According to a recent survey by J.D. Power, the following car brands have excellent reliability ratings for preowned cars: 

1. Toyota

2. Lexus

3. BMW

4. Mazda

5. Honda

6. Audi

7. Subaru

8. Acura

9. Kia

These brands have been consistently rated highly for their dependability and longevity. However, it's important to note that the reliability of a preowned car also depends on factors such as its maintenance history, mileage, and driving conditions.

Another survey by Consumer Reports also found that Toyota, Lexus, BMW, Mazda, Honda, Audi, Subaru, Acura, and Kia are among the most reliable car brands. 

If you're looking for specific models, the 2019 Kia Soul, 2020 Kia Forte, and 2019 Hyundai Tucson are some of the most reliable preowned cars according to J.D. Power. The Toyota Camry, Toyota Avalon, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Lincoln MKZ, Toyota Prius, Honda Fit, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Honda Accord are also reliable preowned cars. 

Source: Conversation with Bing, 11/16/2023

There are several reasons why used cars can be a better value than new ones:

1. Less depreciation: A new car loses a significant portion of its value as soon as it is driven off the lot, whereas a preowned car has already undergone this initial depreciation.

2. Lower insurance costs: Insurance costs for preowned cars are generally lower than those for new cars.

3. Lower dealership fees: Dealership fees for preowned cars are generally lower than those for new cars.

4. More bang for your buck: Preowned cars often offer more features and amenities for the same price as a new car.

5. More peace of mind: Preowned cars have a proven track record, so you can research their reliability and performance before making a purchase.

It’s worth noting that the current global shortage of semiconductor chips and other supply chain issues has caused serious delays in the production of new vehicles. As a result, many people are turning to preowned vehicles instead . However, it’s important to do your research and inspect any preowned car thoroughly before making a purchase to ensure that you’re getting a good value.

Inspecting a preowned vehicle before buying it is a wise decision. Here are some steps you can take to inspect a preowned car:

1. Exterior inspection: Check the body of the vehicle for any dents, scratches, or rust. Inspect the windshield, wheel wells, and undercarriage for any damage or corrosion. Measure the tread of the tires and check for any signs of uneven wear.

2. Interior inspection: Check the seats, dashboard, and carpet for any signs of wear and tear. Test all the buttons and switches to ensure they work properly.

3. Under the hood inspection: Check the oil and transmission fluid levels and colors. Look for any metal deposits in the fluid. Inspect the condition of the brake pads and rotors.

4. Test drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive to check its performance. Listen for any unusual sounds or vibrations while driving.