Owning a car costs more than just the initial price; maintenance and repairs can add up. As you shop for a new or used vehicle in 2024, it’s important to consider not just the sticker price but also the long-term expenses associated with keeping that car on the road.

Find out what the most and least expensive car brands to maintain in 2024 are here.

 

What Is Consumer Reports?

The data in this article comes from Consumer Reports (CR), a respected nonprofit that researches and tests consumer products, including cars. CR’s annual Auto Surveys collect detailed maintenance and repair cost information from subscribers. With this data, Consumer Reports is able to paint a picture of the long-term ownership costs for different car makes and models.

 

What Are the Cheapest Cars to Maintain?

Several Toyota models top the list of the most affordable vehicles to maintain over a 10-year ownership period, including:

• Toyota Prius: Yearly average cost of $400, with a 10-year total of just $4,592. 
• Toyota Corolla: Yearly average cost of $400, 10-year total of $4,087. 
• Mitsubishi Mirage: Yearly average cost of $494, a 10-year total of $4,939. 
• Honda Civic: Yearly average cost of $525, a 10-year total of $5,245. 
• Tesla Model 3: Yearly average cost of $169, a 10-year total of about $1,690.

 

What Are the Most Expensive Car Brands to Maintain?

On the other end of the spectrum, luxury and European brands tend to be the costliest to maintain over the long run.

• BMW X6 M: Average 10-year maintenance cost $18,900. 
• Land Rover Range Rover: Average 10-year cost of $18,228.
• Jaguar F-Pace: Average 10-year cost of $16,103. 
• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van: Average 10-year cost of $18,634. 
• Ram 2500 Heavy Duty: Average 10-year cost of $25,844.

These high-end models often come with complex, technologically advanced features that are more expensive to service and repair. Specialized parts and labor for these vehicles also increase maintenance costs compared to more mainstream, mass-market brands.

 

The Average Cost of Car Maintenance in 2024

According to Consumer Reports, the average American driver spends about $1,200 per year on vehicle maintenance and repairs; this amount varies based on the car’s make, model, age, and mileage.

Newer cars, especially those under warranty, have lower maintenance costs initially. But as cars age and rack up miles, costs increase. Luxury and European brands often have the highest maintenance bills, sometimes costing thousands more per year than more affordable brands.

 

5 Things to Know When Buying a Car

 

Domestic Brands Often Cost Less

American, Japanese, and Korean non-luxury models typically have lower maintenance costs for routine work like oil changes and brake repairs compared to European cars.

EVs and Hybrids Save on Maintenance

Electric and hybrid cars need less maintenance than gas-powered ones because they have fewer moving parts and don’t require oil changes.

Beware of High-End Trims

Opting for sportier or more premium trims can lead to higher maintenance costs due to bigger wheels and more complex features.

Used Cars Need Extra Scrutiny

As vehicles approach the 80,000 to 100,000-mile range, major service items like timing belts and coolant flushes become necessary, so be sure to check the service history.

Shop Around for Repairs

Dealerships may charge more for repairs than independent mechanics or national chains, so compare quotes to get the best deal.

 

Think You Bought a Lemon? Contact Our California Firm Today!

If you have a 2019 or newer vehicle that’s costing you a fortune in repairs, you may be a victim of a “lemon” car. The experienced team at Norman Taylor & Associates can help you navigate California’s lemon law and potentially recover compensation for your troubles.

Call 818-244-3905 or contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation and explore your options.

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