What Is the Most Reliable Second‑Hand Car?

Across independent dependability studies through 2024, the most consistently reliable second‑hand choices are the Toyota Corolla (especially 2014–2019 and 2020–2022), the Lexus RX (2016–2019) if you want a midsize luxury SUV, and the Toyota Prius (2016–2022) for hybrid efficiency. The best pick for you depends on body style, budget, region, and the maintenance history of the specific car you’re buying.

Why There Isn’t One Single Winner

Reliability varies by model year, engine and transmission pairing, prior maintenance, and even climate. Industry data is clear on brands—Lexus and Toyota lead most rankings—but the “most reliable” used car for a city commuter is different from a family SUV or a rural 4×4. The smartest approach is to match a high-scoring model to your needs and target the strongest years while avoiding known problem configurations.

Best Overall Picks at a Glance

Based on multiple independent surveys (Consumer Reports 2023–2024, J.D. Power 2024 Vehicle Dependability Study, and What Car? UK reliability surveys), these models repeatedly top used-car dependability charts and have strong parts availability and resale values.

• Toyota Corolla (2014–2019; 2020–2022): Simple, durable drivetrains; low running costs.
• Toyota Prius (2016–2022): Fourth-gen hybrid is exceptionally robust with excellent economy.
• Lexus RX (2016–2019): Reliable V6, gentle ownership costs for a luxury SUV.
• Mazda MX‑5 Miata (2016–2022): Few complex systems; outstanding reliability among sports cars.
• Toyota 4Runner (2014–2022): Body‑on‑frame SUV with a long record of durability.

These picks balance mechanical simplicity with proven track records, and they tend to hold value, which is itself a signal of trust in their longevity.

Recommendations by Budget and Type

Under $10,000 (U.S.)

In the sub‑$10k range, prioritize simpler drivetrains, documented maintenance, and corrosion checks. Mileage will be higher; condition and service history matter more than brand alone.

• Toyota Yaris (2012–2016): Basic, tough, cheap to run.
• Honda Fit/Jazz (2009–2013; 2015–2017): Exceptionally practical; ensure CVT fluid has been changed on schedule.
• Toyota Corolla (2010–2013): Conservative engineering; avoid neglected examples.
• Mazda3 (2012–2014): Look for rust‑free cars; Skyactiv engines are efficient and reliable.

At this price, a clean inspection and service records outweigh trim level; avoid complex turbo or dual‑clutch transmissions from budget brands in this era.

$10,000–$20,000

Here you can target newer platforms with modern safety tech while staying in the reliability sweet spot.

• Toyota Corolla (2014–2019): 11th‑gen with 1.8L engine and CVT/manual; very dependable.
• Honda Civic (2016–2018 2.0L non‑turbo): Sidestep 1.5T oil dilution concerns; the 2.0L with CVT is the safe bet.
• Mazda3 (2016–2019): Strong reliability; check infotainment works properly.
• Toyota Prius (2016–2018): Fourth‑gen hybrid with proven battery longevity.
• Lexus ES 350 (2013–2015): Smooth V6, luxury comfort with Toyota‑grade dependability.

Expect lower running costs and good safety scores; stretch to hybrids only if the car shows timely service and a healthy hybrid system check.

$20,000–$35,000

This bracket opens up newer midsize sedans and popular crossovers with advanced safety and better interiors.

• Toyota Camry (2018–2021): Excellent reliability across four‑ and six‑cylinder models.
• Toyota RAV4 (2019–2022): Strong overall; verify transmission software updates and check for any prior TSB work.
• Lexus RX (2016–2019): Quiet, comfortable, and consistently top‑rated for dependability.
• Mazda CX‑5 (2019–2021): Reliable and refined; ensure proper maintenance records.
• Toyota Highlander (2017–2019): Family‑friendly, long‑lasting V6; check service history.

Focus on vehicles with complete maintenance histories; certified pre‑owned examples can add peace of mind, though not strictly necessary for these models.

Years and Issues to Target or Avoid

Even reliable nameplates can have weaker years or specific configurations to skip. Use the pointers below to narrow to the best vintages and avoid common pitfalls.

• Toyota Corolla: Target 2014–2019 (1.8L) and 2020–2022; routine CVT service is key. Avoid unusual modifications.
• Toyota Prius: Prefer 2016–2022 (Gen 4). Earlier Gen 3 (2010–2015) can suffer EGR/head gasket issues as miles climb.
• Honda Civic: Choose 2016–2021 with the 2.0L NA engine; be cautious with 2016–2018 1.5T in cold climates due to oil dilution (mitigated by software updates and driving patterns).
• Toyota RAV4: 2019–2020 had some reports of rough 8‑speed shifts and fuel tank capacity quirks (hybrid); confirm TSBs addressed.
• Subaru Outback/Forester: 2011–2014 had higher oil consumption; 2015+ improved. Ensure CVT fluid service.
• Hyundai/Kia with Theta II 2.0/2.4 (approx. 2011–2019): Elevated risk of bearing failure; verify recall/engine replacement history if considering.
• Nissan with Jatco CVTs (various 2012–2018 models): Higher CVT failure rates; buy only with documented servicing and extended coverage.
• VW/Audi small turbo + early DSG: Watch for carbon buildup and mechatronic issues; maintenance history is critical.

These nuances matter more than badge alone; the right engine/transmission pairing and documented care are decisive for long‑term reliability.

How to Buy the Most Reliable Used Car

Process can trump model choice. A careful, step‑by‑step approach will filter out problem cars and lock in the lowest lifetime cost.

1. Set your brief: body style, usage, budget (including 10% for immediate maintenance/tires).
2. Shortlist 2–3 models with strong reliability in your target years.
3. Run the VIN: accident history, title status, recalls completed.
4. Pre‑purchase inspection: independent mechanic checks engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, cooling, electronics, and underbody rust.
5. Drive it cold and hot: listen for shifts, vibrations, brake pulsation, and HVAC performance.
6. Check service records: oil change cadence, transmission/hybrid service, timing components, fluid intervals.
7. Budget the next 24 months: tires, brakes, fluids, battery (12V and hybrid if applicable), and any known TSB remedies.

Skipping an inspection or VIN history check is the fastest way to turn a reliable model into an unreliable purchase.

Total Cost of Ownership Considerations

Reliability is one pillar; ongoing expenses can differ sharply between otherwise dependable cars.

• Insurance: Hybrids and luxury models can cost more to insure; get quotes first.
• Fuel: Prius and Corolla hybrids dramatically cut fuel costs; 4Runner and Land Cruiser don’t.
• Maintenance: Simple NA engines and conventional automatics/CVTs with regular fluid changes are cheapest to keep.
• Tires/Brakes: Performance trims and larger wheels increase replacement costs.
• Timing components: Prefer timing chains over belts unless belt service is freshly documented.
• Hybrid battery: Modern Toyota packs are durable; verify health check and warranty/age before buying.

A slightly higher purchase price for a very reliable, efficient model often nets a lower total cost over 3–5 years.

Methodology and Sources

This guidance synthesizes multi‑year findings from independent reliability and dependability studies, along with widely reported model‑specific issues and technical service bulletins.

• Consumer Reports brand/model reliability rankings (2023–2024): Lexus and Toyota at or near the top; Miata, Corolla, Prius, RX among standout models.
• J.D. Power 2024 Vehicle Dependability Study: Lexus and Toyota lead overall dependability among mass‑market and luxury brands.
• What Car? (UK) Reliability Survey (2023–2024): Lexus, Toyota, and Honda consistently strong; corroborates global trends.
• IIHS/NHTSA safety data and common TSBs for model‑year nuances (e.g., RAV4 transmission calibrations, Honda 1.5T oil dilution updates).

Converging evidence across regions and methodologies supports the repeated appearance of Toyota and Lexus models, with Mazda and Honda close behind.

Summary

If you want a safe bet for a used car that simply lasts, start with the Toyota Corolla (2014–2019; 2020–2022), Toyota Prius (2016–2022), or Lexus RX (2016–2019), then verify the particular car’s history and condition with an independent inspection. These models dominate reliability surveys, have accessible servicing, and deliver low total ownership costs when maintained on schedule.

What is the most reliable car brand to buy second hand?

We will explore what makes these brands stand out and why they are worth your investment.

• Toyota. For this reason, Toyota has long been considered one of the best-used car brands.
• Honda. Honda is another brand that is synonymous with durability and low maintenance costs.
• Subaru.
• Ford.
• Nissan.
• Chevrolet.
• BMW.
• Audi.

What is the best 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)

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 is ranked #1 in reliability?

Lexus ranks highest overall in vehicle dependability for a second consecutive year, with a score of 135 PP100. Among premium brands, Porsche (175 PP100) ranks second and BMW (190 PP100) ranks third. Toyota ranks highest in the mass market segment, with a score of 147 PP100.