Most Reliable Used Cars Under $10,000 in Australia

I know what you are thinking… you can’t get a reliable used car for under $10,000 in Australia anymore. Contrary to belief there are some exceptional, proven used cars that are still available to buy for under $10,000 in all parts of Australia.

If you are looking for a reliable used car under $10,000 here are the some of the best options available in 2023.

1. Mazda 3 - 2007 – 2012

What can you say? For generations the Mazda 3 has been a go-to vehicle choice for so many Australians. The only reason why the Mazda 3 has been so popular for so long is it is a proven, reliable, and more importantly safe vehicle.

When it comes to reliability, studies have shown the average Mazda 3 can last for well over 250,000 kms driven. Models dated as far back as 2003 are still driving around on Australian roads in 2022 and that says something!

To get a used Mazda 3 under $10,000 you will need to look at models dated between 2007 and 2012. In terms of kilometers driven, at a price of $10,000 you should expect the vehicle to have driven at least 150,000 by previous owners. With studies showing that the average life expectancy spans further than 250,000 this will give you almost 10 years of driving based on the average 11,000 kilometers driven every year.

2. Honda Accord 2008 – 2013

If Sedans are your vehicle of choice and you are on a limited budget, it’s hard to look past the Honda Accord. Similar to the Mazda 3, you still see many early 2000s Honda Accords driving around on the streets!

Research has found that the average Honda Accord engine life expectancy is upwards of 320,000 kilometers driven! Think about it, if you buy a Honda Accord which has already driven 150,000 kms you could potentially get another 15 – 20 years of driving done without needing a new model!

To find a model priced under $10,000 you will need to look at Honda Accords built between 2008 and 2013.

3. Ford Territory 2004 - 2013

For all you SUV lovers out there, this one should be common knowledge by now. If you are looking for a cheap, proven, safe and reliable SUV option for under $10,000 you cannot go past the Ford Territory!

Ford Territory’s have been one of the go-to SUV choices over the last 20 years and that says something. In terms of lifespan, studies show that the average Ford Territory engine will last well over 250,000 kilometers driven.

To find a used Ford Territory under $10,000 you will need to look at models built between 2004 – 2013.

4. Mitsubishi Triton 2005 - 2011

We know so many of you have been waiting for the 4x4 option. If you are looking for a used 4x4 under $10,000 in Australia the best option available to you is the ever-reliable Mitsubishi Triton.

The Mitsubishi Triton often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, mainly because it competes with Australia’s two most popular cars the Toyota Hilux and the Ford Ranger. In saying that, the only way that the Mitsubishi Triton has been able to compete with those two for so long is because they offer a cheaper, more reliable option.

The average Mitsubishi Triton’s lifespan has been found to be almost 250,000 kms driven if maintained correctly. To find a Used Mitsubishi Trion under $10,000 you will need to look at models built between 2005 – 2011.

5. Holden Commodore – 2005 - 2012

How could you leave the Commodore off this list? Even with Holden leaving Australia and the Commodore being discounted, how many do you still see on the roads? I bet you will spot one on your next drive, they are still around in massive numbers – the reason being they are reliable!

The average Holden Commodore has found to last well over 250,000 kms! To find a used Holden Commodore for under $10,000 you will need to look at models built between the years of 2005 – 2012.

Final Word,

Even as Used Car Prices hit record highs, there are still reliable options available for under $10,000 in Australia. The 5 models presented are proven and reliable used car options that can be purchase for under $10,000 in Australia in 2022.

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DISCLAIMER: This is all based on opinion please research and consult with all relevant parties to make the best-buying decision.