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Have you ever wondered which are the best used cars to buy that offer the best value for money? We present to you the most reliable models of used vehicles, offering a great choice to fit any price range. Whether you are looking for a midsize sedan, a pickup truck, or a family car, these best-selling vehicles provide an excellent balance between price, reliability, and maintenance.
Why Should You Consider Buying a Used Car?
In the Canadian market, buying a used car presents significant benefits for consumers. With lower sticker prices and reduced cost of ownership, used vehicles offer excellent value. Whether you’re looking to save on upfront costs or minimize long-term expenses, choosing a used car can be a smart financial decision.
Here are key reasons to purchase a used car:
- Affordability: Buying a used car allows you to purchase a reliable vehicle at a significantly lower cost compared to new models. This is a budget-friendly option, making it ideal for those looking to save.
- Variety of Options: The used-car market offers a wide range of car models, from compact cars to SUVs, giving you flexibility in choosing the vehicle that best suits your needs and preferences.
- Depreciation Savings: New cars depreciate quickly, losing substantial value in the first few years. Used Canadian vehicles have already experienced this depreciation, ensuring you get better value for your money.
- Reliability: Many used cars, especially from reputable manufacturers, offer excellent reliability. You can find well-maintained vehicles that have years of life left, making them a practical and dependable choice.
- Lower Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums are generally lower for used vehicles compared to new ones. This helps you save more, making a used car more affordable in the long term.
The 5 Best Used Cars to Buy for Value and Price
1. Hyundai Accent
Offering a great price for its options, the Hyundai Accent stands out as one of the best used cars to buy in terms of value for money. This small sedan, known for its reliability, is perfect for those on a budget. Although no longer available as a new vehicle, it remains highly sought after as a certified pre-owned car.
With a price range of $4,000 to $10,000, the Accent delivers impressive fuel efficiency and requires minimal maintenance. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient, reliable, and affordable vehicle. To give you an idea, the average price for a 2013 Hyundai Accent in Canada in 2024 ranges between approximately $5,300 and $6,700.
2. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is undoubtedly one of the best-used cars to buy, having been a benchmark in the market for over 20 years. This sedan shines with its reliability, low maintenance costs, and moderate fuel consumption. Whether you choose a manual or automatic transmission, the Civic remains a durable and solid choice.
As a certified pre-owned car, it offers excellent interior space for a compact sedan and provides smooth handling on all road conditions. If you’re looking for a vehicle with a great price-to-reliability ratio, the Civic is essential. In 2024, the average price for a 2013 Honda Civic in Canada ranges from around $9,000 to $13,500 CAD, depending on the model’s mileage, condition, and trim.
3. Toyota Camry
This midsize sedan is practical, reliable, and economical, offering excellent value for money. With various engine options, from 4-cylinder to V6, and even a hybrid version, the Toyota Camry stands out with its reduced fuel consumption and comfortable drive.
It’s one of the best used cars to buy for those looking for a vehicle that offers durability and easy maintenance while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency. In 2024, the average price for a 2013 Toyota Camry in Canada ranges between approximately $8,000 and $15,000 CAD.
4. Mazda CX-3
The Mazda CX-3, a small SUV, is perfect for urban driving. This model combines a beautifully finished interior with excellent fuel economy, offering a remarkable driving experience. Thanks to i-Activ technology, this vehicle guarantees a pleasant and dynamic drive.
It’s one of the best used cars to buy for those seeking a balance between performance and accessible maintenance. In 2024, the average price for a 2016 Mazda CX-3 in Canada ranges between $13,000 and $23,500 CAD, depending on factors like the trim level, mileage, and overall condition of the vehicle.
5. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is one of the best certified pre-owned cars for families. Offering excellent interior space and proven robustness, this model is especially valued for its longevity and low maintenance costs. Whether for city commutes or long-distance travel, it excels with moderate fuel consumption and a powerful engine.
The Honda CR-V remains an excellent choice for a reliable, long-term vehicle that’s also economical at a fair price. In 2024, the average price for a 2013 Honda CR-V in Canada is approximately $9,000 to $13,500 CAD.
10 Other Used Car Options to Consider
- Toyota Corolla (2016-2019): The Toyota Corolla remains a strong contender due to its reliability, low cost of ownership, and fuel efficiency. It’s an affordable and practical compact car option.
- Mazda3 (2015-2018): Known for its stylish design and sporty driving experience, the Mazda3 also offers solid reliability and affordability in the used market.
- Hyundai Elantra (2017-2019): The Hyundai Elantra is praised for its value-packed features, dependable performance, and affordability, making it a strong competitor in the compact car segment.
- Kia Soul (2017-2019): With its unique boxy design, spacious interior, and strong reliability, the Kia Soul is an excellent choice for those looking for practicality and affordability.
- Subaru Outback (2015-2018): The Subaru Outback’s AWD capability, reliability, and spacious interior make it a versatile choice, especially for Canadian winters.
- Mazda CX-5 (2016-2018): Offering reliability, a stylish design, and engaging driving dynamics, the Mazda CX-5 is a top pick among compact SUVs for used buyers.
- Kia Sportage (2017-2019): The Kia Sportage offers a blend of features, reliability, and affordability, making it an appealing option in the compact SUV segment.
- Nissan Rogue (2016-2019): Known for its comfortable interior, ample cargo space, and solid reliability, the Nissan Rogue is a great choice for families looking for an affordable used SUV.
- Ford F-150 (2015-2018): The Ford F-150 continues to be a reliable and capable pickup truck, with excellent towing capacity and strong resale value in the Canadian market.
- Chevrolet Equinox (2016-2018): The Chevrolet Equinox offers a spacious cabin, good fuel efficiency, and a range of tech features, making it a solid choice for those seeking a midsize SUV.
These options offer good value for money, reliability, and availability in the Canadian used car market. They cater to a variety of needs, from compact cars to SUVs and trucks.
Tips for Buying a Used Car: Get The Most From Your New Vehicle
Buying a used car is a smart choice for Canadian drivers looking to save on costs without sacrificing quality. With a wide selection in the auto market, it’s essential to check consumer reports for insights on reliability. The following tips will help ensure you get the best value from your new purchase:
Research and Set a Budget
Before diving into the used car market, it’s essential to do thorough research on the models you’re interested in and their average market prices. Setting a realistic budget that includes additional expenses like insurance, taxes, and possible repairs is crucial. By staying within your budget, you prevent overspending and leave room for any unexpected costs.
Book a Pre-Purchase Inspection with CarInspect
Always schedule a pre-purchase inspection with CarInspect before committing to a used car purchase. Their certified mechanics conduct a thorough examination of the vehicle’s condition, checking the engine, brakes, transmission, and other critical components for potential issues. This inspection helps avoid unexpected repairs, ensuring the vehicle is roadworthy and safe for Canadian roads and long road trips, providing peace of mind for the buyer.
Order a Vehicle History Report from CARFAX
Ordering a vehicle history report with CARFAX is a crucial step when buying a used car. This detailed report includes information on previous accidents, ownership history, service records, and any title issues. A clean report with signs of regular maintenance can confirm the vehicle’s reliability and maintenance, while an issue may indicate potential costly repairs or underlying problems, helping you make an informed decision before buying the car.
Take the Car for a Test Drive
Taking the car for a test drive is essential to gauge its overall performance, comfort, and safety. On Canadian roads, it’s especially important to check for issues like unusual noises, poor handling, or rough idling that may indicate hidden mechanical problems. Pay attention to braking, acceleration, and steering, as these can reveal a car’s true condition. The test drive is an invaluable step to ensure the vehicle suits your needs for everyday driving or road trips.
Verify Ownership and Check for Liens
Ensure the seller is the legitimate owner of the vehicle by checking their ID against the name on the vehicle’s registration. Additionally, check for any outstanding liens on the car by running a lien search, which is critical to ensure you’re not unknowingly taking on someone else’s debt. Buying a car with an unresolved lien can lead to legal complications and financial loss.
Check the Car’s Safety Features and Reliability Ratings
When purchasing a used car, carefully review the vehicle’s safety features and reliability ratings. Features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control can make a big difference in how the car performs during critical moments. Also, check consumer reviews and reliability ratings to see if the model has a reputation for dependability and if it will endure long-term use on Canadian roads or long-distance road trips without frequent repairs.
Consider the Standard Features and Search Criteria
Consider your specific needs by reviewing the standard features of the used car and setting clear search criteria. Features such as fuel efficiency, safety ratings, entertainment options, and comfort are essential for an enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, make sure the car meets your long-term requirements, whether it’s dependability for regular commutes or comfort. This helps narrow down your options and ensures you find a vehicle that best fits your lifestyle.
Evaluate the Vehicle’s Resale Value
If you plan on reselling the car in a few years, choose a model known for holding its value well. Brands like Toyota, Honda, and Mazda typically offer good resale value due to their reliability. Understanding the depreciation trends can help you make a better investment and recoup more of your money when it’s time to sell or trade-in the vehicle.
Negotiate the Price
Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price of the vehicle. Use your research on the car’s market value and any issues found during the inspection to your advantage. Sellers often leave some room for negotiation, and being prepared with market comparisons or the findings from your mechanic can help you get a better deal. Be respectful and confident during negotiations, and know your upper limit to avoid overspending.
Book a Pre-Purchase Car Inspection for a Used Car
At CarInspect, we offer mobile pre-purchase vehicle inspections that give you the confidence you need when buying a used car. Our certified mechanics come to your location, thoroughly inspecting the vehicle’s engine, transmission, brakes, and other key components.
By identifying potential issues early, we help you avoid costly repairs and make an informed decision. Whether you’re buying locally or from a distant seller, our inspection service ensures that you’re getting a reliable, roadworthy car that meets your expectations.
