If you’re looking for a dependable car but are working with a limited budget, it’s important to choose the right vehicle to drive. These affordable used cars come with excellent reliability ratings and price tags that will keep even the Abraham Lincoln on your pennies happy.
You can expect to enjoy many years of reliable driving while spending less than $10,000 on average for each of these vehicles.
When it comes to buying a car, getting the most bang for your buck isn’t just about a low sticker price—it’s about how well that vehicle holds up over time. A cheap car that breaks down constantly ends up costing more in the long run, while a reliable one can save you thousands in repairs and downtime.
Cars With the Best Price-to-Reliability Ratio
That’s where the price-to-reliability ratio comes in: it’s a smart way to measure which cars truly deliver lasting value. In this guide, we break down the top vehicles that strike the best balance between affordability and dependability—so you can make a purchase that makes sense today and years down the road.
2013 Kia Forte
- Quality & Reliability Score: 84/100
- Average Used Car Price: $8,161
The 2013 Kia Forte stands out as an affordable and reliable compact car, offering a range of upgrades that enhance its appeal.
This model year introduced additional acoustic insulation for a quieter cabin experience and improved leather on the steering wheel for added comfort.
Kia also included LED running lights and power-folding mirrors, giving the Forte a more premium feel.
Under the hood, it features a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering 156 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque through a front-wheel-drive setup.
It offers respectable fuel efficiency, rated at 26 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
The 2013 Forte was offered in three different body styles hatchback, sedan, and coupe giving buyers flexibility based on their preferences.
The front seats provide ample room for adults, while the rear seats are more suitable for children, making it a practical option for small families or commuters.
With an average yearly maintenance cost of $485 and an estimated $6,011 in maintenance expenses over the first 10 years, the Forte remains budget-friendly to own.
It has had a total of five recalls, a factor to consider when evaluating its overall dependability. If you’re seeking a used car that balances cost, reliability, and features, the Kia Forte is a smart choice.
2013 Hyundai Sonata
- Quality & Reliability Score: 84/100
- Average Used Car Price: $7,306
The 2013 Hyundai Sonata continues Hyundai’s tradition of offering excellent value by providing drivers with a generous list of standard features, even at the base trim level.
This model delivers plenty of amenities right from the start, and things only improve as you move up to higher trims.
It’s a great example of how Hyundai blends affordability with comfort and convenience in a midsize sedan.
Powering the 2013 Sonata is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, producing 198 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
It features a front-wheel-drive layout and offers an impressive fuel economy of 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient choices in its class.
This Sonata not only boasts strong reliability ratings but also earns high safety scores, offering drivers additional peace of mind on the road.
The 2013 Sonata is a smart pick for anyone seeking an affordable used vehicle that doesn’t compromise on quality or efficiency.
It’s also relatively low-cost to maintain, with average yearly maintenance expenses coming in at $486 and an estimated $6,272 over the first 10 years.
However, it’s worth noting that this model has had a total of 11 recalls. Overall, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata stands out as a reliable, safe, and fuel-efficient option in the used car market.
2013 Honda Fit
- Quality & Reliability Score: 85/100
- Average Used Car Price: $9,859
The 2013 Honda Fit stands out as a well-balanced subcompact hatchback, offering exceptional reliability in one of the smallest car segments.
Interestingly, despite its compact size, the Fit delivers the most cargo space in its class, making it incredibly versatile and practical for a wide range of needs.
The clever design of the cabin enhances its usability, giving drivers more room and flexibility than expected from such a small vehicle.
Under the hood, the 2013 Fit features a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This setup produces 117 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque, all sent through a front-wheel-drive system.
The car also offers solid fuel efficiency, with ratings of 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting or city driving.
Known for being one of the most impressive small cars on the market, the Honda Fit excels in urban environments, where its size and maneuverability come in handy.
Despite its compact footprint, the rear seat area is unexpectedly spacious, allowing you to comfortably bring friends along for the ride.
In terms of ownership costs, the Fit remains affordable, with an average yearly maintenance cost of $419 and an estimated $5,106 in maintenance expenses over the first 10 years.
The vehicle has had a total of 10 recalls, something to keep in mind when considering this model. Overall, the 2013 Honda Fit combines practicality, efficiency, and reliability in a small but capable package.
2015 Kia Rio
- Quality & Reliability Score: 87/100
- Average Used Car Price: $8,987
The 2015 Kia Rio is a fun and affordable compact car that was available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.
While it may not be as refined as some of its competitors, it makes up for that with its budget-friendly price and strong reputation for reliability.
Kia designed the Rio to be a practical and dependable option for drivers looking for value without sacrificing style or performance.
This model comes equipped with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It delivers 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque through a front-wheel-drive system.
The Rio is also impressively fuel-efficient, offering 27 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, making it a great option for daily commuting or long-distance travel on a budget.
The 2015 Kia Rio boasts a stylish design both inside and out. It comes with a wide range of standard and optional features, giving buyers more for their money.
It also offers lively acceleration, making it a surprisingly spirited drive for a subcompact car.
If you’re in the market for a small vehicle that offers a roomy feel and impressive value, it’s hard to find a better option than this little Kia.
In terms of maintenance and long-term ownership, the Rio remains cost-effective. It has an average yearly maintenance cost of $482 and an estimated $5,951 in maintenance expenses over the first 10 years.
Additionally, it has only had one recall, highlighting its strong reliability. The 2015 Kia Rio is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a dependable, fuel-efficient, and feature-rich small car.
2013 Buick Verano
- Quality & Reliability Score: 91/100
- Average Used Car Price: $9,851
If you’re looking for a premium sedan that ranks among the most affordable used cars with excellent reliability, the 2013 Buick Verano is the ideal choice.
This Buick model is known for its comfortable and composed ride, featuring a quiet interior something the brand has long been celebrated for. It delivers a refined driving experience that stands out in its class.
The 2013 Verano comes equipped with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
This powertrain produces 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, all directed through a front-wheel-drive system.
It also offers respectable fuel economy, achieving 21 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, which adds to its value as a reliable daily driver.
Inside, the Verano boasts a spacious cabin finished with upscale materials, ensuring comfort for both the driver and passengers.
The trunk provides 14.3 cubic feet of cargo space, offering enough room to accommodate your gear, whether for daily errands or weekend getaways.
This blend of practicality and luxury makes the Verano an appealing choice for buyers seeking comfort on a budget.
In terms of ownership costs, the Verano remains relatively affordable. The average yearly maintenance expense is $470, and estimated maintenance costs over the first 10 years total $8,814.
Additionally, the 2013 model has only had three recalls, reinforcing its reputation for reliability. Overall, the 2013 Buick Verano delivers premium features, strong dependability, and exceptional value in an affordable used sedan.
Least Reliable Cars
Can some of the worst-designed cars make it to 200,000 miles (or more) if they’re regularly maintained and driven gently? Maybe.
However, according to the host of the Car Help Corner YouTube channel, doing so will likely come with substantial repair costs and plenty of frustration, as these modern-day lemons often struggle to make it past 60,000 miles without issues.
To help guide new car buyers away from certain 2024 models already showing signs of costly and troublesome problems, the host highlights several vehicles to avoid.
Below is a summary of those models, listed from the least problematic to the absolute worst, along with an explanation of the issues each one presents.
Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue has been associated with several troubling issues, including:A complex engine design that is susceptible to internal bearing and linkage damage.
This damage can lead to a noticeable engine knocking noise and a significant loss of power. If not addressed, these problems can progress to a complete engine seizure with extensive internal damage.
The situation has become serious enough to attract the attention of the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).
The Rogue is also known for issues with its CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which differs from traditional transmissions by using a steel band connected to pulleys instead of a hydraulic system to shift gears.
The host specifically highlights the Jatco brand CVTs used in Nissan vehicles, which are prone to premature failure. These transmissions are typically not repairable, making replacements particularly costly and burdensome for owners.
The current-generation Nissan Rogue continues to surprise and impress, evolving from a former underdog in the compact SUV segment into a strong competitor with a well-rounded set of strengths.
Previously lagging behind class leaders, the Rogue has transformed over the years and now holds its own against tough rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester. With a substantial update rolled out in 2024, the 2025 model returns with even more user-friendly features and thoughtful refinements.
This year, the Rogue lineup expands with the addition of the Rock Creek edition, aimed squarely at outdoor enthusiasts seeking rugged aesthetics and capability. Also new is Nissan’s ProPilot Assist 2.1, a system offering hands-free highway driving in certain conditions.
Another enhancement includes an upgraded 360-degree camera system, now capable of 3D rotation and an “invisible hood” view that displays the area directly beneath the front of the vehicle—ideal for navigating tight spaces or guiding into narrow car wash tracks.
Nissan has steadily improved the Rogue since the debut of its current generation in 2021. These continuous refinements have made a real difference.
The standard 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivers quick low-end response and excellent fuel efficiency. Combined with a comfortable ride, an upscale-feeling interior, and a robust selection of available tech features, the Rogue makes a compelling case as an everyday vehicle.
Still, some drawbacks persist. At higher speeds, road and tire noise infiltrate the cabin, disrupting the otherwise refined driving experience. The base infotainment system is another weak point, with laggy graphics that detract from the user experience.
Finally, while some competitors have embraced electrification, Nissan has yet to offer a hybrid variant for the Rogue—a noteworthy omission in this eco-conscious era.
Nevertheless, for buyers looking for a versatile, well-equipped, and spacious SUV that can confidently serve as their primary vehicle, the 2025 Rogue remains a standout option. Its thoughtful packaging and pleasant driving dynamics ensure it stays competitive in a crowded market.
Under the hood, the 2025 Rogue continues with a single powertrain configuration: a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-three engine that produces 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. During performance testing, the all-wheel-drive Rogue accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds—a respectable time for this segment.
Fuel economy ranges from 28–30 mpg in the city and 34–37 mpg on the highway, depending on configuration. Rock Creek models, equipped with more rugged all-terrain tires, return slightly lower figures of 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Overall, these ratings place the Rogue among the most fuel-efficient options in its class.
When it comes to safety, the 2025 Nissan Rogue performs well. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives it mostly top-tier “Good” ratings in categories like the small overlap front crash, original moderate overlap front, and original side impact tests. That said, the updated versions of the moderate overlap front and side crash tests received “Acceptable” ratings, one step down from the best possible score.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) echoes this positive safety performance, awarding the Rogue five stars overall. It earned four stars in the frontal crash test, five in the side crash, and four in the rollover test.
Nissan equips every Rogue model with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems. Standard features include automatic emergency braking for both front and rear, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive high-beam headlights, intersection assist, and a driver attention monitor.
Lane departure warning is included across the board, while a more advanced lane intervention system—capable of gently guiding the vehicle back into its lane—is available on all trims except the base model.
For those seeking extra assistance during long highway drives, Nissan’s ProPilot Assist system is offered in multiple versions. Available on the two highest trims, the advanced ProPilot Assist 2.1 supports hands-free, single-lane driving on compatible highways, providing automated acceleration, braking, and steering.
Also exclusive to the top trims is the upgraded 360-degree camera system, now enhanced with a unique invisible hood feature. This function displays a virtual view of the ground directly under the engine bay, aiding drivers in tight maneuvering situations such as avoiding curb contact or navigating through narrow drive-throughs or garage entries.
Infiniti QX50
The Infiniti QX50 experiences many of the same CVT-related issues found in the Nissan Rogue.
In addition to transmission troubles, it also suffers from an engine that tends to become problematic not long after its initial lease period, raising concerns about long-term durability.
The 2025 Infiniti QX50 offers several attractive qualities that place it among other popular small luxury SUVs. Highlights include a roomy interior with comfortable seating, generous cargo capacity, easy ingress and egress, and a serene cabin at highway speeds. However, the vehicle isn’t without its faults.
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) results in inconsistent power delivery, real-world fuel economy has proven disappointing, and its tech offerings feel behind the curve when compared to rivals.
For 2025, Infiniti has made all-wheel drive standard across the QX50 lineup. The SUV remains part of the second QX50 generation, which was first introduced for the 2019 model year.
At a glance, the QX50 shares the formula common to most compact luxury SUVs: a premium badge, eye-catching design, a spacious interior for passengers and cargo, a turbocharged engine, and the availability of all-wheel drive. Still, it distinguishes itself in a number of ways—some of which work in its favor, while others may give potential buyers pause.
When it comes to ownership costs, Edmunds estimates that the 2025 INFINITI QX50 PURE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo CVT) will cost about $198 per month to drive, based on 15,000 miles per year and a fuel mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving.
This estimate uses an average premium unleaded fuel price of $3.91 per gallon in North Dakota. For comparison, the average monthly fuel cost for a midsize SUV comes in at around $176.
One of the more intriguing elements of the QX50 is its engine technology. Infiniti’s VC-Turbo variable compression-ratio engine stands out as a genuine innovation. While most engines operate with a fixed compression ratio, this engine can adjust its ratio dynamically to balance performance and efficiency, depending on the driving situation.
On paper, it’s a compelling concept. In real-world use, however, the implementation doesn’t quite live up to the promise. You can read more about the team’s impressions in the Expert Rating section below.
Ford Bronco Sport
The Ford Bronco Sport is equipped with an EcoBoost engine that has a well-documented history of problems.
The 1.5-liter 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine, which is also used in the Ford Escape, is particularly notorious for cracking fuel injectors, creating a significant fire risk.
Additionally, the engine is prone to cooling system issues, including leaks and head gasket failures, further undermining its reliability.
The Bronco Sport, affectionately known as the “Baby Bronco,” carries the same nameplate as the rugged, Wrangler-fighting Bronco SUV, but that’s mostly where the similarities end.
Mechanically and practically, it shares more DNA with other Ford offerings like the Maverick pickup and the Escape, rather than its big sibling. That may be a letdown for those expecting full-size Bronco capabilities, but there’s still plenty to like here.
Despite inevitable comparisons to the more hardcore Bronco, the Sport version holds its own with respectable off-road potential—particularly when equipped with its own version of the “Sasquatch” package. Borrowing the name from the larger Bronco’s off-road bundle, this kit adds serious hardware and terrain-handling capability to the smaller SUV.
The Bronco Sport is a compact crossover-style SUV that comes with two engine options: a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-three-cylinder making 180 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, and a more potent 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that channels power to all four wheels. Instead of traditional drive modes, the Bronco Sport utilizes “GOAT” modes—short for “goes over any terrain.”
While the acronym may seem ambitious, the available Sasquatch package backs it up with a twin-clutch rear-drive unit, Bilstein rear shocks, and a locking rear differential. It’s also outfitted with 29-inch all-terrain tires, and new accessories like tow hooks and a nudge bar complement the package for added utility and trail readiness.
Thanks to the additional hardware and strengthened underbody, the Bronco Sport feels far from fragile off-road. It might not make it over every obstacle, but it certainly invites you to try. The base 1.5-liter engine delivers just enough performance to tackle moderate off-road excursions, such as scenic park trails or bumpy rural backroads.
If you step up to the 2.0-liter version, the Bronco Sport becomes significantly more capable—offering features like one-pedal ‘trail control’ driving and a 260-degree camera system that help navigate more challenging terrain. While it won’t replace the full-size Bronco for hardcore enthusiasts, it holds its ground remarkably well for its class.
On paved roads, the Bronco Sport behaves like a typical compact crossover. It’s refined, predictable, and blends seamlessly into daily life. It’s easy to drive, and its compact size makes it well-suited for urban errands.
However, it isn’t particularly engaging behind the wheel. Cornering is sluggish and deliberate, and the steering feels vague—comparable to drawing a curve on an Etch-A-Sketch, if you remember those. In short, the real fun begins where the pavement ends.
Calling it “Sport” might be a stretch. It’s not sporty in the traditional sense—it’s more of a marketing term, similar to labeling a small chocolate bar “fun size.”
You can still kick the tail out and have a bit of fun, but only in the right environment—like a sandy trail or gravel-covered backroad. The Bronco Sport may not deliver thrills on asphalt, but it definitely embraces adventure where the road disappears.
It leans heavily on the reputation of the Bronco name, but the Bronco Sport stands on its own as a well-rounded, capable, and cleverly designed crossover. For drivers seeking a vehicle with some personality and off-road cred—but who don’t want or need the bulk and price tag of the larger Bronco—this “Baby Bronco” makes a lot of sense.
It performs reliably on-road while offering the kind of weekend freedom that encourages novice adventurers to explore further. It may not fully satisfy those chasing the full-size Bronco experience, but as a cost-effective and practical alternative with genuine off-road enhancements, it fits a niche that’s only growing.
With the addition of its Sasquatch package and a suite of new overlanding accessories, the Bronco Sport now better bridges the gap between trail fun and daily function. Much like its compact cousin, the Ford Maverick, this SUV is perfectly sized for a range of uses—including the ones that are just for fun.
Chrysler Pacifica (Plug-in Hybrid)
The Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid has faced a high number of recalls and is noted for persistent electrical issues, unexpected engine shutdowns, and fire hazards.
The host of the Car Help Corner channel also cautions buyers to steer clear of other Stellantis-manufactured plug-in hybrid models, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE and the Jeep Wrangler 4XE, which are also reportedly plagued by similar reliability concerns.
It’s the Chrysler Pacifica—the lone vehicle still bearing the Chrysler nameplate, a relic of what was once one of the “Big Three” American automakers. It’s been long enough since the 2008 financial crisis that many may have forgotten just how turbulent that period was for the automotive industry. While it was a tough time for all manufacturers, Chrysler arguably underwent the most dramatic transformation.
Unlike Ford and GM, which navigated the storm through internal restructuring or strategic maneuvering, Chrysler and its associated brands were absorbed by Fiat.
For a time, the company operated under the name Fiat-Chrysler before eventually merging into the Stellantis umbrella. Today, for reasons not entirely clear, the Chrysler name persists thanks to the Pacifica—and to some lingering Chrysler 300 sedans that seem to refuse retirement.
The Pacifica is a three-row minivan available in two variants: a traditional gas-powered model and a plug-in hybrid. The standard version comes equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that generates 287 horsepower, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Power is delivered to either the front or all four wheels, depending on the chosen trim. All trims beyond the base-level offer all-wheel drive as standard.
The hybrid variant also utilizes the 3.6-liter V6, but the total output is slightly lower at 260 horsepower when factoring in its two electric motors. It’s a front-wheel drive-only setup, using a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a 16kWh battery pack that extends its electric range for more efficient driving.
Plenty, as it turns out. While the Pacifica excels at its primary job of transporting people, it also introduces a host of thoughtful, family-focused features that make everyday life easier. Chrysler’s engineers clearly understand their customer base, designing clever solutions for the common challenges faced by families.
For instance, the “fam cam” lets parents keep an eye on rear-seat passengers, even offering the ability to zoom in on specific seats—ideal if someone’s feeling queasy or causing a commotion. Onboard entertainment is covered with a built-in Blu-Ray player and streaming-capable screens, while numerous outlets, inputs, and USB ports keep everyone’s devices powered and connected.
There are several smart, low-tech touches as well. The Pacifica famously includes an integrated vacuum system to quickly clean up crumbs and messes, and most seat folding mechanisms pass the one-handed usability test—perfect for multitasking parents juggling a child or armful of groceries.
Details like door-mounted umbrella gutters and a surplus of hidden cubbies for stashing everyday essentials further enhance its usability.
In the non-hybrid Pacifica, stow-and-go compartments in the floor add extra practicality. These underfloor bins are perfect for keeping bags secure and out of the way, ensuring they don’t slide around in the generous rear cargo area.Surprisingly impressive.
Though it doesn’t aim to be a sleeper or sports car, the Pacifica’s handling is better than most expect—especially given the stereotypes surrounding minivans. Whether you’re hustling through a to-do list or simply enjoying a peaceful return trip, the Pacifica offers a composed, capable drive that might just surprise nearby motorists with how well it keeps pace.
While its power output won’t win any awards, it’s more than sufficient for the Pacifica’s daily duties. The ride quality is smooth and predictable, offering the kind of balanced behavior drivers need for urban errands or highway cruising alike.
Today, Chrysler’s continued existence hinges largely on the Pacifica, a testament to just how well this minivan has held up over time. While critics may scoff at the segment, the truth is that minivans were once the go-to utility vehicles—and in many ways, they still are. The Pacifica stands out as the best of the bunch.
From top to bottom, the Pacifica has been carefully engineered to meet the practical demands of real families. It handles big responsibilities with ease, whether that’s ferrying seven passengers or hauling a mountain of gear. At the same time, it doesn’t overlook the little things—providing clever, intuitive answers to everyday challenges like storage, supervision, and cleanliness.
Its car-like handling is a pleasant surprise, helping mask its size and giving it just enough agility to feel competent in tight spots or quick maneuvers. No one’s taking the Pacifica out for weekend canyon runs, but it won’t leave you frustrated on a busy weekday, either.
That said, pricing remains a sticking point. The Pacifica often overlaps with similarly priced SUVs, many of which offer better off-road capability and more rugged appeal. Still, Chrysler has spent years refining this formula, and the Pacifica represents the best version of it yet. Hopefully, it remains a part of whatever long-term vision Stellantis has in store for the Chrysler name.
Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra
While Chevrolet and GMC trucks were once known for their solid build and dependability, the introduction of cylinder deactivation technology in recent years has significantly affected their reliability.
This is especially true for the Ecotec 3 engines in the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8 variants, which are frequently reported to have issues with valve lifters sticking or collapsing.
These problems are often identified by ticking and knocking noises coming from the engine. As a result, class action lawsuits have been initiated against GM due to the widespread nature of these mechanical failures.
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 stands as Chevy’s full-size pickup, nestled between the midsize Colorado and the more heavy-duty Silverado models. While there’s also an all-electric Silverado EV, which is reviewed separately, the Silverado 1500 offers a variety of trim levels and engine choices, catering to different buyers and budgets.
Whether you’re in the market for a basic work vehicle, an off-road-ready model, or a luxurious top-tier trim, the Silverado 1500 has something to offer. The truck’s versatility makes it a competitive option in its class, and it’s essential to consult expert ratings to see how it stacks up against rivals.
The 2025 model introduces several updates, including the 10-speed transmission now available only on four-wheel-drive variants and standard all-terrain tires on the Trail Boss trim. The truck’s pros include a wide range of powertrains suitable for towing and hauling, excellent rear cabin legroom, and a large bed with plenty of tie-down points.
The touchscreen display is easy to use and looks good, enhancing the overall experience. However, some drawbacks include a slightly rougher ride compared to its competitors and a ZR2 off-road trim that doesn’t quite meet the expectations set by rival models.
The Silverado 1500 is part of the fourth generation introduced in 2019, with minor adjustments in standard features. Despite its few downsides, the Silverado 1500 remains a solid choice in the full-size truck market.
