When buying a new car, it’s important to consider not just the price but also the ongoing costs of owning it. This includes insurance, fuel, and especially maintenance and repair costs. Even though new cars are generally reliable, they still need regular upkeep.
Insurance and fuel costs are easy to calculate, but figuring out maintenance costs can be trickier. We can look at a car’s maintenance schedule and historical data on common issues to estimate these expenses.
This list includes American cars with the lowest expected maintenance costs for 2024. The selection is diverse, featuring everything from large SUVs to small cars, fuel-efficient models to gas-guzzlers, and exciting vehicles to practical ones.
To choose these cars, we examined 2024 models from American automakers across various segments. We focused on anticipated maintenance costs over 10 years, using data from different trusted sources and thorough research. We also reviewed Quality and Reliability ratings from J.D. Power, repair histories from RepairPal, and recalls and customer complaints from the NHTSA for added context, but these factors did not affect our final rankings. The list is arranged from the highest to the lowest maintenance costs.
Here’s the list of the 12 American cars with the most affordable maintenance costs in 2024.
10) Affordable and Reliable: The 2024 Chevrolet Trax
The 2024 Chevrolet Trax stands out as a vehicle with low maintenance costs over ten years, estimated at $8,512. This makes it one of the most budget-friendly cars to maintain in the long run.
Redesigned for 2024
The Chevrolet Trax received a significant makeover for the 2024 model year. It’s now larger and comes with more features, including a comprehensive suite of passenger safety and driving assistance systems. The Trax is available in five trim levels: LS, 1RS, 2RS, LT, and ACTIV, offering a range of options to suit different preferences and needs.
Expert Insight
Automotive journalist Chris Tonn praises the 2024 Chevrolet Trax for being a rare breed of affordable cars that don’t feel cheap. According to Tonn, the Trax might not impress with its specifications at first glance. It has a modestly powered 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, and it’s a front-wheel-drive (FWD) crossover without an all-wheel-drive option. However, Tonn highlights that the Trax is comfortable, spacious, well-equipped, and easy to park, making it an excellent daily driver.
Tonn also points out that unlike some budget cars, which were once referred to as “penalty boxes” due to their lack of comfort and features, the Trax does not compromise on quality. It handles daily driving tasks well and is built to last.
Maintenance Costs and Reliability
When it comes to maintenance, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax is quite affordable. Over five years, the expected maintenance cost is $2,212, which scales up to $8,512 over ten years. This low maintenance cost is a significant advantage for anyone looking for a cost-effective vehicle.
Despite its low maintenance costs, there is a 26.05% chance of the Trax requiring a major repair over ten years. However, this is a relatively standard figure and does not detract significantly from the vehicle’s overall reliability.
Pricing and Features
The 2024 Chevrolet Trax has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $21,495, making it a reasonably priced option in its class. It is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides enough power for most everyday driving situations while maintaining good fuel efficiency.
Consumer Feedback and Recalls
The Trax has received some consumer complaints, particularly regarding its electrical system. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiated a recall action due to issues with the instrument display going blank. While this is a notable concern, Chevrolet has taken steps to address it, ensuring that affected vehicles are repaired.
2024 Chevrolet Trax is a well-rounded, affordable vehicle that offers low maintenance costs, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. Its redesign for 2024 adds more space and features, enhancing its overall appeal. Despite some minor issues, the Trax remains a reliable and practical option for everyday driving.
9) Affordable and Reliable: The 2024 Buick Encore GX
The 2024 Buick Encore GX is a popular compact SUV known for its affordability and reliability. With maintenance costs over ten years estimated at $8,264, it stands out as an economical choice for long-term ownership.
Engine and Performance
The Encore GX is Buick’s most popular model, sharing its engine with the Chevrolet Trax. The standard engine is a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder that produces 137 horsepower. However, unlike the Trax, the Encore GX offers an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option and a larger 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, which boosts the power to 155 horsepower. This gives buyers a choice between a more economical engine and one with a bit more power.
Maintenance Costs and Reliability
Maintaining the 2024 Buick Encore GX is relatively inexpensive. Over five years, the expected maintenance cost is $2,158, which increases to $8,264 over ten years. This makes it one of the more cost-effective vehicles to keep on the road, providing peace of mind for owners concerned about long-term expenses.
The Encore GX has a 25.14% chance of needing a major repair over ten years, which is slightly lower than the industry average. This statistic highlights the vehicle’s reliability, further supported by its high score of 87/100 in the J.D. Power Quality and Reliability rankings. This score earned the Encore GX the Small SUV award in 2023, reflecting its dependable performance and build quality.
Pricing and Features
The 2024 Buick Encore GX has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $25,600. This pricing positions it as an affordable option within the small SUV segment. Despite its relatively low cost, the Encore GX does not skimp on features. It comes with a range of modern amenities, safety features, and a comfortable interior, making it a competitive choice in its class.
Consumer Feedback and Recalls
Like the Chevrolet Trax, the Encore GX was involved in a recall initiated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) due to an issue with the instrument panel going blank. However, the number of customer complaints for the Encore GX was minimal, with only four reported cases. This indicates that while the recall is a concern, it affected a relatively small number of vehicles.
The 2024 Buick Encore GX is a standout small SUV that combines affordability, reliability, and a range of options to suit different needs. Its low maintenance costs and strong performance in quality and reliability rankings make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a dependable vehicle. The availability of both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, as well as two engine options, adds to its versatility, making the Encore GX a well-rounded option in the compact SUV market.
8) 2024 GMC Yukon: A Reliable Full-Size SUV with Manageable Maintenance Costs
The 2024 GMC Yukon is a large and reliable SUV that offers a blend of luxury, power, and practicality. With estimated maintenance costs of $8,300 over ten years, it stands out as a solid choice for those seeking a full-size vehicle with manageable long-term expenses.
Versatile Trims and Features
The Yukon comes in several trims to cater to different preferences and needs. These include the rugged AT4, the luxurious Denali Ultimate, and other trims like Denali, SLE, and SLT. Each trim is available with either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), providing flexibility based on driving conditions and personal preferences.
The Denali Ultimate trim is particularly noteworthy for its high-end features and luxury appeal. It comes standard with a Duramax turbodiesel engine, known for its durability and fuel efficiency, making it a great option for long-distance travel and heavy-duty use.
Maintenance Costs and Reliability
Maintaining the 2024 GMC Yukon is relatively affordable for its class. The expected maintenance cost over five years is $2,360, and over ten years, it amounts to $8,300. This positions the Yukon as a cost-effective option among full-size SUVs, considering the extensive features and capabilities it offers.
The Yukon has a 22.8% chance of requiring a major repair over ten years, which is relatively low for a vehicle of its size and complexity. This low probability of major repairs adds to its appeal as a reliable family or work vehicle.
Pricing and Common Issues
The starting price for the 2024 GMC Yukon is $58,200, which reflects its premium features and robust build. Despite its higher initial cost, the Yukon’s maintenance costs remain reasonable, making it a smart investment for those needing a dependable full-size SUV.
Common issues with the Yukon include rear suspension problems, which have led to recalls by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for rear suspension bolts and daytime running lights. However, these issues are relatively minor and can be addressed through regular maintenance and adherence to recall notices.
The 2024 GMC Yukon is a versatile and reliable full-size SUV with reasonable maintenance costs over the long term. Its range of trims, including the rugged AT4 and luxurious Denali Ultimate, provides options for various lifestyles and needs. The low probability of major repairs and manageable maintenance expenses make it an attractive choice for families and individuals looking for a durable and capable vehicle.
Whether used for daily commutes, family trips, or off-road adventures, the GMC Yukon offers a balanced mix of performance, luxury, and reliability. Its robust features and reasonable upkeep costs ensure that it remains a top contender in the full-size SUV market.
7) 2024 GMC Acadia: A Spacious and Safe SUV with Low Maintenance Costs
The 2024 GMC Acadia is a brand-new model that offers more space, advanced technology, and increased safety features compared to its 2023 predecessor. This mid-size SUV has grown in size, providing more room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families or anyone who needs extra space.
Enhanced Features and Design
The 2024 Acadia has been redesigned to be larger in every dimension. This means there’s more room inside for passengers, with seating for seven or eight people, depending on the configuration. The interior has been upgraded to feel more luxurious, with better materials and a more modern design.
One of the key highlights of the new Acadia is its suite of advanced driving assistance technologies. These include features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, which help make driving safer and easier. In addition, the Acadia comes with a long list of standard safety features, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Maintenance Costs and Reliability
Keeping the 2024 GMC Acadia in good condition is relatively affordable. Over the first five years, the expected maintenance cost is $2,119. Over a decade, this cost has risen to $7,817, which is quite reasonable for a mid-size SUV with such advanced features and capabilities.
The chance of the Acadia needing a major repair over ten years is 22.8%, which is fairly low and indicates good reliability. This means that while there might be some repairs needed over the years, the likelihood of encountering serious issues is not very high.
Pricing and Common Issues
The starting price for the 2024 GMC Acadia is $43,995, reflecting its larger size and upgraded features. Despite the higher initial cost, the low maintenance expenses make it an economical choice in the long run.
According to RepairPal, the average annual cost of repairs for the Acadia is about $734. The most significant issues reported relate to the transmission, which in the 2024 model is an eight-speed automatic. However, since the new Acadia has only been on the market for a short time, there have been no recall actions or customer complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The 2024 GMC Acadia stands out as a spacious, safe, and reliable mid-size SUV with low maintenance costs. Its redesigned, larger interior offers enhanced comfort and room for passengers, while the advanced safety and driver assistance technologies add to its appeal. The reasonable maintenance costs over ten years make it a practical choice for families and individuals looking for a dependable vehicle.
With its blend of luxury, space, and safety, the GMC Acadia is well-suited for daily commutes, family road trips, and everything in between. Its strong reliability record and low likelihood of major repairs further cement its status as a top contender in the mid-size SUV market. Whether you need a spacious vehicle for your family or a reliable SUV for daily use, the 2024 GMC Acadia is a solid option worth considering.
6) 2024 Chevrolet Corvette: High Performance with Surprisingly Low Maintenance Costs
The Chevrolet Corvette is a well-known sports car that continues to impress with its performance and style. The 2024 model year brings exciting updates, including the highly anticipated return of the ZR1, a powerful version that fans have eagerly awaited for nearly six years. Although specific details about the ZR1 are still under wraps, the Corvette’s current models, such as the Z06 and the hybrid E-Ray, are known for their incredible acceleration, going from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds.
Affordable Maintenance Costs
One of the most surprising aspects of the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette is its relatively low maintenance costs, especially for a high-performance sports car. Over the first five years, the expected maintenance cost is $2,259, which is quite reasonable. Extending this to a decade, the total maintenance cost is projected to be $7,714. This affordability is noteworthy because mid-engine sports cars like the Corvette typically have higher upkeep expenses due to their complex engineering and performance-oriented components.
Reliability and Customer Satisfaction
The 2024 Corvette has a 20.26% chance of requiring a major repair over ten years, which is relatively low and indicates good reliability. Owners of the Corvette are generally very satisfied with their cars, as evidenced by its impressive 92 out of 100 rating from J.D. Power. This high score reflects the car’s overall quality and reliability, contributing to its strong reputation in the automotive world.
Pricing and Common Issues
The starting price for the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette is $68,300. Given its high performance and advanced engineering, this price is competitive within the sports car segment. Despite the Corvette’s many strengths, it does have some common issues, primarily related to the fuel system. These problems have been noted by several owners, but they do not significantly detract from the car’s overall appeal and performance.
The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette stands out not only for its exceptional performance but also for its surprisingly low maintenance costs. Its ability to deliver supercar-level acceleration while maintaining reasonable upkeep expenses makes it an attractive option for sports car enthusiasts. The Corvette’s impressive reliability and high customer satisfaction ratings further enhance its appeal.
The upcoming ZR1 model promises to add even more excitement to the Corvette lineup, building on the success of the Z06 and E-Ray. Whether you are drawn to the Corvette for its blistering speed, sleek design, or manageable maintenance costs, it is a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance sports car that is also practical to own.
2024 Chevrolet Corvette offers a rare combination of exhilarating performance and affordability. Its low maintenance costs, strong reliability, and high owner satisfaction make it a standout in the sports car market. If you’re looking for a car that delivers thrilling driving experiences without breaking the bank on upkeep, the Corvette is definitely worth considering.
5) 2024 Ford Mustang: Affordable Maintenance for an Iconic Sports Car
The Ford Mustang has been a legendary name in the automotive world for 60 years, inspiring countless enthusiasts and competitors. The 2024 model continues this legacy with a fresh design and the traditional options of coupe and convertible models, appealing to a wide range of car lovers.
Performance and Options
The 2024 Ford Mustang remains true to its roots, offering both coupe and convertible versions. This flexibility allows buyers to choose the style that best suits their preferences, whether they want the classic look of a coupe or the open-air experience of a convertible. The Mustang is known for its sporty performance and striking design, making it a standout in its class.
Affordable Maintenance Costs
One of the key highlights of the 2024 Mustang is its relatively low maintenance costs. Over the first five years, owners can expect to spend around $1,915 on upkeep. Over a decade, this amount has increased to approximately $7,093, which is quite reasonable for a sports car. These figures indicate that the Mustang is not only fun to drive but also economical to maintain in the long run.
Reliability and Common Issues
The Mustang has a 20.79% chance of needing a major repair over ten years. This is a relatively low risk, suggesting that the car is fairly reliable. However, there are a few common issues to be aware of.
According to RepairPal, one of the main problems reported by Mustang owners is that the rear window of the convertible model sometimes detaches. Despite this, the average annual maintenance cost is estimated to be just over $700, making it manageable for most owners.
Recalls and Safety Concerns
While the 2024 Mustang has many positive attributes, it’s important to note some safety recalls reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
These recalls include a faulty clutch pressure line, a loose brake pedal, and a risk of fuel leaks that could lead to fires. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and ensure that any necessary repairs or updates have been addressed.
Pricing and Value
The 2024 Ford Mustang starts at a base price of $30,920. This price point makes it an attractive option for those looking for an iconic sports car without breaking the bank. The Mustang offers a blend of performance, style, and affordability that is hard to beat in its segment.
2024 Ford Mustang continues to be a beloved choice for sports car enthusiasts, offering both coupe and convertible models to suit different tastes. With low maintenance costs over five and ten years, it provides an affordable way to enjoy the thrill of driving an iconic car.
Despite some common issues and safety recalls, the Mustang remains a reliable and exciting option for those looking for a sporty vehicle with a storied history. For anyone seeking a balance of performance, style, and reasonable upkeep costs, the 2024 Ford Mustang is a solid choice.
4) 2024 GMC Terrain: Affordable Maintenance and Reliable Performance
The 2024 GMC Terrain is a continuation of the 2023 model, maintaining its position as a reliable and affordable compact SUV. It’s known for its strong performance and low maintenance costs, making it a top choice for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on quality.
Consistent Power and Performance
The 2024 Terrain is powered by a 175-horsepower, 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which efficiently delivers power to either the front wheels or all four wheels, depending on the model. This setup ensures a balanced performance suitable for daily commuting and occasional road trips.
Affordable Maintenance Costs
One of the standout features of the 2024 GMC Terrain is its low maintenance costs. Over the first five years, owners can expect to spend around $2,063 on maintenance. Over a decade, this figure rises to a still-reasonable $7,706. These costs are relatively low compared to other vehicles in the same category, making the Terrain an economically smart choice.
Reliability and Owner Satisfaction
The Terrain has a 22.8% chance of needing a major repair over ten years, which is a moderate risk, indicating decent reliability. Owners of the Terrain have reported high levels of satisfaction with their vehicles, primarily due to the SUV’s dependability and the peace of mind that comes with low maintenance expenses.
Pricing and Recalls
The starting price for the 2024 GMC Terrain is $30,095. This price point is competitive in the compact SUV market, offering good value for the features and reliability it provides. However, it’s important to note that there has been a recall issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a door latching problem. Despite this, RepairPal has reported no persistent issues with the Terrain, further highlighting its reliability.
The 2024 GMC Terrain stands out in the compact SUV market for its combination of reliable performance and affordable maintenance costs. It continues to build on the strong foundation set by its predecessor, with a consistent powertrain and a competitive price. The low maintenance costs over five and ten years make it an attractive option for those looking to minimize long-term vehicle expenses.
The 2024 GMC Terrain offers a balanced mix of performance, reliability, and affordability. Its low maintenance costs and high owner satisfaction ratings make it a practical choice for anyone in the market for a compact SUV. While there are minor concerns, such as the door latch recall, the overall dependability of the Terrain makes it a worthwhile investment for budget-conscious buyers who want a dependable and economical vehicle.
3) 2024 Chevrolet Malibu: Affordable and Reliable Sedan
The Chevrolet Malibu, now in its ninth year of the current generation, continues to be a dependable and comfortable sedan. Despite its long run without a major redesign, the Malibu remains a solid choice for many buyers who value a reliable and unobtrusive vehicle.
Consistent Design and Comfort
The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu has stuck with a tried-and-true design for nearly a decade. It may not be the flashiest sedan on the market, but it offers a comfortable and pleasant driving experience. This consistency appeals to buyers looking for a no-fuss, dependable car that meets their daily driving needs without any surprises.
Low Maintenance Costs
One of the standout features of the 2024 Malibu is its low maintenance costs. Over the first five years, owners can expect to spend around $1,718 on upkeep. Extending this period to ten years, the total estimated maintenance cost is approximately $6,460. These figures make the Malibu an economical choice for those looking to minimize their car maintenance expenses over time.
Reliability and Common Issues
The Malibu has a relatively low chance of needing major repairs, with a probability of just 19.26% over ten years. This statistic highlights its reliability, which is a significant factor for many buyers. According to RepairPal, the average annual repair and maintenance cost for the Malibu is about $532, which is quite reasonable.
The most common issue reported is with the electrical power steering, which occasionally requires the replacement of the steering column. However, this problem does not appear to be widespread enough to be a major concern for most owners.
No Outstanding Recalls
A key advantage of the 2024 Malibu is that there are no outstanding recalls, as confirmed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This clean record adds to the car’s appeal as a reliable and safe choice for consumers. Additionally, the Malibu has received an impressive quality and reliability rating of 85 out of 100 from J.D. Power, further cementing its reputation as a dependable vehicle.
Pricing and Value
The starting price for the 2024 Chevrolet Malibu is $26,195, making it an affordable option in the mid-size sedan market. For this price, buyers get a car that is not only economical to maintain but also comfortable and reliable. The Malibu offers good value for money, especially for those who prioritize long-term cost savings and dependable performance.
The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu continues to be a practical and reliable choice for sedan buyers. Its low maintenance costs over five and ten years make it an economical option for budget-conscious consumers.
The car’s consistent design, combined with its strong reliability rating and absence of outstanding recalls, make it a solid and safe choice. For anyone looking for a comfortable, dependable sedan without breaking the bank, the 2024 Chevrolet Malibu is an excellent option.
2) 2024 Tesla Model S: High-Tech, Low Maintenance
The Tesla Model S stands out as the flagship vehicle not only in Tesla’s lineup but also in the broader electric vehicle (EV) market. Known for its cutting-edge technology and impressive driving range, the Model S continues to be a benchmark for EVs.
Although it’s been around for a while and is starting to show its age, Tesla’s unique approach to updating its vehicles ensures it remains competitive without adhering to traditional model-year changes.
Low Maintenance Costs
One of the significant advantages of owning a 2024 Tesla Model S is its low maintenance costs. Over the first five years, the expected maintenance expense is about $1,605. Extending this period to ten years, the total estimated maintenance cost is approximately $4,556.
These figures highlight the Model S as an economical option in the luxury EV market, particularly when considering the advanced technology and high performance it offers.
Reliability and Common Issue
The Model S has a low chance of requiring major repairs, with a probability of just 8.64% over ten years. This low percentage underscores its reliability and long-term durability. According to RepairPal, the average annual repair and maintenance cost for the Model S is around $1,047.
While this might seem relatively high, it is important to note that the Model S generally does not suffer from significant issues. Most of the problems reported are minor and related to the electrical system.
Recalls and Customer Complaints
The 2024 Tesla Model S has only one recall action from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which concerns an incorrect font on an instrument panel driving light. This minor issue reflects the overall solid build quality and reliability of the Model S.
Customer complaints mainly focus on the electrical system, but these issues are not widespread and do not significantly impact the vehicle’s performance or safety.
Pricing and Value
The starting price for the 2024 Tesla Model S is $65,990. While this places it at the higher end of the market, the Model S justifies its cost with advanced features, impressive driving range, and high-tech engineering.
For buyers seeking a luxury EV that offers both performance and efficiency, the Model S is a compelling choice. Its low maintenance costs over a decade further enhance its appeal, providing excellent long-term value.
The 2024 Tesla Model S continues to be a standout in the EV market, offering a combination of advanced technology, impressive driving range, and low maintenance costs. Its high reliability and low probability of major repairs make it an attractive option for those looking for a luxury electric vehicle.
Despite a few minor electrical issues and one minor recall, the Model S remains a top choice for buyers seeking a high-tech, low-maintenance EV. With its competitive pricing and excellent long-term value, the 2024 Tesla Model S is a smart investment for anyone looking to embrace the future of driving.
1) The 2024 Tesla Model 3
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 is Tesla’s most affordable electric car, redesigned for the new year. It’s a popular choice for budget-conscious drivers interested in electric vehicles. However, it has some unique features that may take getting used to.
Unlike traditional cars, the Model 3 lacks physical controls for basic functions like adjusting mirrors. Instead, these adjustments are made through the car’s touchscreen infotainment system.
When it comes to maintenance costs, the Model 3 is relatively affordable over time. Over 5 years, you can expect to spend around $1,117 on maintenance. Extending this to a 10-year period increases the total to about $3,587. This includes routine servicing and minor repairs that electric cars typically require.
Despite its advantages, the Model 3 does have its share of issues. One notable concern is its fit and finish, which some owners have reported as not meeting high expectations. This is reflected in its average ranking for quality and reliability by J.D. Power.
Owners have occasionally experienced issues with the steering wheel controls, such as malfunctioning turn signal buttons. Additionally, there has been a recall related to the airbag deployment system, emphasizing the importance of staying updated on safety notifications.
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 offers an attractive entry point into the electric vehicle market with its affordability and sleek design. However, potential buyers should be aware of its reliance on touchscreen controls for basic operations and the occasional quality issues reported by owners.
Understanding these aspects can help make an informed decision about whether the Model 3 is the right fit for your needs as a driver seeking a modern electric car.
