Last updated: 2026-03-04
Most Reliable Used Sedans — Ranked by Data
We ranked every sedan in our database using four weighted factors: complaint severity, repair costs, recall impact, and issue diversity. Sedans remain one of the most popular vehicle types for daily driving and commuting, with simpler drivetrains that tend to deliver strong long-term reliability. The 2023 Nissan Altima takes the top spot with a score of 84/100.
Top 10 Most Reliable Sedans
1Nissan Altima
2023
2Toyota Crown
2023
3Toyota Camry
2022
4Lexus IS
2020
5Toyota Corolla
2021
6Toyota Prius
2021
7Chevrolet Malibu
2023
8Honda Civic
2021
9Nissan Sentra
2023
10Mazda 3
2018
Sedan Reliability Rankings
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nissan Altima | 2023 | 84/100 | Excellent | 0 | 1.9 | 4 | |
| 2 | Toyota Crown | 2023 | 84/100 | Excellent | 0 | 0.0 | 4 | |
| 3 | Toyota Camry | 2022 | 84/100 | Excellent | 2 | 1.6 | 4 | |
| 4 | Lexus IS | 2020 | 83/100 | Excellent | 0 | 2.2 | 4.5 | |
| 5 | Toyota Corolla | 2021 | 83/100 | Excellent | 1 | 7.2 | 4.5 | |
| 6 | Toyota Prius | 2021 | 82/100 | Excellent | 0 | 2.5 | 4 | |
| 7 | Chevrolet Malibu | 2023 | 81/100 | Excellent | 1 | 1.8 | 4 | |
| 8 | Honda Civic | 2021 | 81/100 | Excellent | 3 | 4.5 | 4.5 | |
| 9 | Nissan Sentra | 2023 | 80/100 | Excellent | 1 | 1.3 | 4 | |
| 10 | Mazda 3 | 2018 | 79/100 | Good | 1 | 1.4 | 4 |
Sedan Reliability Score Comparison
Visual comparison of reliability scores across all sedans in our database. Longer bars indicate higher reliability.
Sedans by Category
Most Reliable Used Compact Sedans
See all 7 →Most Reliable Used Midsize Sedans
See all 14 →Browse Sedan Rankings by Type
Best Budget Sedans by Price
Sedans offer some of the best reliability-to-value ratios on the used market. Prices are based on current dealer listings.
Best Budget Sedans Under $10,000
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nissan Sentra | 2018 | 77/100 | Good | 2 | 8.5 | 4 | |
| 2 | Hyundai Elantra | 2018 | 76/100 | Good | 1 | 15.4 | 4.5 | |
| 3 | Nissan Altima | 2018 | 76/100 | Good | 2 | 10.4 | 4 |
2018 Nissan Sentra (estimated ~$7,995) — scored 77/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 76/100. View years to avoid →
2018 Hyundai Elantra (estimated ~$9,700) — scored 76/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 75/100. View years to avoid →
2018 Nissan Altima (estimated ~$9,877) — scored 76/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 78/100. View years to avoid →
Best Budget Sedans Under $15,000
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toyota Corolla | 2018 | 80/100 | Excellent | 3 | 4.5 | 4.5 | |
| 2 | Chevrolet Malibu | 2021 | 74/100 | Good | 2 | 15.5 | 4 | |
| 3 | Hyundai Sonata | 2019 | 71/100 | Good | 0 | 16.5 | 3 |
2018 Toyota Corolla (estimated ~$11,995) — scored 80/100 (Excellent) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 78/100. View years to avoid →
2021 Chevrolet Malibu (estimated ~$13,000) — scored 74/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 74/100. View years to avoid →
2019 Hyundai Sonata (estimated ~$13,000) — scored 71/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 64/100. View years to avoid →
Best Budget Sedans Under $20,000
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honda Civic | 2021 | 81/100 | Excellent | 3 | 4.5 | 4.5 | |
| 2 | Honda Accord | 2020 | 73/100 | Good | 8 | 17.2 | 4.5 | |
| 3 | Kia K5 | 2021 | 71/100 | Good | 6 | 14.3 | 4 | |
| 4 | Toyota Camry | 2019 | 70/100 | Good | 8 | 10.8 | 4 | |
| 5 | Tesla Model 3 | 2020 | 54/100 | Mixed | 20 | 20.1 | 2 | |
| 6 | Mercedes-Benz C-Class | 2018 | 51/100 | Mixed | 115 | 94.5 | 3.5 |
2021 Honda Civic (estimated ~$18,481) — scored 81/100 (Excellent) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 74/100. View years to avoid →
2020 Honda Accord (estimated ~$17,517) — scored 73/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 73/100. View years to avoid →
2021 Kia K5 (estimated ~$18,995) — scored 71/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 70/100. View years to avoid →
2019 Toyota Camry (estimated ~$18,946) — scored 70/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 76/100. View years to avoid →
2020 Tesla Model 3 (estimated ~$19,988) — scored 54/100 (Mixed) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 51/100. View years to avoid →
2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (estimated ~$16,791) — scored 51/100 (Mixed) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 49/100. View years to avoid →
Model Highlights
1. 2023 Nissan Altima — 84/100
The Nissan Altima, covering model years 2018 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 83/100, indicating excellent reliability overall. Common issues reported include electrical system malfunctions, particularly with door lock actuators, and problems with the automatic emergency braking system, especially in earlier models. With an estimated annual repair cost of $483, which is below the midsize car average, the Altima suits those looking for a reliable midsize sedan with manageable maintenance expenses.
Best year: 2023 (score: 84/100, 0 recalls, 24 complaints). Average score across all years: 78/100.
2. 2023 Toyota Crown — 84/100
Toyota Crown models from 2023 to 2026 demonstrate excellent reliability, with scores ranging from 84 to 88 out of 100 and consistently achieving a 5-star NHTSA safety rating. These vehicles report no recalls or complaints, indicating a strong reliability record, while repair costs are rated as good with a 4 out of 5 reliability rating. The data suggests the Toyota Crown is well-suited for those prioritizing safety and low maintenance concerns.
Best year: 2023 (score: 84/100, 0 recalls, 0 complaints). Average score across all years: 84/100.
3. 2022 Toyota Camry — 84/100
The Toyota Camry, covering model years 2018 to 2026, maintains a good reliability score of 77 out of 100, with an estimated annual repair cost of $388, which is below the midsize car average. Data indicates common issues with the power train, airbag system, and service brakes, particularly in earlier years, while later models show fewer complaints per 10,000 sold. The Camry's reliability rating of 4 out of 5 suggests it is a solid choice for those seeking a midsize vehicle with manageable repair costs and a history of steady improvement in complaint rates over recent years.
Best year: 2022 (score: 84/100, 2 recalls, 47 complaints). Average score across all years: 76/100.
4. 2020 Lexus IS — 83/100
The Lexus IS, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, maintains an average reliability score of 83 out of 100, indicating excellent reliability overall. Common issues reported by owners include structural concerns, particularly with the sunroof in earlier models, and visibility problems in recent years, with no recalls and minimal complaints in the latest 2026 model year. Repair costs are rated as excellent, making the Lexus IS a reliable choice for those prioritizing low maintenance expenses.
Best year: 2020 (score: 83/100, 0 recalls, 3 complaints). Average score across all years: 82/100.
5. 2021 Toyota Corolla — 83/100
The Toyota Corolla, covering model years 2018 to 2026, averages a reliability score of 77 out of 100, classified as "Good" on the Auto Reliability Index. Data indicates frequent issues with the engine coolant bypass valve, airbag systems, and electrical components, particularly in earlier models, with complaint rates peaking in 2023 at 186.2 per 10,000 sold. Despite these concerns, the Corolla maintains a high reliability rating of 4.5/5 and a lower-than-average estimated annual repair cost of $362, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing cost-effective maintenance in a compact vehicle.
Best year: 2021 (score: 83/100, 1 recalls, 160 complaints). Average score across all years: 78/100.
6. 2021 Toyota Prius — 82/100
The Toyota Prius, covering model years 2018 to 2026, maintains a good reliability score, averaging 79/100, with a notable improvement to 84/100 in 2026. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system malfunctions and unintended acceleration in earlier years, while the 2026 model year shows no complaints or recalls. With an estimated annual repair cost of $408, below the midsize car average, the Prius is suited for buyers prioritizing cost-effective maintenance and improved reliability in newer models.
Best year: 2021 (score: 82/100, 0 recalls, 15 complaints). Average score across all years: 78/100.
7. 2023 Chevrolet Malibu — 81/100
The Chevrolet Malibu, spanning model years 2018 to 2025, maintains an average reliability score of 83/100, indicating excellent reliability, though issues with the power train and electrical system are frequently reported, particularly the persistent "Shift to Park" error. Repair costs are estimated at $532 annually, slightly above the midsize car average of $526, with complaint rates decreasing significantly from 46.6 per 10,000 vehicles in 2018 to 0.7 in 2024. This model is best suited for those prioritizing a solid reliability reputation in a midsize vehicle, while being mindful of potential recurring issues.
Best year: 2023 (score: 81/100, 1 recalls, 23 complaints). Average score across all years: 74/100.
8. 2021 Honda Civic — 81/100
The Honda Civic, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 87/100, indicating excellent reliability, with specific years like 2019 and 2025 scoring as high as 91/100. Data shows that common issues include steering and fuel system problems, particularly in the 2018 and 2022 models, while repair costs remain low at an estimated $368 annually, compared to the compact car average of $526. With a high reliability rating of 4.5/5, the Civic is well-suited for those seeking a dependable compact vehicle, though potential buyers should be aware of model-specific issues and recall-related delays.
Best year: 2021 (score: 81/100, 3 recalls, 118 complaints). Average score across all years: 74/100.
9. 2023 Nissan Sentra — 80/100
The Nissan Sentra, covering model years 2018 through 2026, has an average reliability score of 83/100, indicating an excellent reliability rating. Common issues reported include power train and electrical system problems, particularly with the CVT transmission and automatic emergency braking system, although recent models show fewer complaints. With an estimated annual repair cost of $491, which is below the compact car average, the Sentra may appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable compact sedan.
Best year: 2023 (score: 80/100, 1 recalls, 14 complaints). Average score across all years: 76/100.
10. 2018 Mazda 3 — 79/100
The Mazda 3, covering model years 2018 through 2026, holds an average reliability score of 78/100, indicating a generally good reliability performance. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system malfunctions and excessive engine oil consumption, particularly in the 2019 and 2021 models, while the 2026 model shows improved reliability with no recalls or complaints. With an estimated annual repair cost of $433, below the compact car average, the Mazda 3 presents a moderate maintenance expense for potential buyers.
Best year: 2018 (score: 79/100, 1 recalls, 9 complaints). Average score across all years: 77/100.
11. 2019 Hyundai Elantra — 78/100
The Hyundai Elantra, covering model years 2018 to 2026, shows a good reliability score of 78/100, with a notable improvement in recent years, particularly in 2025 with a score of 89/100. Common issues reported by owners include engine and electrical system problems, especially in earlier models, while later models see fewer complaints, with significant reductions in complaint rates by 2025. The Elantra's estimated annual repair cost of $452 is below the compact car average, suggesting it may appeal to budget-conscious drivers seeking a reliable and cost-effective option.
Best year: 2019 (score: 78/100, 1 recalls, 195 complaints). Average score across all years: 75/100.
12. 2021 Honda Accord — 78/100
The Honda Accord, covering model years 2018 to 2026, maintains an average reliability score of 90/100, with notable improvements in complaint rates and recalls over time. Common issues reported include engine and electrical system problems in earlier models, while later years see fewer complaints, particularly in 2025 and 2026, with no recalls or complaints in 2026. With an estimated annual repair cost of $400, below the midsize car average, the Accord is recognized for its high reliability and is suitable for those prioritizing consistent performance and manageable maintenance expenses.
Best year: 2021 (score: 78/100, 5 recalls, 215 complaints). Average score across all years: 73/100.
13. 2023 Toyota GR86 — 77/100
Data indicates that the Toyota GR86, covering model years 2022 to 2026, achieves an average reliability score of 79/100, categorized as good. Common issues reported by owners include engine problems and fuel propulsion system concerns, particularly in earlier years, with a marked improvement by 2026, which shows no recalls or complaints. Repair costs are rated at 4/5, suggesting reasonable maintenance expenses, making the GR86 suitable for those prioritizing a balance between performance and reliability.
Best year: 2023 (score: 77/100, 1 recalls, 9 complaints). Average score across all years: 77/100.
14. 2022 Subaru Impreza — 76/100
The Subaru Impreza, with an average reliability score of 74/100, demonstrates a generally good reliability record across recent model years, with improvements noted in the 2025 and 2026 models. Common issues reported by owners include windshield cracking and exterior lighting problems, particularly in earlier models like 2018 and 2019, while recent models show fewer complaints and no recalls. Repair costs for the Impreza are estimated at $653 annually, which is higher than the compact car average, indicating potential considerations for maintenance expenses.
Best year: 2022 (score: 76/100, 1 recalls, 11 complaints). Average score across all years: 72/100.
15. 2019 Hyundai Sonata — 71/100
The Hyundai Sonata, covering model years 2018 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 69 out of 100, indicating a generally good reliability reputation. Data shows that common issues across various years include engine and electrical system problems, with notable concerns about excessive oil consumption and powertrain malfunctions. Repair costs are rated at 3 out of 5, and the vehicle's reliability is best suited for buyers who prioritize thorough maintenance history and warranty coverage, particularly for earlier model years.
Best year: 2019 (score: 71/100, 0 recalls, 144 complaints). Average score across all years: 64/100.
16. 2023 Kia K5 — 71/100
The Kia K5, spanning model years 2021 to 2026, shows a notable improvement in reliability, with scores increasing from 75/100 in 2021 to 100/100 in 2026. Initial years exhibit issues primarily with the electrical and fuel systems, while later models, particularly 2024 onward, demonstrate significantly fewer complaints and higher reliability scores, suggesting improvements in design and manufacturing. The vehicle is best suited for buyers prioritizing high safety ratings, as evidenced by consistent 5-star NHTSA safety scores, and those seeking models from 2024 and beyond for reduced complaint rates and enhanced reliability.
Best year: 2023 (score: 71/100, 4 recalls, 81 complaints). Average score across all years: 70/100.
17. 2023 BMW 5-Series — 70/100
The BMW 5-Series, covering model years 2018 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 66 out of 100, indicating a generally good reliability reputation. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the air bags, electrical systems, and power trains, particularly in earlier model years, with repair costs rated at an average level. The vehicle shows improvement in later years with fewer complaints, suggesting it may be better suited for those prioritizing newer models with fewer reported issues.
Best year: 2023 (score: 70/100, 2 recalls, 7 complaints). Average score across all years: 65/100.
18. 2022 BMW 3-Series — 70/100
The BMW 3-Series, covering model years 2018 to 2026, demonstrates a generally excellent reliability score, averaging 88/100, with notable improvements in later years such as 2025 and 2026, each scoring 100/100. Common issues reported include engine and electrical system problems in earlier models, particularly 2018 and 2019, with a significant reduction in complaints by 2022. This vehicle is well-suited for those prioritizing reliability, especially in the more recent model years, while earlier models may require attention to specific problem areas like engine and electrical systems.
Best year: 2022 (score: 70/100, 3 recalls, 6 complaints). Average score across all years: 67/100.
19. 2023 Audi E-Tron-GT — 65/100
Data indicates that the Audi E-Tron GT, covering model years 2022 to 2025, holds an average reliability score of 65 out of 100, placing it in the "Good" category. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the power train and electrical systems in earlier models, while the 2025 model shows improvement with fewer recalls and no complaints. Repair costs are average, with a reliability rating of 3 out of 5, making it suitable for buyers who prioritize a balance between performance and reliability.
Best year: 2023 (score: 65/100, 15 recalls, 10 complaints). Average score across all years: 65/100.
20. 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class — 63/100
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 59/100, indicating mixed reliability. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system malfunctions, engine stalling, and tire vulnerabilities, with repair costs rated at an average level. While the model has a strong safety rating of 5/5 stars from NHTSA, prospective buyers should be aware of recurring problems such as electrical failures and tire blowouts, especially in earlier model years.
Best year: 2023 (score: 63/100, 5 recalls, 20 complaints). Average score across all years: 57/100.
21. 2023 Tesla Model 3 — 57/100
The Tesla Model 3, spanning model years 2018 through 2025, shows a mixed reliability score of 59/100, with significant improvements noted in recent years. Data highlights frequent issues with forward collision avoidance and vehicle speed control, particularly in earlier models, with complaint rates peaking in 2018 at 67.8 per 10,000 sold and declining to 5 per 10,000 by 2025. While newer models demonstrate enhanced reliability, prospective buyers should consider the history of electrical and steering system complaints, especially in vehicles produced before the 2024 generation update.
Best year: 2023 (score: 57/100, 10 recalls, 386 complaints). Average score across all years: 51/100.
22. 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class — 53/100
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, exhibits a mixed reliability reputation with an average score of 53/100 on the Auto Reliability Index. Data indicates common issues with the electrical and engine systems, particularly in earlier model years, with complaint rates peaking in 2020 at 150.1 complaints per 10,000 sold. Prospective buyers may find the 2024 model year more appealing due to its significantly lower complaint rate and improved reliability score of 69/100.
Best year: 2023 (score: 53/100, 83 recalls, 209 complaints). Average score across all years: 49/100.
Also Compare
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the most reliable used sedan?
- Based on our data, the 2023 Nissan Altima is the most reliable used sedan with a score of 84/100 ("Excellent"). It has 0 recalls and 24 owner complaints.
- Are Japanese sedans more reliable than European sedans?
- Generally, Japanese manufacturers like Toyota and Honda have higher average reliability scores than European luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. However, individual model years can vary. Our data shows the gap is most pronounced in long-term ownership costs.
- What is the cheapest reliable used sedan to maintain?
- The 2023 Nissan Altima has estimated annual repair costs of , making it one of the most affordable sedans to maintain. Low recall counts and complaint volumes correlate with lower unexpected repair bills.
- How long do reliable sedans last?
- Sedans with high reliability scores (80+) can typically last 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance. Models in our 'Excellent' category tend to have fewer major component failures and lower repair costs throughout their lifespan.
- What is the most reliable used sedan on a budget?
- For budget buyers, the 2018 Nissan Sentra offers the best reliability in the under-$10,000 price range, scoring 77/100.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
See incorrect data? Report an issue