A good used car can be a wise investment

Used cars are the way to go for most US buyers. Over 35 million yearly, almost more than twice the number of new cars sold every year.

But choosing a solid used vehicle typically isn’t simple if you want to get one that’s dependable, affordable and equipped with the latest safety and electronic elements. There are numerous models from which to choose each year. Go back several years and we’re talking about a lot.

To help make your shopping and life simpler, we had a chat with consumer professionals to get lists of the best used cars to purchase.

Compact Sedan

• 2012-2018 Toyota Corolla
• 2011-2015 Chevrolet Cruze
• 2011-2015 Honda Civic

Midsize Sedan

• 2012-2017 Toyota Camry
• 2013-2018 Nissan Altima
• 2011-2018 Dodge Charger

Full-Size Sedan

• 2011-2018 Chrysler 300
• 2014-2018 Chevrolet Impala
• 2010-2016 Buick LaCrosse

Luxury Sedan

• 2013-2018 BMW 3 Series
• 2010-2018 Volvo S60
• 2013-2018 Lexus ES 350

Sports Car

• 2008-2018 Dodge Challenger
• 2005-2014 Ford Mustang
• 2014-2018 Chevrolet Corvette

Small Crossover/SUV

• 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler
• 2012-2016 Honda CR-V
• 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee

Midsize Crossover

• 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
• 2011-2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
• 2010-2017 Chevrolet Equinox

Full-Size Crossover

• 2011-2018 Ford Explorer
• 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse
• 2007-2016 GMC Acadia

Luxury Crossover

• 2014-2018 INFINITI QX60
• 2010-2015 Lexus RX 350
• 2014-2016 Acura MDX

Full-Size Pickup Truck

• 2009-2014 Ford F-150
• 2011-2018 Ram 1500
• 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Once you find a used car you like, follow these steps:

Examine the vehicle history report. Run the VIN through CARFAX.com to see if it’s a flood vehicle or if it has been in some sort of accident.

Have the used vehicle examined by an auto mechanic. One of the main things to know about buying a used car is that you buy “as is.” CarFax alone is not enough of to take a look at. You should take all of the other steps too.