Here Are the 10 Best Used Cars for Uber Drivers
Here Are the 10 Best Used Cars for Uber Drivers
Posted on July 12, 2024
Uber and other rideshare services have totally transformed the transportation industry in recent years. Gone are the days when someone needs to choose between public transport or a cab, because now you can share a ride with a stranger through an app—and if you're reading this now, you're the entrepreneur making it all happen!
Finding the best used cars for Uber is key to saving money and keeping passengers happy. That's why Kaizen Auto has set out to cover reliable, fuel-efficient, and safe vehicles to help you make the best choice for your Uber driving career. We've seen it all, so let us help you narrow down your choices!
Quick Notes on Choosing a Used Car for Uber
- When choosing a used car for Uber, prioritize reliability, fuel efficiency, and safety features to reduce downtime, cut costs, and ensure passenger safety.
- Top recommended used cars for Uber drivers include the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic, and Toyota Camry for their blend of reliability, fuel economy, and low maintenance costs.
- The Honda Civic boasts a J.D. Power rating 80/100 to 82/100 in recent years, and its reported reliability is rising over time
- The latest Toyota Prius models come with a combined fuel consumption rating of just 4.1L/100 km.
- Toyota Prius comes standard with forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking through the latest Toyota Safety Sense suite of features.
- A used Toyota Corolla offers a combined fuel consumption rate of 6.8 L/100 km.
Key Ranking Criteria for Choosing a Used Car for Uber
Selecting the best car for Uber driving goes beyond just picking a vehicle that looks good. Key criteria include reliability, fuel efficiency, and safety features, all of which collectively help in reducing downtime, cutting costs, and ensuring passenger safety. Knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration down the road.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is something many automakers supplying our dealers optimize, some with exciting new features to save you money at the pump—or charge station!
Fuel efficiency is a game-changer for Uber and Lyft drivers. Cars with good fuel economy, like the gas car Toyota Prius and Honda Civic, help you save on fuel costs, ultimately maximizing your profits. For instance, the Toyota Camry Hybrid is highly recommended for its excellent fuel efficiency thanks to its Toyota build quality and fuel hybrid economy.
Reliability
A reliable vehicle is the backbone of a successful rideshare driving career. Brands like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan come highly recommended for their reliability, which means less downtime and fewer maintenance costs for you. Imagine having less to worry about unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs; choosing a reliable car can make this a reality for the Uber driver doing research on their most important asset.
Safety Features
When it comes to ride-sharing, safety features are certainly a selling point. Advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning can make a world of difference. For example, the Toyota Prius comes standard with forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking through the latest Toyota Safety Sense.
Top Picks for Used Cars for Uber Drivers
Navigating the entire market of used cars from every make can be overwhelming, but reviewers and customers alike have been building a consensus for years. Based on our experience identifying the best things to look for in used cars, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 best cars for Uber drivers. These vehicles offer the perfect blend of reliability, fuel efficiency, and safety features mentioned before.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is a standout choice for rideshare drivers, thanks to its impressive features:
- Impressive fuel efficiency with a combined fuel consumption rating of just 4.1L/100 km
- Low maintenance costs with an annual maintenance costs
- Reliable vehicle with a J.D. Power reliability rating of 75/100 - 86/100, depending on the year
These features make the Toyota Prius a reliable and cost-effective option for rideshare drivers, helping them maximize their earnings. Though they're hard to come by, it's always worth a second look and serious consideration for driving Uber.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is one of our top picks for Uber drivers due to its consistently good performance even at high mileage. And its repair and maintenance costs are something our dealerships' techs confirm to be lower than average!
A used Honda Civic is another excellent option for Uber drivers. Our sales advisors often cite its good fuel economy and reliability. Ultimately, the Civic helps you save on fuel costs while reducing downtime due to maintenance issues.
With a J.D. Power rating 80/100 to 82/100 in recent years, it's reported reliability is rising over time! Additionally, its low insurance costs make it a practical choice for rideshare drivers looking to minimize expenses.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a reliable vehicle offering a smooth ride, decent gas mileage, and a fuel economy of 9.0 L/100 km across multiple recent years. It also boasts a high J.D. Power reliability rating of 83, making it an ideal choice for Uber drivers.
Its combination of comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliability ensures a pleasant experience for both driver and passengers.
Toyota Corolla
A used Toyota Corolla is a reliable vehicle with excellent features, including:
- Fuel efficiency: The newer models offer a combined fuel consumption rate of 6.8 L/100 km.
- Safety features: It comes with standard safety features to ensure your safety on the road.
- Infotainment options: Enjoy a touchscreen, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay for a seamless driving experience.
Hyundai Elantra
Our customers are usually very happy with a used Hyundai Elantra due to Hyundai's great warranties, even when they've had several owners. Take a look at the ones Kaizen dealers have in stock near you for your next Uber vehicle—which can double as your recreational vehicle!
The used Hyundai Elantra strikes a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and modern safety features. Our customers are starting to recognize it as for being budget-friendly, which helps minimize the initial investment for Uber drivers.
It's also got a great warranty on resale, making it warrantied for 60,000 km for the first five years for its second owner. Its excellent fuel economy, fuel efficiency, and modern safety features combined with its exceptional warranty make it a reliable vehicle for rideshare services.
Nissan Sentra
The used Nissan Sentra is a compact car that delivers excellent fuel efficiency and reliability. With a fuel economy and newer used models report a reliability rating of 84/100 according to J.D. Power, it’s a smart choice for rideshare drivers looking to minimize fuel costs while ensuring consistent performance.
Kia Forte
The Kia Forte navigates the bustling city streets with ease, offering Uber drivers a perfect blend of affordability, reliability, and modern tech features that make your fares' rides that much more enjoyable.
The Kia Forte is a budget-friendly option with low insurance costs for Ontarians and decent fuel economy. It’s equipped with modern tech features, making it a great car for rideshare drivers looking for affordability and reliability.
Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a fantastic option for those looking to save on operating costs. With significant savings compared to gas cars and the benefit of cheaper off-peak charging, the Bolt EV is a fuel-efficient choice that can help you maximize your earnings.
If you're getting into the Uber game for fuel efficiency, the Bolt offers an amazing 2.0 litres per hundred equivalent.
Ford Fusion Hybrid
The Ford Fusion Hybrid combines comfort with good fuel economy, making it a solid option for rideshare drivers. It offers a smooth ride quality, ensuring passenger comfort during trips. Plus, its good fuel economy helps minimize operating costs while maximizing profits.
Lincoln MKZ Hybrid
The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid offers a touch of luxury at an affordable price. It also used to be eligible for premium ride-sharing services like Uber Select, allowing you to earn more per trip. Recently, however, Uber Select has been phased out, so you may not get the same return on investment.
Honourable Mentions
With our top 10 picks concluded, there's still a car or two we'd like to include as honourable mentions, simply because they haven't quite made the rounds yet. The Ioniq hybrid, or perhaps even the Ioniq plug-in hybrid will be vehicles we expect to see among more of our Uber driving customers in coming years—as EVs and hybrids get more and more economical over long distances.
Tips for Buying a Used Car for Uber
When purchasing a used car for Uber, make sure to focus on vehicles that are 10 years or newer and comply with Uber’s vehicle requirements.
Consider the car’s mileage and age to avoid excessively used vehicles. If you're buying a used car in Alberta, we've always got a few tips to help you make an informed decision. The first thing to do is get to know the vehicle's history!
Checking Vehicle History
Vehicle history is an absolute necessity if you're looking for a great newer used vehicle to turn into an income generator. The good news is, most used vehicles you get at dealerships have undergone the necessary inspections and history reporting.
It’s important to review a car’s history report to avoid vehicles with unresolved mechanical issues or past accidents. A clean vehicle history report can help ensure the car hasn’t been in major accidents, which might affect its performance and safety.
Inspecting the Car
A thorough inspection of the car is necessary to confirm that it’s in good working condition. Check the engine for any unusual noises or leaks. Examine the tires for wear patterns that could indicate alignment issues. But that's not all! You should follow a complete checklist if you're inspecting a vehicle without the professional help of a Kaizen dealership.
Test Driving
Test driving is an important step to detect potential mechanical problems and evaluate the car’s handling and performance. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations that might indicate mechanical issues.
Assess the car’s alignment, braking, and overall performance to ensure it meets Uber’s requirements and your personal preferences.
Budgeting for Your Uber Vehicle Purchase
You may also want to jump in at the right price point; while it's great to get top-of-the-line used car over $30K, you might want a used car for under $20K to get into profit sooner. Once you're rolling and collecting your rideshare income—maintaining your vehicle and understanding insurance considerations and driver requirements become quite important. Budget your capital cost from the start and you're laughing.
Maintenance and Upkeep for Rideshare Vehicles
No good dealership is without its trained service and maintenance department, who're well-versed in specific OEM practices. Even if your next rideshare car is not of the same make as the dealer you buy from, you're in good hands.
Regular vehicle maintenance and upkeep are crucial for keeping your rideshare vehicle in top condition. This includes regular servicing, tire maintenance, and cleaning and detailing.
Regular Servicing
Adhering to our OEM recommended car maintenance schedule as it appears in the owner’s manual is necessary to maintain the 'Ubering' vehicle’s reliability and performance. Scheduling oil changes based on the car’s mileage ensures peak efficiency. Ignoring early signs of mechanical problems can lead to more serious issues.
Tire Maintenance
Maintaining your tires regularly is key to safety and fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure regularly to ensure they are inflated to the recommended PSI. Properly inflated tires can extend tire life and improve fuel efficiency. What's more, regularly rotating tires helps in even wear, enhancing safety and performance.
Cleaning and Detailing
Keeping your car clean and well-detailed can enhance the passenger experience and boost your ratings. Ensuring the car looks and smells clean can lead to more tips and positive reviews.
Regular cleaning and offering amenities can make a significant difference in your overall success as an Uber driver. While dealerships may not be the best place to ask for help cleaning, we do endeavour to keep our customers' rides clean when we receive them—especially for commercial customers like Uber drivers.
Insurance Considerations for Uber Drivers
Insurance for your rideshare car or Uber vehicle tends to be affected by the model you choose, in our customers' experience. The mileage, horsepower, make, and sometimes even the colour can affect your rate! Ask your insurer about vehicles we have in stock and how to choose by insurance pricing.
For Uber drivers, understanding insurance considerations is of utmost importance. This includes knowing the insurance policies available to you through your insurer, cost factors, and tips for lowering insurance costs.
Rideshare Insurance Policies
Rideshare insurance policies, in Alberta or your area, fill the gap between personal auto insurance and the coverage offered by Uber or Lyft. These policies typically cover the period when the driver is available for hire but has not yet accepted a ride.
In Ontario, Uber’s rideshare insurance includes $2 million liability coverage, uninsured motorist coverage, and contingent collision and comprehensive coverage.
Cost Factors
Insurance costs for Uber drivers are influenced by several factors, including:
- The type of vehicle
- Driving record
- Location
- Age
- Frequency of rideshare driving
For instance, vehicles with existing collision and comprehensive coverage can help lower additional insurance costs. Additionally, a driver’s age, driving record, and the frequency of rideshare driving play significant roles in determining insurance premiums.
Urban areas like Calgary, San Diego, or the GTA generally incur higher insurance rates due to the increased risk of accidents. It's best to talk to your insurer about the Uber vehicle you're purchasing from a Kaizen Auto Group dealership.
Tips for Lowering Insurance Costs
Maintaining a clean driving record by avoiding traffic violations and accidents can help reduce insurance premiums for Uber drivers. Additionally, choosing a vehicle with advanced safety features like anti-lock brakes, airbags, and electronic stability control can lead to lower insurance costs.
Driver requirements for Uber drivers in Alberta
Several requirements must be met to become an Uber driver in Alberta. You must:
- Be at least 21 years old and have proof of work eligibility
- Have a valid Alberta Class 1, 2, or 4 driver’s license
- Use a vehicle that is 10 years old or newer and meets Uber’s specific vehicle requirements.
After signing up, you’ll need to obtain a three-year driving abstract and complete a background screening at your nearest Uber Greenlight Hub. Make sure to keep your driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and any required Uber stickers in your car. You'll probably have to contact Uber for details about a hub near you!
Maximizing Earnings as an Uber Driver Through Your Vehicle
Your choice of vehicle depends on where you are and when/how you plan to operate your rideshare. Uber and Lyft drivers can choose their fares, but the vehicles with the best city fuel economy or highest reliability at high mileages may be the deciding factor for you.
There’s more to maximizing your earnings as an Uber driver than just hitting the road. Achieving high mileage economically means keeping repair costs down over time. Choosing a car in anticipation of driving it to high mileage will help in reducing the frequency of major repairs and extending the lifespan of your Uber!
It helps to know what a good mileage is for your commercial driving purposes—as well as the day-to-day concerns like surge pricing, planning your driving times strategically, and providing excellent customer service. Let's discuss some effective strategies to increase your income for a low-cost operation.
Optimal Driving Times
Your income can be significantly increased by strategically planning your driving times to coincide with periods of high demand. Scheduling your drives around surge periods like rush hours and after events can maximize your earnings.
Peak hours can vary based on where you are, but they often include weekday mornings from 7-9 AM and evenings from 5-7 PM, as well as Friday and Saturday nights due to increased demand from social activities.
Efficient Route Planning
For Uber drivers, planning routes efficiently is key to maximizing earnings and minimizing operating costs. Navigation tools like Google Maps and Waze can help you find the quickest routes and avoid traffic.
The more you use your vehicle on freeways, or areas with traffic circles, the more you can stretch your fuel consumption or wear and tear into highway driving rates.
Taking Advantage of Bonus Programs
Participating in Uber’s occasional bonus programs can provide a significant boost to your earnings. One effective way to increase your total income is by utilizing referral bonuses, which reward you for referring friends to become Uber drivers.
Let Us Help You Find The Best Vehicle For You
We have some exciting options for aspiring Uber or rideshare drivers. Whether you're interested in saving money at the pump or charge station or attaining 1 million kilometers as an Uber driver, your next car is a few clicks away!
Choosing the right used car for Uber driving involves considering key factors like reliability, fuel efficiency, and safety features. Our top picks, including the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic, and Toyota Camry, offer a balance of these essential criteria.
But there are always more options depending on your goals as a rideshare provider trying to make money; no matter the vehicle you choose, getting pre-qualified for financing means you can get driving professionally sooner. Find out what you can borrow as a first step.
Thanks for reading! You can always use our blog as a resource to maximize your earnings and enjoy a successful rideshare driving experience. Book a test drive today and experience the perfect vehicle for your Uber driving career!