Owning a car costs far more than the sticker price. Maintenance, repairs, and parts pile up fast. Over a decade, that gap between brands can swing thousands of dollars. Some manufacturers build simple, durable machines.
Others chase performance and luxury at the expense of your wallet; according to Consumer Reports’ 2025 Annual Auto Survey, Buick and Lincoln post the lowest cumulative repair costs of any brand. Toyota and Honda aren’t far behind, backed by CarEdge’s decade-long cost tracking. On the other end, European luxury marques dominate the expensive list.
Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and BMW consistently rank among the priciest to keep running. Heavy-duty trucks like the Ram 1500 also land in that expensive tier.
This piece breaks down five brands with the lowest 10-year upkeep. Then it covers five with the highest. Each entry includes real specifications. Engine, horsepower, torque, dimensions, and top speed are all included. Whether you’re budgeting for your next purchase or just curious, this data-driven breakdown should help. Knowing these numbers upfront can save you real money down the road.
The 5 Lowest 10-Year Upkeep Brands
Buick tops the list, with Consumer Reports finding it has the lowest cumulative maintenance costs of any automaker, thanks to shared GM powertrains and a focused, dependable lineup like the Enclave.
Lincoln follows closely, benefiting from Ford’s massive parts network and simplified trims, exemplified by the Nautilus. Toyota remains a reliability benchmark, with 10-year costs around $5,470 and seven of the ten cheapest vehicles to maintain wearing its badge, led by models like the Camry.
Honda trails narrowly, with durable naturally aspirated and turbo engines keeping the Accord affordable long-term. Hyundai rounds out the list, having transformed its reputation with long warranties and shared Kia technology, best shown by the Tucson.
1. Buick
Buick tops the list for the lowest maintenance costs in the industry. Consumer Reports found that Buick had the lowest maintenance costs among all automakers when comparing cumulative costs for years one through five and six through 10. That’s a remarkable feat for a mainstream brand. GM’s engineering discipline clearly pays off here.
Buick’s lineup leans on proven GM powertrains. These engines see duty across Chevrolet and GMC, too. That shared parts bin keeps repair costs low. Dealer network coverage is also strong nationwide. Owners rarely struggle to find service centers.
The brand also benefits from a smaller, focused lineup. Fewer models mean simpler engineering choices. That focus translates into fewer mechanical surprises. Buick isn’t chasing performance extremes either. It prioritizes comfort and dependability instead.
The Buick Enclave represents the brand well. It’s a three-row crossover built for families. Reliability and low running costs define its reputation. It rarely surprises owners with big bills. Interior materials hold up well over time, too.
Buick’s advantage comes from simplicity. Fewer exotic materials mean fewer expensive fixes. Owners report predictable annual costs. That consistency is worth real money over 10 years. It’s an underrated pick for budget-conscious buyers.
2. Lincoln
Lincoln sits right behind Buick in the rankings. Consumer Reports’ 2025 data placed Lincoln in second place, with slightly lower maintenance costs than Buick in years one to five. Ford’s luxury arm punches above its weight here.
Lincoln vehicles share platforms with Ford trucks and SUVs. That commonality keeps parts prices reasonable. Labor costs stay manageable too. It’s luxury without the typical luxury tax. Ford’s massive supply chain helps enormously.
Lincoln has also simplified its lineup in recent years. Fewer trims and options reduce complexity. That focus mirrors Buick’s approach closely. Both brands prove that luxury doesn’t require expensive upkeep.
The Lincoln Nautilus is a strong example. It’s a midsize crossover with genuine comfort. Its running costs stay close to mainstream brands. That’s rare for anything wearing a luxury badge. Cabin quality remains a genuine strength too.
Ford’s manufacturing scale benefits Lincoln directly. Components are shared across millions of vehicles. That drives down long-term ownership costs significantly. Buyers get comfort without financial punishment. It’s a smart alternative to pricier European rivals.
3. Toyota
Toyota remains the gold standard for reliability. CarEdge data shows Toyota has 10-year maintenance costs of around $5,470, among the lowest of any full-lineup brand. Seven of the ten cheapest vehicles to maintain wear a Toyota badge.
Toyota’s engineering philosophy prioritizes longevity. Engines are tuned conservatively, not aggressively. This reduces stress on internal components. The result is fewer trips to the shop. Toyota also avoids unnecessary mechanical complexity.
Hybrid technology has become a major strength too. The Prius costs just over $4,300 over a decade. That’s remarkably cheap for any vehicle. Hybrid components have proven durable over millions of miles.
The Toyota Camry embodies this approach perfectly. It’s America’s best-selling sedan for good reason. Owners routinely report minimal unexpected repairs. Resale values also stay unusually strong. Even high-mileage examples remain dependable daily drivers.
Toyota’s global parts network is massive. That scale keeps replacement costs down everywhere. Dealerships and independent shops both stock parts easily. It’s a brand built for stress-free ownership. Few manufacturers match this level of consistency.
4. Honda
Honda trails Toyota by a narrow margin. Honda’s annual maintenance cost sits at $583, actually lower than Toyota’s $633 on a yearly basis. Over 10 years, Toyota edges ahead slightly due to compounding factors.
Honda engines are known for mechanical simplicity. Many owners report engines lasting past 200,000 miles. That durability directly reduces major repair frequency. Fewer big repairs mean lower lifetime costs. Honda’s naturally aspirated engines historically added to this reputation.
Turbocharged engines have entered the lineup recently. Early concerns about oil dilution have mostly been resolved. Software updates addressed most of those issues. Reliability data now looks strong again across the board.
The Honda Accord is the brand’s flagship sedan. It blends driving engagement with dependability. Maintenance intervals are straightforward and affordable. Parts availability is excellent across the country. Independent mechanics know these engines inside and out.
Honda’s CVT and turbo units have matured well. Early reliability concerns have mostly faded. Today’s Hondas are as dependable as ever. That reputation keeps resale and ownership costs low. It remains a top pick for cost-conscious drivers.
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5. Hyundai
Hyundai has transformed its image dramatically. Hyundai and Kia have become genuine contenders for cheapest cars to maintain, a stark shift from their reputation a decade ago. Modern Hyundais are simple, well-built, and affordable to keep running.
Hyundai backs this confidence with lengthy warranties. Ten-year powertrain coverage is offered on many models. That signals real faith in long-term durability. Parts costs have also dropped as the fleet expanded. Dealer competition has kept labor rates reasonable too.
Design and engineering have improved across the board. Hyundai now shares technology with sister brand Kia. That scale reduces development costs significantly. Savings get passed along to owners over time.
The Hyundai Tucson showcases this shift well. It’s a compact crossover with strong value. Maintenance costs undercut many rivals significantly. Reliability scores have improved year over year. Interior technology now rivals pricier competitors too.
Hyundai’s affordable parts network helps owners directly. Independent shops now service these cars easily. That wasn’t always true in the past. Today it’s one of the smartest budget-friendly choices. Long-term owners are noticing the difference firsthand.
The 5 Highest 10-Year Upkeep Brands
Land Rover sits at the top of the expensive list, with 10-year costs reaching $19,250 due to air suspension, complex four-wheel-drive systems, and electronics seen in models like the Range Rover.
Mercedes-Benz follows, where proprietary electronics and sensor calibration drive up costs, as reflected in the E-Class. Porsche’s performance hardware, specialty fluids, and precision components make ownership costly, epitomized by the 911.
BMW lands just behind, with turbocharged engines, run-flat tires, and complex electronics raising expenses on models like the 5 Series. Ram closes the list, where heavy-duty size, towing components, and diesel emissions systems make the Ram 1500 pricier to maintain than car-sized rivals.
1. Land Rover
Land Rover sits at the very top of the expensive list. Average 10-year maintenance costs reach a staggering $19,250 for Land Rover, the highest of any mainstream or luxury brand tracked. That’s nearly five times Toyota’s decade-long total.
Land Rover’s complexity is the root cause. Air suspension, advanced four-wheel-drive systems, and electronics all add cost. Repairs frequently require specialized dealer tools. Independent shops often can’t touch these systems. Diagnostic software alone can be a barrier.
Off-road capability comes with mechanical trade-offs too. Terrain-response systems use multiple sensors and actuators. Each component adds another potential failure point. Complexity and capability go hand in hand here.
The Range Rover is the brand’s flagship SUV. It’s opulent, capable, and notoriously expensive to own. Electrical gremlins are a well-documented owner complaint. Depreciation compounds the pain further. Resale values drop faster than most luxury rivals.
Land Rover owners often budget for extended warranties. Without one, a single repair can run thousands. This brand rewards passion but punishes complacency. Buyers should go in with eyes wide open. Financial preparation is essential before signing anything.
2. Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz consistently ranks among the priciest brands to maintain. Several European luxury marques cluster at the bottom of the rankings, including Mercedes-Benz, with costs thousands of dollars higher than mainstream brands. Sophisticated engineering comes at a real price.
Mercedes uses proprietary electronics throughout its lineup. Air suspension, adaptive dampers, and driver-assist sensors all add complexity. Each system requires specialized diagnostic equipment. Labor rates at Mercedes dealers also run high. Certified technicians command premium wages.
Newer models pack even more technology. Driver-assist cameras and radar units need calibration after repairs. That calibration process alone can be costly. It’s an often-overlooked expense for new owners.
The E-Class sedan is a solid representative model. It blends comfort with genuine engineering sophistication. Routine service costs noticeably more than mainstream rivals. Out-of-warranty repairs can be startling. Suspension and electrical work tend to hit hardest.
Mercedes parts are often sourced exclusively through dealers. That limits competitive pricing options for owners. Extended service plans are common purchases. They help offset the inevitable higher costs. Planning ahead is key to managing this brand.
3. Porsche
Porsche blends performance with premium upkeep costs. Porsche is grouped among the most expensive brands to maintain, alongside Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. Performance hardware simply costs more to service.
Porsche engines are highly tuned and precision-built. Even routine oil changes require specific synthetic blends. Brake and tire wear also accelerates with performance driving. These aren’t cheap consumables to replace. High-performance tires alone can cost a fortune.
Track-capable hardware adds further expense. Ceramic brakes, if equipped, are extremely costly to replace. Suspension components are engineered for precision, not budget. That precision always carries a price tag.
The 911 is the brand’s iconic sports car. It delivers exceptional performance and handling. But specialized parts and skilled technicians raise costs. Track use accelerates wear even further. Even gentle daily driving isn’t especially cheap here.
Porsche ownership rewards enthusiasts who budget properly. Certified pre-owned warranties help offset early costs. Beyond that coverage, expenses climb quickly. It’s a passion purchase, not a budget one. Most owners accept that trade-off willingly.
4. BMW
BMW rounds out the European luxury cost cluster. BMW’s costs, while thousands less than Mercedes-Benz or Porsche, still land well above mainstream brands over a decade. Performance-focused engineering carries a real maintenance premium.
BMW’s turbocharged engines demand precise maintenance schedules. Timing chain and cooling system issues are known concerns on older models. Run-flat tires also wear faster than standard tires. Replacement costs add up quickly. Many owners are surprised by tire bills alone.
Electronic complexity adds another layer of expense. Adaptive suspension and advanced infotainment systems need specialized service. Software glitches sometimes require dealer-level fixes. That limits independent repair options significantly.
The 5 Series sedan represents BMW’s core lineup well. It offers sharp handling and strong performance. Maintenance costs run noticeably above Toyota or Honda. Depreciation is also steeper than mainstream rivals. Early trade-ins are common among BMW owners.
BMW’s complexity extends to its infotainment and driver systems. Software updates sometimes require dealer visits. That adds hidden costs beyond typical wear items. Owners should plan accordingly for the long haul. A service contract often makes financial sense.
5. Ram
Ram trucks bring a different kind of expensive upkeep. Ram consistently ranks among the most expensive brands to maintain according to CarEdge, alongside Land Rover and BMW. Heavy-duty hardware simply costs more to service.
Ram’s larger engines and towing components see harder use. Diesel variants add complex emissions systems. Transmission and suspension repairs run higher than car-sized equivalents. Fuel system service is also pricier. Diesel particulate systems can be especially costly.
Size itself drives up ownership costs too. Bigger tires, brakes, and fluid capacities all cost more. Even routine oil changes use significantly more oil. Every service visit reflects the truck’s scale.
The Ram 1500 is the brand’s best-selling truck. It offers strong capability and comfort. But its size and hardware drive up service bills. Tires, brakes, and fluids all cost more too. Towing-heavy use accelerates wear even further.
Ram owners often use trucks for towing and work duty. That harder use accelerates wear naturally. Larger components simply cost more to replace. It’s the price of capability and size. Buyers should factor this into their long-term budget.
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