Best Used Cars and SUVs for Less Than $5,000
These models have strong reliability and performed well in CR's tests
While the used-car market still poses challenges to buyers, there’s no reason they have to settle for an unreliable or dangerous one just because their budget is tight. Many models that were smart choices when they were new still have those same good qualities years later as older, much less-expensive used cars.
And yes, even used cars under $5,000 can offer high quality and reliable transportation. They were good when we recommended them as new and now years later—more than a decade in most cases—they’ve held up.
To be recommended, cars, SUVs, and trucks must perform well in more than 50 evaluations. Recommended models also need to have average or better reliability according to the results of our Annual Auto Surveys of CR members.
Some of the minivans, sedans, and SUVs listed below were available with electronic stability control (ESC), a safety system that saves lives and is now required on all new cars. We note in the description for each model when ESC was introduced as an optional or standard feature, if applicable.