No More Constant Repairs: 10 Low-Maintenance Car Makes
Published Dec 23, 2025
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When you purchase a new car, the sticker price isn't the only thing you need to budget for. AAA estimates average yearly vehicle maintenance at about $792, but you can pay even less with certain car makes. If you want a car that requires less upkeep (and therefore less money spent on maintenance), check out this list of low-maintenance vehicles.
Buick
With over a century of experience in the automotive industry, Buick consistently demonstrates its dedication to producing well-crafted vehicles. Buicks usually cost owners around $608 per year. They deliver smooth drives, responsive handling, and cutting-edge features without the pain of constant maintenance. Buick’s Encore and Enclave models are some of the brand’s most resilient vehicles.
Toyota
When you think about the name Toyota, the word “reliable” probably pops into your head soon after. With a history of quality that dates back to the brand’s 1937 beginnings, Toyota produces vehicles that buyers can count on.
Some Toyotas can last for 200,000 miles or more, and that’s not a feat just any make can achieve. These vehicles are meticulously designed and built with sturdy components, so you can drive them for years without facing major issues. An average yearly maintenance cost of $441 means Toyotas cost even less than Hondas. Toyota’s Prius, Camry, and Corolla models are often regarded as some of the brand’s most reliable and low-maintenance options.
Lincoln
Luxury doesn’t have to mean high-maintenance. Lincoln offers premium comfort with surprisingly reasonable upkeep costs. Lincoln owners spend an average of $879 per year on maintenance.
Though this is above the national average, it is notably lower than competing luxury makes, like Audi and Mercedes-Benz, which can cost owners $980-$1250 annually. If you want an upscale feel without the high maintenance costs, consider buying a Lincoln for your next vehicle.
Ford
Ford’s reputation for impressive engineering and dependable parts keeps repair costs low and maintenance simple. Ford’s annual maintenance cost is roughly $775, positioning it well below the industry average. Models like the Bronco and Mustang are renowned for their durability, and they have transported travelers to and from work, school, vacation, and more for over a century. When you buy a Ford vehicle, you don’t have to worry about investing time or money into frequent repairs.
Chevrolet
Chevrolet has had its customers covered since 1911. This classic, all-American brand is on this list because of its low annual maintenance cost of just $649. Popular Chevy models, such as the Malibu and Silverado, require straightforward maintenance that can be handled by almost any mechanic, making them cost-effective and dependable for everyday drivers.
Hyundai
On a reliability ranking, RepairPal listed Hyundai as number four out of thirty-two car brands. Hyundai’s annual maintenance costs of roughly $468 per year showcase this reliability, with Hyundai maintenance being far less expensive than the average.
Hyundai backs every model with America’s Best Warranty, a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty that gives drivers peace of mind and exemplifies the brand’s commitment to quality.
Hyundai’s reliable Elantra sedan is one of its most popular vehicles, and if you're looking for an SUV, you should consider the perennial favorite Hyundai Santa Fe.
Nissan
J.D. Power named Nissan 2025’s best-performing mass-market brand. Nissan is widely known for its reliable vehicles, which customers across the country trust to support them on road trips, at gas stations, and for school drop-offs.
Nissan vehicles can last for over 150,000 miles when properly maintained, and their annual maintenance costs usually run about $500. The Nissan Frontier and Nissan Versa are both notable for their reliability and low maintenance.
Mazda
Mazda has a track record of trustworthiness, as it was ranked number three in J.D. Power’s 2025 list of dependable vehicle makers. If you buy a Mazda, you should only need to set aside about $462 each year for car maintenance, which is far below the average cost of $792. The Mazda3 is a solid pick if you want a steady sedan, and the Mazda MX-5 is a sportier but equally reliable option.
Honda
Honda vehicles generally cost around $428 in yearly maintenance, beating the average by over $200 and solidifying the brand’s spot on this list. Honda consistently ranks amongst the most reliable car makes, so it stands to reason that Hondas don’t require excessive repairs.
Popular Honda models, the Civic and Accord, typically cost about $368 and $400 a year, respectively, when all maintenance is said and done. Over a ten-year period, Honda drivers can expect to spend about $5,850 on maintenance costs. That leaves more room to save for your next vacation or splurge purchase!
Find your next car at Transwest
At Transwest, our lots are full of exceptional cars from some of the industry’s best brands. Stop by today or browse our online inventory to find your next top-notch car.
