Choosing a new car involves more than just admiring stylish looks or impressive horsepower. Once the excitement of owning a new vehicle wears off, the importance of upkeep becomes clear.
The long-term relationship with a car often hinges on how easy it is to maintain. In this guide, we’ll take a look at eight of the easiest cars to maintain, according to trusted mechanics.
Ranging from classic favorites to modern hybrids and EVs, get ready to discover vehicles that are just as enjoyable to maintain as they are to drive.
Honda Accord
Since its debut in 1976, the Honda Accord has steadily gained popularity to become one of the top-selling cars in America.
Renowned as one of the easiest vehicles to maintain, it offers a dependable combination of efficiency, affordability, and reliability that has made it a favorite among both families and solo drivers.
The Accord features a maintenance routine that is simple and cost-effective. Replacement parts are easy to find and generally cheaper than those for luxury models.
The car is famous for its durability, with many Accords reaching well over 200,000 miles with few problems. Common issues such as worn brake pads or minor electrical faults tend to be rare and inexpensive to fix.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is nearly synonymous with reliability and is also known for being straightforward to maintain. These well-engineered cars are built with longevity and serviceability in mind.
Provided they’re properly maintained and not involved in any major accidents, Honda Civics can easily surpass 200,000 miles without needing major repairs. In terms of affordability, the Civic offers excellent value within its segment, especially when it comes to resale.
Originally launched in Japan in 1972, the Honda Civic made its way to the U.S. a year later.
Over the years, the model has evolved through 11 generations and five different body styles. Alongside its reputation for reliability, the Civic also boasts a strong safety record.
Models from the sixth through eighth generations—produced between 1996 and 2011—are especially easy to maintain.
These versions are compatible with OBD II scanners or code readers, making diagnostics accessible for many car owners.
While later models remain relatively easy to maintain, they may not be as DIY-friendly. More recent Civics come equipped with advanced computer systems that require specialized diagnostic tools for accurate troubleshooting and repairs.
As manual diagnostics have become outdated, accessibility has also decreased in models produced after 2011, largely due to Honda’s efforts to enhance fuel efficiency by redesigning and tightening the engine compartment.
Also Read: Top 10 Classic Pontiacs That Can Still Run Today
Subaru Forester
First introduced in 1997, the Subaru Forester quickly built a loyal following thanks to its impressive versatility. Whether you’re driving through urban environments or venturing onto rugged terrain, the Forester manages both with confidence.
If you’re searching for cars that are easy to maintain, the Forester is well worth considering. Among its standout qualities is its exceptional durability. Designed with longevity in mind, this SUV performs reliably year after year when given regular maintenance.
One of the key features contributing to the Forester’s easy maintenance is Subaru’s celebrated Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Unlike many other all-wheel drive designs, Subaru’s system is more straightforward.
With a reduced number of components and a more even wear distribution, routine maintenance tasks—particularly involving the drivetrain—tend to be more predictable and required less often.
Mazda 3
Since hitting the market, the Mazda 3 has made a name for itself within the compact car segment.
Known for its stylish appearance and spirited driving experience, the Mazda 3 also earns praise as one of the easiest vehicles in its class to maintain.
Its sleek aesthetic and agile performance aren’t the only advantages. One major benefit for Mazda 3 owners is how easy it is to keep in good condition compared to competitors.
For those mindful of upkeep expenses, Mazda 3 parts are generally affordable, making repairs less burdensome. The vehicle also stands out for its durability.
With regular maintenance, the Mazda 3 is built to stay roadworthy and reliable for many years to come.
Hyundai Elantra
Once considered a modest contender in the sedan category, the Hyundai Elantra has surged in popularity over the years.
Beyond its sleek design and integration of modern technology, its growing fan base also recognizes it as one of the easiest cars to maintain—a factor that has significantly contributed to its success.
The Elantra is distinguished by its user-friendly design and an engine layout that offers easy access. Hyundai has also prioritized affordability when it comes to replacement parts.
Key highlights, such as its sturdy brake system and efficient fuel injection technology, contribute to a maintenance routine that is both less frequent and more economical compared to certain rivals.
Ford F-150
A longstanding leader in the pickup truck world, the Ford F-150 has remained a top choice for decades. Renowned for its powerful towing ability, payload capacity, and overall toughness, it also earns high marks for ease and affordability of maintenance.
Thanks to its longstanding presence in the market, the F-150 benefits from widespread parts availability, simplifying the process of upkeep. Although some owners occasionally mention that certain parts can be costly, the truck’s durability often offsets that concern.
In many cases, the robust construction of the F-150 translates into fewer part replacements over time. Routine maintenance includes basic but essential tasks like air filter replacements, monitoring transmission fluid, and inspecting the four-wheel-drive system.
Together, these elements secure the F-150’s reputation as a vehicle—truck or otherwise—that is easy to maintain.
Also Read: 10 EVs With the Best Fast-Charging Speeds & Advanced Battery Technology
Toyota Camry
A staple in the automotive world since 1982, the Toyota Camry has maintained its status as one of the easiest cars to maintain. It enjoys an outstanding reputation, with numerous drivers praising its reliability and straightforward performance.
Camry owners frequently rave about the vehicle’s long-lasting nature, which translates to fewer trips to the mechanic.
And Camry parts are readily available, with both OEM and aftermarket options being reasonably priced.
Many Camry owners appreciate that the car’s design allows easy access to key components like the air filter, battery, and spark plugs.
Camry owners can often handle basic car maintenance tasks at home without requiring specialized tools or extensive knowledge.
Toyota Corolla
Having been in continuous production since 1966, the Toyota Corolla is known for an engine layout that has stayed largely consistent over the years, making it one of the easiest cars to work on.
Its accessible design appeals to DIY enthusiasts who enjoy making minor repairs themselves. Because the engine configuration has remained similar, past Corolla owners will likely find working on newer models quite familiar.
As one of the nation’s most enduringly popular vehicles, it benefits from excellent aftermarket support, with affordable and easy-to-find replacement parts. The Toyota Corolla is also recognized as among the safest cars in its class.
The Toyota Corolla offers several model options to suit individual driver needs, including:
- Corolla L
- Corolla LE
- Hybrid LE
- SE
- SE Nightshade Edition
- SE Apex Edition
- Corolla XLE
- Corolla XSE
- Corolla XSE Apex Edition
Engine options include the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, the 2.0-liter engine, and the 0.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing with intelligence.
Toyota Prius
As a trailblazer in the hybrid car market, the Toyota Prius has not only set the benchmark but continues to push boundaries.
It’s earned its place as an environmentally friendly option and as one of the easy-maintenance cars that eco-conscious drivers can rely on.
Renowned for its fuel efficiency, the Prius offers the perfect blend of environmental responsibility and real-world savings.
When it comes to car maintenance, the Prius generally performs better than many traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Its dual-engine setup—combining an electric motor with a conventional combustion engine—is crafted with simplicity in mind.
This thoughtful design helps keep the Prius among the top choices for straightforward cars, with replacement parts for both power systems being widely available and affordably priced.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla 3 has transformed the auto industry. It defied conventional car standards and earned a solid reputation as one of the easiest cars to maintain—not just within the electric vehicle category, but across the board.
Its fully electric design eliminates the need for many of the maintenance tasks associated with traditional cars: no oil changes, no exhaust system repairs, and no timing belt replacements.
That said, some owners have noted issues related to limited service center availability and occasional delays in obtaining parts. Even so, the Tesla Model 3 remains highly appealing thanks to its significant fuel cost savings and the minimal upkeep required without a traditional engine.
Another way to save money on your car is through cost-effective car insurance. Check your coverage with a friendly Wawanesa agent today.