Alexandra Ramirez
New vehicles lose a large percentage of their value as soon as they’re driven off a dealer’s forecourt. The latest data puts that figure at around 20%. That equates to an instant $8,000 loss on a $40,000 vehicle. That’s a lot of money for any person to give away, irrespective of their financial wealth!
It’s not surprising, that people see the value of protecting themselves against depreciation, by buying second hand. Some 40 million used vehicles changed hands last year in the United States – a figure that dwarfs the sales of brand new vehicles (17.5 million) over the same period.
While going second hand gives you the option of owning a vehicle at an affordable price, there is one major drawback: reliability.
Any vehicle that is fresh out of the factory gates automatically comes with a warranty. Most manufacturers cover the breakdown of any parts up to a certain number of miles.
As soon as you dip into the second-hand market, warranties to protect against engine or other car issues, are not easy to find.
For that reason, reliability is an important factor second-hand buyers take into consideration when purchasing a car. The last thing any driver wants is to break down.
To help you end up with a dependable vehicle, we’ve drawn up a list of 3 of the most reliable second-hand cars on the market.
Stick with one of these choices and we guarantee you’ll have many happy driving miles ahead.
The Toyota Hilux
Best for: The Worker
Source: Gumtree Australia
Japanese manufacturer Toyota is synonymous with reliability. They’re proud of that fact as well. A recent advertising campaign points out 80% of Toyotas sold over the last 20 years, are still driven today.
No vehicle has helped them build up that reputation quite like the Toyota Hilux. First released in 1968, the Hilux has become Europe’s best-selling pick-up and one of Australia’s greatest selling vehicles of all time.
Back in 2003, the 1988 diesel N50 model featured on the popular TV motoring show, Top Gear. After passing a series of rigorous tests, including falling 240 feet as part of a tower block demolition, the vehicle still miraculously worked. It led to the show’s presenters famously labeling the Hilux as “indestructible”.
Nowadays, finding a Toyota Hilux for sale with less than 200,000 miles on the clock is rare. It’s huge ground clearance, solid axles, and durable engine come together to create a machine you can count on.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Best for: The Thrill-Seeker
Source: Wikipedia
Looking for a little more pizzazz in your second-hand vehicle? The Mazda MX-5 Miata is an affordable sports car with a punchy four-cylinder engine and six-speed gearbox.
The Miata, was first built in 1989. It has gone on to become the world’s best-selling two-seater. It has also picked up a sleuth of awards in the process, including Wheels Magazine’s Car of the Year Award.
Honda CR-V SUV
Best for: Families
Source: Wikipedia
Since its release back in the mid-90s, the Honda CR-V has been the number one selling SUV in the United States.
Its popularity is down to a mixture of affordability, reliability, and the growing trend amongst car owners for more spacious vehicles.
The CR-V is a joy to drive too. It has responsive steering and comfortable passenger space. Its size, coupled with its reliability record, makes it an ideal family vehicle.
