owners may not be as worried about reliability as those in the market for a Toyota Camry, Kia Soul, or even a Tesla Model 3, but it’s nice to know that there should be minimal issues after your purchase. Used models can be found for as little as $35,000 while high-performance ZR1 models can easily command six figures.
