When it comes to used cars, finding a long-lasting, reliable model that holds its value can be important for bad credit borrowers. This is especially true as prices of both new and used cars continue to climb.

A recent study from iSeeCars has pulled together a list of the best cars to buy in 2022, including the best cars falling into certain price points. Here are some of the top vehicles under $15,000.

  1. $12,761 – 2013 Toyota Prius
  2. $12,970 – 2013 Subaru Forester
  3. $13,088 – 2013 Honda Civic
  4. $13,401 – 2013 Buick Encore
  5. $13,430 – 2013 Toyota Camry
  6. $13,523 – 2013 Subaru Outback
  7. $13,761 – 2013 Subaru Impreza
  8. $13,915 – 2013 Volvo XC90
  9. $14,048 – 2013 BMW X1
  10. $14,048 – 2013 Toyota Camry Hybrid

2013 subaru outback

Why choose these vehicles? The vehicles selected by iSeeCars represent vehicles that hold their value and were rated at a top safety pick from the NHTSA and IIHS. Even though these makes and models are nearly 10 years old, they still represent a significant saving over a new vehicle and may have safety and technology features that you'd expect in modern cars.

Before you buy. If you're thinking about exploring any of these vehicles, it's important that you do some of the looking in person. As online-only sales are gaining in popularity, nothing compares to a physical inspection and test drive, especially since most used cars don't come with a return policy.

Use these tips before you sign the contract to help ensure you're getting the most bang for your buck:

  • Inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Check the interior and exterior, open all the doors, windows, trunk, and hood, and look for anything that sends up a red flag. If it visually looks okay, and you give it the go-ahead, you can move on to the test drive.
  • Go for a drive. Once you're in the car take it on as many different types of roads and driving situations as possible. One thing to do, if you can, is to take a short trip on the expressway and see how the car handles at speed. Don't let the salesperson dictate your test drive, bring a friend or family member to go with you instead.
  • Get a vehicle history report. Just because a car looks and feels alright when it drives doesn't mean there aren't hidden things in its past. A vehicle history report can be a good glimpse into how well the car was cared for and if it has undergone any major accidents or repairs.
  • Visit a mechanic. Most used cars are able to be taken to a shop for a thorough inspection by a certified mechanic. You have to pay for this out of pocket, but if you're thinking seriously about buying a vehicle, this is a crucial step, since they may uncover failings that you might not spot on your own.

Ready to find your next vehicle? If you're ready to get into your next car, bad credit can make it a challenge. However, working with the right lenders can help you get the auto loan opportunities you need. At Auto Credit Express, we work with a nationwide network of special finance dealerships that are signed up with subprime lenders. These lenders know how to work with many credit situations. To get started today, simply fill out our online auto loan request form, and we'll get to work for you.