Buying a new car can be exciting, but it is important to think about the entire cost of ownership. It goes beyond the sticker price and monthly payments. You have to consider maintenance expenses, registration fees, and possibly even property taxes (depending on where you live). That said, these are the five cheapest car brands to own, according to repair data.
What Are The Cheapest Car Brands to Own?
1. Tesla
Tesla tops the list as one of the cheapest car brands over a 10-year lifespan. According to Consumer Reports, owners spend an average of $4,035 on maintenance, far less than traditional brands. That’s because EVs have fewer moving parts—no oil changes, no spark plugs—just tires and occasional brake servicing. Yes, tire wear can be faster, but even factoring that in, Tesla still leads in cost savings. Simply put, Tesla proves that electric car ownership can be ultra-affordable over time.
2. Buick
Surprisingly, Buick emerges as another top “cheap to maintain” brand, right behind Tesla. Consumer Reports shows a 10-year maintenance average of $4,900, tied with Toyota. What helps Buick stand out is the simplicity and availability of parts—many models share components with GM-sourced vehicles. That translates to low repair bills and ready access to service. For drivers wanting traditional gas power without surprise costs, Buick is a solid bet.
3. Toyota
Toyota needs little introduction—and it turns out, it’s one of the cheapest car brands to maintain. With the same 10-year cost as Buick—around $4,900—Toyota consistently ranks in top value lists. CarEdge lists Toyota second only to Fiat for low cumulative maintenance costs. Models like the Camry and Corolla are known for lasting hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal surprises. Reliable reputation? Absolutely—and your wallet will applaud, too.
4. Lincoln & Ford (Tie)
American brands are making a comeback on value lists. Lincoln comes in at fourth with just over $5,000 in 10-year maintenance costs. Meanwhile, Ford isn’t far behind, averaging $5,400. These brands combine affordable parts with widespread service networks, meaning even when something goes wrong, you’re not breaking the bank. Plus, Ford and Lincoln offer attractive warranty and service packages that reduce expenses early on. If you’re craving American comfort with low upkeep, both are excellent choices.
5. Chevrolet & Others
Rounding out the top five are Chevrolet at $5,550, followed by Hyundai ($5,640), Nissan ($5,700), Mazda ($5,800), and Honda ($5,850). Chevrolet represents reliable value in its class—small sedans and trucks are relatively inexpensive to service. Hyundai’s strong factory warranty reduces early-ownership costs, and parts are affordable. Nissan, Mazda, and Honda all benefit from Japanese-engineered reliability and easy service access. These brands show that dependable and affordable car ownership is still alive and well.
These Vehicles Offer Value That Lasts
Choosing one of these cheapest car brands ensures your ongoing costs stay manageable. It’s not hype—it’s real repair-data savings you’ll feel month after month. From Tesla’s sleek electric simplicity to Toyota’s dependable workhorses, these brands stand out for affordability. Your ideal car lives beyond the price tag; it’s defined by what you don’t spend later.
Which budget-friendly brand are you leaning toward? Have you had great (or not-so-great) experiences with one of these brands? Share your stories in the comments below!
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