With the rising cost of new cars, many car shoppers are turning their attention to the used car market. This shift in consumer behavior has prompted Consumer Reports to expand its online vehicle ratings and recommendations to include used trucks, sedans, and SUVs for the first time. According to Alex Knizek, the associate director of auto test development for Consumer Reports, the average transaction price for a new car is around $48,000, making it a significant investment for many consumers.
Given the high price tag of new vehicles, it’s no surprise that a growing number of shoppers are opting for pre-owned cars and trucks. In fact, a survey conducted by Consumer Reports found that 40% of Americans in the market for a vehicle in the past year were only considering used vehicles, compared to 31% who were only considering new cars and 24% who were open to either option.
Consumer Reports analyzed 26 car brands based on the reliability of models between 5 and 10 years old. The top 10 used car brands, according to Consumer Reports, include Lexus, Toyota, Mazda, Acura, Honda, Buick, BMW, Subaru, Nissan, and Mercedes-Benz. Knizek noted that drivers reported fewer problems with brands like Lexus, Toyota, and Mazda, which are known for their reliability and modest redesigns that contribute to good reliability.
While some brands may rank lower on the list, it doesn’t necessarily mean that every car made by that brand is unreliable. For example, Chevrolet falls in the middle of the pack, but specific models like the 2018 or 2019 Chevrolet Equinox have above-average reliability. Auto mechanic Jeff Landrum of Ron’s Service Center in Covington, Kentucky, praised Toyotas for their reliability and comprehensive maintenance schedule that can help cars reach high mileage intervals.
Consumer Reports also provided recommendations for specific categories and price ranges, such as the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze as the top small sedan under $10,000 and the 2019 Hyundai Elantra as the top small sedan under $15,000. Additionally, the 2021 Kia Sportage was named the top small SUV under $20,000. Among CR’s top used car picks were the 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for hybrid SUVs under $20,000, the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid for hybrid small sedans under $20,000, and the 2015 Toyota Tacoma for pickup trucks under $20,000.
Landrum emphasized the importance of following recommended maintenance schedules for used vehicles to ensure longevity. He advised consumers to obtain a CARFAX report before purchasing a vehicle to check for regular maintenance and potential issues like odometer fraud or past damage. By following these tips and recommendations, consumers can make informed decisions when shopping for a used car and potentially save money in the process.