The best make of used car to buy in 2025

For most buyers, the best make of used car to buy in 2025 is Toyota or Lexus for unmatched long-term reliability and low ownership costs; Honda and Mazda are close runners-up for value and driving dynamics, while Tesla leads used EVs thanks to charging access. The right answer depends on your needs, budget, and vehicle condition, but brands with proven dependability, strong parts support, and slow depreciation tend to deliver the safest bets.

How to judge “best” in today’s used market

The best make isn’t about brand perception; it’s about data. Industry studies over the past year—including long-term dependability rankings, reliability surveys, repair-cost indexes, and longevity analyses—continue to show Toyota and its luxury arm, Lexus, at or near the top. Honda and Mazda remain strong, with Subaru, Acura, and some GM and Hyundai Motor Group models showing good results depending on model and year. For EVs, Tesla’s charging access and resale strength matter even as reliability varies by model year. Market conditions also shifted: used prices eased through 2024–2025, hybrids hold value, and many EVs depreciated quickly after price cuts and incentives.

Best makes overall in 2025’s used-car market

These brands consistently score well across dependability studies, owner-reported reliability, and total cost of ownership. The choices below reflect broad, multi-year performance rather than one standout model.

• Toyota: Class-leading reliability across sedans, SUVs, trucks, and hybrids; abundant parts; slow depreciation; strong safety records.
• Lexus: Toyota’s reliability with luxury comfort; top dependability scores; excellent longevity (RX, GX, ES standouts).
• Honda: Reliable powertrains, efficient packaging, high resale; watch specific years for issues (e.g., early 1.5T oil dilution in CR‑V).
• Mazda: Strong reliability and driving dynamics; CX‑5, Mazda3, Mazda6 are smart value buys.
• Subaru: Standard AWD, good safety; reliability is solid on newer models—verify CVT service and head-gasket history on older ones.
• Acura: Luxury with Honda underpinnings; TLX, RDX, MDX can be value plays versus German rivals.
• Tesla (for EVs): U.S. charging access and software support are best-in-class; watch panel/trim build quality and warranty status.
• Buick/Chevrolet (select models): Certain trims score well in dependability studies; verify engine/transmission generations (e.g., avoid AFM lifter-prone V8s).
• Hyundai/Kia/Genesis (newer models): Improving reliability and strong features; confirm warranty transfer terms and recall completion.

While these brands offer statistically safer bets, the specific vehicle’s history, maintenance, and inspection results should drive your final decision more than the badge.

Best by category: recommended makes, models, and years

Compact and midsize commuter cars

If you want dependable A-to-B transportation with low running costs, these sedans and hatchbacks routinely deliver.

• Toyota Corolla (2014–2022) and Camry (2018–2023): Excellent reliability; hybrid trims are standouts for fuel economy.
• Honda Civic (2016–2021) and Accord (2018–2022): Strong powertrains; target models with documented maintenance; avoid heavily modified examples.
• Mazda3 (2014–2021) and Mazda6 (2016–2021): Fun-to-drive and reliable; check for rust in snow-belt regions and infotainment screen wear.
• Hyundai Elantra (2017–2022) and Sonata (2018–2022): Good value; verify recall work (e.g., engine campaign completion).

Among these, Toyota and Mazda typically have the fewest headaches over time; Honda offers a blend of reliability and resale, with Hyundai often giving you the newest car for the money.

Compact and midsize SUVs

Crossovers dominate the used market; target proven platforms with strong safety and predictable maintenance.

• Toyota RAV4 (2016–2021; Hybrid 2019–2021) and Highlander (2017–2022; Hybrid 2020–2022): Durable and efficient; confirm TSBs/recalls addressed.
• Mazda CX‑5 (2017–2021): Top pick for driving feel and reliability; ensure valve-stem and infotainment issues (if any) addressed.
• Honda CR‑V (2015–2016; 2019–2021 1.5T post-fix): Avoid 2017–2018 1.5T for potential oil dilution in cold climates unless repairs documented.
• Subaru Forester (2017–2021) and Outback (2018–2021): Standard AWD; check CVT service records and windshield/ADAS camera calibration after glass replacement.
• Lexus RX (2016–2021): Benchmark reliability in luxury midsize SUV; smooth V6 or hybrid powertrains with long life.

Toyota/Lexus lead for durability; Mazda offers a sweet spot of price, reliability, and refinement; Honda and Subaru are strong with the right years and records.

Minivans

For family hauling, reliability and ease of maintenance matter more than flash.

• Toyota Sienna (2015–2020; Hybrid 2021–2023): Bulletproof V6 in earlier years; the 2021+ hybrid is frugal but pricier used.
• Honda Odyssey (2018–2021): Spacious and comfortable; confirm transmission software updates and sliding-door maintenance.
• Chrysler Pacifica (2019–2021 non-hybrid): Comfortable; avoid earlier years with transmission/electrical gremlins; plug-in hybrid requires careful battery/charging history review.

The Sienna is the long-term reliability champ; Odyssey is compelling if you find a well-maintained example with updates completed.

Pickup trucks

Full-size and midsize trucks vary widely by engine/transmission generation. Focus on powertrains with known longevity.

• Toyota Tacoma (2016–2021) and Tundra (2014–2021): Conservative engineering equals long life; ride quality is secondary to durability.
• Ford F‑150 (2015–2020): Aluminum body resists rust; the 2.7 EcoBoost and 5.0 Coyote V8 are generally safe bets; verify 10‑speed service history on later years.
• Chevrolet Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 (2016–2018): Look for non‑AFM engines or AFM-disabled trucks; avoid known-lifter-problem V8s without repair records.
• Honda Ridgeline (2017–2020): Car-like ride, solid reliability, great for light-duty users.

Toyota trucks are the safest long-term pick; Ford offers broader availability and features if you choose the right engine and service history; GM trucks can be value buys once engine concerns are vetted.

Hybrids and plug-in hybrids

If fuel savings and low maintenance are priorities, Toyota’s hybrid system remains the gold standard for used buyers.

• Toyota Prius (2016–2022): Extremely reliable; taxi-level longevity common; check HV battery warranty remainder by region.
• Toyota Camry Hybrid (2018–2022) and RAV4 Hybrid (2019–2022): Excellent economy with minimal compromises; confirm recall/TSB completion.
• Honda Accord Hybrid (2018–2022): Strong contender with smooth power delivery; ensure software updates done.
• Hyundai/Kia hybrids (2019–2022): Good value; confirm battery/drive unit recalls addressed and warranty transfer terms.

For hybrids, Toyota is the safest bet; Honda runs a close second; Korean brands offer a lower entry price but require careful recall/warranty verification.

Electric vehicles

EV reliability varies, but charging access and depreciation make a big difference in ownership experience.

• Tesla Model 3 (2021–2023) and Model Y (2021–2023): Broad Supercharger access and strong software support; 2021+ build quality improved; check warranty and panel/trim issues.
• Chevrolet Bolt EV/EUV (2020–2023 with battery replacement/verification): Excellent value and range; confirm that recall battery pack was replaced and DC fast-charging health is good.
• Kia Niro EV (2019–2022) and Hyundai Kona EV (2020–2021 post-recall): Solid range; verify battery recall completion and charging port condition.
• Nissan Leaf (2019–2022 62 kWh): Affordable and simple; limited DC fast-charging speed and range makes it best for city/suburban use.

Tesla is easiest to live with due to charging infrastructure and OTA support, while the Chevy Bolt often delivers the best value per mile—once recall work is confirmed.

Years and issues to watch

Even great makes have off-years. These reminders can save you from common pitfalls.

• Honda CR‑V 2017–2018 1.5T: Potential oil dilution in cold climates; buy only with documented fix and updated software.
• GM V8s with Active Fuel Management (various 2014–2020): Lifter failures possible; seek documented repairs or non‑AFM engines.
• Subaru older models (pre‑2015): Watch for head-gasket history (older FB/EJ engines) and CVT service records.
• Hyundai/Kia 2011–2019 select engines: Engine recall population; verify VIN for completed campaigns and extended warranties.
• EV battery/charging history: Confirm fast-charge frequency, state-of-health reports, and open recalls; avoid cars repeatedly fast-charged to 100% if degradation is evident.

When in doubt, a pre-purchase inspection and VIN-specific recall/TSB check will tell you far more than a brand badge can.

Budget tiers: what to target

Your budget often dictates the sweet spot of model years and mileage where reliability and value intersect.

• Under $10,000: 2012–2015 Toyota Corolla, 2012–2014 Honda Civic, 2014–2016 Mazda3; prioritize maintenance records over miles.
• $10,000–$15,000: 2015–2017 Corolla/Camry, 2016–2017 Civic/Accord, 2016–2017 CX‑5, 2015–2016 CR‑V (2.4L).
• $15,000–$25,000: 2018–2020 Camry/Accord, 2018–2020 CX‑5, 2019–2020 RAV4 (including Hybrid if priced right), 2016–2019 Lexus RX.
• $25,000–$35,000: 2020–2022 RAV4 Hybrid or Highlander, 2021–2022 Camry Hybrid, 2021–2023 Tesla Model 3/Y (lower trims), 2022–2023 Chevy Bolt EUV.

These ranges vary by region and miles; expect to pay a premium for low-mile, one-owner cars with complete service histories and for hybrids with strong demand.

What to check before you buy

Regardless of make, a disciplined process protects your money and sanity.

1. Run a VIN history (Carfax/AutoCheck) for accidents, title issues, odometer discrepancies, and recalls.
2. Get a pre-purchase inspection: lift check for leaks/rust, scan all modules for codes, assess tires/brakes/suspension and battery/charging systems for EVs.
3. Verify maintenance: timing services, transmission and differential fluids, hybrid/EV coolant loops, and software updates.
4. Drive it thoroughly: cold start, highway speeds, hard stops, tight turns, ADAS function tests, and HVAC performance.
5. Check insurance, taxes, and total cost: premiums, fuel/charging costs, and likely repairs for the next 3 years.
6. Negotiate with data: market comps, recent price trends, and inspection findings; consider CPO for select brands/models.

Following these steps usually matters more than chasing the “perfect” brand and will surface hidden problems before they’re yours.

Market trends to know in late 2024–2025

A shifting market affects what makes and models offer the best value this year.

• Prices cooled from pandemic highs: Bargains are returning in mainstream segments, though the best-maintained cars still command a premium.
• Hybrids hold value: Expect to pay more for proven Toyota and Honda hybrids; they’re sought after for reliability and fuel savings.
• EV depreciation uneven: Tesla and Chevy Bolt prices softened after 2023–2024 price cuts and incentives; great deals exist if battery health is verified.
• Charging access improved: Most automakers are adopting Tesla’s NACS; many used non‑Tesla EVs can access some Superchargers with adapters in 2024–2025, but availability varies by model and region—confirm before buying.
• Interest rates remain a factor: Cash buyers and strong-credit shoppers have leverage; financing costs impact total ownership cost.

Understanding these dynamics helps you decide whether to prioritize a rock-solid hybrid, a value-priced EV, or a conventional gas model with low upkeep.

Bottom line

If you want the safest bet for a used car make in 2025, choose Toyota or Lexus; Honda and Mazda are excellent alternatives, with Subaru and Acura strong depending on the model year. For EVs, Tesla is the most practical used choice thanks to charging access, while the Chevy Bolt offers standout value if recall battery work is complete. Above all, buy the specific car in the best condition with the best history—your inspection and records matter more than the logo.

Summary

Toyota and Lexus remain the best overall makes for used buyers in 2025, with Honda and Mazda close behind; Tesla leads used EV practicality, and Toyota hybrids are the most reliable electrified picks. Pick the right years, verify recalls and maintenance, and always get a pre-purchase inspection. In a cooling market where hybrids hold value and EVs can be bargains, a data-driven approach will beat brand loyalty every time.

What is the best brand of used car to buy?

The best brands to buy used are consistently Toyota, Lexus, and Mazda, with Honda and Acura also in the top tier due to their strong reliability and low maintenance costs over time. These brands are recommended by sources like Consumer Reports because they have a history of conservative redesigns and incremental improvements, which translates to better longevity and fewer issues as the cars age. 
Top-Rated Brands for Used Cars

• Toyota: . Opens in new tabKnown for exceptional durability, low maintenance, and excellent resale value. Popular models include the Camry, Corolla, and RAV4. 
• Lexus: . Opens in new tabThe luxury counterpart to Toyota, Lexus also boasts high reliability and quality, maintaining strong value over time. 
• Mazda: . Opens in new tabA strong contender, Mazda consistently earns high reliability ratings and is a smart choice for used vehicle buyers. 
• Honda: . Opens in new tabAnother brand synonymous with long-term reliability and durability, especially for its sedans, SUVs, and minivans. 
• Acura: . Opens in new tabRounding out the top five, Acura also shows consistently strong performance and reliability. 

Why These Brands Stand Out

• Consistent Reliability: These brands have a track record of building dependable vehicles that remain reliable as they age, unlike brands that may have inconsistent performance across different models or years. 
• Lower Ownership Costs: Their durability and lower rates of required repairs translate to lower long-term ownership costs. 
• Conservative Engineering: Brands like Toyota and Lexus often favor conservative, incremental changes to their designs, which helps ensure stability and reliability in their products. 

Important Considerations
While these brands are excellent starting points, remember that the specific model and year are crucial. Always check the reliability history for the exact vehicle you are interested in.

Which car brand is best for second hand?

Toyota/Mazda typically top the charts overall for this. They also usually hold value better as a result, meaning they might be slightly more expensive options than comparable other manufacturers offerings in your range.

What car brand has the least problems?

According to recent studies by J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, Lexus and Toyota are consistently ranked as car brands with the fewest problems and the highest vehicle dependability, with Lexus often taking the top spot overall and Toyota leading the mass-market segment. These brands have a long-standing reputation for building durable, reliable, and long-lasting vehicles. 
Top-Ranked Brands:

• Lexus: Opens in new tabConsistently ranks highest overall for vehicle dependability and reliability, often by a significant margin. 
• Toyota: Opens in new tabHolds top positions for reliability, particularly in the mass-market segment, and is recognized for its longevity and quality. 

Why These Brands Excel:

• Conservative Redesigns: Both Lexus and Toyota are known for their conservative approach to redesigns, focusing on incrementally improving existing platforms rather than introducing many new and unproven systems. 
• Proven Engineering: They have a history of designing vehicles with robust, reliable engineering that continues to perform well as the car ages. 
• Long-Term Value: Their focus on durability and practicality contributes to their vehicles having a longer lifespan and continuing to be reliable when new and as they age. 

Which is the most reliable second-hand car to buy?

Best Used Cars 2025: the shortlist

• Toyota Corolla (2019-present)
• Honda Jazz (2015-2020)
• Volkswagen Up (2012-2023)
• Ford Kuga (2019-present)
• BMW 5 Series (2017-2024)
• Skoda Octavia Estate (2013-2020)
• Volkswagen Golf GTI (2013-2020)
• Mazda MX-5 (2015-present)