Whether you’re buying your first car or the tenth, finding a reliable used car is challenging. You want something affordable that won’t give up every now and then after some months.
This period plagues many buyers with uncertainty; they are afraid of hidden problems and high repair costs. The good news is that a good number of dependable used cars out there fit your budget.
This guide will highlight some of the best options below $10,000. You will also find some tips on what to look out for when buying secondhand cars, and how to make a smart choice and drive away happy.
How We Picked These Cars
We carefully selected these cars by focusing on several key factors. First, we evaluated reliability, using user reviews and performance data to find vehicles with a proven track record.
Next, we prioritized durability and low maintenance costs, ensuring you won’t be hit with expensive repairs down the line. In addition, we considered fuel efficiency, so you can save money at the pump.
Each car on this list is practical, budget-friendly, and offers excellent value. You can trust that these vehicles will not only last but also provide a dependable driving experience for years to come.
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What Are the Top Best Used Cars Under $10,000?
Here are the seven best reliable used cars you can drive home without emptying your wallet.
2013 Volkswagen CC
- Price: $7,927
- Reliability Score: 80/100
- Type: Sedan
The 2013 Volkswagen CC offers sleek styling and a spacious interior. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 200 horsepower, delivering a balance of power and efficiency.
With 31 MPG on the highway, it’s a fuel-efficient option for a sporty sedan. The CC provides 13 cubic feet of cargo space, which is reasonable for its class, though not as generous as some competitors.
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2013 Mazda6
- Price: $9,825
- Reliability Score: 80/100
- Type: Sedan
The Mazda6 offers an engaging driving experience with its 2.5-liter engine pushing out 170 horsepower. It returns 30 MPG on the highway, making it both fun and efficient.
The 16.6 cubic feet of trunk space also allows for plenty of storage room for both road trips and grocery runs. Known for reliability, it’s a solid option for budget-conscious buyers.
2013 Mazda3
- Price: $9,766
- Reliability Score: 81/100
- Type: Compact Sedan
The 2013 Mazda3 is known for its agility and efficient performance. Its 2.0-liter engine generates 155 horsepower while offering up to 40 MPG on the highway.
It has 11.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which is tight but manageable for a compact car. For a fun-to-drive vehicle under $10,000, the Mazda3 is a strong contender.
2015 Chevrolet Sonic
- Price: $9,700
- Reliability Score: 81/100
- Type: Subcompact Car
With a 1.8-liter engine and 138 horsepower, the Chevrolet Sonic provides a peppy yet fuel-efficient ride, boasting up to 35 MPG on the highway.
It’s also a solid vehicle to do various chores or errands with its 14.9 cubic feet of trunk space – which is generous for a subcompact car. All in all, the Chevy Sonic is a great choice for city driving or first-time buyers.
2013 Subaru Legacy
- Price: $9,851
- Reliability Score: 83/100
- Type: Sedan
The Subaru Legacy stands out with its all-wheel drive, making it perfect for those in colder climates. Powered by a 2.5-liter engine with 173 horsepower, it provides 32 MPG on the highway. Its 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space is ample, and the Legacy’s reputation for reliability makes it a great long-term investment.
2016 Nissan Versa
- Price: $8,796
- Reliability Score: 83/100
- Type: Subcompact Car
The 2016 Nissan Versa is a budget-friendly option with a 1.6-liter engine that delivers 109 horsepower and up to 40 MPG on the highway. It offers 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space, making it practical for its size. If you’re looking for a low-cost, fuel-efficient ride, the Versa is a smart pick.
2013 Hyundai Accent
- Price: $7,927
- Reliability Score: 83/100
- Type: Subcompact Car
The Hyundai Accent delivers great value with its 1.6-liter engine producing 138 horsepower, paired with impressive fuel economy at 37 MPG highway. It offers 13.7 cubic feet of cargo space, more than enough for everyday tasks. Known for reliability, it’s a solid choice for budget buyers.
2014 Kia Soul
- Price: $9,825
- Reliability Score: 84/100
- Type: Crossover
The 2014 Kia Soul combines funky design with practicality. Powered by a 1.6-liter engine and 130 horsepower, it goes as far as 30 miles per gallon on the highway, with slightly lower mileage on rougher terrains.
With 24.2 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s ideal for those who need versatility. The Soul’s high reliability score adds to its appeal.
2013 Chevrolet Malibu
- Price: $9,766
- Reliability Score: 84/100
- Type: Sedan
The Chevrolet Malibu offers a comfortable ride with its 2.5-liter engine generating 197 horsepower. It returns up to 34 MPG on the highway and has 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which is competitive for a mid-size sedan. With strong reliability, the Malibu is a great all-around vehicle.
2014 Nissan Sentra
- Price: $9,700
- Reliability Score: 84/100
- Type: Compact Sedan
The 2014 Nissan Sentra comes with a 1.8-liter engine providing 130 horsepower, paired with a smooth CVT transmission. It achieves up to 40 MPG on the highway, making it very fuel-efficient. The Sentra also offers a generous 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space, making it a practical choice for commuters.
2014 Chevrolet Cruze
- Price: $9,612
- Reliability Score: 84/100
- Type: Compact Sedan
The Chevrolet Cruze offers a solid blend of comfort and efficiency. Its 1.8-liter engine delivers 138 horsepower, with fuel economy reaching up to 35 MPG highway. Cargo space sits at 15 cubic feet, offering good utility for its class. The Cruze is a reliable and well-rounded option for under $10,000.
2013 Kia Forte
- Price: $8,161
- Reliability Score: 84/100
- Type: Compact Sedan
The 2013 Kia Forte is powered by a 156-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine and offers good fuel economy with 37 MPG on the highway. Its 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space is suitable for everyday use. The Forte is a dependable, affordable choice, blending style and practicality.
2013 Hyundai Sonata
- Price: $7,306
- Reliability Score: 84/100
- Type: Midsize Sedan
The Hyundai Sonata offers a spacious interior with a 2.4-liter engine producing 198 horsepower. It boasts an impressive 35 MPG on the highway, making it ideal for long-distance drives. With 16.4 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s also one of the more spacious sedans in its price range.
2013 Honda Fit
- Price: $9,859
- Reliability Score: 85/100
- Type: Subcompact Hatchback
The Honda Fit is a highly practical subcompact with a 1.5-liter engine delivering 117 horsepower. Despite its size, it offers a surprising 57.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo space when the rear seats are folded. It’s also fuel-efficient, achieving up to 35 MPG on the highway.
2015 Kia Rio
- Price: $8,987
- Reliability Score: 87/100
- Type: Subcompact Sedan
The Kia Rio provides an efficient ride with its 1.6-liter engine producing 138 horsepower and 37 MPG on the highway. It offers 13.7 cubic feet of cargo space, and with a high reliability score, it’s perfect for anyone looking for an affordable and dependable car.
2013 Buick Verano
- Price: $9,851
- Reliability Score: 91/100
- Type: Compact Sedan
The Buick Verano combines luxury and affordability with its 2.4-liter engine offering 180 horsepower. It gets up to 32 MPG on the highway and has a comfortable, quiet cabin. With 15.2 cubic feet of cargo space and top-tier reliability, it’s an excellent choice for under $10,000.
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Make the Smart Move – Get a Vehicle History Report
The first thing you should know before buying the car is its history. A vehicle history report provides essential data on the car’s past accidents, titles, and maintenance records. That knowledge will save you from many headaches later on. This step is critical in making an informed decision when buying a used car.
How to Evaluate the Price of a Used Car
When buying a second-hand car, its price must be appraised. Research similar models at dealerships and browse online listings to compare prices to make sure that you get a fair deal.
Websites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds can help. They offer tools for calculating fair market value. If a deal seems too good to be true, search further.
Remember, there are other costs to consider. Insurance, registration, and maintenance quickly add up. Adjust your budget to reflect these added costs.
How to Find Reliable Used Cars
If you know where to look, you’ll find the right used car
- First, try the reputable dealerships in your area. Many will offer certified pre-owned models that are still under warranty and well-inspected.
- You could also use online classifieds. Sites like Autotrader, findusedonline.com, and Cars.com have many listings. Be sure to read any reviews about the sellers. Personal recommendations from friends and family can also point you to good, trustworthy sellers.
- Pay a visit to local car auctions or community sales. You never know, you may stumble upon a few great deals. Just make sure you take a professional with you if you are unsure what to look for.
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The Importance of Pre-Purchase Inspection
A pre-purchase inspection is a must when buying any used vehicle. This will enable your trusted mechanic to spot problems that aren’t so obvious. They will examine the very important components, including the engine, brakes, and transmission. This inspection would help avoid sudden repairs.
If the seller hesitates, that’s a red flag. A trustworthy seller would have no problem with an inspection since this only reflects confidence in the condition of their car.
You could also leverage the inspection as a negotiating tool. If the mechanic discovers issues, you can request repairs or a discounted price. This can protect you from cost and inconvenience in the future.
Safety Factors for Consideration
Safety should be the main concern when buying a used car. You can check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website to see if any recalls were issued on that particular model.
Next, run a VIN check to investigate the vehicle’s title history. Avoid vehicles with salvage or rebuilt titles. These indicate prior severe damage, which would make them unsuitable for use.
You’ll also want to research the safety features. Airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control are some features you want your car to have. The older the model, though, the less likely it will have the latest technology, though many older models still boast some good safety features.
Financing Options
Consider your financing options carefully. Research and make some comparisons to find the best interest rates. Banks and credit unions generally give you better deals than dealerships. You can also get pre-approved for a loan before shopping. This will give you a better idea of your budget.
Do not buy a car with a lien title. A lien implies the seller still has some outstanding debt to settle on the car. You would not want any complications once the ownership is transferred.
Be wary of extended loan terms. Though an extended loan term lowers the monthly payments, sometimes it may increase how much total interest you pay. Keep the term of the loan as short as possible while considering your budget.
Care and Maintenance of Older Cars
Older cars require more maintenance, and regular maintenance records can help improve their resale value.
To keep the engine running smoothly, maintain regular oil changes and fluid checks. Also, pay attention to how your brakes are performing and the condition of your tires.
Check the car’s service history by VIN to see if there were any significant repairs. If so, the work should have been done at a reputable shop, offering peace of mind.
Consider setting aside a budget for repairs and upkeep. Sometimes, even the best cars have problems. Being prepared pays off and saves time, stress, and frustration.
Conclusion
Buying one of these best used cars under $10,000 can be an excellent option. Research, get a vehicle history report, and consider your financing options. With careful planning, you can find a car that meets your needs.
