Find the Most Reliable Cars to Buy

In times of financial uncertainty, having a reliable car is ideal so you will spend less, and save more, on car repairs and maintenance.

Find the most reliable car money can buy by simply requesting a FREE online price quote. You will be given access to up-to-date pricing information on the best new cars and the latest discount offers in your zip code. This allows you to view car prices, compare dealer offers, and take advantage of rebates, cash back offers, and buying incentives without leaving home!

Car Reliability Revealed

You can judge the reliability of a car based on 2 important factors:

1. How often the car breaks down and/or needs repair
2. How much it costs to replace or fix the problem

Remember, both duration and cost are included in the equation. For example, car A can break down 5 times a year and only cost $200 to repair. Car B can break down once in a year but can cost $1,000 to fix. You will need to consider how often the car needs to visit the service center along with the costs incurred to repair the problem.

Independent testers use different methods and classifications to judge the reliability of a new car. There are two main factors to consider:

1. Design: both interior and exterior of the car
2. Mechanics/Parts: both interior and exterior of the car

Understanding what makes a car reliable will help you when deciding on a new car.

12 Most Reliable Cars for Growing Families

Based on our independent studies as well as the 2012 vehicle reliability study by J.D. Power & Associates, here are 12 vehicles with the highest marks for customer satisfaction:

Scion xB

The Scion xB is manufactured by parent company Toyota. Although the xB is classified as a small car, it is spacious and roomy enough for growing families. What makes the Scion xB extra special is its highly customizable options and built-to-last design. The xB also has a high resale value.

Mazda3 Sedan

For a couple with 1-2 children, the Mazda3 is a great fit for your needs. The Mazda3 has ample interior space for a growing family along with a reliable and powerful engine. The new SkyActiv technology allows more miles for every gallon. The Mazda3 is a reliable and fuel-efficient, fun family vehicle.

Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla continues to be a safe choice when looking for a roomy and dependable family car. The new Corolla is made better than before, with improved modern comforts, added safety features, and a well-built cabin.

Ford Fusion Hybrid

If you want something with more space, then the Ford Fusion Hybrid is perfect for your growing needs. The well-made cabin is accompanied by a durable and powerful hybrid motor to deliver an astounding 41mpg in city driving. Drive in style and safety without overspending.

Lexus IS Sedan

When it comes to reliability, it is hard to compete with a Lexus. The Lexus IS sedan combines the supreme durability of a Toyota sedan with world-class refinement, build quality, ride comfort, and luxury of a premium car. Your family will love the smooth ride and the quiet cabin of the Lexus IS. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort and style for reliability.

Toyota Venza

The Toyota Venza is a stylish and highly versatile family vehicle. Like with any Toyota, you can be assured of top-notch build quality and refinement. The Venza combines the style of a crossover vehicle with the functionality of a station wagon. The result? - A stylish ride the whole family will enjoy.

Subaru Outback

If you prefer a proper station wagon then the Subaru Outback is a great choice. Besides scoring high in terms of customer satisfaction and reliability, the Outback also has a powerful Boxer engine and Subaru’s very own symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, providing maximum road traction for any kind of weather.

Mazda5

The Mazda5 is perfect for the diverse needs of a growing family. It can seat up to 6 people inside the spacious and accommodating interior and the rear seats can be folded down for added versatility. The Mazda5 is a durable, compact minivan that is sporty to drive as well as safe.

Toyota Sienna

The Toyota Sienna is not only reliable but also safe to drive. The Sienna has advanced safety features along with the best crash test scores since it launched in the USA in 1998. This makes the Sienna the perfect minivan you will trust to serve your whole family.

Subaru Forester

Typical of all Subaru cars, the Forester is equipped with a Boxer engine and symmetrical all-wheel-drive. It delivers ample and comfortable interior space as well as cargo room in a compact and durable package. The Forester will provide you with excellent handling and a smooth ride, without any worries of additional vehicle maintenance.

Toyota RAV 4

When talking about durability, it is hard to pass up the Toyota RAV 4. It earns the distinction of being the first crossover vehicle able to provide many years of trouble-free driving. The RAV 4 also has many built-in safety features to protect your family against accidents and collisions. When it comes to reliability you can’t go wrong with a RAV 4.

Chevrolet Volt

The Chevrolet Volt is one of the most technologically advanced passenger cars on the market today. The Volt is not your typical hybrid car. It is a plug-in hybrid using pure electric power for 20 to 50 miles. The gasoline engine will then take over to charge the hybrid batteries and extend the driving range to an estimated 300 miles. The Volt is high-tech, reliable, and comfortable, all at the same time.

Keep Your New Car in Great Condition

Follow these simple guidelines to keep your new car running in the best condition possible. With proper care and maintenance, any car is capable of lasting more than 100,000 miles. This also improves the reliability of your car.

• Read the owner’s manual. This handy book will supply you with everything you need to know about maintaining your new car. Keep in mind, there are certain parts in your car to be checked or replaced after a specific amount of time, and others after reaching a specific mileage.
• Know your car. Some cars are known to have specific problems depending on the make and model. There are websites dedicated to any make and model of car. Participating in online forums and car websites will help you know more about your car and save you from overspending on repair costs.
• Small things matter the most. You should try to fix or repair small problems before they get worst. If you hear squeaks, rattle or any kind of unusual noise while you’re driving, pay attention to the problem and have it fixed immediately. This is a guaranteed way to extend the life and the reliability of your car as well as prevent expensive repairs.
• Use only genuine spare parts. Whenever you have your car serviced, insist only on genuine spare parts. If you are low on money, you can also use replacement parts, but try not to buy the cheapest variety. Remember, the price of the spare part can be an indication of quality. Tip: depending on the make and model of the car, genuine parts also come with a warranty.
• Save some extra cash for future repairs. It does not matter if your car is a European model or a Japanese import: all cars will eventually break down. Try to save at least $100 monthly in a separate account to anticipate future repairs and emergencies.
• Keep the paint finish shiny and new. Wash your car at least once a week using mild car shampoo and clean water. Wax and polish the paint at least once a month. Pay attention to small dents, scrapes, and cracks on the finish as the paint may chip and expose the metal to begin to rust. If you see rust on the paint, have it repaired and repainted immediately. Rust, left untreated, is a big problem. Tip: a car with an immaculate paint condition will ensure a higher resale value.
• Drive the car appropriately. Being too rough or careless with your car will accelerate the wear and tear. Drive your car appropriately and you will reap the benefits of spending more time on the road rather than in the repair shop.
• Keep the tires inflated to the recommended pressure. This will help prolong the life of your tires and the vehicle suspension. A poorly inflated tire will diminish your fuel economy, while an overinflated tire will produce a stiff ride and possibly cause accelerated wear on your suspension system. Replace the tires as needed. Driving with bald, overinflated, or poorly inflated tires is DANGEROUS.
• Change the oil regularly, especially if you use your car on a daily basis. The oil inside your engine helps lubricate the internal moving parts, protecting them from heat and friction. The oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Changing the engine oil regularly will not only prolong the life of your engine, but it will help yield better fuel economy. Tip: check the brakes and the transmission fluid each time you get an oil change.

Now you are aware of the importance of new car reliability, get started today and request your free online price quote to get access to pricing information on the top new cars. You will also get discount information to save you money on your next new car purchase.