If your current car doesn’t serve your purpose or breaks down frequently, it’s time to move on and buy a new car.

But before you swing by your nearest dealership to check out that brand new sedan or SUV, you might want to consider the fact that the UAE’s used car market is growing in favor of consumers. With plenty of options available at reasonable prices, you can get the best value for money with a used car instead of breaking the bank for a brand new one.

However, reliability is a huge concern among used car buyers. And that’s why we are here to help you with a few recommendations.

We have serviced and repaired all major models and makes under the sun, from Corolla to Cayenne and everything in between. That means we are better positioned to recommend a used car that will serve you for a long time without giving you any trouble. Plus, these cars are easy to maintain and repair at any local mechanic shop.

So, let’s get started.

#1 Toyota Corolla

Buying a used car is often fraught with risk and uncertainty. If you value reliability above all else, then Toyota Corolla has to be your first choice. It’s a mid-size sedan built for the road and weather conditions in the UAE or anywhere in the world.

It seats five people comfortably and gets the job done. It’s a good option for city commutes and even for long drives.

Toyota is widely known for its bullet-proof engines. These engines can last a million kilometers if maintained properly. However, they are not as good in the performance area as their competitors. But that doesn’t mean Corollas are slow. As long as you are not planning to race other cars between traffic lights, a Corolla is a great option for you.

#2 Honda Accord

Ensuring performance and reliability in cars is quite a balancing act, and no one does it better than Honda. Honda is popular among car enthusiasts worldwide, thanks to its V-Tec technology, timeless appeal and stylish interiors. That said, you can never go wrong with a Honda Accord.

It’s a full-size sedan that offers roomy interiors and a reliable engine under the hood. The driving dynamics of the Honda Accord are on the performance side, without compromising the driver and passenger comfort. Unmistakably, Honda Accord is your best bet if you are willing to fork out some extra money for extra horsepower and premium features.

#3 Ford Focus (1.5TC I4 FWD)

When it comes to performance and driving dynamics, this American hot hatch runs circles around its Korean and Japanese counterparts. If you are in for the thrill of driving but don’t want to spend a lot of money, Ford Focus is your best bet.

It’s a Front-Wheel-Drive with a powerful engine that produces 150bhp and a whopping 240nm torque. Undoubtedly, the car can reach a top speed of 212km/hr. The best part is Ford Focus doubles as a family car and delivers fuel efficiency of 18.2 when driven sedately. Plus, it has an excellent resale value.

Ford vehicles can last a long time if serviced regularly. And in case you need repairs or routine maintenance, finding a Ford service center in Abu Dhabi is easy.

#4 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Although a bit pricey for a hatchback, VW Golf GTI is a performance car in every aspect. Be it the engine, handling or overall driving dynamics, Golf GTI never fails to impress.

Although this may not be the most reliable option on the used car market, we are making an exception for the VW Golf GTI because it’s worth every penny if you can get a good deal.

However, with a performance-oriented vehicle like Golf GTI, you are going to need a reliable Volkswagen service center in Abu Dhabi where you can get your vehicle serviced and repaired without having to pay a hefty price. In some cases, you may have to wait a couple of days or weeks for spare parts to arrive from Germany, which makes owning a Volkswagen a bit stressful.

Go for the Golf GTI only when you have the patience and money to maintain it. If not, read on to explore other options on the list.

#5 Toyota Land Cruiser

Toyota Land Cruiser can be your best bet if you love off-roading and want a stunning road presence. Unlike other premium SUVs like Range Rover, X7, Q7 and Jeep Cherokee, a Land Cruiser can go the distance without giving you much trouble. Needless to say, it comes with a reliable V8 engine that is time-tested across various Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

A Land Cruiser is a premium SUV that doubles as an off-road vehicle with the right set of Hankook tyres.

#6 Toyota Camry

Hard braking makes the front tyres wear out faster than the rear tyres. Tyre rotation means swapping front tyres with rear tyres at the time of wheel balancing/alignment, which should be done at least once a year. This is a smart way to get the most out of your tyres before they need replacement.

If your vehicle is due for tyre rotation, balancing and alignment, the right order of getting those done is - Wheel Balancing>> Tyre Rotation>> Wheel Alignment.

What to look for when buying a used car?

Once you have decided on the car you want, the next step is to get it inspected by an auto-technician. A detailed inspection will reveal major and minor issues with the vehicle, putting you in a stronger position to negotiate and make an informed decision.

If you are buying a used car, chances are its insurance will expire soon. In that case, you can reach out to us for cheaper car insurance in Abu Dhabi.

UAETyres is always here to assist you with car repairs, servicing, inspection and insurance. Our goal is to help you save money and give you a delightful car ownership experience for years to come.