5 Most Reliable Used Cars You Can Buy

We did some digging and put together a list of the top 5 most reliable used cars out there. From the trusty Honda Civic to the adventurous Subaru Outback, there's a car on this list for everyone.

Updated: February 28, 2024  // 

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1. Honda Civic (2006-2011)

2011 Honda Civic Coupe

No one is going to be surprised if you say that Honda is reliable, but the Civic is in its own category of longevity. Honda has done a great job at making a low-maintenance engine and well-built suspension system, the Honda Civic is a car that you can last you well over 250k miles. The Honda Civic is a top-performing compact car that boasts impressive longevity when given proper maintenance.

Repair Pal estimates the yearly maintenance cost for this car at $390, which is low for its class. Car aficionados love the Civic because it can go over 250,000 miles. We love the look and comfort of the 2006-2011 models and would hands-down recommend them to students or new drivers who want a dependable used car.

If you’re the tuner type there is perhaps no better platform than the Civic. Gearheads have been modding these since before the dawn of the iconic VTEC Engine. Whatever type of tuner build you want, someone has done it to a Civic.

2. Toyota Corolla (2009-2013)

2009 Toyota Corolla

The 2009-2013 Toyota Corollas can last forever. It’s no wonder why it’s a hot pick among used car enthusiasts who value a ride that can go the distance without breaking a sweat. While everyone’s experience might differ slightly, the overall consensus is that the 2009-2013 Corolla is a reliable machine, backed by positive feedback from proud owners and industry experts alike.

What sets the 2009-2013 Corolla apart is its ability to deliver top-notch performance over the long haul, granted you treat it right. The 1.8L engine may lack a bit of punch and get a bit noisy at higher speeds, but that’s nothing a true gearhead can’t handle. And yes, we know the interior design of this Corolla generation might not blow your mind, as it’s considered a bit plain compared to its more aesthetically flashy competitors. Keep in mind when getting one, you’ll probably pass it down to your kid’s kids one day.

3.  Subaru Outback (2015-2018)

Subaru Outback Full size

The Subaru Outback (2015-2018) reigns supremely reliable. Subaru Outback has been winning people (including us) over with its powerful performance, rugged design, and unwavering dependability. These little AWD monsters are a ton of fun to drive and excel in all weather conditions. This legendary crossover has carved a niche for itself as the ultimate choice for gearheads seeking a thrilling and reliable ride.

Related: 4 Used Cars You Should NEVER EVER Buy

4. Mazda MX-5 Miata (2006-2015)

Mazda Miata

The old saying of, “Miata is always the answer” seems to be truer and truer as the years go on. Mazda has made this tiny sports coupe as reliable as it is fun to drive, and it is REALLY fun to drive. That’s why we love the 2006-2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata, because they took a modernized a iconic platform without sacrificing build quality. Mazda has seriously got your back when it comes to longevity. You’ll be cruising in style for years to come!

5. Volkswagen Golf (2010-2014)

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R blue

Very few cars are as fun to drive then the Volkswagen Golf. It’s the type of car that can get you in to racing with out even trying. With a low center a gravity, tight suspension and the perfect amount of horsepower the 2010-2014 Golf delivers on all fronts. Under the hood lies a powerful 170 HP 2.5L 5-cylinder engine with 177 lb-ft of torque, making long hours of highway cruising a breeze with its impressive 30 MPG fuel efficiency. You’re gonna want to drive the Golf for hours on end, and it will be there for every rev with out fail.

Bonus // Toyota Tundra (2007-2013)

Lifted 2012 Tundra Toyota

The Toyota Tundra has been known to tow a 300,000 ton Space Shuttle, so your and my trips to the store or the beach is nothing for it. Which is why there are stories of 1 million mile 2007-2013 Toyota Tundras all over the internet. This goliath of a truck is meant to run and run for a very long time. You will get tired of tundra before it ever breaks a sweat. We love these trucks for commercial worksites, family, mudding and the list goes on.

We hope you’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a car reliable, and found the perfect car for you. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance compact car, a fun-to-drive roadster, or a rugged adventure vehicle, there’s something on this list for everyone.

So don’t let car shopping stress you out anymore, even if you have to buy a car after a bankruptcy! And remember, a reliable car doesn’t mean a boring car. So go ahead and find your dream car today!

About The Writer

Devin Joy

Devin's love of cars came from his father and mother over 35 years ago. They always told stories of their old cars and the adventures they had in them were so amazing he dove headfirst into the car world, and never looked back.

Disclaimer: The writers of this article may have used artificial intelligence to help them with some of the material. It should not be a replacement for professional help.

Sources:

  1. 2011 Honda Civic | U.S. News. (2001, September 14). 2011 Honda Civic Prices, Reviews, & Pictures | U.S. News. https:///cars-trucks/honda/civic/2011
  2. Used 2013 Toyota Corolla Consumer Reviews - 56 Car Reviews | Edmunds. (n.d.). Edmunds. https://www.edmunds.com/toyota/corolla/2013/consumer-reviews/
  3. 2010 Toyota tundra 4.7L Specifications| Toyota Specs. (n.d.). 2010 Toyota Tundra 4.7L Specifications| Toyota Specs. https://toyota-specs.com/cars/2010/tundra4.7/specs.php
  4. T. (2012, October 13). Toyota Tundra Makes History Towing Space Icon - Toyota USA Newsroom. Toyota USA Newsroom. https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-tundra-tow-space-shuttle-endeavour-oct12/