Shopping for a used car in Illinois can feel overwhelming, but it’s also one of the smartest ways to get a great vehicle at an affordable price. The used car market is packed with options, from sleek sedans to versatile hatchback body styles, so there’s something for every type of driver and budget. When you’re comparing used cars, don’t just look at the price—pay close attention to safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and other driver assistance features that can make a big difference in daily driving.
Ride quality matters too. Take the time to test drive and see if the car delivers a smooth ride and comfortable seats, especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time on Illinois highways. Many models, like the Toyota Camry, offer premium materials, heated seats, and a quiet cabin even at a great price point. Whether you’re after a hatchback for extra cargo space or a sedan for that classic look, today’s used cars offer a ton of features and value for buyers who do their homework.
1) Toyota Corolla (2017–2021 sweet spot)
Why it slaps: legendary reliability, great mpg, cheap maintenance, and tons of them on the market. The Toyota Camry stands out in its class for comfort, especially with supportive front seats and available seat features like heating and power adjustability, making long drives more enjoyable for drivers and passengers alike.
Best trims: LE/SE with Toyota Safety Sense. While base models may lack some advanced tech, higher trims are often outfitted with features such as adaptive cruise control and satellite radio for a better driving experience.
Watch for: basic tires/brakes—easy fixes; confirm regular oil changes.
Illinois perks: perfect for city + I-90/94 commutes; FWD + winter tires = snow-day hero.
2) Honda Civic (2016–2020)
Why it’s a W: roomy cabin, fun-to-drive, strong resale, huge parts support. When searching for used vehicles under $20K, buyers should rely on data from sources like J.D. Power reliability scores and safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA to make informed decisions.
Best trims: LX/EX; hatchback if you want cargo.
Watch for: maintenance records on 1.5T models (oil change intervals matter). For vehicles in this price range, the average mileage typically falls between 40,000 and 80,000 miles—use this as a benchmark when comparing options.
IL vibe: commuter king; pick all-seasons with good snow ratings or swap to winter tires.
3) Toyota Camry (2015–2019)
Why parents love it: bigger, quieter, still sips fuel; ultra-long-life reputation.
Best trims: LE/SE; XLE if you want comfy features.
Watch for: uneven tire wear = probably just an alignment. When test-driving, pay attention to the vehicle's handling, especially during on-ramp pulls or tight parking maneuvers.
IL vibe: rock-solid road-tripper for Springfield–Chicago runs, comfy on rough pavement. Inside, check for any stylish touches or a dash of sporty design in the dashboard or controls.
4) Mazda3 (2018–2021)
Why it’s sneaky-good: upscale interior, great steering, often less $$ than rivals. Modern tech features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced safety tech are often included, making it a standout in its class.
Best trims: Preferred/Select; hatch for cargo. AWD available on some years.
Watch for: check for prior wheel rash (low-profile tires); keep up on brake service.
IL vibe: “mini luxury” feel without luxury bills; AWD + winter tires = chef’s kiss.
- Look for dealerships that take a reasonable approach to negotiations, especially when discussing tech features.
- An efficient dealership process can make buying or servicing your car much smoother.
5) Subaru Forester (2015–2018)
Why Midwest folks pick it: standard AWD, tall glasshouse visibility, roomy for kids/dogs/gear.
Best trims: Premium/Limited with heated seats.
Watch for: service records (CVT fluid on schedule), listen for exhaust leaks on cold start. When considering maintenance or insurance, a warranty guarantee can provide extra peace of mind.
IL vibe: gravel roads + snowbanks? Forester doesn’t flinch. If you ever decide to upgrade, transitioning from your used Forester to a new vehicle can offer the latest features and safety tech.
How to Find a Keeper Under $20K
- Set the real budget: target out-the-door (price + tax/title/plate/doc).
- Mileage sweet spot: 40–95k miles with documented maintenance > lower miles with no history.
- Run the Midwest rust check: rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframe, brake & fuel lines, spare-tire well.
- Consumables = leverage: tires ≥5/32", brakes ≥5–6mm; if not, negotiate.
- Two keys + records: small detail, big signal—helps future resale too.
10-Minute Test-Drive Route
- Cold start: listen for ticks/whistles; all warning lights should cycle off.
- City bumps: no rattles, no clunks.
- On-ramp pull: smooth shifts/steady power.
- 65–70 mph cruise: wheel straight, low tire/wind noise.
- Hard stop from ~40 mph: no pull, no pedal pulsation.
- Tight parking: camera clarity/turning radius; check for CVT creep smoothness (if equipped).
Must-Have Features
- Heated seats + remote start (winter sanity)
- Blind-spot + rear cross-traffic alert (busy lots)
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (maps/music without drama)
- All-weather mats + cargo tray (salt + slush protection)
Ownership Costs
- Insurance: Corollas/Civics usually cheapest; Forester AWD a bit higher but worth it for snow.
- Fuel: all five are thrifty; Camry four-cyl and Mazda3 shine on highway.
- Maintenance: oil, filters, tires, brakes—budget a small monthly “car fund” and you’ll never stress.
Financing and Purchase
Once you’ve found the right used car, it’s time to figure out the best way to pay for it. Start by checking your credit score—this will help you know what kind of financing offers you can expect. Getting pre-approved for a loan from your bank or credit union before you shop can give you more negotiating power and help you stick to your budget. Dealerships often offer financing too, but compare rates to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
When it comes to the purchase itself, remember that the sticker price isn’t the final word. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially if you spot things like worn tires or missing features. Ask about warranties or certified pre-owned options for extra peace of mind. Make sure you understand the total cost, including taxes, title, and any dealer fees, so there are no surprises at signing. Bring all necessary documents, and double-check the vehicle history report before you finalize the sale. With a little planning, you can drive away in a reliable used car that fits your needs and your wallet.
Quick FAQs
AWD or winter tires?
If you drive in storms, winter tires matter more than AWD. Best: both (Forester already has AWD).
Sedan or hatch/SUV for kids?
Hatch/SUV wins for strollers; sedans are quieter/cheaper
CPO worth it under $20K?
Often yes—inspection + warranty can be clutch. Compare total price vs a clean non-CPO with records.
How do I contact the dealership or sales staff for more information or to schedule a test drive?
You can contact the dealership or sales staff directly by phone, email, or through their website to ask questions, request more details, or arrange a test drive. Good customer contact ensures a smooth and professional buying experience.
Can I arrange payment or delivery in advance?
Yes, you can arrange payment or schedule vehicle delivery in advance to help ensure a smooth transaction and timely delivery of your vehicle. Discuss these options with the sales staff when you contact them.