Choosing your first car can be a tricky process. Everybody nowadays wants the newest Hellcat, Camaro, Corvette, Porsche or Tesla. But let’s be real, your parents aren’t going to buy you a car that costs more than 20,000. So now you may be asking yourself, what cars can you get that don’t cost as much as your kidney and are going to work after all those curbs that you hit? Well, that’s why I am here.
These are the top three most cheap and reliable car brands to get in the opinion of this writer.
The 1st on the list is of course Toyota. Not only are Toyota’s super reliable but they also have a high safety rating. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) has awarded several Toyota models a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating. I have chosen two models from Toyota: the Toyota Camry and the Toyota Corolla. An average 2000-2010 used Camry on Facebook marketplace or Offer Up averages to about less than $8,000. While the price for a 2000-2010 used Corolla averages to less than $6000. Performance wise, the Corolla offers superior fuel economy rates while the Camry offers more powerful engine options. Both models offer long-lasting dependability, making them a choice for those seeking a reliable vehicle.
Number two on this list is Nissan, which is ranked 9th out of 32 automobile brands with an overall reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0. Two models that I have chosen as the most reliable and cheap from Nissan are: the Nissan Altima and the Nissan Xterra. The Nissan Altima has high dependability ratings and, depending on maintenance, can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles. Thanks to its remarkable lifespan, the Xterra is one of those cars you drive “till the wheels fall off.” A Nissan Xterra can travel 200,000 miles on average. However, certain Xterra cars can even last over 300,000 miles with regular and careful maintenance. The average price for a used 2000-2010 Nissan Altima is about $5000. While the average price for a used 2000-2010 Nissan Xterra is about $7,000. Although Nissan is in second place they make pretty reliable vehicles and many models are affordable.
Last but not least on this list is Honda. Honda’s Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking it first out of 32 automobile brands. I chose two Honda models that I thought were the most reliable and cheap. These models are: the Honda Civic, and the Honda Accord. A well-maintained Honda Civic may travel 200,000 miles or more in 20 years without needing major repairs. These lifespan factors contribute significantly to the Honda Civic’s long-standing reputation as a reliable vehicle for daily use. Many owners of Honda Accords report driving well past 100,000 miles with few problems. This dependability might result in fewer maintenance expenses and a longer life for your car. The average price for a used 2000-2010 Honda Civic is about $6000. And for the Honda Accord the average price is about the same price as the Civic. Both models cost about the same price so the choice would be up to you on which one you like better.
Although these brands are not Ferrari or Lamborghini, they stand more of a chance for you to actually own one in high school.