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When shopping for a used sedan, it’s important to look for the features you need while adhering to your budget. More importantly, it’s important to know which sedans are reliable if you plan to keep the car for a long time. If you’re wondering which used sedans you should add to your shopping list, check out the following five examples.

1. 2014-2021 Mazda6

A light-gray 2016 Mazda6 midsize sedan parked on an asphalt lot near dry grass hills
2016 Mazda6 midsize sedan | Mazda

Mazdas have always been known to be reliable, and the Mazda6 – the brand’s midsize sedan offering – is no exception. J.D. Power gave the 2021 Mazda6 an overall reliability score of 81 out of 100, which is considered “great” by the publication’s standards. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that the 2021 Mazda6 didn’t receive any recalls or consumer complaints.

In addition to its apparent reliability, the Mazda6 has plenty of features like an infotainment screen with the availability of wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto. It’s also powered by a choice of four-cylinder engines, with the most powerful one being a turbocharged unit that pushes out 250 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.

2. 2016-2020 Nissan Maxima

A blue 2017 Nissan Maxima parked in front of a building
2017 Nissan Maxima | Nissan

The 2016-2020 Nissan Maxima offers buyers an array of standard and available features like a 7-inch touchscreen, navigation, and remote engine start. It also has plenty of power thanks to an available 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 300 hp and 261 lb-ft of torque. That’s great, but how reliable is it?

According to iSeeCars, the Nissan Maxima has a reliability rating of 8.6 out of 10 and should easily last past the 200,000-mile mark. That means that if 15,000 miles is the average amount driven every year, the Maxima should last at least 13 years with the proper care and maintenance.

3. Honda Civic

2009 Honda Civic EX-L front view
2009 Honda Civic EX-L | Honda

It’s hard not to have a list of the most reliable sedans and not include the Honda Civic. Vehicle History reports that many older Honda Civics have been able to hit the 100,000-mile mark with ease, and 200,000 miles isn’t much of a stretch. In fact, one owner even stated that he’s racked up over 500,000 miles on his Civic to date.

In addition to being one of the most reliable sedans in the market, the Honda Civic is very practical. It can seat up to five adults, has plenty of trunk space, and has a plethora of features. Some of the most notable include a touchscreen infotainment system, a Bose premium audio system, and a host of safety features.

4. 2016-2020 Chevrolet Impala

Chevrolet Impala
Chevrolet Impala at auto show | Getty Images, Raymond Boyd

Although you might not think of the Chevrolet Impala when thinking about reliability, it’s worth your consideration. Repair Pal gave the Chevy Impala a 4 out of 5 rating for reliability, placing it 5th out of 12 for full-size sedans.

In addition to its reliability, the Impala wraps its occupants in comfort with a plush interior and a supple ride. Just remember to pick an Impala from the later years – 2016 to 2020 — because they have the fewest complaints from owners and have proven to be reliable.

5. Toyota Avalon

A 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid parked
2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid | Toyota

Toyota has always been synonymous with reliability, so it’s no wonder that the Avalon is on this list. According to a study done by iSeeCars, the Avalon should easily go over the 200,000-mile with ease – if proper maintenance is done. J.D. Power even gave the 2022 Toyota Avalon a 91 out of 100 rating for reliability, which is one of the highest ratings we have seen.

In addition to being able to stay on the road for many years and miles, the Toyota Avalon has a near-luxury feel to it. There are plenty of soft-touch materials all over the cabin, leather heated seats, and all of the power amenities you need.

What makes a car reliable?

According to The Drive, a car’s reliability depends heavily on the time the automaker takes to manufacture it. When automakers spend time, research, and development on making a car, it’s sure to last for years. For example, Lexus even took 15 years to create the perfect paint.

Beyond that, it depends on how well the car is cared for by those who own it. So if you’re looking for a reliable car, start with one of these five examples and ensure that it’s properly cared for.