Top 10 Used Cars That Are Both Reliable and Safe

For most people, owning a car nowadays is a necessity rather than a luxury. And for those on a limited budget, buying a brand-new car could be out of the question, which is why they prefer pre-owned cars instead; after all, they wouldn’t have to shoulder the initial burden of depreciation, and they’ll be able to save quite a bit.

However, car buyers should be very meticulous when shopping for second-hand vehicles, because it’s not always apparent if the car in question has been abused, which can potentially affect their market value.

Still, there are particular models from top brands that tend to retain their value longer than others, primarily for their reliability and safety. Philkotse.com has compiled a list of these cars from various price points, a mix of local favorites and international picks.

1. Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is an SUV that holds a remarkable 13 consecutive years in terms of top reliability scores. Being truck-based in nature, refinement is a bit lacking and it looks a little dated, yet its reliability is one of the best out there. The 4Runner hasn't seen a major redesign since 2010.

The Toyota 4Runner holds a remarkable 13 consecutive years of top reliability scores

>>> Read more: How to properly drive an SUV: 5 steps to follow.

2. Toyota Prius

Buyers of hybrid cars used to worry about the battery on their vehicle, afraid that the battery might fail prematurely and render their investment a waste.

The Toyota Prius erased doubts over the reliability of hybrid cars, clocking in 12 consecutive years of top reliability scores shared nu every Prius variant, from the base C to the top-spec V units.

The Toyota Prius has been largely reliable since the 2011 model year, making it one of the more value-packed passenger vehicles of the decade.

Buyers of hybrid cars used to worry about the battery on their vehicle

3. Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry is one of the dominant offerings in the midsize sedan category, having enjoyed brisk sales since 1993. It has received Consumer Report’s top reliability rating from 2002 to 2017. Even as the Camry was unseated by the all-new Honda Accord in 2018, its reputation has been practically set in steel.

>>> Refer to Toyota Camry review section for more details.

4. Honda CR-V

If you’re looking for a keeper, the Honda CR-V is certainly worth considering. A study conducted by iSeeCars.com revealed that one in four Honda CR-V owners opt to keep their units beyond 10 years. The Honda CR-V received top reliability ratings in six out of eight years, with the other two seeing it ranked above average.

The Honda CR-V is a contender if you’re looking for a keeper

5. Acura TSX

The TSX was a compact executive sedan that Acura made between 2003 and 2014. At the time it was discontinued, the car offered a 3.5L V6 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, front sport seats, automatic climate control and access to the trunky folding the rear seats.

The TSX was a compact executive sedan that Acura made between 2003 and 2014

It received a number of honors during its run for its practicality, performance, and safety, among them: 2004’s Top Value Car in the sedan category from SmartMoney.com, a Motor Trend Car of The Year finalist in 2009, and a perfect five-star score in frontal crash tests conducted by the US National Highway and Safety Administration (NHTSA).

6. Honda Accord

For seven years, the Accord scored top numbers for its segment, especially when the refreshed model was released in 2014. The newest model may have hit the market last year, raising expectations among critics and potential car buyers that the latest iteration of the Honda Accord lives up to the reputation of previous generations.

The Accord has scored consistently high marks for seven years

7. Lexus RX

As an upscale brand, Lexus is expected to churn out models that can hold their own against rivals, especially when it comes to reliability, safety, and market value; the RX is one such example. This crossover comes in several powerplant variants, from normally-aspirated to turbocharged, and even a hybrid model.

The latest generation offers generous interior space, as well as adaptive variable suspension that lets you adjust ride quality on demand. has received top scores from the Consumer Reports between 2010 and 2015. Although it has undergone a redesign in 2016, it didn't change its reputation.

The Lexus RX boasts of a six-year record in terms of overall reliability, and with good looks to match

8. Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tundra pickup has received eight perfect reliability ratings from 2010, making it arguably the best in its class. The latest generation of this US-market vehicle has remained largely unchanged since the latest generation debuted in 2007, offering a whopping 31 configurations by mixing and matching cab styles, bed lengths, and wheelbases.

The Toyota Tundra pickup has received eight perfect reliability ratings from 2010, making it arguably the best in its class

Extra trims are also available to further enhance the Tundra’s exterior looks as well as the towing capabilities.

9. Mazda 3

Whether in sedan or hatchback flavor, the Mazda3 was tops in reliability as of 2018, with the model also achieving perfect scores in eight out of nine years, across two generations beginning in 2010. Mazda has made improvements on the transmission, brakes, engine and features over the past decade.

Although the trend now is leaning more towards SUVs and crossovers, the Mazda 3 continues to hold its own in the secondhand car market.

The Mazda3 scored big on reliability in 2018

>>> If you are still wondering if Mazda 3 should be on your list, check out our Mazda 3 car review.

10. Lexus IS

The Lexus IS compact executive sedan has also delivered high-reliability ratings since 2010. Although the 2014 release had some issues in terms of body integrity and the infotainment system. 

The Lexus IS compact executive sedan has also delivered high-reliability ratings since 2010

The market’s perception is still largely positive, with the current generation offering five variants, all with an updated suite of safety features such as pre-collision warning, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and radar cruise control.