For some buyers, it might feel like a gamble when visiting used car dealerships to look for a reliable option. However, the average cost of a new car is not far from $50,000 now, which means many buyers have no choice but to look at used vehicles. A recent survey by Consumer Reports helps identify the most reliable used cars.
Top Choice – Lexus
Consumer Reports calculated reliability scores based on 20 problem areas on eligible vehicles between the model years of 2015 and 2020. At least five years of data was necessary to be considered. Lexus came out on top with 10 eligible models in the ranking for most reliable used cars. Lexus is also number two for the most reliable new cars. As Toyota’s luxury division, Lexus won by seven points over its parent company, showing that sometimes what you pay is what you get.
Runner Up – Toyota
Unsurprisingly, Toyota comes in the second spot for most reliable used cars. The automaker also makes the third most reliable new cars. Recently, the Toyota chairman made a bold statement that EV models will never dominate the market and that hybrids are the better option. When it comes to long-term reliability, that appears to be true, as Toyota boasts a long list of hybrid models. Toyota is also known for its conservative redesigns that improve product lines across the board rather than dumping many all-new systems into its vehicles.
Surprising Third – Mazda
Mazda has been making big strides in reliability across the board. It ranked sixth in new car reliability and is now third for used car reliability. Mazda boasts several attractive and popular models, including the MX-5 Miata, CX-5, and CX9. With a nice selection of cars and crossovers to choose from and a reputation for sporty and fun driving dynamics, Mazda is gaining more buyers in both the new and used car market.
Fourth Across the Board – Honda
Honda ranks fourth for both new and used car reliability. Only a single point separates Honda’s lineup from its luxury brand Acura. The Honda lineup under consideration includes popular choices like the Accord, Civic, CR-V, Odyssey, Pilot, and Ridgeline.
Fifth With Only Three Models – Acura
Honda’s luxury brand makes the fifth ranking with only three models being considered. The MDX, RDX, and TLX combined to score only a point lower than Honda with its 13 total models. Acura proves that even if you only have one sedan and two SUVs available, you can make the grade if the quality is there.
Highest Ranked American Brand – Buick
At sixth place in the rankings, Buick is the highest-placed American automotive brand. Its score is only a few points lower than Acura, and it has five eligible models, including the Enclave, Encore, Envision, and LaCrosse. Buick’s rating in the used car rankings is quite a bit higher than its 11th-place ranking for new car reliability
As you can see, there are plenty of reliable and popular options from brands like Toyota, Honda, Mazda, and Buick to choose from at used car dealerships.
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