Buying a used car can be a gamble. That’s why reliability is easily one of the most important factors in choosing a second-hand vehicle. However, if you know where to look, there are plenty of sturdy American-built options that won’t drain your bank account.
While American cars generally have a somewhat mixed reputation, there are plenty of reliable choices. Even those on a tight budget can find something good and solid. With $15,000 in your pocket, you can still find something well-built that offers impressive levels of comfort and decent performance.
Trawling the used market, we’ve found ten vehicles which we think offer the best level of reliability without you having to spend more than $15,000 up front. We outline their strengths and weaknesses, how much you can expect to pay for maintenance, and what recalls you should keep your eye out for.
In compiling this article, we have cross-referenced information for vehicle reliability, maintenance, and pricing from sources like TopSpeed, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, RepairPal, CarEdge, and Consumer Reports to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible. Please note that we have ranked the following models based on least to most reliable.
102017 Chevrolet Sonic
Reliability Score: 82/100
The Sonic comes from an age where subcompact cars were all the rage. It went up against the Toyota Yaris, the Honda Fit, and the Ford Fiesta. It may not be flashy or exciting to drive, but it delivers a comfortable drive. you’re able to grab a 2017 model in hatchback or sedan form for an average price of $9,340.
Reliability
For such a small car, the Sonic isn’t super cheap to maintain. When looking at its maintenance costs in its first ten years, we see that it costs $460 more than the average hatchback. At least the simplicity of its engineering means thatit remains fairly reliable.
92016 Lincoln MKZ
Reliability Score: 84/100
Back in 2016, there were few entry-level sedans that came as well-equipped as the MKZ from the word go. It may not have been the quickest or the most spacious sedan, but it is stacked with modern features. If you’d like to get your hands on this mustachioed sedan, they list at an average of $12,56.
The MKZ can be had with a two-liter four-banger, a 3.7-liter V-6, or in hybrid guise. Regardless, you’ll find it is a fairly sturdy machine. When compared to the average luxury sedan, the MKZ is a little more expensive to maintain on average, which is disappointing because it isn’t particularly luxurious to begin with.
82018 Ford Fusion
Reliability Score: 85/100
Depending on which model of Fusion you go with, you get a very different experience. In any guise, however, you’ll note the sedan’s extremely good looks. It has a high ceiling for comfort and can also be pretty sporty when equipped right. The average 2018 model will set you back $13,635.
There is a plethora of powertrains choices available on the Fusion, with multiple four-cylinders, a V-6, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid. The traditional hybrid and the gas engines will give you the best level of reliability. Maintenance on this sedan is about average for its segment.
72015 Ford Taurus
The Taurus is perhaps best known forthe sleeper SHO model, which delivers an insane 365 horsepower. However, the Ford is also a pretty great all-rounder when equipped with lesser engines, with a comfortable interior and smooth ride. A 2015 model lists for an average price of $11,458.
While the impressive turbocharged SHO model sounds appealing, you’re more likely to get to high mileages with the naturally aspirated V-6 instead. Be aware that there have been recalls issued on this model for its suspension, fuel pump, and parking brake, among other things.
62013 Cadillac CTS
Reliability Score: 86/100
It may not be as nimble as some of its competitors, but the CTS features a roomy and classy interior that will make just about anyone feel comfortable. For its age, it also has a pretty impressive infotainment suite, with a touchscreen to boot. A 2013 model will set you back around $9,340.
The 2013 CTS came with either a three-liter V-6 or a 3.6-liter V-6, and both are pretty solid options. There were two recalls issued, with one for an issue regarding an electrical short and the other due to airbags not deploying correctly.
52019 Chevrolet Cruze
Reliability Score: 87/100
While the compact car segment has dwindled over the years, back in 2019 there were still a decent number of players. In that field, the Cruze managed tosit among the best options. Whether you want a cheerful hatchback or a more traditional sedan, the Cruze has you covered. One can be had at an average price of $12,889.
The Cruze can be had with one of two turbocharged four-cylinders, one powered by gasoline and the other by diesel. Generally, if reliability and longevity are your priorities, diesel is the way to go. Two issues were recalled for the 2019 Cruze, one due to issues with the rear brakes and the other to do with mounting bolts for the stop/start accumulator.
42021 Chevrolet Spark
Reliability Score: 88/100
If power, speed, and ride quality are super important to you, the Spark is not the way to go. It was designed to be a super affordable hatchback that could get you from point A to point B, something it does exceptionally well, but it doesn’t do much more. You can pick up a fairly modern 2021 model for around $13,638.
The Spark comes fitted with a small 1.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four. This little engine may not provide tons of power, but it was built to last. While affordable in a ton of different ways, maintenance costs for the little Spark are about average for its segment.
32016 Buick Verano
Reliability Score: 89/100
The Verano may not be the most attractive sedan to look at on the outside, but its interior is lined with plush materials and an air of class. It might not have the same prestige as some ofits German rivals, but it features a plush and quiet ride that you’ll be impressed by. You can also grab a 2016 model for the average price of $10,525.
Most 2016 Veranos come equipped with a stoic 2.4-liter inline-four. However, a turbocharged four-cylinder model was also available. As well as being super reliable, the Verano is also fairly affordable to maintain, according to estimates by RepairPal.
22016 Buick LaCrosse
Reliability Score: 90/100
If the Verano appeals to you, but you are looking for something a little bigger, the LaCrosse might just be the sedan for you. It features asleek and comfortable interior, packed with modern technology. It also offers an impressively smooth ride. A 2016 model currently lists at an average price of $14,185.
Many claim that a naturally aspirated V-6 is the best layout if reliability is important to you. The LaCrosse certainly supports this, with a 3.6-liter six-cylinder under the hood. Compared to other large luxury sedans, the LaCrosse is also super affordable to maintain.
12017 Buick Regal
Reliability Score: 91/100
Rounding out this list is a third Buick. In terms of size, the Buick sits between the Verano and LaCrosse, competing in the mid-size segment. It comes loaded with a generous list of standard features and the best curb appeal of the Buick cars of this era. The average price of a 2017 Regal currently sits at $13,538.
The Regal can either come with a 2.4-liter four-banger or a turbocharged two-liter engine instead. Both are pretty sturdy, but we’d opt for the turbocharged engine simply for the added performance. Maintenance is also a decent amount more affordable on average compared to what you can usually expect from a mid-size luxury sedan.
