If you own a car, you already know that keeping it running can cost a pretty penny, especially if you use it every day. The team at Consumer Reports, a group that’s been helping shoppers make smart choices since 1936, has some fresh info on which car brands will be kinder to your wallet over time.
In 2024, they shared a report on car brands that are the least and most expensive to fix and take care of. The champs of savings over a car's first ten years are Tesla at $4,035, and Buick and Toyota, both at $4,900.
On the flip side, Land Rover drivers might have to shell out about $19,250, while Porsche and Mercedes-Benz owners could be looking at $14,090 and $10,525 respectively.
What Does Car Care Usually Cost?
On average, the American Automobile Association (AAA) says that drivers spend about 9.83 cents per mile on upkeep and fixes, adding up to $1,474.50 each year.
But the costs can vary a lot depending on the type and age of the car, and even the weather where you live. People can't control everything, but they can choose which brand to buy, with some needing less money over time than others.
Check out: The True Costs of Owning a Car: Budgeting Tips and Crucial Expenses to Keep in Mind
How Does Consumer Reports Get Their Info?
Consumer Reports tests and reviews lots of things, including cars. They also ask people about the products they use.
For this report, real drivers told them how much they spent on non-accident repairs and upkeep, which Consumer Reports averaged for each car brand.
Most of the costs are from years five to ten because warranties usually cover the early years.
The Top Ten Budget-Friendly Car Brands for Ten Years of Maintenance
- Tesla – $4,035 (early years: $580; later years: $3,455)
- Buick – $4,900 (early years: $900; later years: $4,000)
- Toyota – $4,900 (early years: $1,125; later years: $3,775)
- Lincoln – $5,040 (early years: $940; later years: $4,100)
- Ford – $5,400 (early years: $1,100; later years: $4,300)
- Chevrolet – $5,550 (early years: $1,200; later years: $4,350)
- Hyundai – $5,640 (early years: $1,140; later years: $4,500)
- Nissan – $5,700 (early years: $1,300; later years: $4,400)
- Mazda – $5,800 (early years: $1,400; later years: $4,400)
- Honda – $5,834 (early years: $1,435; later years: $4,400)
The Top Ten Priciest Car Brands to Keep Running
- Land Rover – $19,250 (early years: $4,250; later years: $15,000)
- Porsche – $14,090 (early years: $4,000; later years: $10,090)
- Mercedes-Benz – $10,525 (early years: $2,850; later years: $7,675)
- Audi – $9,890 (early years: $1,900; later years: $7,990)
- BMW – $9,500 (early years: $1,700; later years: $7,800)
- Volvo – $9,285 (early years: $1,785; later years: $7,500)
- Infiniti – $8,500 (early years: $2,150; later years: $6,350)
- Acura – $7,800 (early years: $1,800; later years: $6,000)
- Mini – $7,625 (early years: $1,525; later years: $6,100)
- Subaru – $7,200 (early years: $1,700; later years: $5,500)
Final Thoughts
When you’re buying a car, think about how much it’ll cost as time goes on, not just its price tag. While these numbers aren’t guaranteed (since costs can vary by model), they give you an idea of what to expect.
Find out more: Essential Car Maintenance Tips for Savvy Owners
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