CR’s exclusive data can help you save
Nissan Leaf
By Benjamin Preston
We’ve crunched the numbers to present you with the cars recommended by Consumer Reports that have the lowest routine maintenance and repair costs. (There are many that are cheaper to maintain, but they’re not recommended.) These numbers are based on 10 years of CR’s data for each model, so autos that were introduced more recently than 10 years ago are not included.
We also show the average repair and maintenance expenses for each car type to give you an idea of how much money you can save.
Learn more about car brands and models that can save you money over time, and check CR’s Car Repair Assistant so you get the work done right. And take our quick poll, below, on how many miles you keep a car before you’d consider buying a new one.
Electric Cars
EVs can cost less to maintain than similar gasoline models because there are no regular fluid changes and fewer moving parts to wear out. The Leaf is relatively inexpensive to buy; opt for the smaller wheels to keep replacement costs low.
10-year cost: $2,080
Average electric car 10-year cost: $3,210
Compact Cars
A favorite among budget-minded car shoppers, the Corolla delivers a winning combination of simplicity, reliability, and great fuel economy. For even better fuel economy, opt for the hybrid model.
10-year cost: $4,125
Average compact car 10-year cost: $5,085
Midsized Cars
The Camry costs less to own than most sedans, thanks to good fuel economy, strong reliability, and low repair costs. Available with 17-, 18-, or 19-inch wheels, the smaller wheels are less likely to get damaged and may benefit from less expensive tire replacements.
10-year cost: $4,210
Average midsized car 10-year cost: $4,985
Another good choice: Hyundai Sonata ($4,720)
Luxury Cars
A cushy highway cruiser with good reliability and fuel economy, the ES is also relatively cheap to repair and maintain. It has high-tech features, but CR’s data show that the hybrid version is less expensive to maintain than all-gas cars in the same class.
10-year cost: $5,320
Average luxury car 10-year cost: $7,290
Compact SUVs
Available with gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the RAV4 combines SUV versatility with above-average reliability and fuel economy, and low maintenance costs. Avoid higher-end trims to save money on tires.
10-year cost: $5,000
Average compact SUV 10-year cost: $5,870
Another good choice: Chevrolet Equinox ($5,090)
Midsized SUVs
Choose the smaller turbocharged 4-cylinder engine option for better fuel economy and lower ownership costs. Also steer clear of the sporty ST trim, which adds larger wheels, low-profile tires, and bigger brakes that cost more to replace.
10-year cost: $5,000
Average midsized SUV 10-year cost: $6,620
Another good option: Toyota Highlander ($5,810)
Luxury SUVs
Available with a turbocharged gas engine or a hybrid powertrain, the RX has historically strong reliability and fuel economy, and low ownership costs. The sporty F Sport Performance trim comes with a more powerful hybrid powertrain and suspension upgrades that are more expensive to repair.
10-year cost: $7,250
Average luxury 2-row SUV 10-year cost: $8,700
Among luxury SUVs, the Enclave stands out for its low ownership costs. Models equipped with the optional 20-inch wheels will have more expensive tire replacements and may be more prone to wheel damage because there’s less cushioning to absorb big bumps.
10-year cost: $6,610
Average 3-row SUV 10-year cost: $8,700
Sporty Cars
The Miata offers reliability and good fuel economy in a package that’s stylish and fun to drive. You can also opt for a manual transmission if you’re so inclined.
10-year cost: $2,695
Average sporty car 10-year cost: $5,750
Another good option: Ford Mustang ($4,000)
Editor’s Note: This article also appeared in the May/June 2023 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.
Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2024, Consumer Reports, Inc.
