Top 10 Dependable Used Car Brands

Consumer Reports recently released a list of the most reliable used car brands in 2024, focusing on the reliability of five to 10-year-old models. The study ranked the top 26 brands, with familiar names like Toyota and Lexus making the list. These brands have some of the most reliable cars in their respective segments, according to Consumer Reports. Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 most reliable used car brands from the Consumer Reports study.

\ Reliability is important—especially when shopping for a used car. That’s why Consumer Reports put together a list of the most reliable used car brands you can buy from in 2024. The CR study focused on reliability of five to 10-year-old models, giving each brand an average score based on how well their vehicles performed. The full study lists the top 26 brands, which you can see here. The top 10 is especially interesting. There are familiar faces, like Toyota and Lexus, and some surprises, like BMW. Many of the brands in the top 10 also have the most reliable cars in their respective segments, according to Consumer Reports.

\1. Lexus\
Lexus tops the list of the most reliable used car brands, with an average score of 75 out of 100. Models like the Lexus EX, GS, IS, RX, and others were taken into account in the ranking.

\2. Toyota\
Toyota comes in second on the reliability list behind Lexus, with an average score of 73. Models from the 4Runner to the Venza were considered, with the Corolla Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, and Tacoma ranking as the most reliable cars in their respective categories.

\3. Mazda\
Mazda ranks third on the list with an average score of 59. The Japanese automaker has six models included in the study, with the 2019 Miata being the most reliable sports car under $20,000.

\4. Acura\
Acura follows Mazda with an average reliability score of 57. The luxury automaker has three models in the study: the MDX, RDX, and TLX.

\5. Honda\
Honda secures the fifth spot on the list with an average reliability score of 55. Models like the Accord, Civic, CR-V, and Odyssey were taken into account.

\6. Buick\
Buick surprises by making it to the top 10, ranking sixth with an average score of 47. Seven Buick models were considered in the study, with the 2020 Buick Envision being the most reliable luxury SUV under $20,000.

\7. BMW\
BMW claims the seventh spot on the list with an average score of 46. The study looked at seven models from BMW, with the 2 Series and X5 SUV being included.

\8. Subaru\
Subaru ranks eighth on the list with an average score of 46, matching BMW. Six Subaru models were included in the study, such as the Ascent, Crosstrek, and Legacy.

\9. Nissan\
Nissan comes in at ninth place with an average reliability score of 45. The Japanese automaker has a wide range of models included in the study, from the electric Nissan Leaf to the Pathfinder.

\10. Mercedes-Benz\
Mercedes-Benz rounds out the top 10, becoming the second German automaker after BMW. Mercedes averages 43 percent, which puts it just above Cadillac, Mini, and Lincoln. Models like the C-Class, GLE SUV, and GLS were considered in the study.

Overall, these top 10 most reliable used car brands offer a range of options for those in the market for a dependable pre-owned vehicle. From luxury brands like Lexus and Mercedes-Benz to mainstream manufacturers like Toyota and Honda, there is a reliable option for every buyer’s preference and budget. Consider the models within each brand to find the best fit for your needs and rest assured that these brands have a track record of reliability according to Consumer Reports.