Review Car

What are the most reliable used cars?

The biggest concern most people face when buying a used car is whether or not they’re committing to a vehicle that will break down only three months later. Buying used is always a gamble, but approaching a purchase smartly can save you thousands of dollars on the rock-solid car you need. There are several factors to consider when looking at a car, but all else being equal there are some models that are simply renowned for their reliability. For these cars, 150,000 miles is just the start of middle-age, and for many 500,000 miles is a common milestone.

Because of this, these are also the cars that insurance companies love, and when you compare car insurance rates online, you may be pleasantly surprised by the results. Simply enter your ZIP code into the FREE comparison tool now!

Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza is a stylish and sporty compact sedan or hatchback. It’s one of Subaru’s bestselling vehicles thanks to its small size, gas efficiency, rally-style handling and all-wheel drive capabilities.

Besides it versatility, the Impreza also benefits from Subaru’s impeccable engineering. With its great gas mileage, it makes for an excellent commuter vehicle. The Impreza WRX may occasionally have transmission problems, so pay close attention to the shifting while test driving a used WRX model.

Honda Civic

When people think of reliable cars, the name Honda is usually the first that comes to mind. The company’s reputation is well deserved, as its cars, while perhaps not the most exciting vehicles on the road, are almost certainly the most long-lived. The Civic is a prime example, as a compact sedan or hatchback with a sporty kick and near-legendary reliability.

Some mechanics joke about their hatred for the Civic, because it steals so many of their customers and is so cheap to fix when it does break. Honda has been honing the Civic’s engine since 1973, and today there are Civics with over half a million miles on them still running strong.

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV which provides the roominess and all-wheel drive of an SUV but the handling and fuel efficiency of a smaller vehicle. They are very popular with active families that need a reliable commuter on weekdays and a reliable hauler for weekend excursions.

Some Subaru Foresters have minor engine problems such as a catalytic converter failure. Older models may also have head gasket issues, but besides these rare setbacks most used Foresters will still have a good 100,000 miles in them.

Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima is a slightly more upscale sedan, offering more space for families and carpooling. The Altima is sleek and stylish and, most importantly, it seems to run forever without so much as a hiccup.

The Altima has many luxury features befitting its status and price, but its engine is a tried and true Nissan. This is why the vast majority of Altimas only ever pull into the dealership for a routine oil and tire change. The models from 2002 to 2006, however, the Nissan Altimas can be prone to several problems with their electrical systems and transmissions.

Toyota Corolla

The Corolla is another compact sedan with a reputation for running like new ten years after it rolls off the lot. The Corolla is the bestselling vehicle in the world, with one new Corolla purchased every forty seconds. Its popularity is not due to its rather plain looks, but because of its affordability and dependability. A Corolla will get you where you need to go with no fuss and no frills.

Because they are so very popular, used Corollas in good condition are easy to find and even easier to maintain. Mechanics are almost guaranteed to have Corolla parts in stock, even if they don’t get to use them very often! Some newer models, year 2005 and up, have had connecting rod issues which can lead to serious engine damage. Monitoring oil consumption is the best way to repair the problem before it begins.

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is the standard by which all other cars are judged for reliability. Another old favorite from Honda, the Accord has been in production since 1976 and has evolved from a quirky compact to a comfortable full-size sedan or coupe. The Accord is a staple among middle to upper-middle class families that want to travel in style while still getting the best quality for their money.

Accords, like Corollas, seem to be nearly ubiquitous on the used car market, and the sheer volume of vehicles for sale means that Accords are typically some of the best deals you can find. Seventh generation Accords are even available as a hybrid model. Eighth generation accords, which run from 2008 to the present, have had misfiring problems, so be aware of this while test driving.

There’s no reason to take unnecessary risks when buying a used car, and no need to try the ire of your insurance company, either.

Not only are these six vehicles the most reliable used cars you can buy, they may also save you some cash in insurance bills. If you don’t believe it, try running some used car comparisons online now with just your ZIP code, and prepare to be amazed!