brands considered reliable/pvproduction
Reliability is important, especially when you are buying a used car. That's why Consumer Reports has compiled a list of the most reliable used car brands you can buy in 2024.
Research CRfocused on the reliability of models between 5 and 10 years old, giving each brand an average score based on how well their cars performed. The full study lists the top 26 brands, which you can check out here.
The top ten are particularly interesting. There are familiar faces like Toyota and Lexus and some surprises like BMW. Many of the brands in the top 10 are also the most reliable cars in their segments, according to Consumer Reports.
1. Lexus
As you would expect, Lexus tops the list of most reliable used car brands. The automaker scored an average of 75 out of 100, just three points higher than the next best automaker (which also won't surprise you). The rating included used cars such as Lexus EX, GS, IS, RX and others.
2. Toyota
There is nothing surprising here: Toyota ranks second in the list of reliability after its luxury counterpart Lexus. The Japanese automaker scored an average of 73 points across a range of models, from the 4Runner to the Venza. The Corolla Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, and Tacoma are the most reliable CRs in their respective categories, and many of these models made iSeeCars' recent list of longest-lasting cars.
3. Mazda
Mazda ranks third with an average score of 59, well behind Toyota and Lexus. The Japanese automaker has six models considered in the study: 3, 6, CX-3, CX-5, CX-9 and Miata. The 2019 Miata is also named the most reliable sports car under $20,000, and the CX-9 is the most reliable three-row SUV under $20,000.
4. Acura
Acura slips in just below Mazda with an average reliability score of 57. The luxury automaker has only three models make this list: the MDX, RDX, and TLX. It is one of five luxury automakers that made it into the top 10.
5. Honda
Right behind its luxury counterpart, Honda ranks fifth on the list. The automaker has an average reliability score of 55, including models such as the Accord, Civic, CR-V, Odyssey and several others. The 2020 HR-V is the most reliable small SUV under $15,000.
6. Buick
7. BMW
8. Subaru
9. Nissan
10. Mercedes-Benz