Some cars were extremely reliable for their time, while others have reputations for amazing reliability that span several generations.
What are some of the most reliable sedans of all time? Some of these sedans date back to before authoritative publications, such as JD Power, rated vehicles. These sedans are considered to be the most reliable models of all time.
When it comes to owning a car, reliability isn’t just a bonus — it’s a necessity. Sedans remain a top choice for drivers who value comfort, efficiency, and everyday practicality. But not all sedans are created equal, especially when it comes to long-term maintenance costs. Some models are engineered to go the distance without draining your wallet at the repair shop.
In this article, we’re highlighting 10 reliable sedans that have built strong reputations for staying out of the mechanic’s bay — and in your driveway where they belong. If you’re looking for peace of mind behind the wheel and fewer surprise expenses under the hood, these are the cars worth your attention.
10. 1985-1996 Mercedes-Benz 300E
The 1985–1996 Mercedes-Benz 300E stands out as one of the most dependable midsize luxury sedans of its era, even before JD Power began publishing reliability rankings.
Commonly known by its internal chassis code, W124, the 300E is remembered for its robust construction and executive-class build quality.
It was among the last of Mercedes-Benz’s heavy, traditionally built sedans.
Under the hood, it featured a 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, delivering 217 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque through a rear-wheel-drive layout.
Its fuel efficiency was rated at 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Among the various configurations, the E320 two-door convertible became particularly popular for combining sporty looks with sedan-like characteristics.
While the 300E had a strong reputation for reliability, common issues included a weak fuel pump, failure of the window regulators, and vacuum system leaks.
9. 1977-1985 Mercedes-Benz 240D
The 1977–1985 Mercedes-Benz 240D, based on the W123 chassis, was the predecessor to the W124 and showcased Mercedes-Benz’s capability to produce a reliable diesel-powered luxury sedan.
The 240D helped introduce diesel vehicles to the North American market and demonstrated that luxury cars didn’t need to be fast they just needed to be comfortable and well-built.
Powered by a 2.4-liter diesel 4-cylinder engine and mated to a 4-speed manual transmission, it produced just 71 horsepower and 101 lb-ft of torque.
It came with a rear-wheel-drive setup and delivered fuel economy figures of 25 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The 240D stood out for its interior comfort, constructed with premium materials and finished with genuine wood veneers, offering a luxurious experience.
Built with longevity in mind, this diesel sedan was capable of covering hundreds of thousands of miles, making it one of the most reliable vehicles of its kind.
In North America, Mercedes-Benz sold diesel-powered sedans at a remarkable ratio of 4 to 1 compared to their petrol counterparts. Among these, the 300D turbo models gained more popularity, thanks to their stronger power delivery that suited performance-driven American tastes.
Yet the 64bhp 240D models carved out their niche as the “entry-level” Mercedes — practical, stripped-down, and purpose-built more for European mass transit than American luxury expectations. With features like crank windows, a durable M-B Tex interior, and even a passenger-side mirror offered as an option, the 240D embodied utilitarian design.
Still, it retained that unmistakable Mercedes character — from the real wood trim to the signature door “thunk” that remains intact decades later. In 1981, regardless of the price point, a Mercedes was unmistakably a Mercedes — anything less was inconceivable.
Paired with a 4-speed manual transmission and a modest 101 lb-ft of torque, the 240D delivered a leisurely 0–60 mph time of around 20 seconds — assuming you’re not interrupted by an impatient horn behind you. Yet at cruising speeds, it shines, maintaining 80 mph effortlessly while achieving around 27 mpg.
The ride quality is genuinely impressive, with a fully independent suspension that glides over rough roads and still manages to handle confidently when the route gets twisty. Though body roll is present, the car maintains grip and composure even in sudden maneuvers.
What truly sets the W123 chassis apart, however, is its legendary reliability. Whether you’re on the Gulf Coast in Pensacola or navigating the deserts of Namibia, you’ll encounter 240Ds that have surpassed 400,000 miles on their original engines — still faithfully chugging along highways, backroads, and everything in between.
They’re virtually indestructible. With over a million units produced, parts remain affordable and widely available, with compatibility stretching from Mercedes models made between 1968 and 1994.
Ask anyone to sketch a Mercedes, and chances are, they’ll draw this one. A timeless emblem of Stuttgart engineering, the 240D has become an enduring icon — partly because of its classic lines, and partly because it’s slow enough for everyone to get a good look.
8. 2010-2011 Ford Crown Victoria
Moving into more recent times, the 2010–2011 Ford Crown Victoria represented a dependable option widely used by police departments and taxi fleets, highlighting its reputation for reliability and toughness.
Rated 4.8 stars by Cars.com, the Crown Vic became synonymous with functionality and durability.
Many NYC taxi drivers were hesitant to transition to hybrids because of the higher maintenance costs compared to the Crown Victoria’s proven reliability.
This full-size sedan came equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine generating 239 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Fuel efficiency was rated at 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The LX Fleet model, commonly used in law enforcement and commercial fleets, became the most popular variant.
Despite its dated exterior styling, the Crown Victoria remains one of the most trustworthy and rugged sedans ever built. Its only real drawback was its below-average fuel economy.
The 2011 Ford Crown Victoria offers a no-nonsense, traditional full-size sedan experience that remains a staple among fleet and law enforcement buyers.
The most popular trim, the LX Fleet 4-door sedan, comes equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. It features rear-wheel drive and seats up to six passengers, all while delivering a combined fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon. The vehicle starts with an MSRP of $29,905 and is assembled in Canada.
In terms of fuel and mileage, the Crown Victoria operates on flex-fuel (unleaded/E85) and achieves an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The estimated monthly cost to drive this vehicle is around $201. It offers a substantial 20.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity and has a curb weight of 4,129 pounds.
Under the hood, the 4.6-liter V8 engine is flex-fuel capable, offering solid and dependable performance for a variety of driving needs. The Crown Victoria can tow up to 1,500 pounds, making it modestly capable in light-duty towing situations.
Its drivetrain includes a rear-wheel-drive layout and a 4-speed automatic transmission. Additional information includes full suspension specs, tire and wheel options, interior dimensions, safety features, in-car entertainment systems, convenience options, and a range of instrumentation and color choices.
Used models of the 2011 Crown Victoria remain available, with examples of the LX Fleet sedan currently listed at prices ranging from $3,995 to $10,995, depending on mileage and condition.
7. 1981-1985 Volvo 240
The 1981–1985 Volvo 240 became a favorite among middle-class families and was a familiar sight throughout the 1980s, as many drivers prioritized modern safety features in their sedans.
This car sent a clear message: its owners valued safety and reliability over sleek design, making the 240 a practical and respected choice in suburban neighborhoods across the country.
It was powered by a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, producing 111 horsepower and 134 lb-ft of torque.
With a rear-wheel-drive layout and a combined fuel efficiency rating of 23 mpg, the 240 was not about performance but about lasting quality.
Its popularity carried the model well into the 1990s, and the 1993 version even earned a 4.2-star rating from Cars.com.
One particularly impressive example reportedly reached one million miles and 200 oil changes by 2012, showcasing the vehicle’s legendary durability.
Built to withstand the brutal conditions of Scandinavian winters, the Volvo 240 found the milder climate of the United States to be a far easier environment, only extending its impressive lifespan.
6. 1992–1994 Lexus LS 400
The 1992–1994 Lexus LS 400 marked a turning point for the luxury segment, introducing a new standard of dependability and value.
Prior to 1992, there were no large luxury sedans bearing the Lexus badge, but the LS 400 changed that by serving as Toyota’s major investment to create the ideal high-end vehicle.
Even if some critics believed the LS 400 didn’t fully perfect the formula, it came remarkably close and helped build on Toyota’s already strong reputation for reliability.
Under the hood, it featured a 4.0-liter V8 engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission, delivering 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, with power sent to the rear wheels.
Its fuel economy was rated at 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Lexus designed the LS 400 to rival top luxury cars but priced it lower, giving consumers a high-value alternative in the early 1990s.
Buyers quickly took notice, and the model became a top pick for luxury buyers seeking both quality and affordability.
Today, well-maintained examples of this sedan continue to demonstrate the longevity and consistent performance that helped shape Lexus into a trusted luxury name.
5. 2012-2017 Toyota Camry
The 2012–2017 Toyota Camry stands as a benchmark in automotive reliability, with the nameplate often being the first that comes to mind when discussing dependable sedans.
It’s almost more difficult to identify a year when the Camry didn’t dominate reliability rankings than to single out its best years.
However, the 2012 through 2017 models are particularly notable, offering drivers a car they could trust, afford, and drive for many years.
This generation of Camry came equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 178 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
It utilized front-wheel drive and achieved an impressive fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
As the first front-wheel-drive model on this list, the Camry’s efficient design made it one of the most economical midsize sedans available.
It consistently ranks near the top of any list of positive automotive attributes especially those focused on reliability. The Camry has earned a place as a generational car, with families returning to it year after year as their trusted choice for daily driving.
The seventh-generation Toyota Camry underwent a major refresh near the end of 2014, launching as a 2015 model. With Camry sales showing signs of decline, Toyota recognized the need for a bold update.
The facelift delivered, especially in terms of styling, giving the Camry a more upscale, Lexus-like appearance. While the powertrain lineup remained unchanged, the V6 engine became available on more affordable trims, reflecting its popularity among buyers.
Up front, the redesigned Camry features a striking, full-height pyramidal grille reminiscent of Lexus designs, making the car stand out in a sea of ordinary sedans. The grille’s design varies by trim: SE and XSE models receive a black mesh finish, while the XLE comes with dark-gray slats.
All trims are topped with a chrome bar centered by the Toyota badge. Additional aggressive styling cues include sharply sculpted bumper elements housing the turn signals and DRLs, along with newly shaped, more curvaceous headlights. The larger grille also serves to emphasize the Toyota emblem more prominently.
At the rear, Toyota replaced the old boomerang-shaped taillights with lozenge-style clusters that stretch across the trunk lid. These incorporate white-lensed turn signals and reverse lights in their upper sections, and are connected by an arched chrome strip above the license plate recess.
The bumper was also redesigned, now featuring a single horizontal crease and a dark raised lower valance that minimizes the previous design’s visual bulk.
From the side, the changes are equally apparent. The updated headlights and taillights are clearly visible in profile, along with new wheel designs. To help reduce the heavy look of the C-pillar, Toyota added a black trim piece that gives the illusion of a longer glasshouse.
This detail is accented by a stylish chrome slash, evoking a touch of BMW’s “Hofmeister Kink.” The body panels were also updated with a more pronounced crease through the door handles, reducing the slab-sided appearance of the previous design.
Inside, Toyota upgraded interior materials for a more refined, modern feel. The center stack retained its layout but was refreshed with a chrome frame and solid black HVAC controls, replacing the former black-and-gray combination. The old four-spoke steering wheel was swapped out for a sleeker, sportier three-spoke design.
Additional luxury improvements include better insulation from road and wind noise thanks to new window and door seals. The suspension received a retune for enhanced comfort, and the introduction of a new XSE trim brought with it a sportier suspension setup and more aggressive styling to match its performance-focused character.
4. 2012-2015 Honda Civic
The 2012–2015 Honda Civic brought together compact efficiency with a hint of sporty styling, continuing a legacy that began in 1972 when the first Civic was introduced in the United States.
Since its debut, the Civic has remained a top performer in both reliability and sales.
Its appeal lies in its practicality, compact dimensions, and a touch of performance flair, making it one of the most enduring and well-loved models on the road. The model years from 2012 through 2015 are recognized as particularly reliable.
These Civics came with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 143 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT and front-wheel-drive configuration. The car boasted excellent fuel efficiency, achieving 30 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
According to Consumer Reports, the Civic experienced a dip in reliability from 2016 to 2019, but newer versions have since reclaimed their strong standing.
The Civic’s versatility also adds to its appeal, being available in sedan, coupe, and hatchback forms, with a wide range of trims and powertrains to suit nearly every kind of driver.
Honda launched the ninth generation of the Civic in sedan form, and it was the kind of vehicle that didn’t necessarily reflect the owner’s social status.
With this generation, the Japanese automaker elevated the Civic beyond its traditional role as a basic commuter car. The new model wasn’t just another utilitarian box on wheels; it offered more value for less money.
While the high-performance SI variants had their place, the Civic’s reputation primarily rested on its proven reliability. The ninth generation built on this by incorporating more family-friendly features, making it a smarter all-around choice for a wider range of drivers.
The Civic Sedan’s exterior featured a sharper front end with angular, swept-back headlights, lending it a sporty presence uncommon in the compact sedan segment.
A raked windshield, low-profile greenhouse, and sloped rear glass gave it a coupe-like silhouette. At the rear, the design leaned more conservative, with a tall trunk lid that appeared plain due to the large metal surface—Honda placed the taillights only on the quarter panels, which added to the minimalistic rear look.
Inside, the cabin showcased a futuristic dashboard design. A split-level instrument panel placed the tachometer directly in front of the driver, while the speedometer and additional driving information were housed in a separate upper display.
The center stack had a clean layout with the infotainment screen positioned above the climate controls. Although the car had a sporty appearance, the seating was more comfort-oriented, with minimal bolstering. The rear bench offered sufficient room for two adults, but the center seat was tighter on legroom.
Powering the ninth-gen Civic was Honda’s reliable 1.8-liter VTEC gasoline engine, available with either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission.
3. 1991-1995 Acura Legend
The 1991–1995 Acura Legend entered the market as one of the most dependable luxury sedans available at the time, establishing a solid reputation for reliability.
This early success gave consumers a trustworthy alternative in the luxury car segment, especially from a brand already known for building reliable vehicles.
Many of the early Acura Legend models were driven extensively, often reaching extremely high mileage, which is why it’s rare to find low-mileage examples today.
The car featured a 3.2-liter V6 engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, producing 230 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque, with a front-wheel-drive layout.
Fuel economy was rated at 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The first generation of the Legend was an overwhelming success, solidifying Acura’s image as a brand offering high-quality vehicles at affordable prices.
With a solid blend of dependability and performance, it’s no surprise that the Legend became one of the most beloved sedans of its time, often driven well past conventional limits.
The 1990 Acura Legend was launched with a clear target in mind: to compete directly with BMW and Mercedes-Benz. While it didn’t come with a broad range of engine options, it introduced features that were virtually unheard of in vehicles from that era.
After the year 2000, amenities like in-car telephones became common in premium sedans. But back in 1990, only a handful of cars offered such advanced technology—and the Legend was one of them.
The vehicle’s long silhouette and low beltline gave the impression of a rear-wheel-drive layout. This illusion was reinforced by its flat hood and narrow front end, complete with rectangular headlights—a design made possible by the use of a longitudinally mounted engine.
At a time when most front-wheel-drive cars had already transitioned to transversely mounted engines and gearboxes, Acura’s approach was different. A transverse setup typically raised the front end, but by avoiding that, the Legend maintained a sleeker profile. The narrow grille and streamlined design were standout traits that resonated with customers.
Inside, the Acura Legend delivered a level of sophistication that was ahead of its time. It came equipped with electronic climate control, an on-board computer, a telephone, and even a soft-close pneumatic system. These were features rarely found even on much more expensive cars—and often weren’t available at all, even as optional extras.
2. 2007-2009 Honda Accord
The 2007–2009 Honda Accord continues a legacy that spans over four decades.
Introduced to the American market in 1977 as a small car with a modest engine, the earliest Accords featured powerplants that resembled those in Honda’s motorcycles, with displacements as small as 600cc.
Yet Honda quickly gained momentum, and by 1989, the Accord had become a best-seller, cementing its reputation as a practical, enjoyable, and reliable vehicle.
This particular generation of the Accord came equipped with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine delivering 166 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel-drive.
Its fuel economy stood at 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. While not immune to issues such as the Takata airbag recall that affected models from 2001 to 2012 and fuel pump recalls on the 2015–2017 versions these problems weren’t uncommon in the industry.
Many Accord owners have still managed to log astonishing mileage, with some reports of cars reaching 695,000 miles, further proving the vehicle’s exceptional longevity and historical reliability.
That’s a record even Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher can’t touch. Much like Schumacher in his domain, the Accord remains the benchmark in its class—the standard against which all other mid-size sedans are evaluated.
Not because it boasts the most powerful engine, the most refined chassis, or the most striking design, but because it skillfully integrates a strong engine with a well-tuned chassis and refined, tasteful styling to create something that feels greater than the sum of its parts.
In its most recent comparison test, the Accord easily outclassed competitors like the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, and the top-selling Toyota Camry. However, those challengers were all V-6 models. Most buyers, in reality, opt for four-cylinder versions.
With that in mind, we got behind the wheel of a Honda Accord SE equipped with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder and five-speed automatic transmission to determine whether the mainstream version of the Accord still lives up to its reputation.
“Buying an Accord? We recommend the four-cylinder.” The entry price for a new Accord is $19,220. That gets you the Value Package, which is the base model featuring a manual transmission, 15-inch steel wheels, and a stripped-down two-speaker stereo with a CD player. Still, even this no-frills version comes with anti-lock brakes, six airbags, power locks and windows, and air conditioning.
Our SE test car was priced at $22,220, which includes the $800 five-speed automatic transmission and additional features such as 16-inch aluminum wheels, rear disc brakes, folding rear seats, and a six-speaker stereo with a CD changer (right). We consider the SE to be the smart choice in the Accord lineup. It delivers the essentials—solid audio, proper wheels, and capable brakes—without tacking on needless luxury.
The next trim level up, the EX, demands nearly $2000 more, and upgrading to a V-6 adds another $2000 on top of that. The added cost and the V-6’s lower fuel efficiency tilt the scale in favor of the four-cylinder, which we believe is the better overall package.
Inside and out, the Accord presents itself as a model of efficiency. Its exterior won’t win design awards, but the lines are clean and tightly wrapped around the chassis, giving it a tidy, cohesive appearance.
The interior doesn’t aim to stir emotions—it simply gets the job done. The driver’s seat is firm and well-supported, positioning the driver perfectly in relation to the pedals and steering wheel.
Every control and switch is exactly where you’d expect it to be, making the experience intuitive and straightforward. We also noted the generous padding where it counts—on the door trim and the center console. It’s a thoughtful feature that’s often overlooked in vehicles at this price point.
1. 2018-2021 Toyota Corolla
The 2018–2021 Toyota Corolla represents the culmination of decades of proven success, with the model becoming the best-selling car in the world after surpassing 50 million units in 2021.
First introduced in 1966, the Corolla has always been known for its fuel efficiency and reliability, characteristics that have made it a consistent favorite among compact car buyers.
This generation of the Corolla came equipped with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque, mated to a CVT and front-wheel-drive setup.
The car achieved impressive fuel economy figures of 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Toyota has continually gone above and beyond to ensure the Corolla remains one of the most affordable, dependable, and efficient vehicles on the market.
While the Corolla may not seem like a car built for long-haul endurance, countless owners have proven otherwise, with some reporting mileage well into the hundreds of thousands and even over a million underscoring the unparalleled reliability and durability of this globally beloved compact sedan.
The 2018 to 2021 Toyota Corolla marked a key evolution for the long-running compact sedan, transitioning from the practical but aging 11th generation to the more modern and refined 12th generation.
The 2018 and 2019 models retained the 11th-gen design, offering a dependable 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 132 horsepower (140 hp on Eco trims), paired with either a CVT or a six-speed manual. These models prioritized reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency, averaging 28–36 MPG.
Though their interior design was basic, Toyota made up for it by including Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P) as standard, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams. However, the styling and tech began to show their age compared to newer rivals.
With the arrival of the 2020 and 2021 models, Toyota launched the 12th generation Corolla built on the TNGA platform. This redesign introduced a sharper, more athletic look, a more upscale interior, and significantly improved driving dynamics.
New engine options included the standard 1.8L with 139 hp, an upgraded 2.0L with 169 hp on SE and XSE trims, and, for the first time, a hybrid variant delivering up to 52 MPG combined.
Inside, Toyota modernized the layout with better materials and an available 8-inch touchscreen, along with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto (standard by 2021), and optional premium features like a JBL sound system and heated seats. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 came standard, further enhancing the Corolla’s safety reputation.
While the base engine may still feel underpowered, especially for performance-minded drivers, the SE and XSE trims provide a noticeably more engaging experience. Overall, the 2020–2021 Corolla represents a significant step forward in refinement, efficiency, and technology, making it an excellent pick for buyers seeking long-term value with a touch of modern flair.
