Quick Fix: What's the safest used car for my teenager?

Hi, I’m Lauren Fix, longtime automotive journalist and a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers. Welcome back to “Quick Fix,” where I answer car-related questions you submit to me.

Today’s question comes from Sarah in Tampa, Florida.

Hi Lauren:

We are helping our teenager buy his first car so he can drive himself to his job this summer. We want something safe, inexpensive, and reliable.

Can you 1) recommend where to look for such a car? And 2) suggest any makes or models that buyers tend to have good luck with?

Thank you!

Great question, Sarah — and I think I’ve got some good answers for you.

When it comes to buying a used car, dealers are always a good bet: buy a certified pre-owned vehicle and you’re protected by a warranty.

If you want buy from a private seller, I recommend you get the vehicle you’re considering up on a lift so an ASE certified mechanic can look at. Have him or her give the car one of three rankings:

Green: This means “go,” of course. It’s well-maintained, no rust, the engine and brakes are in good working order. An easy decision to buy.

Yellow: Cars like this might have been in a minor fender-bender, or have some concerning but repairable issues to deal with. Worth a buy if you know what you’re getting into.

Red: Avoid. This includes severe accidents, flood damage, a salvage title, and the kind of problems (transmission, for example) that can cost more than the value of the car.

As far as car safety goes, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) maintains a wealth of ratings online.

Now for where the rubber meets the road. Here are a few of my car recommendations at different price points.

New

Kia K4

Mazda CX 30

Toyota Prius

Honda Civic

Used under 20k

2017 Toyota RAV4

2018 Mazda CX 5

2017 Honda CR – V

2021 Toyota Corolla

Used under 15k

2018 Kia Sportage

2019 Kia Soul

2017 Toyota Corolla

2018 Mazda3

And, for some real bargains (keep in mind, however, that with cars 10-15 years old you’re sacrificing safety and/or reliability):

Used under 10k

2009 Toyota RAV4

2010 Honda element

2011 Toyota Avalon

Much more information where that came from. Just click the video below:

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