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Choosing the right, reliable car out of the abundance of used vehicles on the market might be overwhelming. However, if you pay attention to owner reports and complaints of issues, you can avoid buying a potentially problematic vehicle and find a reliable car to meet your expectations. Check out some dependable used cars that earn a “Seal of Awesome” from Car Complaints for owner satisfaction, like the 2015 Toyota Camry, 2016 Yaris, and 2008 Hyundai Elantra. 

Which used cars have the least problems?

Many reliable used cars are out there, but these five models are some of the least problematic preowned sedans, per owner satisfaction. 

  • 2016 Toyota Yaris
  • 2008 Hyundai Elantra
  • 2015 Toyota Camry
  • 2012 Mazda6
  • 2009 Ford Fusion
A used 2016 Toyota Yaris shows off its hatchback car proportions.
Toyota Yaris | Toyota

Specifically, each of these preowned models earned a Seal of Awesome from Car Complaints for relatively problem-free ownership. That problem-free seal is a result of a lack of driver and owner-reported issues. Other seals include “Beware-of-the-Clunker,” and “Avoid-it-like-the-Plague.” Moreover, the Avoid-it-like-a-Plague label applies to models with a well-documented history of complaints from owners and the NHTSA, like the 2002 Ford Explorer. 

Is Toyota Yaris a reliable car?

Although it’s no longer in production, the Toyota Yaris is a reliable used car for fans who want a dependable, no-frills hatchback. Moreover, the 2016 Toyota Yaris earned top accolades for its lack of dissatisfied owners from Car Complaints, with just eight NHTSA complaints in total. 

There are just two NHTSA complaints of body fitment issues, like a bumper falling off underway. Compared to other models, the Toyota Yaris is a picture of problem-free ownership. For instance, the 2013 Nissan Altima has 315 owner complaints of transmission issues like hesitation in the model’s continuously variable transmission (CVT). 

What are the common problems with a 2008 Hyundai Elantra?

The 2008 Hyundai Elantra has NHTSA complaints for steering and engine problems, although rare. Specifically, the used Hyundai car has 52 official complaints for steering issues like loss of power steering while underway. Also, the Elantra’s engine issues might include a loss of vehicle speed control. 

A 2008 Hyundai Elantra, a reliable used car, shows off its subtle styling on a beach.
2008 Hyundai Elantra | Hyundai

How many miles will a 2015 Camry last?

In an iSeeCars lifespan study, a Toyota Camry from the 2012 to 2015 timeframe has the potential to last an average of 223,249 miles. Of course, that figure reflects an average odometer reading for high-mileage examples, not the maximum potential distance a 2015 Toyota Camry could cover. 

A famously reliable used 2015 Toyota Camry midsized car shows off its blue paint work.
Toyota Camry | Toyota

Moreover, the 2015 Toyota Camry earned a Seal of Awesome for its lack of owner complaints. Specifically, the used Toyota car has 97 NHTSA complaints for power steering issues that could make low-speed cornering laborious. However, the problem is rare, considering the volume of the model’s sales.  

What are the most common problems with the 2012 Mazda6?

The 2012 Mazda6 is one of the marque’s most reliable and least problematic used car models, according to owner complaints. For instance, just six drivers reported low-beam bulbs burning out prematurely. As a result, the Mazda model earns a Seal of Awesome for its relatively drama-free ownership. 

Is the 2009 Ford Fusion a reliable used car?

Despite having more owner complaints than a comparable 2008 Hyundai Elantra, the 2009 Ford Fusion earned a Seal of Awesome for its merit as a reliable used car. Specifically, the Fusion’s most glaring issue is 525 NHTSA complaints for braking problems, like disconcerting pedal travel.

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