Before now, pre-owned cars were viewed as risky purchases regardless of mileage or model. But getting a used car can be a smart financial decision if you know where to look.
In the last two decades, we’ve seen improved engine technologies, better transmissions, and dependable ratings from organizations like Consumer Reports and JD Power. Moreover, the benchmark for longevity has jumped to 250,000 miles. With that in mind, getting a dependable used car is now easier than ever.
To curate this list, we used RepairPal’s extensive maintenance data, thousands of owner reviews, and iSeeCars’ detailed study of over 412 million vehicles. We focused on models that consistently demonstrate above-average reliability, lower maintenance costs, and at least a 15% chance of surpassing 250,000 miles.
Toyota Tundra
When it comes to full-size pickups that refuse to quit, nothing quite comes close to the Tundra. Models from 2007 to 2021 are particularly reliable—many owners report their trucks driving past 300,000 miles with just routine maintenance.
While the 5.7L V8 engine has not won any fuel economy awards, it is bulletproof. According to iSeeCars, the Tundra has a 36.6% chance of reaching 250,000 miles—4.2 times higher than the industry average.
Lexus GX
The GX is the luxury SUV that refuses to die. Based on the globally-proven Land Cruiser Prado platform, 2003-2021 models are particularly bulletproof. The 4.6L V8 engine might be thirsty, but it’s incredibly robust.
iSeeCars data shows that it has a 37.8% chance of reaching 200,000 miles, and that’s often just their mid-life crisis. Most units only require routine maintenance and the occasional timing belt replacement.
Toyota Avalon
The Avalon is Toyota’s well-kept secret in the full-size sedan segment. Models from 2005 to 2019 have proven exceptionally durable, powered by the legendary 3.5L V6 engine that seems to laugh at high mileage.
Statistics from Business Insider show that 2.5% of Avalons cruise past 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting minimal issues even at 300,000. Consumer Reports consistently rates the Avalon as one of the most reliable large sedans, with annual maintenance costs averaging just $400-450 – about half of what you’d spend on a comparable luxury vehicle.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Silverado proves that American trucks can go the distance. The 2014-2018 models, especially those with the 5.3L V8, are mechanical marathoners. iSeeCars data reveals that 18.8% of Silverados pass 250,000 miles, with many pushing well beyond.
What’s remarkable is the average repair cost: $714 per year when properly maintained—significantly lower than that of newer, more complex trucks. The simple engineering approach pays long-term dividends.
GMC Yukon XL
The 2010-2020 models of the GMC Yukon XL share the robust platform with the Suburban but add extra refinement. Studies show that 5.2% of Yukon XLs have surpassed 200,000 miles.
The 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines are solid, with many owners reporting minimal issues even after 250,000 miles. Despite heavy family use, 1.9% of all Yukon XLs survive past the 200,000-mile mark.
Chevrolet Tahoe
The Tahoe is America’s favorite full-size SUV for good reason. Models from 2007 to 2014 are especially hardy, with the 5.3L V8 proving itself time and again. According to GM’s reliability studies, 17.7% of Tahoes can reach 250,000 miles—significantly higher than the segment average of 7.8%.
What’s more impressive is that major repairs are relatively rare until well past 150,000 miles. The average Tahoe needs unscheduled repairs 0.3 times annually, which is reasonable for a vehicle of this size.
Honda Pilot
The 2009-2015 models, powered by Honda’s refined 3.5L V6, regularly surpass 250,000 miles without breaking a sweat. Research shows that 17.5% of Pilots can reach this milestone, and the numbers are growing.
The secret is a well-engineered powertrain and simple AWD system that requires minimal maintenance. Owner surveys indicate average annual repair costs of $542, making it one of the most economical three-row SUVs to maintain long-term.
Toyota Sequoia
Built on the same platform as the Tundra and sharing that trusted 5.7L V8, the Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that keeps going.
The second generation (2008-202) models are especially sought after, with their combination of durability and comfort. It is one of the highest-ranked cars in terms of reliability, with iSeeCars projecting a 36.4% chance of lasting 250,000 miles.
Toyota 4Runner
The 4Runner’s body-on-frame construction and robust 4.0L V6 engine make it nearly indestructible. Models from 2010 onwards have shown exceptional longevity, with iSeeCars reporting that 26.8% of 4Runners will likely cross the 250,000-mile threshold.
As used cars, they still command strong resale values, even with high mileage. Add their towing capacity and offroad chops to the mix, and you begin to see why it’s such a popular SUV.
Toyota Tacoma
The “Taco,” has earned its reputation for being tougher than a two-dollar steak. The 2005-2015 models with the 4.0L V6 are particularly stellar. These midsize trucks regularly hit 250,000 miles while asking for little more than oil changes and routine maintenance.
Repairpal estimates that you’ll need only $478 on maintenance yearly. For context, the average midsize truck gulps $652 in maintenance yearly.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Highlander Hybrid, especially from 2008 to 2019, combines Toyota’s reliable hybrid system with family-friendly utility. These SUVs routinely achieve 200,000+ miles while maintaining impressive fuel economy.
The hybrid batteries often last beyond 150,000 miles – much longer than early skeptics predicted. Additionally, it consistently earns above 80 in JD power’s reliability scores.
Honda Ridgeline
While some truck purists scoff at the Ridgeline’s unibody construction, the Ridgeline keeps proving them wrong. The 2007-2014 models are especially robust, and iSeeCars gives their 3.5L V6 engines a 25.8% chance of lasting 250,000 miles.
Between 2007 and 2014, JD Power awarded the Ridgeline at least 82/100 yearly on its quality and reliability metrics– impressive for a “not-quite-a-truck” truck.
Chevrolet Suburban
One of the few American models on our list, the Suburban is a smooth-handling and hardworking SUV. But it also impresses on the reliability front.
These gentle giants, particularly 2007-2014 models with the 5.3L V8, are known for crossing the 300,000-mile mark without breaking a sweat. GM data shows that 6.6% of Suburbans hit 200,000 miles – the highest percentage among American vehicles.
