Shopping for a used vehicle is easier said than done. After all, it’s always tough to gauge a random vehicle’s reliability, especially if you’re operating on a limited budget. Assuming you’re looking to spend less than $10,000, you’ll probably have to shift your focus to some older offerings. Fortunately, there are a number of capable used vehicles that are pushing 10 years old.
Below, we’ve reviewed some aging vehicles that make for affordable used targets. These various nameplates are known for their reliability, with publications like U.S. News and World Report commending the nameplates for their dependability. Meanwhile, these vehicles have also been lauded by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for their safety, only emphasizing this overall sentiment. Best of all, these vehicles were some of the most impressive offerings in the industry when they were brand-new, and drivers can still appreciate some of the main amenities and capabilities.
Dive into the four used vehicles that you should be eyeing as you’re shopping around. Then, when you’re ready to commit to used cars for sale, you’ll know what models you want to pursue…
Mid-2000s Honda Accord
Honda has always been known for their reliability, so it shouldn’t be all that shocking that one of the brand’s most popular models is included on this list. In particular, the mid-2000 version of the Accord has proven to be more than reliable, with the 2007 variation taking home an award for reliability from U.S. News and World Report.
For starters, the vehicle’s engines tend to maintain their power despite their age. Drivers should naturally anticipate a slight decline in performance, but they should still expect the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine to maintain most of its 166 horsepower. There was also the hulking 3.0-liter V6 engine, which managed to crank out 244 horsepower. Fortunately, the vehicle proved to be plenty safe, a sentiment that was confirmed when the nameplate earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Best of all, despite pushing 10 years, the vehicle was plenty modern for its time, meaning drivers can still anticipate an enjoyable driving experience. Inclusions like the dual-zone climate control system and the heated leather seats will assure that every occupant is comfortable, while the satellite radio allows drivers to unlock over hundreds of listening options.
While it all depends on the mileage on the odometer, customers shouldn’t have a difficult time finding a mid-2000s Honda Accord selling for less than $8,000.
Early 2000s Acura TL
Looking for a bit of elegance (as well as a whole lot of power)? Then an early-to-mid-2000s version of the Acura TL may be the perfect target. The nameplate officially hit dealership lots in 2004, and it saw a relatively minor refresh in 2007. Therefore, if you find this range of model years sitting on a dealership’s lot, you should pounce at the opportunity.
The TL was generally known for its muscle, which was emphasized by the incredible 3.2-liter V6 engine. This particular unit was capable of cranking out an astonishing 258 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque. Even if the vehicle is pushing 100,000 miles, you can still expect power numbers that are lingering around these listed specs. To top it all off, the vehicle’s exterior is sleek and eye-catching. Depending on the quality of your used target, some unknowing friends may think you purchased a brand-new ride.
Most importantly, the vehicle has proven to be reliable, and drivers have seen the nameplate push 200,000 miles on the odometer. As a result, you shouldn’t have any apprehensions about pursuing a vehicle that has traveled more than 150,000 miles. Generally, these vehicles sell for less than $9,000, although you may have to dish out some extra dough if the miles are lower.
Mid-2000s Subaru Outback
We know, we know… hatchbacks aren’t the most desirable vehicles. However, there’s no denying their practicality, and you can expect several used nameplates to last you for at least half-a-decade. A mid-2000 Subaru Outback emphasizes this sentiment, especially the 2007 variation of the vehicle.
The vehicle could be equipped with one of three engine offerings, with each of the options managing to deliver a whole lot of power. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine was the smallest of the bunch, but it still managed to deliver a mighty-impressive 175 horsepower. The 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine took those specs to another level, delivering 243 horsepower. The 3.0-liter six-cylinder was the most hulking of them all, delivering an impressive 245 horsepower. Thanks to additional inclusions like a six-speaker audio system, the Subaru Outback was the perfect choice for commuters or families.
The brand has consistently been commended for its reliability (with the U.S. News and World Report touting that dependability), and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded it a five-star safety rating. In other words, this vehicle is an excellent used target. Predictably, hatchbacks aren’t the most desirable offerings on the used market, meaning you should be able to secure a relatively good deal on a used version of this nameplate. If you’re required to spend more than $10,000 on a version that’s pushing 100,000 miles, you’re probably spending too much.
Late-2000s Chrysler 300
It’s hard to believe that this nameplate was one of the most popular offerings only a decade ago. Nowadays, it’s better known as an ideal used target, as the accompany engines have proven to be plenty reliable throughout the years. The vehicle was known for the hulking 340-horsepower V8 engine, which proved to be one of the mightiest offerings in the entire industry. Even if the vehicle has a whole lot of miles on the odometer, we’d reckon this nameplate can still achieve those lofty performance specs.
The vehicle was naturally known for its elegance, as well as the roomy interior. While technology and safety may leave a bit to be desired, the vehicle is still modern enough to satisfy any driver. Generally, if you’re seeking a “low-mileage” version of this nameplate, we’d suggest seeking a version that costs around $10,000. While this may be more than you’re looking to spend, the extra bucks will be realized in the engine and dependability.
