When it comes to a pre-owned vehicle, what makes a good car? No, it's not the price or the number of features. A good used car should serve you well over the long term and should not cost a lot to maintain or repair. This means that as a minimum, a good used car should have a solid powertrain. With this in mind, and based on our inside knowledge, we picked several cars.
Illustrated Guide for Car Buyers and Owners
New: Dodge Journey 2009-2019
The Dodge Journey is a stylish mid-size crossover SUV with available third-row seating sold in many countries. A roomy interior and easy driving experience make it a comfortable road trip vehicle. Compared to many other similar vehicles, a used Dodge Journey is not very expensive. That's good, but is it reliable? What are the problems that owners report?
When we review cars, we not only see how they drive and test features, we look deeper. We check mechanical components, research the engines, common problems and in some cases even speak to mechanics that work on these cars.
Used Car Reviews
Looking for a used car?
Our used car reviews include problems and fixes, pros and cons, engine overview, fuel economy, model years to avoid and tips on what to look for when inspecting a used car
Honda Civic 2012-2015
Reliable fuel-efficient engine, good handlingMazda 3 2014-2018
Sporty handling and exceptional fuel economyMazda 6 2014-2019
Fuel efficient and sporty Mazda 6 is a front-wheel drive family sedanDodge Dart 2013-2016
The Dart is wider and heavier than other compacts. Safety ratings are among the best.Honda Accord 2008-2012
Honda Accord is one of the best family sedans on the market.Toyota Camry 2012-2017
The best-selling family sedan offers unbeatable reliability and comfort
More used car reviews »
Used SUV Reviews
Reviews of popular SUVs
Popularity of SUVs and crossovers is growing, giving used car buyers plenty of choices. Read about problems, years to avoid, fuel economy and info on engines and AWD systems.
NEW: Jeep Compass 2007-2017
The first-generation Jeep Compass is a compact crossover.-
Ford Edge 2007-2014
The Edge is a sporty 5-seater crossover Honda Pilot 2009-2015
Honda Pilot is a V6-powered mid-size 8-seater SUV.-
Toyota Venza 2009-2015
Toyota Venza is a stylish roomy and versatile 5-seater. Ford Escape 2013-2019
Ford Escape is one of the leaders in sales in the small SUV segment.-
Toyota RAV4 2013-2018
The RAV4 is a fuel-efficient, practical and reliable compact SUV. Jeep Cherokee 2014-2019
The Cherokee offers an optional unique 4WD system with low range.
More used SUV reviews »
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Guides for car owners

Guides for Car Owners
You depend on your car to get where you are going and your car depends on you. It starts and runs every day thanks to your efforts to maintain it. It's not too difficult to keep your car in good shape. Read our car maintenance checklist with photos, learn how to troubleshoot why a car won't start. Read what can cause your Check Engine light to come on and what Check Engine trouble codes mean. Read how to wax your car and touch up stone chips.
Why Check Engine light comes on
Repair options, common problems, Check Engine light diagnostic codesWhy a car won't start
Troubleshooting tips, how to check the battery, what can cause a car not to startNo-start issues with push button start
Tips on troubleshooting the push-button startCommon signs of car problems
You can keep your car safe and save money by recognizing problems early.How to maintain your engine
Is there a warning light for low oil? Do oil additives really help?Easy car maintenance checklist
How to check your oil, air filter, tire pressure, battery and top up fluidsHow to prepare a car for a long trip?
A long trip is a serious exam for your car. How to prepare it?How to clean a car interior
How to clean leather, upholstery, seats, carpet and plastic panels
Used car buying guide
Guides for used car buyers
Having a car means freedom because you can drive anywhere you want. Buying a used car means financial freedom, because it's cheaper and you can pay it off sooner. You can have a nice set of wheels and no monthly car payments to worry about. The key is to find a car that has a great reputation for reliability and check it carefully. You want a car that is in good mechanical condition. How much money do you need to buy a used car?
What you should know when buying a used car
How to choose a good reliable car that will hold its value?How do I get the best deal on a used car?
What is the "best deal" for a used car? What to look for?What mileage is OK for a used car?
Should used car buyers look only for low-mileage cars?How to inspect a used car
Guide with photos of what to look for when checking a used carHow to spot engine problems
You don't need to be a mechanic to spot some of the potential problemsBest 4-cylinder SUVs
An SUV doesn't have to be a gas guzzler. Check out our listShould you buy or avoid a car with a turbo engine?
Pros and cons