Don’t let the fear of buying a lemon stop you from finding the perfect stick shift car.
This list of the top six most reliable second hand manual cars for sale today is designed to give you peace of mind. We’ve used data from expert sources like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, combined with thousands of owner reviews, to pinpoint the exact model years that offer the best blend of dependability, value, and driving enjoyment.
Get ready to find a second-hand manual car that’s built to last.
1. Honda Civic (9th & 10th Gen)
Best Years: 2013–2015, 2019–2020
The Honda Civic has long been a benchmark for reliability in the compact car segment. Consumer Reports and Kelley Blue Book consistently rank the 9th and 10th generations highly for dependability, with the 2013–2015 models fixing the early interior issues of the 2012 redesign and the 2019–2020 models delivering excellent owner satisfaction scores.
Owners frequently praise Civics for their longevity, with many reporting 200,000+ miles on the clock with little more than routine maintenance.
Watch-for:
- Transmission complaints in some 2015 models.
2. Mazda3 (3rd & 4th Gen)
Best Years: 2015–2018, 2019–Present
The Mazda3 offers a rare combination of engaging handling and long-term dependability. Consumer Reports ranks the 2015–2018 models as among the most reliable compacts, while iSeeCars regularly lists the Mazda3 in the top 10 most dependable small cars.
Owners highlight the 2.0L SkyActiv engine’s ability to run past 200,000 miles with proper care, and forum discussions emphasize how maintenance costs remain affordable compared to German rivals.
Watch-for:
- Infotainment glitches in early 2014–2015 models.
- Rust in harsh climates.
3. Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk5 & Mk7)
Best Years: 2007–2009, 2019–2020
For enthusiasts who want performance and dependability, the VW GTI is a standout. Car and Driver consistently praised the Mk7 (2015–2020) for refinement and reliability, with the 2019–2020 models being particularly strong.
The Mk5 (2007–2009) also earns respect for its strong turbocharged engine and engaging handling when properly maintained. Owners on VWVortex and Reddit often describe the Mk7 as “bulletproof” with regular service.
Watch-for:
- Carbon buildup on direct-injection engines.
- Costly DSG servicing if maintenance is skipped.
4. Mazda Miata MX-5 (NB, NC, ND)
Best Years: 1999–2005, 2010–2015, 2019–Present
The Mazda Miata is the definition of reliable fun. Autotrader highlights the NB (1999–2005) and ND (2019+) models as some of the most dependable sports cars ever built, while RepairPal rates the Miata highly for low ownership costs.
Long-time owners regularly report their Miatas surpassing 150,000–200,000 miles while still driving like new. The NC generation (2010–2015) is often described as underrated, offering strong value with proven reliability.
Watch-for:
- Convertible soft top wear on older models.
- Rust issues on NBs in humid areas.
Suggested:
5. Ford Mustang (5th & 6th Gen)
Best Years: 2008, 2014, 2018–2019
The Ford Mustang offers muscle car thrills without reliability sacrifices when you pick the right years. J.D. Power gave the 2018 model strong dependability scores, while CarEdge calls the 2008 and 2014 models sweet spots for value and long-term ownership.
Owners of both 5th and 6th gen Mustangs frequently describe the engines and transmissions as “rock-solid” when serviced regularly.
Watch-for:
- Manual transmission synchro wear on some 2011–2014 GTs.
- Electrical niggles in early 2015 builds.
6. Lexus IS300 (1st Gen)
Best Years: 2002–2005
The Lexus IS300 blends Toyota reliability with a luxury sedan package, making it one of the most dependable used cars around. Consumer Reports scored the 2002–2005 models highly for long-term reliability, thanks to the legendary 2JZ inline-six engine under the hood.
Autotrader describes these cars as “nearly bulletproof,” and owners on ClubLexus frequently share stories of passing 250,000 miles with only minor repairs.
Watch-for:
- Interior trim wear with age.
- Suspension refreshes needed on high-mileage examples.