20 Used Cars With 100,000 Miles (And Still Worth Every Dollar)

Everyone has a dream car. While the means to actually attain said dream car are never ample enough, the delusions of getting behind the wheel of one—one that belongs to us—still endures. What doesn't help the indulgence of these fantasies is the fact that it's relatively easy to apply for loans. Instead of letting the dream die, people have the dangerous choice of getting into debt if they want to fulfill a longing. However, those who are strong enough to resist buying their dream car—or even a new car for that matter— there are much cheaper alternatives. Buying a less expensive car has its drawbacks, though. A refurbished or used car has the possibility of getting labeled that dreaded term of being a "lemon." Although everything looks good on the outside, once owners start to drive it, they find there are all kinds of problems. Even more, a used car often doesn't come with a warranty or any way to protect owners in case it's a dud.

Updated February 2022: If you're in the market for an affordable and reliable car, you should definitely check out this updated list of vehicles that will last for a years to come.

For used-car buyers, though, there's still hope. It's often in their best interest to find a car they can depend on. In most cases, they may not even have the best options. Maybe a lot of the cars posted for sale have 100,000 miles or more. In reality, there are plenty of cars with those many miles that owners can trust. Some will even give them another 100,000 miles on top of what they already have before they finally call it quits. The following cars not only have a reputation for going the distance but have what it takes to give owners security with their purchase.

20 Toyota Tacoma

Out of all the Toyotas on this list, how could we leave out the Tacoma? It's one of the most durable pickups out there even if it's not the flashiest. While Cheat Sheet reports that newer Tacoma models don't manage to get high scores in reliability—at least as much as they used to—they're still worthy vehicles. That probably comes as good news for those who'd rather get used ones anyways. According to Cheat Sheet, when it comes to Tacoma models that proved their mettle, the best is the 2002 model, which has some going well above and beyond 200,000 miles.

19 Lexus RX 350

When purchasing a truck or an SUV, most owners can rely on those vehicles to stick around day in and day out. They're meant to withstand a lot of over time. The Lexus RX 350 may not be the most popular SUV on the market today, but it's certainly one of the more dependable. According to Carfax, it comes with a 3.5-liter V6 that's powerful enough to weather any storm.

For those perusing the used SUVs who want something that'll last long, they're safe checking out the RX 350s. Even more, this crossover comes loaded with plenty of comfortable options, depending on what's available.

18 Toyota 4Runner

This day and age, the 4Runner seems outdated compared with other SUVs and crossovers on the market today. Many will be quick to criticize its bulky front and the design choices Toyota took with their SUV, though is there any doubt that it's tough and won't quit?

They've even made efforts to add to recent models some of the modern tech like blind-spot cameras, according to Consumer Reports. If it's enough to win consumers over more than the likes of the Chevy Tahoe or the Ford Explorer still remains a question. Those considering a 4Runner should be aware there's quite a large step needed in order to get into the vehicle.

17 Ford F-150

Not all pickups are created equal. The Ford F-150, which happens to be one of the top-selling vehicles in the U.S., is tough and able to cruise well past 100,000 miles. In addition to a long lifespan is its decent towing and power. The smallest engine to choose from is a 3.3-liter V6, and it's available with options going all the way up to a V8, according to Consumer Reports.

It may not get the best mpg at 19 in highways/cities, but it's a machine that can withstand the elements while also going 0 to 60 in a hair under 6 seconds.

16 Toyota Prius

To diehard gearheads, the word "Prius" is like a curse word. While the disdain for Toyota's Hybrid runs deep among many, few can argue it won't stand the test of time. Even beyond its longevity are other notable traits worth acknowledging.

Standing out from the rest is the fact that recent generations can do 52 mpg, according to Consumer Reports. For those looking at used ones of older models, they can still expect an impressive 44 mpg. Although it's not the most comfortable ride around, it's sure to save owners on gas expenses for many years to come.

15 Honda Accord

The Japanese automaker has a reputation for building durable cars that last long. The Honda Accord is a midsize sedan that supports the company's commonly held opinion about the brand. It's worth mentioning, as Autobytel notes, there's also a coupe edition available as well. With a six-speed transmission option, it even appeals to those who want more power.

Better yet, it's sure to avoid the usual wear and tear for a lot longer than others on the market. While the Accord comes with tech options lacking in Camry models, its Toyota rival still manages to edge it out slightly when it comes to longevity.

14 Mazda MX-5 Miata

When it comes to sports cars, there are few as long-lasting as the Mazda MX-5 Miata. This may come as something of a contradiction, considering plenty of owners are likely to drive recklessly behind the wheel of one of these, though for those who take extra care and perform regular maintenance, it wouldn't be surprising to find it still running with few issues.

As Carfax reports, used models are also affordable, which makes it tempting even for those with 100,000 miles already. Also in owners' favor is the fact that parts come easy at an affordable price, making it easier to maintain throughout the years.

13 Toyota Highlander

It's another Toyota, only this time in the form of an SUV. The Highlander may not be as tough-looking as its closely related 4Runner, though it's certainly bigger than its little sibling, the RAV4. The midsize SUV first came out as a 5-seater, as U.S. News reports, before 7-seat editions rolled out a few years after it first came out.

There's a reason the car is a hit with families, and it's first and foremost the fact that it'll see things through to the end. Even U.S. News puts the 2016 model in their top spot for midsize SUVs.

12 Honda Civic

Like the Camry, the Honda Civic may be a vanilla car. It's a run-of-the-mill sedan with a 2.0-liter engine that's not going to offer the highest performance; nor will it necessarily lend the best of comforts. Consumer Reports notes the lack of options it offers when trying to configure the front seats to a comfortable position.

It does, however, provide practical features that reasonable drivers can get on board with. Those features include decent gas mileage and the ability to get 100,000 miles without showing much age. Those who pick up a Civic are certainly investing in the long term.

11 Nissan Maxima

Nissan may not have a history of making reliable cars, but consider the Nissan Maxima an exception to the rule. According to U.S. News, in the category of reliability, it nearly received a "Better Than Most" rating. Not only does it last owners a long time, but it's also a nice-looking car.

In fact, not only is this a car that can easily surpass 100,000 miles but twice as much, as long as it's properly taken care of. It's worth noting that several users on Car Complaints mention there being transmission problems in 2011 models, so it's best to steer clear of those.

10 Honda Odyssey

There’re probably few car enthusiasts out there who'd admit any particular affinity for a minivan. Unless it's a nostalgic carryover from simpler times with someone thinking back on their youth, those who know cars have little place in their hearts for such an uninspiring vehicle. Still, one has to admit that the Honda Odyssey makes a worthy case for being a standout ride even if it’s tailored to families.

Beyond the 3.5-liter V6 engine and exceptional gas mileage as detailed by Carfax, there's the fact that it'll stick with owners for years to come. It may not turn heads—lots of families drive them—but it's going to be around well past the 100,000-mile mark.

9 Volvo 240

There seems to be a trend when it comes to certain Volvos: U.S. car enthusiasts either hate or love them. Whatever one's opinion is, they certainly have a reputation for racking up miles without wincing. One Volvo worth mentioning is the 240, which certainly had its own set of problems.

As Carfax notes, one owner recalled having issues. One such issue included switching out of first gear; what followed was a loud noise and then the undesirable shifting into neutral automatically. While the car certainly has its quirks, there's something underneath the unattractive exterior that kept it running well past 100,000 miles.

8 Toyota Sienna

Toyota makes a worthy minivan. The Sienna also has some luxury options that make it easier to hang on to a vehicle longer. Car Buying Strategies notes that its infotainment system comes standard. Higher trims, for those willing to dish out the dough, offer other features like a 4G hotspot.

One thing Toyota touts that other minivans can't is the fact that it's got AWD, which the seven-seater model offers. Although it may not have as much assurance of hitting 100,000 miles like Honda's Odyssey does, the likelihood is strong it'll still be around and meeting one's needs even well beyond.

7 Honda Ridgeline

It's worth noting that Honda has a decent compact truck. In an era today where heavy-duty pickups dominate the market, it's becoming harder to make a case for smaller offerings like the Ridgeline. For those who haven't clicked away yet, it's worth pointing out that the list is about what cars are most dependable—not necessarily the best all around.

While Chevy, Ford, and Ram devotees may beg to differ, the Honda Ridgeline isn't about to lie down at 100,000 miles or more. As Carfax reports, that's largely due to the drivetrain it gets from its SUV sibling, the Honda Pilot (which also has a spot on this list).

6 Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV that feels surprisingly more spacious than it leads on. There's even the option for bench seats or captain's chairs on the newer models, as Car Buying Strategies notes. The inside is definitely one of the highlights of this car.

When compared with some of its competitors, like the Ford Explorer and the Hyundai Santa Fe, there are differences regarding performance and aesthetics. Though in the realm of reliability, it's head and shoulders above many other SUVs out there. It's also worth noting that NHTSA bestowed it with five stars for safety, which makes it more appealing, even for a used vehicle.

5 Subaru Forester

Reliability is an underrated feature in automobiles today. Subaru may not have notched too many places on the list, but it's an automaker known for making some dependable models. The Subaru Forester is certainly one of them.

As Cheat Sheet notes, some have managed to hit a reported 200,000 miles and beyond since the 2014 models rolled out. It just goes to show Subaru is continuing to advance the Forester model further while carving out a reputation that touts the car's longevity. They even report that 24% of owners are keeping their Foresters after a whole decade, which seems rarer these days.

4 Toyota Corolla

People love the Toyota Corolla. How else does one explain the fact that it continues to be a bestselling car? With Corolla being an allusion to a flower, as MSN reports, it's no wonder niche car fans will scoff, though one thing even they won't try to disprove is the fact that it won't show signs of stopping beyond 100,000 miles.

Although car enthusiasts couldn't relate to the Corolla's original slogan back when it launched in the '60s—"The most wanted car by the market"—it's still around. In many ways, it's not very surprising, considering Toyota has a history of long-lasting cars.

3 Honda CR-V

The CR-V is not only one of Honda's best-selling cars but also a bestseller in the U.S., period. It's also got some decent power thanks to its 2.4-liter engine that can deliver a worthy 184 hp, according to Consumer Reports. Not only can it appeal to aspiring speed freaks, but it also runs quietly, which is a welcome feature.

Above all, though, there's a reason beyond others that people keep buying it year after year: the promise that it’ll go the limit. There’re even some luxury features, like an infotainment system and Apple or Android tech that make owners want to hold on to theirs for a lot longer.

2 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

It might be sacrilegious to put the Silverado 1500 on here considering there's another heavy-duty truck from Ford also on the list, though the greater sin may be neglecting the 1500 in the first place, which happens to rank high on dependability. According to Cheat Sheet, the Silverado—like the Ford F-150—is also a top-selling vehicle year in and year out.

It wouldn't be surprising to find a used one of these with hundreds of thousands of miles on it. Even more, it shouldn't raise alarm, considering how the trucks are made and built to last. When it comes to used trucks, owners can't go wrong with the 1500.

1 Toyota Camry

Many are reluctant to hold on to a car for 100,000 miles or more. The idea of driving the same car for that long worries them. For those who care less, the Toyota Camry is a worthy sedan that'll stand the test of time. As Carfax points out, there's a reason it's one of the bestselling cars in the U.S.

The only problem is it's rather vanilla and blends in with other cars on the road today. To no one's surprise, there are plenty of Toyotas on this list, and the Camry is perhaps the most well known of them all.

Sources: Carfax, Autobytel, Car Complaints, U.S. News, Consumer Reports, Cheat Sheet