Good, cheap, reliable cars today are far from the basic, stripped-down models of the past. Modern affordable cars no longer come with manual crank windows or rubber floor mats but instead offer a balance of low cost, reliability, and comfort.
These cars require little more than routine maintenance, such as oil changes, and cater to drivers looking for dependable transportation. The list includes popular economy models like the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Versa, and Mitsubishi Mirage, as well as higher-end options like certain Teslas, a Lexus, and even the sporty Toyota Supra.
To compile this list of reliable, affordable vehicles, data was gathered from CarEdge on cars with the lowest maintenance and repair costs. The data considered factors such as annual and 10-year ownership costs, along with the likelihood of needing major repairs.
This approach ensures that the vehicles on the list not only save money upfront but also remain cost-effective over time, offering long-term value for their owners.
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1. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord is a reliable midsize sedan that combines a comfortable ride with a refined driving experience. It continues to be a popular choice for those looking for a well-rounded vehicle. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Accord is $5,412, which includes a combination of maintenance and repair costs over time.
In the first year of ownership, the annual maintenance costs are relatively low at $200, making it an affordable choice initially. However, by the 10th year, the annual costs rise to $994, which reflects an increase in repairs and other upkeep as the vehicle ages.
Despite these rising costs, the chance of needing a major repair for the Honda Accord is 15.6%, indicating a reasonable level of reliability for a long-term investment.
2. Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 offers a fun-to-drive experience with standard all-wheel drive and peppy handling. This compact car is offered in both sedan and hatchback versions, giving buyers a variety of options. The 10-year cost of owning a Mazda 3 is $5,409, which reflects the cost of ongoing maintenance and repairs throughout its lifespan.
The annual costs start at $186 in the first year, which makes it affordable in the beginning. However, as the car ages, the annual maintenance cost increases, reaching $1,013 by the 10th year. The chance of needing a major repair is 16.2%, suggesting that the Mazda 3 is fairly reliable, but like any vehicle, it may face more significant issues as it ages.
3. Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa is an economical subcompact sedan that offers basic features and a low purchase price. Its low cost of ownership makes it a solid choice for budget-conscious drivers. The 10-year cost for the Nissan Versa is $5,331, which covers maintenance, repairs, and other ownership costs.
In the first year, annual costs are just $173, which is extremely affordable. By the 10th year, however, the annual costs increase to $1,011, reflecting the wear and tear on the vehicle over time.
The chance of needing a major repair is 16.4%, suggesting that while the Nissan Versa is a budget-friendly option, it may require some significant maintenance as it ages.
4. Mitsubishi Mirage G4
The Mitsubishi Mirage G4 offers an inexpensive alternative to traditional sedans, providing basic transportation with low operating costs. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Mirage G4 is $5,254, which makes it a cost-effective option for long-term ownership.
The annual costs start at $175 in the first year, making it affordable to maintain early on. However, by the 10th year, the annual maintenance costs rise to $991, reflecting the increased need for repairs and upkeep.
The chance of needing a major repair is 16.0%, suggesting that the Mirage G4 is a reliable car but could require some attention over time as it ages.
5. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is known for its reliability and longevity, making it a popular choice among compact car buyers. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Civic is $5,245, which is reflective of its low maintenance costs over the long term.
The annual costs are relatively low at $183 in the first year, rising to $977 by the 10th year. This indicates that while the Civic is inexpensive to maintain in its early years, the costs may increase slightly as it ages.
The chance of needing a major repair is 15.6%, meaning that the Civic is a dependable choice for long-term ownership with a manageable risk of major repairs.
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6. Toyota Supra
The Toyota Supra is a performance-oriented sports car that offers impressive driving dynamics while maintaining relatively low maintenance costs. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Supra is $4,950, which is affordable for a performance vehicle.
The annual costs start at $220 in the first year, which is typical for a sports car, but by the 10th year, maintenance costs decrease to $872, making it cheaper to maintain as it ages.
The chance of needing a major repair is 12.6%, which is lower than many other sports cars, indicating that the Supra offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
7. Mitsubishi Mirage
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a basic, budget-friendly subcompact hatchback that prioritizes fuel efficiency and low ownership costs. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Mirage is $4,939, which makes it one of the most affordable cars to own in the long term.
In its first year, the annual costs are just $163, reflecting its low operating expenses. However, by the 10th year, annual costs rise to $933, which still keeps it relatively inexpensive to own. The chance of needing a major repair is 15.1%, which is a reasonable risk considering its budget-friendly nature.
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8. Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y is an electric crossover that offers long-range capabilities and excellent performance, all while maintaining reasonable ownership costs. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Model Y is $4,732, which is relatively low for an electric vehicle.
The annual costs start at $217 in the first year, which is on par with other electric vehicles, but by the 10th year, the costs decrease to $813, indicating that Teslas are relatively inexpensive to maintain.
The chance of needing a major repair is 11.7%, showing that Tesla vehicles are fairly reliable, but like any car, there is a small chance of needing significant repairs.
9. Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is a high-end electric sedan known for its impressive performance and luxury features. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Model S is $4,566, which is quite low compared to traditional luxury vehicles.
In the first year, the annual costs are higher at $267, reflecting the luxury nature of the car. However, by the 10th year, the costs drop to $708, making it less expensive to maintain as the vehicle ages.
The chance of needing a major repair is only 8.6%, which is relatively low, indicating that the Model S is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-performance vehicle with low long-term costs.
10. Toyota Avalon
The Toyota Avalon offers a larger, more comfortable sedan option with a high level of reliability and low maintenance costs. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Avalon is $4,407, which is a good value for a full-size sedan.
The annual costs start at $180 in the first year, which is affordable for a full-size car, and by the 10th year, the costs rise to $787. The chance of needing a major repair is 11.9%, suggesting that while the Avalon is a reliable choice, it might require some repairs as it ages.
11. Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is known for its long-lasting reliability and low ownership costs, making it one of the most popular sedans on the market. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Camry is $4,203, which is one of the lowest in its class.
The annual costs start at $160 in the first year, and by the 10th year, the costs increase to $766. The chance of needing a major repair is 11.9%, making the Camry a reliable choice for anyone looking for a dependable, affordable vehicle over the long term.
12. Toyota Prius Prime
The Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid that offers excellent fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Prius Prime is $4,098, which reflects its cost-effective nature.
In the first year, the annual costs are just $164, and by the 10th year, the costs increase to $736. The chance of needing a major repair is 11.2%, making the Prius Prime a reliable choice for those looking for a green vehicle with minimal maintenance.
13. Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is a reliable and efficient compact car that has been a favorite for many years. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Corolla is $4,087, which reflects its low maintenance costs.
In its first year, the annual costs are just $148, and by the 10th year, the costs rise to $755. The chance of needing a major repair is 11.9%, indicating that the Corolla is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and dependable car over the long term.
14. Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius remains one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles available, thanks to its hybrid technology. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Prius is $4,008, which is a good value considering its low fuel and maintenance costs.
The annual costs are low in the first year, starting at $155, and by the 10th year, they increase to $727. The chance of needing a major repair is 11.2%, making the Prius a reliable, cost-effective option for those prioritizing fuel efficiency.
15. Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is a highly affordable electric sedan with an impressive range and low maintenance costs. The 10-year cost of ownership for the Model 3 is just $3,587, which is the lowest on the list.
The annual costs start at $169 in the first year and decrease to $610 by the 10th year, making it incredibly inexpensive to maintain over time.
The chance of needing a major repair is only 8.6%, which is the lowest of any car on this list, indicating that the Model 3 is a remarkably reliable choice for those looking for an electric vehicle with minimal repair needs.
From the reliable and low-maintenance Toyota Corolla to the performance-oriented Toyota Supra, this list provides a variety of options for those seeking affordable, reliable, and low-cost cars.
These vehicles offer a range of features, from practical sedans to eco-friendly electric options, all with low long-term maintenance costs. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, performance, or budget-friendliness, each of these cars offers excellent value for long-term ownership.
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