When you’re looking to buy a used car, your main concerns are likely reliability, price, and overall value. If you’re on a budget of $10,000, you might think you’re limited to older models or cars with higher mileage. But that’s not the case. There are still plenty of excellent used cars available in 2025 for under $10,000 that offer solid performance, great features, and good reliability scores.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve rounded up ten of the best used cars you can find for under $10,000 this year, focusing on models with high J.D. Power reliability scores. These cars not only offer affordability but also come with a reputation for long-lasting performance.
Used Cars Under $10,000
1. 2013 Volkswagen CC
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 80/100
- Price: $7,927
The 2013 Volkswagen CC is a stylish sedan that combines luxury with performance. It has a sleek design, a comfortable interior, and a solid reputation for reliability. It’s also known for its impressive ride quality and upscale features. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides plenty of power, and the interior feels premium compared to other vehicles in this price range.
This car also holds its value well, so you’re likely to get many years of good service. If you want a vehicle that looks expensive but doesn’t break the bank, the CC is a great choice.
Why Buy: Great design, reliable performance, luxurious feel.
2. 2013 Mazda 6
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 80/100
- Price: $9,852
If you want a fun-to-drive sedan, the 2013 Mazda6 is a solid option. Known for its sporty handling and quick acceleration, it’s a car that delivers a driving experience that many others in this price range just can’t match. The spacious interior, good fuel economy, and a smooth ride make it an all-around great value.
Mazda’s reputation for reliability is another big plus. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re driving a car that’s built to last.
Why Buy: Sporty handling, fun to drive, fuel-efficient.
3. 2013 Mazda 3
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 81/100
- Price: $9,766
The 2013 Mazda3 is a compact car that punches above its weight. With a reputation for durability and good performance, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a practical yet enjoyable car to drive. The Mazda3 delivers responsive handling and a comfortable interior, and it also stands out for its impressive fuel economy.
This is a perfect vehicle for city driving, but it also has enough space and comfort for longer trips. The higher reliability score means you’re likely to enjoy years of trouble-free driving.
Why Buy: Fuel-efficient, reliable, fun to drive.
4. 2015 Chevrolet Sonic
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 81/100
- Price: $9,700
If you’re looking for a subcompact car that is affordable, the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic should be on your radar. This car is known for its surprisingly spacious interior, easy handling, and low maintenance costs. The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency.
The Sonic also has a surprisingly solid build, especially for a subcompact car. With its affordability and good reliability ratings, it’s a sensible choice for first-time buyers or anyone looking for an inexpensive, dependable car.
Why Buy: Affordable, reliable, easy to maneuver.
5. 2013 Subaru Legacy
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 83/100
- Price: $9,851
If you live in an area with harsh winters or rough terrain, the 2013 Subaru Legacy is a great option. It comes with all-wheel drive as standard, which makes it an excellent choice for handling slippery roads. The Legacy is spacious, comfortable, and comes with a solid list of standard features.
Subaru is known for its reliability, and the Legacy offers a smooth ride with good handling. It’s one of the few sedans in this price range that offers all-wheel drive, making it a standout choice for those who need extra traction and stability.
Why Buy: All-wheel drive, reliable, great for harsh conditions.
6. 2016 Nissan Versa
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 83/100
- Price: $8,796
The 2016 Nissan Versa is one of the most affordable cars on this list, yet it doesn’t compromise on reliability or value. The Versa is known for its roomy interior and great fuel efficiency, making it a fantastic option for city driving or long commutes.
Its simple design and low maintenance costs make it a good car for people on a tight budget. The Versa’s affordability and solid build quality make it one of the best choices under $10,000 in 2025.
Why Buy: Affordable, great fuel economy, spacious.
7. 2013 Hyundai Accent
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 83/100
- Price: $7,927
The 2013 Hyundai Accent is a small sedan that’s big on value. It has a roomy interior, a smooth ride, and excellent fuel economy. Hyundai has earned a reputation for building reliable, low-maintenance vehicles, and the Accent is no exception.
If you’re looking for a dependable car with a modern design, the Accent is an excellent choice. It’s affordable and offers good performance and comfort for its size.
Why Buy: Reliable, affordable, good fuel efficiency.
8. 2014 Kia Soul
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 84/100
- Price: $9,852
The 2014 Kia Soul stands out for its unique design and spacious interior. If you want something a little different from the standard compact car, the Soul offers a boxy shape that maximizes interior space while still maintaining a compact footprint.
It’s fun to drive, has good fuel efficiency, and offers solid build quality. With a high reliability score, it’s an ideal choice for those looking for a reliable and fun vehicle that won’t cost a fortune.
Why Buy: Unique design, spacious, fun to drive.
9. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 84/100
- Price: $9,766
The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu offers a comfortable ride, decent performance, and good interior space. With a solid reputation for reliability, the Malibu is a family-friendly sedan that offers a smooth driving experience. It’s also known for being low-maintenance, which is always a bonus.
With a roomy interior and decent fuel economy, the Malibu is a practical choice for people who need a comfortable daily driver without breaking the bank.
Why Buy: Comfortable, reliable, family-friendly.
10. 2014 Nissan Sentra
- J.D. Power Reliability Score: 84/100
- Price: $9,700
The 2014 Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan that punches above its weight. Known for its smooth ride and roomy interior, the Sentra is perfect for those who need a comfortable and affordable car for daily commutes. It also offers great fuel economy, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
With its solid reliability score, the Sentra is a dependable vehicle that should serve you well for many years. It’s an affordable option that provides a comfortable, low-maintenance driving experience.
Why Buy: Smooth ride, roomy interior, fuel-efficient.
Conclusion
There are plenty of great used cars available for under $10,000 in 2025, offering excellent reliability and value. Whether you want something sporty like the Mazda6, need all-wheel drive like the Subaru Legacy, or are just looking for an affordable and practical sedan like the Nissan Sentra, there’s something on this list for everyone. These cars have been proven to hold up over time and provide a dependable driving experience, making them excellent choices for anyone on a budget.
Before making your decision, be sure to consider factors like your driving needs, preferred features, and the car’s maintenance history. But rest assured, any of these options will offer you a solid mix of reliability, performance, and value.
Happy car hunting!
