Most Reliable Used Cars

Last month, we talked about "How to Buy A Reliable Used Car". This month, we'll focus on the most reliable models by category. As mentioned in the buying article, the most important thing to do before purchasing a used car is to DO YOUR RESEARCH.

Edmunds.com released the Best Bets for Used Cars in 2007. The used car awards are based on the vehicle reliability, safety and availability (wider availability results in better prices and better value). Eligibility is limited to used cars originally sold between 2000 and 2005.

There were some models that I thought should have been included but weren't. I thought the Honda Accord and the Nissan Maxima would have been listed but they weren't.


Compact Sedan: 2001-2005 Hyundai Elantra

• Redesigned in 2001
• Peppy performance and smooth ride
• Solid build quality, reliability and operating economy
• Impressive crash test scores

Midsize Sedan: 2000-2005 Toyota Camry

• Quality, legendary reliability and hushed ride
• Camry picked over the Honda Accord due to its more serene cabin and compliant ride
• Affordable

Large Sedan: 2000-2005 Ford Crown Victoria/Mercury Grand Marquis

• Car mostly used by police departments and taxi companies
• Comfortable ride
• Plenty of luggage capacity
• Low maintenance requirements
• Commendable fuel economy
• Good crash test scores

Compact SUV/Crossover: 2003-2005 Honda Element

• Lots of room
• Water resistant seats and urethane floor coverings for easy cleanup

Minivan/Van: 2000-2005 Honda Odyssey

• Powerful V6 engine
• Huge interior and third-row hide-away seat
• Top safety scores
• Honda reputation for quality and reliability

Luxury: 2003-2005 Infinity G35 (SingleGuyMoney loves this car!!!)

• Rear wheel drive, V6 engine, sport suspension tuning
• Compared to BMW's 3 series
• Roomier cabin and lower acquisition costs
• For the budget minded, the Nissan 350Z offers virtually identical performance

Hybrid: 2004-2005 Toyota Prius

• Mid-size sedan room in a small body
• Excellent fuel economy
• Adequate power for city traffic and freeway driving
  

Due to high cost of filling up the gas tank these days, I didn't include full-size SUVs and trucks to the list. If you're in the market for a used car, are you considering any of the above models?

Save Money on Auto Insurance!

Image Credit: Tuppus