When considering a new vehicle, the purchase price is often the primary focus. However, savvy car buyers know that the long-term cost of ownership extends far beyond the initial sticker price. Maintenance and repair expenses can significantly impact your budget over the years. If you’re looking to minimize these costs and keep your vehicle running smoothly without breaking the bank, understanding which cars are cheapest to repair is crucial. This article dives into the top 20 cars with the lowest predicted maintenance and repair costs, revealing the models that will save you money down the road.
20. Nissan Altima
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,561
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $196
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $1,034
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 16.4%
The Nissan Altima, a dependable mid-size sedan, secures the 20th spot on our list of cars that are cheapest to repair. Known for its comfortable “Zero Gravity” seats and spacious cabin, the Altima offers a pleasant driving experience with reasonable maintenance demands. Whether you opt for front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the Altima is a practical choice that balances comfort and cost-effectiveness. Its relatively low repair costs, especially in the initial years, make it an appealing option for budget-conscious drivers seeking a mid-size sedan.
19. Toyota RAV4
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,531
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $201
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $1,021
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 16.1%
The Toyota RAV4 is a consistently popular compact SUV, and its inclusion on this list as one of the cheapest cars to repair further solidifies its appeal. Renowned for its reliability, the RAV4 provides ample passenger and cargo space, along with fuel-efficient engine options, including a hybrid variant. Its strong reputation for dependability translates directly to lower maintenance needs and repair bills, making the RAV4 a smart choice for families and individuals alike who prioritize long-term cost savings and peace of mind.
18. Lexus ES 350
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,488
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $217
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $989
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 15.1%
For those seeking a touch of luxury without the hefty repair bills typically associated with premium brands, the Lexus ES 350 stands out. As the luxury arm of Toyota, Lexus benefits from Toyota’s legendary reliability. The ES 350 boasts the lowest maintenance and repair costs among non-electric luxury vehicles. While it may prioritize comfort over sporty handling, the ES 350 is an excellent choice for drivers who value a refined and dependable vehicle that is also surprisingly affordable to maintain in the long run.
17. Nissan Sentra
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,441
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $184
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $1,022
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 16.4%
The Nissan Sentra has significantly improved its standing in the competitive compact car segment, and its low repair costs contribute to its growing appeal. This practical and efficient sedan offers a comfortable ride and commendable reliability, making it a smart choice for daily commutes and longer trips. The Sentra’s affordability extends beyond its purchase price, with its low maintenance demands making it a financially sound option for drivers seeking a reliable and budget-friendly compact car.
16. Toyota C-HR
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,425
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $190
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $1,101
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 16.1%
The Toyota C-HR, a subcompact SUV with distinctive styling, offers a unique blend of personality and practicality. Its front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to enhanced fuel economy and reduced operating costs, including lower repair expenses. Positioned below the RAV4 in Toyota’s SUV lineup, the C-HR is an attractive option for urban dwellers and those seeking a smaller, more fuel-efficient SUV that is also among the cheapest cars to repair.
15. Honda Accord
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,412
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $200
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $994
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 15.6%
The Honda Accord, a perennial favorite in the mid-size sedan category, is not only praised for its driving dynamics and features but also for its low repair costs. Sharing many of the same reliable components as the Honda Civic, the Accord offers a refined driving experience and a range of models to suit various needs and budgets. Its reputation for longevity and minimal maintenance translates to significant savings over time, making the Accord a financially prudent choice in the competitive sedan market.
14. Mazda 3
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,409
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $186
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $1,013
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 16.2%
The Mazda 3, available in both sedan and hatchback configurations, combines sporty handling with surprising affordability when it comes to repairs. Now featuring standard all-wheel drive, the Mazda 3 offers confident performance in various weather conditions. Its fun-to-drive nature doesn’t come at the expense of reliability, as evidenced by its low maintenance costs, making it an appealing option for drivers who appreciate both driving pleasure and budget-consciousness.
13. Nissan Versa
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,331
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $173
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $1,011
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 16.4%
The Nissan Versa is a subcompact sedan designed for those prioritizing affordability. Despite its budget-friendly price tag, the Versa doesn’t skimp on style or essential features like automatic emergency braking. Its low ownership costs, including minimal repair expenses, make the Versa an excellent choice for first-time car buyers, students, or anyone seeking basic, reliable transportation without straining their finances.
12. Mitsubishi Mirage G4
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,254
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $175
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $991
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 16.0%
The Mitsubishi Mirage G4 sedan offers an alternative to the Mirage hatchback, catering to those who prefer a traditional trunk. Remaining one of the most inexpensive cars on the market to purchase and own, the Mirage G4 prioritizes practicality and economy. Its low repair costs further enhance its appeal for budget-minded buyers seeking basic transportation that won’t lead to unexpected financial burdens down the road.
11. Honda Civic
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $5,245
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $183
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $977
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 15.6%
The Honda Civic, a benchmark in the compact car segment, consistently earns accolades for its refinement, reliability, and low ownership costs. Available in both sedan and hatchback versions, the Civic offers a spectrum of models from basic to sporty. Its well-deserved reputation for dependability directly translates to lower repair bills, making the Civic a smart and economical choice for a wide range of drivers.
10. Toyota Supra
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $4,950
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $220
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $872
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 12.6%
Breaking into the top 10 cheapest cars to repair is the Toyota Supra, a surprising entry given its performance car status. Sharing components with the BMW Z4, the Supra boasts distinctive styling and unexpectedly low maintenance costs for its class. If you crave sporty performance without the typical high repair bills associated with performance vehicles, the Toyota Supra presents a compelling and cost-effective option.
9. Mitsubishi Mirage
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $4,939
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $163
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $933
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 15.1%
The Mitsubishi Mirage hatchback embodies basic, affordable transportation. While its three-cylinder engine may be modest, it’s adequate for city driving, and the Mirage excels in fuel economy and low ownership costs. Its position as one of the cheapest cars to repair reinforces its value proposition for those seeking no-frills, economical motoring.
8. Tesla Model Y
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $4,732
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $217
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $813
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 11.7%
The Tesla Model Y, the crossover version of the popular Model 3, showcases the surprising affordability of electric vehicle maintenance. With a long driving range and Tesla’s performance capabilities, the Model Y offers versatility and lower running costs, including reduced repair expenses compared to many gasoline-powered counterparts. Its electric powertrain inherently requires less maintenance, contributing to its position as one of the cheapest cars to repair in the long run.
7. Tesla Model S
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $4,566
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $267
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $708
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 8.6%
The Tesla Model S, a pioneer in the electric car revolution, not only delivers style and performance but also surprisingly low repair costs. With a long range and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, the Model S rivals traditional luxury sedans while offering a more sustainable and potentially cheaper ownership experience, particularly when considering maintenance and repairs. Its electric drivetrain and robust build contribute to its impressive ranking among the cheapest cars to repair.
6. Toyota Avalon
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $4,407
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $180
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $787
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 11.9%
The Toyota Avalon, while no longer in production, remains a testament to Toyota’s commitment to reliability and low maintenance. Sharing mechanical components with the Camry, the Avalon offers a larger, more luxurious sedan experience with Lexus-like comfort at a lower price point and with similarly impressive repair cost figures. Its spacious cabin and smooth ride are complemented by its reputation as one of the cheapest cars to repair, making it a desirable option on the used car market.
5. Toyota Camry
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $4,203
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $160
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $766
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 11.9%
The Toyota Camry, a quintessential mid-size sedan, consistently ranks high for reliability and low operating costs. Its reputation for long-term dependability is well-earned, and its position as one of the top 5 cheapest cars to repair further cements its status as a practical and financially sound choice. Whether you opt for the four-cylinder or the available V6 engine, the Camry delivers peace of mind and minimized repair expenses over its lifespan.
4. Toyota Prius Prime
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $4,098
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $164
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $736
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 11.2%
The Toyota Prius Prime, the plug-in hybrid version of the iconic Prius, bridges the gap between gasoline and fully electric vehicles. Its ability to run on electric power for a significant range before switching to hybrid mode contributes to fuel savings and reduced wear and tear on certain engine components. This translates to even lower repair costs than the standard Prius, making the Prius Prime an exceptionally economical and environmentally conscious choice.
3. Toyota Corolla
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $4,087
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $148
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $755
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 11.9%
The Toyota Corolla, a long-standing favorite among practical car buyers, earns its place in the top 3 cheapest cars to repair. While not known for flashy styling, the Corolla excels in providing efficient, reliable, and affordable transportation. Its legendary durability and minimal maintenance needs make it an exceptionally cost-effective choice for drivers seeking a dependable compact car that will stand the test of time without requiring frequent or expensive repairs.
2. Toyota Prius
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $4,008
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $155
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $727
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 11.2%
The Toyota Prius hybrid, synonymous with fuel efficiency, also excels in minimizing repair costs. Its hybrid powertrain is inherently designed for longevity and reduced wear, contributing to its exceptional ranking as the second cheapest car to repair. Owners benefit from both remarkable fuel economy and predictable, low maintenance expenses, making the Prius a financially and environmentally responsible choice.
1. Tesla Model 3
- 10-Year Repair & Maintenance Cost: $3,587
- Average Annual Cost (Year 1): $169
- Average Annual Cost (Year 10): $610
- Probability of Major Repair (over 10 years): 8.6%
Topping our list of the cheapest cars to repair is the Tesla Model 3. This electric sedan boasts the lowest overall predicted maintenance and repair costs of any car currently on the market. Electric vehicles, in general, require less routine maintenance due to fewer moving parts and the absence of oil changes and traditional engine maintenance. The Model 3 takes this advantage to the extreme, with most scheduled service visits primarily involving tire rotations, making it the undisputed champion in minimizing long-term repair expenses.
FAQs About Car Repair Costs
What Car Brand Is The Cheapest To Maintain?
While specific models vary, Toyota and Honda consistently rank among the cheapest car brands to maintain due to their reputation for reliability and durable engineering. Nissan, Mazda, and Mitsubishi also offer numerous models with low repair costs. In the luxury segment, Lexus (Toyota’s luxury division) and Tesla stand out for their better-than-average reliability and lower ownership costs compared to other premium brands.
What Car Lasts The Longest?
Toyota SUVs, particularly the Toyota Sequoia and Toyota Land Cruiser, are renowned for their longevity. Many of these vehicles are reported to last for 300,000 miles or more with proper care and maintenance, highlighting Toyota’s commitment to building vehicles that stand the test of time.
How Long Will Most Cars Last?
With diligent maintenance, most modern cars are capable of reaching 200,000 miles or more. Some well-maintained vehicles can even exceed 300,000 miles. The average age of passenger vehicles in the United States is approximately 12 years, with an average mileage accumulation of between 144,000 and 180,000 miles, demonstrating the increasing lifespan of today’s automobiles.
Cheapest Cars To Maintain – Top 20 List
- Nissan Altima
- Toyota RAV4
- Lexus ES 350
- Nissan Sentra
- Toyota C-HR
- Honda Accord
- Mazda 3
- Nissan Versa
- Mitsubishi Mirage G4
- Honda Civic
- Toyota Supra
- Mitsubishi Mirage
- Tesla Model Y
- Tesla Model S
- Toyota Avalon
- Toyota Camry
- Toyota Prius Prime
- Toyota Corolla
- Toyota Prius
- Tesla Model 3
Source: CarEdge.com
