Safest and Least Reliable Used Cars for Buyers

When purchasing a used car, safety should be a top priority. Understanding which are the safest used cars on the market can help you make an informed decision that protects both you and your loved ones.

The Safest Used Cars

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback has long been a favorite among those prioritizing safety. Known for its durability, this all-wheel-drive vehicle is ideal for families and individuals who want reliability without compromising safety. The Outback received top marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), particularly for models equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This system includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision braking, and throttle management.

• Pros: Excellent crash test ratings, advanced driver-assist features, all-wheel drive standard.
• Cons: Some models have reported minor transmission issues.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a standout in the compact SUV segment for its safety features, reliability, and spacious design. It’s consistently rated highly by the IIHS and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for crashworthiness. Recent models come equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assist technologies that includes collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.

• Pros: High crash test ratings, spacious interior, excellent resale value.
• Cons: Slightly higher maintenance costs on older models.

Toyota Camry

As one of the most popular sedans globally, the Toyota Camry has consistently demonstrated high safety ratings and strong reliability. Toyota Safety Sense, included in recent models, adds features like pre-collision systems, lane departure alerts, and adaptive cruise control. It’s a great choice for individuals seeking a safe, efficient, and low-maintenance vehicle.

• Pros: Excellent safety features, high resale value, low cost of ownership.
• Cons: Lacks the all-wheel drive option available in other models like the Subaru Outback.

Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is praised not only for its sporty handling but also for its impressive safety ratings. The CX-5 includes Mazda’s i-Activsense safety features, such as Smart City Brake Support, which can prevent low-speed collisions by automatically braking if a pedestrian or object is detected. It has received “Top Safety Pick” ratings from IIHS, making it a solid choice for safety-conscious buyers.

• Pros: High crash test ratings, advanced driver-assist features, sporty handling.
• Cons: Somewhat smaller cargo space compared to competitors.

Additional Safest Used Car Options

Hyundai Tucson: Known for its extensive safety features and spacious interior, the Hyundai Tucson is also a reliable option in the compact SUV category.

Ford Fusion: This midsize sedan includes Ford’s Co-Pilot360 safety suite, offering features like blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alerts, making it an affordable yet safe choice.

Toyota Highlander: For those needing more space, the Highlander offers high safety ratings along with Toyota’s reputation for durability.

The Worst Used Cars Revealed

Fiat 500

While the Fiat 500 is appreciated for its compact size and style, it has consistently performed poorly in safety evaluations. The NHTSA rated it low in crash tests, especially for side impacts, which poses a significant risk in real-world scenarios. The Fiat 500 also lacks many of the driver-assist features that are now standard in competitors.

• Cons: Poor crash test ratings, lacks advanced safety features, limited interior space.

Chevrolet Malibu

Older models of the Chevrolet Malibu have received low safety scores, mainly due to poor crash test performance. While recent models have improved, certain years were prone to issues, including inconsistent safety features and subpar structural integrity. It may be affordable, but it’s essential to verify the model year before purchasing.

• Cons: Variable crash test ratings, reliability issues in earlier models, lower resale value.

Nissan Versa

The Nissan Versa is an affordable option, but it has been rated poorly in terms of safety by the IIHS and NHTSA, particularly in frontal crashes. It lacks many advanced safety features that are standard in other vehicles within its price range. If safety is a priority, the Versa might not be the best choice.

• Cons: Low safety ratings, minimal driver-assist features, less durable compared to competitors.

Kia Rio

The Kia Rio, while affordable, has received low safety ratings in crash tests, especially side impacts. The model also lacks essential safety features such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, which have become standard in many newer vehicles.

• Cons: Poor crash test ratings, lacks many driver-assist features, low resale value.

What to Consider When Choosing a Safe Used Car

When looking for the safest used cars, several factors go beyond crash ratings:

• Age of the Vehicle: Older models may lack modern safety features, like advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Vehicles made in the last five years are more likely to have these technologies.
• Mileage: Higher mileage cars could have more wear and tear, which can impact the effectiveness of safety features.
• Safety Ratings: Always check safety ratings from reliable sources like the IIHS and NHTSA.
• Vehicle History Report: Ensure the car hasn’t been in major accidents, as repairs may affect its structural integrity.
• Maintenance Records: A well-maintained car is generally safer as components like brakes and tires play a role in safe driving.

When buying a used car, safety should always be a top priority. Opting for the safest used cars, such as the Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V, or Toyota Camry, provides added peace of mind and protection. Meanwhile, some models like the Fiat 500 and Nissan Versa have poor safety ratings and may be best avoided if safety is a concern. By considering safety ratings, vehicle history, and model reliability, you can make an informed choice that ensures both safety and satisfaction.

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