5 Used Cars Under $15K That Experts Say Are Still Worth Buying
Written by
Chris Adam
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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With high car prices, it can be tough to find a good ride for under $15,000. Still, there are lots of options if you’re willing to look around — particularly if you go with some models known for their reliability.
For those shopping on a $15,000 budget, here are five used cars that a mechanic and some experts told GOBankingRates are good options.
1. 2018 Honda Accord
According to Chris Pyle, an auto expert and mechanic with JustAnswer, the Accord is a great car and can go well beyond 150,000 miles.
Though before buying it or any other used model, you’ll want to make sure to do your due diligence. “When buying a used car, it needs to be thoroughly checked out, top to bottom, inside and out, and many inspections of the engine and transmission,” said Pyle, who’s a certified mechanic with more than 20 years of experience.
2. 2021 Honda Civic
Pyle also likes used Honda Civic vehicles. He said they are built well and last a long time. One thing he noted is that they do hold their values — so you may need to look at older ones or those with higher mileage to get under $15,000.
Melanie Musson, an auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org, also put the Civic on her list of used cars to buy because of its reliability and dependability. She noted Civics reach 300,000 miles far more often than many other similar vehicles.
3. 2023 Toyota Corolla
If you’d rather drive a Toyota instead of a Honda, Pyle had good things to say about the Toyota Corolla. Again, just like the Civic, he said the Corollas are built well and built to last. However, they do hold their values, so you may need to look at used options that are older or have higher mileage.
“The market will stay tight through 2026 with potential tariffs pushing used prices even higher. If you find a solid Toyota or Honda under $15,000 with documented service history and under 100,000 miles, grab it immediately. Those deals disappear fast,” said Andrew Lokenauth from Fluent in Finance.
4. 2022 Nissan Altima
When asked to list the top used cars under $15,000 that are still worth buying, Pyle put the Nissan Altima up there with the Civic and Corolla.
He noted the Altima is a well-built ride that’s dependable and reliable.
5. 2020 Kia Sorento
Pyle is a fan of the Sorento. In fact, he has a perfect-running 2013 Sorento with 142,000 miles on it.
“Most Kia models are built well and perform well,” he said. “You can see some pretty high-mileage ones.”
Overall, Pyle advised to look beyond beauty when shopping for your next used car. “Just because the car looks awesome, is known for longevity and has a good price isn’t enough,” he said. “It may be burning oil, leaking into the cab when it rains, overheating on long drives or many other things often not noticed.”
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