What Mechanics Really Look for When Buying Their Own Vehicles

The American vehicle market has exploded in complexity. From just 166 models available in 1997, consumers now face nearly 285 different options in 2023—a dizzying array before even considering engine variations and trim levels. So how do you cut through the noise? We turned to three seasoned mechanics with decades of hands-on experience to learn which cars they’d actually put their own money into.

The Japanese Reliability Foundation

Toyota Camry: The Workhorse That Actually Works

Todd Bialaszewski, founder of Junk Car Medics and a Certified Master Mechanic, starts with an obvious choice—one that’s been America’s best-selling car for two decades. “The Toyota Camry isn’t flashy, but it’s a masterclass in consistency,” Bialaszewski explains. “In my shop, I see Camrys rack up 200,000 miles with minimal drama. The fuel economy stays strong, repair costs stay reasonable, and these cars don’t depreciate like three-year-old electronics. Regular maintenance is your only real responsibility.”

Honda CR-V: Space Without the Headaches

When practicality matters, Bialaszewski points to the Honda CR-V—a vehicle that achieved a rare 10 out of 10 rating from Car and Driver. “Families forget about the CR-V after they drive it off the lot,” he says. “That’s because it just works. It’s roomy enough for hauling without feeling oversized, and the mechanical simplicity means fewer things break. It’s the definition of a no-surprises purchase.”

Mazda6: The Overlooked Performance Play

Robert Walden, a Vehicle Freak founder with 15+ years in automotive diagnosis and repair, champions the 2018-2021 Mazda6 for secondhand buyers. “The Mazda6 represents what a midsize sedan should be—it’s genuinely fun to drive while remaining bulletproof reliable,” Walden notes. “Mazda’s engineering hit a sweet spot here. You get style, efficiency, and zero anxiety about major repairs.”

The American Truck Legacy

Ford F-150: Why It’s Outsold Everything for 46 Years

Andy Saari, a 30-year industry veteran and Ford Senior Master Technician, doesn’t hesitate when asked about the best-used vehicle investment. “The Ford F-150 didn’t dominate the truck market for nearly five decades by luck,” Saari explains. “The engineering is proven, the V-6 Ecoboost delivers genuine towing power, and if something does fail, you’ll find parts at any auto store on any corner. The sheer production volume means parts availability is unmatched.”

Ford Fusion: The Forgotten American Sedan

Before the Fusion was discontinued in 2020, Bialaszewski watched it accumulate loyal customers. “I still recommend 2012-2014 Ford Fusions to anyone considering used sedans,” he says. “The drive quality is smooth, the interior ages well, and my customers report minimal unexpected repair bills. These are second-car-worthy vehicles—reliable enough that you forget to worry about them.”

The Korean Automakers’ Rise

Hyundai Santa Cruz: Blending Two Worlds

Walden highlights the Hyundai Santa Cruz as modern automotive problem-solving. “This vehicle resurrects the car-truck hybrid that disappeared in the '70s and '80s,” he explains. “The Santa Cruz drives like a sedan but includes a lockable truck bed. The base engine could be peppier, but the overall execution—combining SUV comfort with pickup functionality—is genuinely clever. The interior quality surprised me.”

Kia Sorento: Reliability Meets Value

Saari’s final recommendation is the Kia Sorento, reflecting Korean manufacturer improvement in recent years. “Kia’s reputation shifted dramatically,” Saari observes. “The Sorento offers genuine family space, excellent value, and a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty that shows manufacturer confidence. It’s a solid midsize choice for practical buyers.”

Chevy Malibu: The Reliable American Classic

Bialaszewski rounds out the recommendations with the Chevrolet Malibu, particularly post-2015 models lauded by J.D. Power and RepairPal. “The Malibu delivers comfort and dependability at a reasonable price point,” he notes. “But here’s what all these vehicles share—they require actual maintenance. Oil changes matter. Brake inspections matter. Tire rotation matters. The best vehicle investment is one you actually maintain.”

What These Mechanics Won’t Tell You About New vs. Used

The pattern across all three professionals reveals an important truth: neither new nor used automatically wins. Instead, the choice depends on your tolerance for the unknown and your maintenance discipline. New vehicles offer predictability and warranty protection; used vehicles offer value and proven real-world durability data.

“The machine that serves you best is the one you respect,” Bialaszewski concludes. “I’ve seen six-year-old vehicles run flawlessly and brand-new ones become nightmares—the difference was owner commitment to maintenance schedules. Whether you choose the Camry or the F-150, the Sorento or the Mazda6, your investment pays dividends only if you show up for the work.”