DealScanBest used cars
Most reliable used cars to buy
By the DealScan team · Updated 2026-06-12
Reliability is not just the badge — it is matching the right year and engine to a documented maintenance history. These are the models with the strongest long-term records on the market, each paired with the single check that most often separates a great buy from a neglected one.
- 1
Toyota Corolla
2009–2024
The reliability benchmark; there is no year that should scare you off. Just avoid overpaying for the badge or a neglected rideshare car.
- Screen for
- 2009–2010: oil consumption from piston ring wear on the 2.4L — check oil level and ask about top-offs between changes
- Verify first
- CVT fluid service records on 2014+
- 2
Toyota Camry
2007–2024
The default safe midsize sedan. Avoid undocumented 2007–2009 oil-burners and buy almost any Camry with confidence.
- Screen for
- 2007–2011 2.4L (2AZ-FE): oil consumption — check the dipstick and ask directly about oil top-offs
- Verify first
- Dipstick oil level and consumption history on 2007–2011
- 3
Honda Accord
2008–2024
Routinely outlasts its loan by a decade; skip undocumented VCM V6s and demand CVT or oil-change records.
- Screen for
- 2008–2012 V6 (VCM): oil consumption, fouled plugs, and engine mount wear — ask if a VCM disabler was used and check for misfire history
- Verify first
- Oil consumption and plug history on 2008–2012 V6
- 4
Toyota RAV4
2006–2024
Reliable across the board; the hybrid is the smart-money pick. The 2019–2020 years just need a more careful test drive.
- Screen for
- 2006–2008 2.4L: oil consumption from piston rings — dipstick check and top-off questions
- Verify first
- Transmission software update history on 2019–2020
- 5
Lexus RX 350
2010–2024
Arguably the most reliable luxury SUV made — the same proven Toyota V6 that runs forever. The RX has no bad years, only neglected owners.
- Screen for
- 2010–2015: water pump weep and oil cooler line leaks — check the front of the engine and under the car
- Verify first
- Service history continuity — especially recent owners
- 6
Toyota 4Runner
2010–2024
The 5th gen barely changed and the drivetrain is nearly indestructible; frame rust is its only common killer. Buy the cleanest frame you can find.
- Screen for
- Frame and underbody rust on northern cars — inspect the frame rails, crossmembers, and skid plates, not just the body
- Verify first
- Frame rails and crossmembers for rust, especially northeast/midwest cars
- 7
Toyota Highlander
2008–2024
There is no bad Highlander, only deferred maintenance — check oil lines and the water pump on older V6s and buy on records.
- Screen for
- 2008–2013 V6: rubber oil cooler line can rupture and dump oil — check for the updated metal line and any oil loss history
- Verify first
- No oil drips under the engine and no oil-loss history (2008–2013)
- 8
Mazda CX-5
2013–2024
The sleeper reliable SUV: no CVT, no major recall, better records than most rivals. Headlights and wheel bearings are the only recurring costs.
- Screen for
- 2016+: LED headlight failures out of warranty are pricey — verify both units fully work
- Verify first
- Both headlights work in all modes (2016+)
Picks reflect general reliability patterns and typical used prices as of 2026-06-12; actual availability and pricing vary by market and condition. Always verify the specific car with a history report and inspection.