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Quick heads-up: This post covers the pros and cons of Used Chevy vehicles.
If you’re actively shopping, you can also run a Car IQ Report to see which years and models are most reliable using U.S. government-backed data insights.
Searching for the most reliable used Chevy cars can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Chevrolet has a long history of building dependable vehicles, even if there have been a few bumps along the road.
You can find a great pre-owned Chevy that fits your budget and lifestyle.
This guide breaks down five of the best used Chevy cars you can find for under $20,000, from roomy sedans to powerful trucks. Let’s find the right one for you.
An Overview of the Most Reliable Used Chevy Cars
When you’re looking for a dependable car that won’t let you down, Chevy’s lineup has some real standouts. Models like the Impala and Equinox are well-known for their longevity and durability, keeping owners happy for many miles.
Overall, Chevrolet’s reliability is considered about average. The brand earned a Reliability Rating of 3.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal, placing it 20th out of 32 car brands. This rating is based on the cost, frequency, and severity of repairs. The average annual repair cost for a Chevy is around $649, which means it has fairly typical ownership costs.
This makes a used Chevy a solid, budget-friendly choice for many drivers.
Chevy Impala (2015-2018)
The 2015 to 2018 Chevy Impala is a fantastic full-size sedan with a ton of interior space. Its comfortable and quiet ride makes it perfect for long road trips or daily commutes.
Kelley Blue Book highlights the optional 305-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 as a great value, transforming the Impala into a surprisingly quick car. These model years are part of the Impala’s tenth generation, known for quality and affordability.
The overall number of owner complaints for the 2015-2018 Chevy Impala is significantly lower than average.
According to Kelley Blue Book, you can find a 2018 Impala for as low as $12,716, making it a great deal. The 2018 Chevy Impala also comes with the user-friendly MyLink infotainment system, which supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
Chevy Equinox (2008-2009)
The 2008-2009 Chevy Equinox is another dependable choice, known for its powerful V6 engine that delivers between 185 and 264 horsepower. This midsize crossover has become a popular option for those who need a mix of utility and value.
The overall number of owner complaints for the 2008-2009 Chevy Equinox are significantly lower than average.
With prices often ranging from $3,500 to $7,500, it’s a very affordable SUV. Buyers love its spacious interior, which offers plenty of room for families, gear, and groceries. Its safety ratings were also solid for the time, with the NHTSA giving the 2009 model a five-star rating in frontal crash tests.
Insider Tip: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption in the 3.4L V6 engine. A potential cause is a clogged PCV valve, which is part of the valve cover. Before buying, ask for service records and check the oil level to ensure it has been well-maintained.
For anyone looking for a used SUV that delivers on reliability and space without a hefty price tag, these two model years are an excellent choice.
Chevy Volt (2014-2016)
The Chevy Volt offers the best of both worlds with its innovative plug-in hybrid technology. It allows you to drive on pure electricity for daily errands and uses a gas engine as a generator for longer trips, eliminating range anxiety.
The overall number of owner complaints for the 2014-2011 Chevy Volt are significantly lower than average.
The 2014-2016 models are particularly compelling because they offer this advanced tech at an affordable price, typically between $10,000 and $18,000. The 2015 Volt, for instance, has a 17.1 kWh battery that provides an EPA-rated all-electric range of 38 miles, which is enough for most daily commutes.
High Reliability: RepairPal gives the 2016 Volt a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking it well within its category.
Great Efficiency: When running on electricity, the 2015 Volt is rated at an impressive 98 MPGe.
Owner Satisfaction: Edmunds gave the 2016 Volt a 4.7/5 rating, and it was even named one of their Best Used Cars.
Its fuel efficiency not only saves you money at the gas station but also reduces your environmental impact. It’s a smart investment in green technology that’s practical for everyday life.
Chevy Silverado 1500 (2016)
The 2016 Chevy Silverado 1500 is a full-size pickup truck that stands out for its strength and dependability. It offers a range of powerful engines, including the popular 5.3L V8, which produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque.
This truck is built to handle tough jobs with impressive towing capabilities. Depending on the configuration, the 5.3L V8 can tow up to 11,500 pounds, making it perfect for hauling trailers or boats. The NHTSA also awarded the 2016 Silverado a 5-star overall safety rating, so you can feel confident on the road.
While the overall 2016 Chevy Silverado reliability rating is quite good, some owners have reported issues with the transmission and brakes. CarComplaints.com notes that while there are some issues, there are no significant problem trends for this model year, which is a good sign for a popular truck.
Owners most commonly report brake problems with the 2016 Chevy Silverado.
If you need a truck that can deliver over 100,000 miles of solid performance, the 2016 Silverado is a great option. Just make sure to get a vehicle history report and consider a 30-day warranty for extra peace of mind.
Chevy Traverse (2016)
The Chevy Traverse is a top choice for families, offering seating for up to eight people and a powerful and reliable V6 engine. This SUV is also available with all-wheel drive (AWD), giving you extra confidence in bad weather.
J.D. Power gives the 2016 Traverse a “Great” quality and reliability score of 83 out of 100, which is excellent for its class. It also earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, making it a secure vehicle for your family. The 2016 model also offered first-generation OnStar services, which can provide automatic crash response and other assistance features.
The 2016 Chevy Traverse is one of the most reliable used Chevy cars when compared to other model years.
According to the Car IQ Report, the most common complaints for the 2016 Traverse are related to the airbags. There have been a few recalls for this issue, so it’s important to check the vehicle’s history and ensure any necessary repairs have been completed before you buy.
Final Thoughts
Choosing one of the most reliable used Chevy cars can give you a great driving experience with plenty of value, comfort, and efficiency. Models like the 2015 Impala and 2009 Equinox offer proven reliability for under $20,000.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, the 2014-2016 Volt is a smart choice. For truck lovers, the 2016 Silverado 1500 is a tough and capable workhorse.
With these excellent choices, finding a dependable used Chevy that meets your needs and budget is easier than ever.
Christopher is the founder of Car IQ Report and avid car enthusiast. With years of experience reviewing vehicle reliability and defect trends for some of the most prominent law firms in the U.S., he knows how to spot emerging problems before they hit the mainstream. He uses the Car IQ Report platform to source all recommendations featured in his blog posts, ensuring every suggestion is backed by real-world data. Obsessed with vehicle reliability scores, Christopher takes pride in guiding car shoppers toward the safest, smartest choices.
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