The 10 Cars with the Lowest Long-Term Maintenance Costs: Smart Buys for Frugal Drivers

Owning a car can be more expensive than ever, with ongoing rises in vehicle prices, parts, and labor. That's why savvy car shoppers should prioritize long-term maintenance costs when selecting their next vehicle. Picking a model that's inexpensive to keep on the road saves thousands over the years, allowing owners to focus on enjoying their cars, not worrying about unexpected bills.

This comprehensive guide explores the cars with the lowest long-term maintenance costs. Each model is assessed for reliability, expected repair frequency, and value for money—important factors for global car enthusiasts, everyday drivers, and families alike. We also discuss recall histories and which model years are best avoided on the used market.

Why Maintenance Costs Matter in Car Ownership

From oil changes and brake pads to major repairs and unexpected recalls, maintenance costs can add up quickly. Some cars are engineered with reliability in mind, keeping parts and labor expenses minimal over the vehicle's life. Others may rack up steep bills as they age. Understanding which vehicles are the most affordable to maintain is crucial for making the best long-term investment.

Top 10 Cars with the Lowest 10-Year Maintenance Costs

Below, we dive deep into the ten vehicles that lead the pack in affordability, reliability, and overall ownership satisfaction.

Toyota Crown

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $4,932

Toyota's reputation for reliability extends to their luxury-tinged sedan, the Crown. Traditionally, Toyota reserved upscale features for Lexus, but the Crown proves mainstream models can also deliver premium comfort. With its elevated ride height, refined hybrid powertrain, and luxurious interior, the Crown stands out in the segment.

Vehicle Specifications & Performance:

• Hybrid powertrain for efficiency and low emissions
• Elevated suspension for premium comfort
• Plush, tech-loaded interior suitable for executive transport

Market Positioning & Design: Competing against midsize and full-size sedans, the Crown offers Lexus-level refinement with Toyota’s famed reliability.

Reliability & Maintenance:

• 0 recalls to date
• 12.3% chance of a repair over $500 in 10 years
• $833 less than the average sedan in first-decade maintenance costs

Worst Year To Buy Used: N/A

Toyota GR86

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $4,822

Affordable sports cars are enjoying renewed popularity, and the Toyota GR86 leads the charge for enthusiasts seeking affordable fun. This agile 2+2 coupe isn’t the swiftest in a straight line, but few cars offer as much driver engagement per dollar.

Design & Performance:

• Lightweight RWD platform
• Spirited flat-four engine
• 6-speed manual or automatic transmission for purists and daily drivers alike

Reliability & Maintenance:

• Remarkably low maintenance for a sports coupe
• $2,551 cheaper than the average coupe to maintain over a decade
• Only a 12.9% chance of a costly repair
• 2 total recalls (avoid 2019 models)

Worst Year To Buy Used: 2019

Toyota Camry

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $4,597

The Toyota Camry has been a pillar of reliability and practicality for families and commuters across the globe. Even as SUVs gain popularity, the Camry remains one of Toyota’s bestsellers thanks to its no-nonsense approach to transport.

Specifications & Value:

• Offered with fuel-efficient four-cylinder or powerful V6 engines
• Spacious cabin and trunk
• Advanced safety tech standard on most trims

Maintenance & Recall History:

• 45 recalls (notably 2007–2009 models—used buyers beware)
• $1,168 less to maintain than the segment average over 10 years
• 12.3% chance of major repair
• Yearly Maintenance: $388 (RepairPal)

Worst Years To Buy Used: 2007–2009

Toyota GR Corolla

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $4,590

While the Corolla name has long been synonymous with reliability, the GR Corolla injects excitement with a rally-inspired, 300-horsepower all-wheel drive hatchback. It brings daily practicality and low ownership costs to the performance hatchback segment.

Performance & Engineering:

• 1.6-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder
• Advanced AWD system
• Purpose-built for enthusiasts but still everyday comfortable

Reliability & Maintenance:

• Estimated $302 cheaper to maintain vs the average hatchback
• Just 1 recall to date
• No worst model years reported yet (still a newer release)

Worst Year To Buy Used: N/A

Toyota Prius

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $4,380

A pioneer in the hybrid sector, the Toyota Prius remains one of the most cost-effective models for eco-conscious drivers. The latest generation offers improved power and sharper handling, lifting its appeal beyond just frugal motoring.

Specs, Performance & Design:

• Efficient hybrid system with plug-in variant (Prius Prime)
• Updated design and improved driving dynamics
• Renowned for reliability and low emissions

Reliability & Maintenance:

• 31 recalls (notably avoid the 2010 model year)
• $512 less than the average hatchback for ten-year maintenance
• Yearly Maintenance Cost: $408 (RepairPal), PHEV model estimated at $4,443 over 10 years

Worst Year To Buy Used: 2010

Toyota Corolla

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $4,209

Dynamic front 3/4 shot of an orange 2026 Corolla Hatchback FX Edition driving through a city.Toyota

With a global reputation for affordability, practicality, and reliability, the Toyota Corolla is ideal for first-time buyers, students, and commuters. Simple yet efficient, it combines excellent fuel economy with an approachable price tag.

Specifications & Design:

• Compact platform, sedan and hatchback body styles
• Fuel-efficient powertrains
• Safety and infotainment tech well represented at all trims

Reliability & Maintenance:

• 47 recalls (avoid 2009 models)
• Hatchback variants are $683 cheaper to maintain than the average
• Yearly Maintenance Cost: $362 (RepairPal)

Worst Year To Buy Used: 2009

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $3,931

Static front 3/4 shot of a silver 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 SE parked on tarmac in the desert next to a cactus.Hyundai

Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 shows just how affordable owning an electric sedan can be. With impressive range, distinctive styling, and fast charging capabilities, the Ioniq 6 competes with the best electric cars on the market.

Performance & Features:

• Long-range electric powertrain, up to 361 miles per charge (EPA est.)
• Advanced safety and connectivity tech
• Futuristic, aerodynamic body

Reliability & Maintenance:

• 4 recalls to date
• $1,834 less to maintain over 10 years than the average sedan
• 18.3% chance of a $500+ repair (slightly higher due to new tech)

Worst Year To Buy Used: N/A

Fiat 500e

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $3,548

Front 3/4 action shot of a 2025 Fiat 500e Giorgio Armani Collector’s EditionStellantis

The Fiat 500e brings classic Italian city car charm to the EV market. Perfect for urban environments, it promises a blend of style, efficiency, and ultra-low running costs, even if Fiat’s reliability isn’t top-ranked.

Specs & Design:

• Compact dimensions for easy parking
• All-electric drivetrain with zippy city performance
• Quirky, fashionable styling

Maintenance Details:

• 6 recalls
• $1,344 less to maintain over 10 years than average hatchbacks
• Extremely low overall running costs

Worst Year To Buy Used: N/A

Nissan Leaf

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $3,237

Front 3/4 view of a white 2025 Nissan Leaf parked on tarmac outside of a brick building.Nissan

A pioneer among affordable electric vehicles, the Nissan Leaf is the least expensive new EV to maintain over the long run. Simple, practical, and with a budget-friendly MSRP, the Leaf has helped popularize EVs worldwide.

Specs & Features:

• Up to 212 miles range for the latest model
• Compact hatchback versatility
• Excellent value for city driving

Maintenance & Reliability:

• 17 recalls (2015 worth avoiding for used buyers)
• $1,655 less to maintain than segment average in ten years
• 16% chance of a major repair
• Yearly Maintenance Cost: $748 (RepairPal)

Worst Year To Buy Used: 2015

Toyota Mirai

Maintenance Cost During the First 10 Years: $3,222

Front 3/4 shot of a 2023 Toyota MiraiToyota Front 3/4 shot of a 2023 Toyota Mirai parked in front of a sunset

The cutting-edge Toyota Mirai represents the future of motoring with its hydrogen fuel cell technology. Though currently limited in availability (mostly California), this sedan delivers luxury features, rapid refueling, and an innovative approach to sustainability.

Game-Changing Technology:

• Hydrogen fuel cell powertrain enabling quick refueling and reduced emissions
• Premium cabin with advanced tech and materials

Reliability & Ownership:

• 2 recalls so far (excellent for such new tech)
• $2,543 less in maintenance than the average sedan over a decade
• Only a 12.3% chance of a major repair in 10 years

Worst Year To Buy Used: N/A

Comparisons and Takeaways

A pattern emerges among these top performers: Toyota dominates, with six of the ten lowest-maintenance models. Their consistent engineering and dedication to quality mean fewer breakdowns and lower costs over time. Electric vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 6, Nissan Leaf, Fiat 500e, and Toyota Mirai offer even deeper savings due to fewer moving parts and less routine service. However, it's essential to check recall histories and avoid problematic used model years where noted.

When choosing your next car, remember that price and performance are only part of the equation. Prioritizing reliability and low maintenance ensures your investment will last, your budget will thank you, and you'll spend more time driving and less time in the repair shop.

Choosing the Best Low Maintenance Car for Your Needs

When shopping for a new or used vehicle, consider your driving habits, local dealership and service center support, and parts availability. Urban drivers may prefer compact EVs like the Fiat 500e or Nissan Leaf, while families will appreciate the Camry and Corolla’s practicality. Performance enthusiasts have affordable options as well, such as the Toyota GR86 and GR Corolla.

Ultimately, selecting a car with low long-term maintenance costs is a smart financial choice, giving you peace of mind and enjoyable ownership for many miles to come. For more automotive news, buying guides, and detailed car comparisons, check back often!