When it comes to buying a car, most people focus on the excitement of the test drive, the features on the spec sheet, and the appeal of a new model fresh off the lot. But true satisfaction with a vehicle reveals itself over time—once the new car smell fades, the maintenance bills roll in, and the daily driving experience becomes routine.
Five years after purchase is often a turning point. At this stage, owners have experienced their car in every season and situation, and their opinions—whether glowing or regretful—are fully formed.
Some vehicles age gracefully, maintaining their performance, comfort, and reliability long after the initial honeymoon phase. These are the cars that owners continue to love, recommend to others, and even consider buying again. They tend to have lower-than-average repair costs, solid resale value, and consistent real-world satisfaction.
On the flip side, some cars don’t live up to the promise. They might suffer from mechanical issues, expensive maintenance, poor long-term reliability, or simply fail to deliver a satisfying ownership experience over time. These are the models that owners often regret buying, and warn others to avoid.
In this article, we’ll highlight five cars that have earned long-term loyalty and praise from their owners, and contrast them with five that often leave drivers disappointed.
Whether you’re shopping for a used car or planning a long-term purchase, understanding which models are likely to stand the test of time—and which ones tend to falter—can save you from years of frustration and unexpected costs.
Based on owner reports, reliability data, and expert reviews, this list offers insight into the best and worst bets when it comes to long-term car ownership.
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5 Cars That Are Loved After 5 Years
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a perennial favorite for a reason: it’s reliable, economical, and provides a smooth driving experience. After five years, the Camry continues to offer outstanding fuel efficiency and a quiet, comfortable ride.
Whether it’s the hybrid model or the traditional gas-powered version, the Camry’s powertrains have proven to be durable and cost-effective in the long run. It also benefits from Toyota’s reputation for longevity, meaning with regular maintenance, it will likely run for hundreds of thousands of miles without significant issues.
One of the standout features of the Camry is its interior. Even after years of use, the materials in the cabin hold up well, with seats that remain comfortable and dashboard components that don’t show wear.
The infotainment system and safety features, such as Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, are also key selling points. They remain relevant and competitive after five years, ensuring the vehicle feels modern and well-equipped. Whether it’s the smooth drive or the spacious, high-quality interior, the Camry continues to meet the needs of its owners.
Moreover, the Camry retains excellent resale value, an important factor when considering long-term ownership. Toyota’s reputation for building durable, long-lasting vehicles means that even after five years, the Camry holds its value better than many competitors.
This ensures that owners can feel confident in their investment, whether they choose to keep it or sell it. For a car that combines practicality, reliability, and value retention, the Camry is a top contender.
Honda Accord
The Honda Accord has long been recognized as one of the best midsize sedans in terms of reliability and value. After five years, the Accord still provides a refined driving experience, with a comfortable ride, solid build quality, and a reputation for minimal repairs.
Whether it’s the fuel-efficient four-cylinder or the more powerful V6, the engine options in the Accord provide a balanced blend of performance and efficiency that owners continue to appreciate over time. Its smooth handling and composed ride make it a versatile option for commuters and long-distance travelers alike.
Inside, the Honda Accord excels with its spacious and high-quality cabin. Over the years, the materials used for the interior hold up impressively well, and the seats remain supportive, even after extensive use. The infotainment system remains functional and user-friendly, providing drivers with the convenience of modern technology.
The Accord is also a strong performer in terms of safety, with numerous standard and available features that make it a car you can trust to keep you and your passengers protected, even as the years go by.
The Honda Accord’s strong resale value makes it an even more attractive long-term investment. Hondas are well-known for retaining their value, and the Accord is no exception. After five years, it’s still a desirable used vehicle, ensuring owners a good return on their investment if they decide to sell or trade it in.
With its blend of reliability, comfort, and resale value, the Accord remains a car that owners continue to love long after the initial purchase.
Lexus RX
The Lexus RX has been a standout in the luxury SUV segment, offering a combination of comfort, performance, and reliability that continues to be appreciated by owners long after their initial purchase. After five years, the RX still feels like a premium vehicle, with its smooth, quiet ride and luxurious interior that retains its high-end appeal.
Lexus has a reputation for building cars that last, and the RX is no exception. Owners find that it performs just as well after several years, maintaining its comfortable ride and solid reliability.
The interior of the RX remains one of its biggest selling points. Even after years of use, the cabin continues to feel fresh and refined, with high-quality materials that don’t show wear. The seats, infotainment system, and design hold up incredibly well, making it a comfortable and enjoyable ride for both short commutes and long trips.
The RX is also known for its quiet cabin, which makes it feel luxurious even after years of ownership. These factors contribute to the RX’s enduring appeal.
Additionally, Lexus has built a reputation for strong resale value, and the RX is one of the best luxury SUVs in this regard. After five years, the RX continues to hold its value, which is rare for luxury vehicles that tend to depreciate quickly.
This makes the Lexus RX a wise long-term investment, one that owners can enjoy for years while still knowing they can expect a good return if they decide to sell it. With its blend of performance, comfort, and resale value, the RX remains a favorite for many.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback has built a loyal following due to its rugged off-road capability, practicality, and reliability. After five years, many owners still appreciate the Outback’s ability to handle a variety of driving conditions, from snowy roads to off-road trails.
The Outback’s all-wheel-drive system is a major selling point, ensuring that it remains a reliable companion in any weather. Subaru’s reputation for building durable vehicles also means that the Outback is likely to stay dependable for many years with regular maintenance.
Inside, the Subaru Outback is spacious, offering plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The interior is functional, with durable materials that continue to hold up well over time. The Outback is also known for its user-friendly infotainment system, making it easy for owners to stay connected on the road.
After five years, the Outback continues to provide a comfortable and practical driving experience, whether you’re heading to work or going on a weekend adventure.
The Outback’s resale value is another reason it remains beloved after five years. Subaru vehicles are known for holding their value, and the Outback is no exception. Its mix of practicality, reliability, and off-road capability ensures that it retains its worth even as the years go by.
This makes the Outback an excellent choice for those looking for a vehicle that will continue to deliver satisfaction long after the purchase.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma has earned a reputation for being one of the most durable midsize pickup trucks on the market. After five years, Tacoma owners continue to love their vehicles for their incredible reliability and off-road capability. Whether you use it for work or for outdoor adventures, the Tacoma remains a versatile and rugged choice.
The combination of Toyota’s engineering and the truck’s off-road features makes it an enduring favorite, with few issues even after several years of ownership. Its low maintenance needs and reliability continue to be appreciated by owners.
Inside, the Tacoma offers a functional and durable cabin. While it may not have the luxury features of some other trucks, the materials hold up well, and the layout is practical for daily use.
The technology, including the infotainment system, remains easy to use and continues to provide value after five years. The Tacoma’s interior is designed with utility in mind, ensuring that it can stand the test of time, both in terms of functionality and wear.
Moreover, the Toyota Tacoma retains a strong resale value, making it a smart investment for long-term ownership. Pickup trucks, in general, hold their value better than many other vehicle types, and the Tacoma is a prime example of this.
After five years, owners can still expect a solid return on their investment if they decide to sell or trade in the truck. With its reliability, off-road capability, and strong resale value, the Toyota Tacoma is a truck that drivers continue to love year after year.
5 Cars That Cause Regret After 5 Years
While some cars age gracefully and continue to impress, others fall short of expectations after a few years on the road. Whether due to constant repairs, poor reliability, or depreciating value, some vehicles cause regret for their owners after five years of ownership.
Below, we’ll take a look at five cars that often lead to buyer’s remorse, with issues that only become apparent after extended ownership.
Fiat 500
The Fiat 500, while stylish and fun to drive in the short term, often causes regret for owners after five years. Despite its appealing European design and compact size, the Fiat 500 is known for its poor reliability, especially as it ages.
Owners often report problems with the transmission, electrical systems, and engine components, leading to frequent and costly repairs. While the Fiat 500 is fun to drive in the early years, the constant need for repairs and its relatively low resale value can quickly sour the ownership experience.
Another drawback is the Fiat 500’s interior, which, while charming, doesn’t hold up well over time. The materials tend to wear out faster than those found in more durable cars, and the compact nature of the car makes it less comfortable for taller individuals or those who drive long distances regularly.
Additionally, the car’s small size can become a limitation as families or drivers with more significant needs require more space and utility. After five years, the Fiat 500 may start to feel cramped and impractical, leaving owners wishing they had chosen a more reliable vehicle.
Lastly, the Fiat 500 suffers from poor resale value. Fiat has struggled with a reputation for poor long-term durability, and as a result, the 500 depreciates rapidly. After five years, it’s not uncommon for owners to see a significant drop in their car’s value, leading to regrets over the financial investment.
While the Fiat 500 may have been a fun ride at first, the car’s reliability issues and low resale value can make long-term ownership a frustrating experience.
Chrysler 200
The Chrysler 200 was initially marketed as a midsize sedan offering a stylish design and a comfortable ride. However, after five years of ownership, many drivers regret their purchase due to the car’s numerous reliability issues. Common problems with the 200 include transmission failures, electrical malfunctions, and issues with the suspension.
These problems can become more prevalent as the car ages, leading to costly repairs that are often not worth the investment. Additionally, the 200’s fuel efficiency isn’t as impressive as some of its competitors, further adding to its long-term appeal.
The Chrysler 200’s interior, while stylish when new, doesn’t hold up well over time. Many owners have reported that the materials used in the cabin begin to wear and tear after a few years, with upholstery and dashboard components deteriorating faster than expected.
The infotainment system and technology also tend to become outdated quickly, making the car feel less modern compared to other options in its class. After five years, the Chrysler 200 can start to feel outdated and uncomfortable, contributing to owner regret.
Lastly, the Chrysler 200 suffers from poor resale value. Despite being a popular car in its initial years, the 200’s reputation for reliability issues and depreciation means that it loses value much faster than some of its rivals.
Owners who try to sell or trade in the car after five years often face significant financial loss, adding to the sense of regret. For those looking for long-term value, the Chrysler 200 falls short.
Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta is a car that many owners find disappointing after five years. While the Jetta offers an enjoyable driving experience and stylish design, its long-term reliability leaves much to be desired.
Common issues reported by owners include electrical problems, transmission failures, and engine malfunctions, all of which can become more frequent as the car ages. These reliability issues can make the Jetta a costly vehicle to maintain, leading to frustration for drivers who thought they were buying a durable and reliable car.
Another drawback of the Jetta is its interior quality. While it may seem upscale when new, the materials used in the cabin begin to wear out after a few years. The seats lose their comfort, and the dashboard components can start to look dated and worn.
The Jetta’s tight rear seating area also makes it less practical for families or anyone needing to transport multiple passengers. After five years, owners often feel cramped and dissatisfied with the car’s interior, which was initially one of its selling points.
Finally, the Jetta suffers from depreciation, which contributes to regrets among owners. While Volkswagen is known for producing well-engineered cars, the Jetta doesn’t retain its value as well as many of its competitors.
After five years, the car’s resale value drops significantly, leaving owners with a car that has lost much of its original worth. This, combined with the ongoing maintenance costs, can lead to significant regret for those who expected better long-term performance.
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima is a midsize sedan that often seems like a solid choice for everyday driving, but after five years of ownership, many owners find themselves regretting their decision. The Altima is known for its comfortable ride and decent fuel economy, but it often suffers from a variety of mechanical issues as it ages.
Problems such as engine failures, CVT (continuously variable transmission) issues, and premature brake wear can lead to costly repairs and headaches for owners. While the Altima is not inherently a bad car, its long-term reliability is questionable, and many owners report that it doesn’t continue to impress after several years.
Another issue that becomes apparent over time is the interior quality. While the Altima’s cabin is spacious and comfortable when new, the materials used don’t always stand up well to the wear and tear of daily use. The seats may lose their support, and the infotainment system can become outdated.
After five years, the car may start to feel less refined compared to newer models, making it feel outdated despite its relatively short lifespan. Owners looking for a car that stays feeling new longer may find themselves disappointed by the Altima’s interior aging.
Additionally, the Nissan Altima’s resale value is lower than that of many competitors in the same segment. While it is an affordable option when purchased new, the Altima depreciates significantly after a few years, leading to regret for owners who hoped to retain value.
After five years, the Altima is likely to have lost a considerable portion of its value, leaving owners with a car that’s not only costly to repair but also hard to sell for a reasonable price.
Dodge Journey
The Dodge Journey is a crossover SUV that initially appeals with its affordability and family-friendly features, but after five years, many owners regret their purchase. While the Journey is relatively cheap to buy compared to other SUVs, it doesn’t offer the same level of quality, reliability, or performance.
Over the years, the Journey has often experienced problems with the transmission, suspension, and electrical systems, which can result in frequent trips to the repair shop and escalating costs. These issues can leave owners frustrated, especially as the vehicle ages and the cost of repairs increases.
Inside, the Dodge Journey has a spacious cabin with a third-row seat, but many owners report that the quality of materials is subpar. The seats wear out quickly, and the interior often feels less durable than expected.
The infotainment system is outdated, and while the Journey comes with many family-friendly features, the interior design doesn’t hold up as well over time. After five years, owners may feel that the Journey lacks the refinement and comfort they initially hoped for.
The Dodge Journey also suffers from poor resale value, which contributes to the regret many owners experience. Despite being an affordable option when new, the Journey loses its value quickly, making it difficult for owners to recoup their investment.
After five years, the resale value is typically much lower than expected, leaving owners stuck with a vehicle that isn’t worth much. Combined with the ongoing reliability issues and underwhelming interior, the Dodge Journey often leads to dissatisfaction after extended ownership.
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When buying a car, the hope is always that it will provide years of reliable service, comfort, and satisfaction. However, the reality is that some cars deliver on that promise, while others leave their owners wishing they had made a different choice.
The five cars that are loved after five years have demonstrated exceptional reliability, solid build quality, and strong resale value — factors that make them long-term winners. On the other hand, the five cars that often lead to regret fall short in terms of reliability, durability, and depreciation, which becomes apparent as time goes on.
For buyers looking for long-term value, the key is to prioritize reliability, low maintenance costs, and a vehicle that continues to offer satisfaction years after the initial purchase.
While the cars on the “loved” list provide consistent performance and excellent resale value, the ones on the “regret” list often leave owners with costly repairs, poor resale potential, and a general sense of dissatisfaction after several years of ownership.
Choosing the right vehicle is about balancing your immediate needs with long-term expectations. Some cars simply do not stand the test of time, while others prove their worth year after year, continuing to delight their owners and deliver solid performance.
By making an informed decision and focusing on reliability and durability, you can ensure that your car remains a trusted companion for many years to come.
