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Reliable cars are at the top of everyone’s list, but finding them, especially when shopping for a new or used vehicle, can be daunting, to say the least.
Today’s new and used car market can frustrate you when you see how much you must pay for a vehicle. The good news? Knowing how to navigate today’s car market and which cars to look for is easier than it might sound.
While you should avoid some car brands due to their poor reliability (Chrysler, Jeep, Volkswagen, to name a few), others have a long history of lasting 200,000 miles or more (Honda, Toyota, Lexus, Mazda).
If you’re stressing out about the financial aspects of buying your next car, don’t worry—there are still plenty of reliable cars that won’t break the bank. Let’s take a look at 13 of the least expensive yet most reliable cars to consider, along with some helpful tips to make your next vehicle purchase more affordable.
13 Most Reliable Cars You Can Afford
Before diving into our list, it’s important to remember that some will be broad suggestions, and others will be highly affordable new releases. Use this guide as a starting point in your research. There are many other reliable used cars to consider. These are the ones that tend to be the highest rated.
1. Toyota Corolla
When it comes to reliable cars, Toyota is a brand you can count on, no matter which model you choose. They consistently offer high-quality, dependable vehicles across their lineup, but the Corolla stands out as one of the best. It’s economical, fuel-efficient, and built to last for many years. While it’s a compact car and may not be ideal for hauling large items, it’s an excellent option for those seeking a budget-friendly, long-lasting vehicle. Whether you buy new or opt for an older model, the Corolla is a smart choice in the world of reliable cars.
2. 2023 Mitsubishi Mirage ES
The 2023 Mitsubishi Mirage ES is one of the most affordable cars of its year, with the base model costing under $20,000. It’s small and slow compared to other cars you could choose from. But it offers a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and class-leading fuel efficiency. This car could be a good choice if you plan to drive mostly in town, where acceleration isn’t a concern.
3. 2013 Subaru Legacy
The 2013 Subaru Legacy is a highly reliable model and one of the cheapest used cars today. Base models cost around $10,000. Higher trim levels are available for a little more money if you want additional horsepower and amenities. With all-wheel drive (AWD) standard, it is an excellent option for snowy climates.
4. 2023 Kia Rio LX
The Kia Rio LX is a solid new car if you’re looking for something with good fuel economy and decent horsepower. It also boasts modern amenities like a backup camera, wireless music capabilities, and a built-in touchscreen in the base model. This car is available for under $20,000, which is becoming rare for new vehicles.
5. Honda Accord
Much like Toyota, Honda knows how to build cars that last. Their flagship midsize sedan, the Accord, is an excellent option for people who want a little more room and something other than an SUV or minivan.
Buying used is smart as there are plenty of choices on dealer lots. All years are worth considering. The sweet spot is model years 2010 through 2012 with low mileage, which you can purchase for around $10,000.
6. Toyota Camry
The Camry is consistently the best-selling car because it is fuel-efficient, dependable, and affordable. It offers a smooth ride and plenty of space to carry a family and their suitcases. You can’t go wrong with any year. It all depends on the features you want and the price you are willing to pay. Opting for one between 2013 and 2017 offers a good value for your money.
7. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic continually receives high dependability ratings, which you should consider when researching. All model years offer a great ride, good fuel ratings, and a low cost to own. Some newer trim levels push the $30,000 mark when you add options, but the base model can cost around $23,000.
But you don’t have to buy new. Used car lots have many versions of this compact car from various model years—models from 2009 to 2011 and 2013 to 2015 offer great value for your money.
8. 2014 Kia Soul
The 2014 Kia Soul is a reliable auto with a bit more style. Despite being released in 2014, it does have more modern amenities, and you can find this used model for under $10,000. If you decide the Soul is for you, find one with a push-button start. Kia models between 2011 and 2021 without the push-button start are targets for thieves as they do not have an immobilizer. Models with the push-button start feature have an anti-theft immobilizer as standard equipment and are much more challenging to steal.
9. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is a solid choice if you’re looking for reliable cars in the midsize sedan category. It offers strong horsepower and performance, impressive gas efficiency, and more modern amenities than many other vehicles released that year. With its sleek design and affordable price—often under $10,000—it’s a standout option for those seeking both value and reliability in their next vehicle.
10. Toyota RAV4
If you’re looking for reliable cars in the midsize SUV category, the Toyota RAV4 should be high on your list. It delivers solid gas mileage, decent horsepower, and a wide range of safety features. Newer versions even offer plug-in hybrid and all-electric options. To save money without sacrificing dependability, consider looking at earlier models—RAV4s from 2015 to 2017 are often available for around $15,000 and still offer great value.
11. Ford F150 and Ranger
If you are searching for a budget pickup truck, consider a 1998 to 2003 Ford F150. These trucks are high-quality, making them a sturdy option that will last. These models had extended and crew-cab versions and a V8 engine.
For a smaller truck, a Ford Ranger built between 1998 and 2011 is a great choice that offers reliability and a powerful engine. Both the F150 and Ranger are on dealer lots for around $5,000 for these years.
12. Ford Crown Victoria
The Ford Crown Victoria could be for you if you want a roomy, full-size car. While it is less fuel-efficient than others on this list, its reliability is where it shines. For years, police departments and taxi services used the Crown Vic because of its durability and low cost to repair.
Ford manufactured the Crown Victoria from 1992 until 2012, but the best ones to consider are from 2005 through 2012. Most agree that 2008 is the most reliable year. The good news is you can get this model version in good condition for under $10,000. You might even find them for as low as $5,000.
13. Chevrolet Impala
Rounding out the list of reliable cars is another large sedan—the Chevy Impala. Unlike some models that are consistently dependable across all years, the Impala’s reliability varies. To ensure you’re getting a solid vehicle, it’s best to stick with more recent model years, ideally between 2013 and 2020. Earlier versions tend to have more issues and are generally best avoided if you’re prioritizing dependability.
Prices range between $10,000 and $20,000, so there is room to negotiate if you decide this is your vehicle.
Finding Cars on a Budget: Being Frugal and Still Getting a Reliable Car
Now that you know some cars to consider, let’s examine how buying the right one can save you money and help you avoid frustration.
Make a list
Instead of going to the dealer or searching online on a whim, take a few minutes to write down what features are important to you in your next vehicle. Do you want a fun-to-drive sporty coupe? A convertible or a luxury car? Does high gas mileage (MPG) matter to you? What about safety features? Do you know how much insurance will cost you? Answering these questions will limit any surprises down the road, making you happier with your purchase.
Shop around
Whether you’re browsing cars sold by a dealer or checking out an independent seller for a solid used vehicle, shopping around is essential, especially when you’re on the hunt for reliable cars. Some sellers and dealerships may offer lower prices or limited-time promotions that can help you score a better deal. Just be sure to test drive any vehicle you’re considering and have an independent mechanic inspect it. That way, you can avoid driving off in a car that turns out to be more trouble than it’s worth.
Consider saving up
The general rule of thumb for saving up for a down payment on a car is 20% for new vehicles and 10% for used vehicles. The more you save up, the lower your monthly payment and the less interest you’ll pay over time if you finance.
Of course, you could save up to the point where you can afford to purchase a car outright. This strategy can ensure you never have a car payment and buy a car you can afford. It works best for used cars, which are generally a better deal since they have depreciated.
Be realistic about what you can afford
Your financial situation can simultaneously stress you out and cause you to get so excited about a new car that you commit to a financial responsibility you can’t afford. Before you start shopping for a vehicle, establish a budget that shows you how much you can realistically afford, regardless of whether you’re paying for a car all at once or taking out a car loan.
Then, make it a priority to stick to this rather than getting charmed into a vehicle you can’t handle. You might not have a brand-new car with all the bells and whistles, but you will have something that won’t continue to be a source of stress throughout the time you own it.
Leverage good credit if you have it
Good credit can mean the difference between securing financing options that barely help you and securing a loan with excellent terms and low monthly payments. If you have good credit, use it when buying a new car. You can work with the dealership’s financing department or get preapproved by an external institution. Both have their pros and cons. Many times, dealers will offer additional incentives when you finance through them. But sometimes, your local bank or credit union may provide a lower rate, saving you money.
Don’t focus only on price
Many people make the mistake of only looking at the price of the vehicle. If it is within their budget, they buy it without taking some time to research it further. You need to sit in the car, take it for a drive, and use the controls. Doing these things will give you a better idea of whether the model you are looking at fits you well.
For example, you might enjoy the ride of the Audi, but the infotainment system is hard to navigate. Having issues with figuring out how to control things could be a red flag since you cannot spend a lot of time looking at the screen while driving. These are the little things you need to consider.
Finally, do some additional research into the vehicle. Consumer Reports and J.D. Power release an annual reliability survey and offer reviews on the most and least reliable cars. It is also wise to do an online search. Type in the year, make, and model you are considering, along with the term forum. Here, you can read about real-life issues others have with the vehicle.
Learn how to haggle
You should never purchase a car without expecting a negotiation. Unless the vehicle is priced unbelievably low, you’ll negotiate with a seller until you reach a price that best suits both parties. But how do you do this? Here are a few insights into how others have learned to negotiate a car price effectively.
- Know your stuff: If you’re not sure what you’re buying or how much it should realistically cost, you’ve already lost the battle. Do your research to understand the factors contributing to a car’s price and how much certain vehicles are going for in today’s market. Using Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or NADA is a great starting point.
- Reach out with the intent of negotiating: Gone are the days when you have to physically show up to the dealer to talk to a salesperson. Whether you plan on going to a dealership or buying a car from an independent seller, contact them online or by phone to state your interest and discuss the price. If it doesn’t feel like they will budge, you should start looking elsewhere.
- Be prepared for counters and understand what they mean: Sellers will naturally want to get the most profit out of the car they’re selling, which means there will always be a counteroffer. Understand their point of view and why they’re pricing their car higher than you’re willing to pay. When you do this, you can lower their counteroffer to a reasonable sum they’ll likely accept.
- Know when to walk away: Not every negotiation will be fruitful. It is important to know when to walk away to find better opportunities. Feel free to look elsewhere if you understand someone is trying to overcharge you and will not budge.
Following the above tips dramatically increases your chances of finding reliable cars that you’ll be happy to own and comfortably afford. It might take a bit of time and research, but in the end, securing a dependable vehicle that fits your budget is well worth the effort.
