Buying a used Honda is a smart investment given the brand’s reputation for reliability, efficiency, and resale value. However, there are several key factors to keep in mind to ensure you get the best deal possible. In this guide, we’ll help you understand what to look for when choosing a used Honda, including a few examples of the best years and models.
Why Buy a Used Honda?
1. Reliability
Honda” and “reliable” are virtually synonymous in the car industry. According to a survey (albeit a fairly old one), no other vehicle beats Honda for longevity. At the time of the survey, over 75% of Honda’s sold in the previous 25 years were still being driven. Every single Honda model consistently ranks high in reliability ratings, meaning you can expect your used Honda to last for many years with proper maintenance. Many Honda owners report driving their vehicles well past 200,000 miles with minimal major repairs.
2. Fuel Efficiency
Most Honda models, especially the Civic and Accord, offer excellent fuel economy, helping you save on gas costs over time. Honda’s efficient engineering means that even their SUVs and larger vehicles often achieve impressive mileage compared to competitors.
Honda is also the proud creator of the first mass-produced hybrid in North America and has since produced and introduced its first all-electric SUV last year: the Honda Prologue.
3. Resale Value
Honda vehicles hold their value better than many competitors, so when it’s time to sell or trade in, you’ll likely get a good return. Kelley Blue Book has consistently ranked Honda models among the best for resale value in their respective categories. For example, The Honda CR-V ranked #2 on their list of 2024 SUVs with the best resale value, and the 2024 Honda Civic and 2024 Honda accord were #1 and #2, respectively, for cars.
4. Affordable Maintenance
Compared to other brands, Honda vehicles are relatively inexpensive to maintain and repair. Most models beat the competition by thousands of dollars annually, and Honda is less likely than most to need a major repair within the first decade of ownership.
5. Advanced Safety Features
Even older Honda models come equipped with top-tier safety features, such as Honda Sensing technology, lane departure warnings, and collision mitigation braking. These features help make Honda vehicles some of the safest on the road. Furthermore, these safety features come standard regardless of trim. In other words, you don’t have to pay more for safety when it comes to a Honda.
What Does Certified Pre-Owned Mean on a Used Honda?
A Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Honda is a used Honda vehicle that has passed a rigorous inspection and comes with added benefits. You can only purchase a CPO Honda at an authorized dealer. Be wary of private sellers touting a vehicle as CPO.
Honda’s CPO program, HondaTrue, includes the following benefits:
1. Multi-Point Inspection
Every CPO Honda goes through a comprehensive 182-point inspection to ensure it meets Honda’s strict quality standards. This includes checking the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and electrical systems.
2. Extended Warranty Coverage
Certified Hondas come with a 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 12-month/12,000-mile non-powertrain coverage. Some models may also include additional limited warranties depending on the dealership.
3. Roadside Assistance
Honda CPO vehicles include roadside assistance, which helps you with services like towing, jump-starts, and lockout assistance. This can be a major benefit for those who travel frequently or get stuck in bad weather.
4. Free Vehicle History Report
Each CPO Honda comes with a CARFAX or AutoCheck report, so you can check for previous accidents and ownership history..
5. Special Financing Options
Many Honda dealerships often offer competitive financing rates for CPO vehicles. Because the loan is lower risk, buyers may enjoy lower interest rates that can make monthly payments more affordable compared to buying from a private seller.
Top Used Honda Models to Consider
1. Used Honda Civic
- Why It’s Great: The Civic is one of the most reliable and fuel-efficient compact cars on the market. It boasts a comfortable ride, modern tech features, and a reputation for longevity. Its sporty design and fun-to-drive nature also make it a popular choice.
- Best Model Years: Look for 2016 and newer models for updated safety and infotainment features. The 10th generation (2016-2021) offers turbocharged engines, while the 11th generation (2022 and newer) features enhanced technology and improved fuel economy.
- Fuel Economy: Up to 36 mpg combined (depending on the model year and trim).
- Common Features: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Honda Sensing safety features, and available manual transmission options for old-school drivers.
2. Used Honda CR-V
- Why It’s Great: As one of the best-selling compact SUVs, the CR-V offers spacious cargo capacity, excellent safety ratings, and great fuel efficiency. It’s an ideal choice for families and commuters alike.
- Best Model Years: The 2017 and newer CR-V models feature turbocharged engines and updated tech. The 2020 and newer models offer a hybrid option for even better fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Economy: Around 30 mpg combined.
- Common Features: Honda Sensing, spacious cargo area, available all-wheel drive, and comfortable seating for five passengers.
3. Used Honda Pilot
- Why It’s Great: If you need a reliable, family-friendly SUV with three rows of seating, the Honda Pilot is a fantastic choice. It’s known for a smooth ride, ample storage, and powerful performance.
- Best Model Years: The 2016 and newer models offer modern safety features and better fuel efficiency. The 2023 model introduced an off-road-focused TrailSport trim.
- Fuel Economy: Around 23 mpg combined.
- Common Features: Honda Sensing, available all-wheel drive, V6 engine, spacious third-row seating, and a rear entertainment system in higher trims.
Tips for Buying a Used Honda
1. Check the Vehicle’s History
Always obtain a CARFAX or AutoCheck report to ensure the vehicle has no major accidents, title issues, or excessive previous owners.
2. Test Drive Multiple Models
Even within the same model, different trims and years can have varying driving dynamics and comfort levels. Test driving helps you determine which version suits you best.
3. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
Have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchasing, especially if buying from a private seller.
4. Negotiate the Price
Research the vehicle’s market value using sources like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Don’t hesitate to negotiate, especially if the vehicle has minor cosmetic flaws or higher mileage.
5. Consider Buying from a Certified Honda Dealer
While private sellers and independent dealers may offer lower prices, buying a HondaTrue certified vehicle from an authorized Honda dealership guarantees the vehicle’s quality and offers added benefits, including extended warranty, roadside assistance, and lower interest rates.
Shop For A Used Honda In Denver
Ready to purchase a great car you’ll love driving for years, even decades to come? Visit our Honda dealership in Denver to view our inventory of certified pre-owned Hondas and take one (or several) out for a test drive today!
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