Best Used Cars Under $15,000

If there’s a new driver in your household, a college student in your life who needs a reliable and inexpensive set of wheels, you need a fuel-efficient second car, or even if you just cant afford to replace Old Breakdown with a brand new model, these recent model year choices are recommended as smart buys, at $15,000 or less.

This list of best used cars is from CarMax, a source I trust, with the caveat that prices can be more than $15,000 depending on where you live and if you choose an upper trim configuration loaded with safety features including  rearview camera, and such comfort features as leather seats and power sunroof.

A bonus is that all these vehicles are fuel efficient, with as much as 37 MPG ratings, saving you money at the gas pump.

Wherever possible, choose a certified pre-owned vehicle, also called CPO.  These are of-lease vehicles, and often come with an extended or new car manufaturers warranty that varies by model year and brand.

CPO vehicles also receive a manufacturer-required repair and maintenance check before they can be resold or re-leased, so they are in better operating condition than what I call a “regular” used car you might buy, including directly from the owner.