What are the Safest Used Cars?

Jul 31,2026

While new cars get most of the attention when it comes to safety ratings, roughly 75% of consumers purchase used cars. For these consumers, information on vehicle safety is important as well. The Center for Auto Safety, in collaboration with Jack Gillis, publishes an annual car-buying guide called The Car Book. In the 2018 version, the guide includes ratings for vehicles released over the past five years.

The ratings are derived from 1,000 used car ratings. The guide includes data on crash tests, fuel economy, warranties, maintenance costs, insurance rates, and more. Consumers can now access the guide online as well.

Overall Best Used Cars in terms of Value, Safety, and Reliability

When ranked for value, safety, and reliability, these are some of the top used cars, according to The Car Book:

Audi A6 – 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017
BMW 3 Series – 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2017
Honda Civic – 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
Honda CR-V – 2015, 2016, 2017
Lexus ES – 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
Subaru Crosstrek – 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
Toyota Avalon – 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
Toyota Camry – 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
Toyota Prius V – 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
Acura MDX – 2013
Cadillac XTS – 2013, 2016, 2017
Subaru Outback – 2015, 2016, 2017
Subaru Legacy – 2014, 2015, 2016
Volvo S60 – 2015, 2016, 2017

Automobile brands, such as Toyota, Honda, and Mazda, including models such as the Corolla, Accord, and CX-5, are generally known for reliability and crash test performance. In addition, newer models have advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking from the IIHS. Consumers should always look for cars that have good IIHS/NHTSA ratings, especially those vehicles that have received strong scores with available driver-assist technology and small overlap front tests. Some vehicles that meet those criteria are the Subaru Outback, Hyundai Sonata/Ioniq 6, or even older luxury choices that offer robust protection, such as the Volvo S60/XC90.

Top Picks & Brands Can Vary by Year/Budget

Top picks and brands can vary considerably by year, with some year’s models considered to be better cars in terms of both safety and value. Budget also plays a large role when shopping for a used vehicle. Depending on how much you want to spend and the size of the vehicle you are searching for, you might want to consider several different featured vehicles.

Small Cars

Some of the smallest or compact vehicles that perform consistently well are the Toyota Corolla (2017-2019, 2023+), Honda Civic/Insight (2019-2022+), and Mazda3 (2019+).

Midsize Cars

If you are considering a midsize car, you should look at the Honda Accord/Hybrid (2021-2023), Toyota Camry (2014-2017), and Mazda6 (2019-2021).

SUVs

Some of the best-rated SUV’s to consider include the Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester/Outback, Toyota Highlander, and Lexus NX.

Luxury Vehicles

If you are willing to spend additional money for a luxury vehicle at a potentially significantly higher cost, some of the more reputable vehicles include the Volvo S60/XC90, Lexus IS/RX, and Acura RDX/MDX.

Key Factors for Safety

Before purchasing a used vehicle, you should pay close attention to specific factors that address vehicle safety.

IIHS & NHTSA Ratings

Be sure to check the IIHS “Safe Vehicles for Teens” or NHTSA (5-Star Safety Ratings) for specific years and models because these ratings can vary considerably with different models and years.

Crashworthiness

Consumers should always check for how their potential used vehicle would hold up in a serious accident. High crashworthiness can protect you and your family in the event of a collision. Always look for good scores in the IIHS moderate overlap, driver-side small overlap, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests.

Crash Avoidance

One of the best ways to ensure your safety is to avoid getting into an accident in the first place. Prioritize vehicles with good crash avoidance features, such as standard or available Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and good headlights.

Vehicle Size & Weight

Larger, heavier vehicles generally offer more protection against serious injuries in a collision than smaller, compact vehicles.

Pro-Tips for Buying Used

In conclusion, before purchasing a used vehicle, you should always keep in mind certain pro tips that can help ensure your safety.

Newer is Better

Newer models often have more advanced safety tech. Spending a little bit more money on a more recent model could end up giving you extra safety protection that you need to feel more secure, particularly if you have a new teenage driver in the house.

Check Specific Years

A model’s safety rating can change significantly year-to-year due to redesigns. Some year’s models were more successful with their safety and other features.

Reliability Matters

Brands like Toyota and Honda that have been around for a long time are often recommended for overall safety, trustworthiness, and longevity.

When you buy a used car, you do not want to sacrifice safety just to buy something you can afford. With the right amount of research, you can find the best used vehicle for your family that balances both cost and safety.

“As safety standards and vehicle technology have improved in recent years, buying a used car has become a pretty safe option for consumers. Checking guides like this is a good place to start if you are considering purchasing a used car,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Still Have Questions? Reach Out to Walter Clark Legal Group Today

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today at (760) 777-7777 for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients throughout the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.