Reliability is key when shopping for a used SUV. Even if you’re shopping on a tight budget, there’s little to no reason to compromise on reliability. Fortunately, Consumer Reports has the inside scoop on the most reliable used SUVs that won’t break the bank.

The 2005 Honda CR-V is a reliable used SUV

The Honda CR-V has a lot going for it. Even if you opt for a 2005 Honda CR-V, you can expect this used SUV to be plenty reliable. According to Consumer Reports, the 2005 model earned a four out of five reliability rating. It earned similarly high ratings when it came to owner satisfaction. 

Fortunately, the 2005 Honda CR-V is more than a reliable used SUV. It also won’t break the bank. According to J.D. Power, the average listing price of a 2005 Honda CR-V sits at $4,995. For used SUV shoppers on a strict budget, that price tag isn’t all that bad. Especially when you factor in just how reliable this used SUV is.

The 2006 Honda Pilot isn’t just a reliable used SUV

The Honda CR-V isn’t the only reliable used SUV Honda has to offer either. The 2006 Honda Pilot also makes for a great option. According to Consumer Reports, it offers punchy performance and respectable fuel economy ratings. Its interior is also pretty comfortable and offers plenty of cargo space with the third-row seats folded down.

The 2006 Honda Pilot earned some fairly impressive reliability ratings too. Based on Consumer Reports’ data, the 2006 model earned a four out of five overall reliability rating. J.D. Power also gave it a ‘Great’ overall quality and reliability rating, which is pretty hard to argue with. 

And when it comes to pricing? Much like the 2005 Honda CR-V, don’t expect this reliable used SUV to break the bank. In fact, according to J.D. Power, the average list for a 2006 Honda Pilot is only $5,995.

The 2005 Toyota RAV4 is both reliable and affordable

If the 2005 Honda CR-V and the 2006 Honda Pilot aren’t quite your style, there’s always a used Toyota RAV4. According to Consumer Reports, however, you should avoid buying a used RAV4 older than the 2004 model year because it lacks safety features like electronic stability control. Fortunately, the 2005 Toyota RAV4 comes standard with it.

It also boasts a three out of five predicted reliability rating, according to Consumer Reports. While that score is lower than that of the Honda CR-V’s and the Honda Pilot’s, the 2005 Toyota RAV4 did earn a four out of five owner satisfaction rating from Consumer Reports. All in all, though, Consumer Reports says that you can expect the 2005 Toyota RAV4 to be a reliable used SUV.

Pricing for a 2005 Toyota RAV4 isn’t all that bad either. If you’re hoping to spend around $5,000 on a reliable used SUV, this particular RAV4 definitely fits the bill. According to J.D. Power, most buyers paid between $5,096 – $5,803 when buying a 2005 Toyota RAV4.

Choosing the most reliable used SUV for your needs

If you’re in the market for a reliable used SUV that won’t break the bank, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from. But to find the best fit for you? We suggest taking each of these options out for a spin.