Visual Capitalist’s 2025 used car brands report identifies Chevrolet as one of the most dependable non-luxury brands, indicating that its used cars generally have longer lifespans and require fewer repairs. The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze exemplifies this; owner surveys on Cars.com award it a 4.8 out of 5 reliability score, suggesting it experiences fewer breakdowns compared to many competitors. Such a high rating reinforces Chevy’s reputation for manufacturing cost-effective vehicles in the long run. These ratings, based on real owner experiences, reflect the car’s actual performance rather than promotional claims.
Choosing a reliable car ensures it remains operational for an extended period. A robust engine and drivetrain allow for years of use before considering a replacement. In today’s used-car market, the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze stands out by offering proven reliability at a price under $10,000, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers. However, spending slightly more can yield additional benefits; some used cars priced over $10,000 may help you avoid Trump’s import tariffs, aside from their standard specifications.
How to find a 2017 Cruze under $10,000
To secure a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze for under $10,000, set realistic search parameters on websites with verified market data, like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds. For example, according to Kelley Blue Book’s national Fair Purchase Price, a 2017 Cruze L Sedan in good condition typically costs approximately $6,636. The LS trim is around $7,683, while the LT version is about $8,341.
Use the price filters on each platform to set your budget limit, then extend your search radius to 150 to 200 miles to discover rural listings, where prices are often lower than urban advertisements. In the Richmond, VA area, Edmunds listings show prices ranging from $5,999 for higher-mileage models to $11,434 for fully loaded Premier versions. Of nearly 3,000 active Edmunds ads, about seven out of ten are under $10,000, with many even below $8,000.
Once you find a 2017 Cruze you like, obtain its VIN and order a Carfax or AutoCheck report. Then, pay under $100 for an independent inspection; AAA indicates most shops charge less than this amount, potentially saving you from costly repairs later. Print out price comparisons from Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to support your offer. If buying from a private seller, you’ll usually pay less than at a dealership, as there is no added markup, according to iSeeCars. For this reason, avoid purchasing from a small dealership.
Running costs of the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze
Edmunds reports that most 2017 Chevrolet Cruze trims achieve 33 miles per gallon (mpg) combined, approximately 29 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. If you drive 15,000 miles annually, the 2017 Cruze’s combined rating of about 33 mpg means you’ll consume roughly 455 gallons of fuel. Multiply this by the EIA’s 2025 national average pump price of approximately $3.108 per gallon, resulting in an annual fuel expense of $1,410.
The safety features are robust as well. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2017 Cruze its top “Good” rating in all major crash tests — front, side, roof strength, and head restraints. RepairPal estimates annual repair and maintenance costs at about $524, close to the $526 compact-car average. Oil changes, tire rotations, and spark-plug replacements typically cost between $205 and $225 every 60,000 to 75,000 miles, according to YourMechanic’s price tables.
Regarding resale value, Kelley Blue Book data indicates that a 2017 Cruze LT has depreciated by 47% over the past three years. A well-maintained example now resells for about $6,761, with dealers offering around $5,376 on trade-in. Five-year figures from iSeeCars suggest total depreciation at roughly 40%, comparable to many compact cars but faster than a Toyota Corolla. Simply put, if you purchase a clean Cruze today for $8,000 to $10,000 and maintain it properly, it should retain about 60% of that value five years from now.
