Buying a used car can be a great experience if you find the right model for your needs. A reputable used car lot can share expertise and inventory with you to make the right decision. But what brand is the most reliable for a used car? Most signs point to Chevy. Chevy repeatedly appears on lists of great used cars year after year; from their sedans and SUVs to electric vehicles and trucks, you can’t go wrong with a Chevy.
Why Buy a Used Vehicle In the First Place?
Before we dive into Chevy specifically, let’s set the stage by understanding why you should buy a used car over a new car. People pay premiums on a new car and experience steep depreciation early in the car’s life.
A used car buyer gets plenty of miles in the mid to later years of that life but avoid paying the new car premium; this can lead to substantial savings. For example, take the 2008 Chevy Corvette––this well-known, premium sports car costs over $50,000 brand new. Yet if you were to buy it used, it can cost between $20,000-$30,000, saving you thousands.
Like the Corvette, you can save thousands by purchasing any vehicle used. This also means there are plenty of cars to choose from, so a used car buyer doesn’t have to settle for a car that doesn’t fit their lifestyle, use, or personality.
Another great benefit to the used car buyer today is the information you will have available to you. You’ll be able to find tons of details about typical maintenance issues, recalls, and even the repair histories of vehicles, all without leaving your home. Want details on your specific model? Just look at tools such as Carfax, and you’ll find a trove of information to help you understand how the prior owner treated the car. This can mitigate the risk of used car shopping.
Another risk mitigation factor for used car buyers is to shop for a Certified Pre-Owned car. These cars have undergone extensive quality and safety checks to ensure they are just like new. They have been reconditioned, all recalls have been addressed, and they come with warranties. If you were to purchase a Certified Pre-Owned Chevy, you would have a 6-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a 12-month/12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty.
The savings will keep rolling in for the used car buyer with lower insurance premiums, taxes, registration fees, and more.
Why Should You Choose a Chevy for Your Next Used Car?
Chevy is known for its reliability as it consistently appears on many lists of great used cars. It is not just one Chevy model but multiple models. For example, in 2018, J.D. Power gave the Malibu, Equinox, Traverse, and Silverado 1500 dependability awards––a rare feat when one brand has multiple models scoring high-reliability ratings.
Best Used Chevy Models
As mentioned, Chevy is a great used car brand that offers excellent vehicles year after year. Here are a few of the models that we think make excellent choices for drivers who want something that is both reliable and dependable.
The Chevy Volt (Built 2011-2019) – If you want to go green at a great price, this is the perfect option. Early models had a gas-range of 344 miles and could run on the battery for about 35 miles, and 2015 models had a range of 380 miles and could run on the battery for up to 38 miles. In its last year of production, the Volt had a range of 420 miles and could run on the battery for 53 miles––longer than the average commute. If you want a hybrid, the Chevy Volt is the way to go.
The Chevy Malibu (Built 1964-1983; 1997-Present) – The Malibu has been a mainstay in American cars since 1964 and has been a popular choice amongst young drivers because of how affordable it is. While a 1964 model might cost you a bit, a more recent model can be found for less than $20,000. Newer models will have great standard safety features, have excellent fuel economy ratings, and are quite spacious. If you are looking for the perfect vehicle to get you around while you are in college or you are just starting out in your career, a Malibu is a great choice.
The Chevy Camaro (Built 1967-Present) – Did you ever want to own a classic muscle car but couldn’t afford it? Shop for one used. Like the Malibu, an original model might set you back quite a bit, but more recent models can be found under $30,000. This budget will get you lots of options, high performance, and plenty of power––and it will still embody the spirit of the original Camaro.
The Chevy Equinox (Built 2005-Present) – This highly popular SUV can be a great value at under $15,000 when purchased used. While older models might not have the bells and whistles of the latest model, you will still be behind the wheel of a roomy, fuel-efficient, and well-appointed SUV.
The Chevy Cruze (Built 2008-2019) – While the Malibu has been a mainstay in the United States, its younger sibling, the Chevy Cruz, has graced our roads since 2008. These sensible sedans are stylish, efficient, and have upscale finishes making them the perfect commuter car. You can find an early Chevy Cruze for under $10,000.
The Chevy Tahoe (Built 1994-Present) – This large SUV is roomy, tech-savvy, and great for towing and trailering. Over the years, this model has offered everything from powerful diesel engines to impeccable V8 engines. It remains an excellent choice for anyone looking for an excellent option for a family.
The Chevy Suburban (Built 1934-Present) – While the Malibu and Camaro have major bragging rights for being a part of the Chevy lineup since the sixties, they have nothing on Chevy’s longest-lasting vehicle. While the Suburban has undergone plenty of changes since its first creation, it remains to this day the perfect family vehicle. With this SUV, expect high tow ratings, room for family and friends, and plenty of comfort features. You cannot go wrong by bringing home this model.
Ready to Find Your Used Chevy?
All you need to do now is narrow down your options! Decide if you need fuel economy or brute power, the latest tech and safety features, or can go with something a little older, and what you need for seating. Chevy will have the perfect model for your needs.
Need a few more tips before you start checking the models out at a used car lot? The best advice we can give is to do your research. Look up your options before driving anywhere and decide what you need, what you want, and what you can live without in a car. Then research some models and narrow down some years, so you know what to look for. If you visit a dealership with a list of what you are looking for, you’ll be best equipped to find the perfect model for you. After all, this is going to be your vehicle for years to come.
