The Best Low-Maintenance Cars That Won’t Break the Bank

The Best Low-Maintenance Cars for Budget-Conscious Drivers

Are you searching for the best low-maintenance car brands in 2025? Whether you're a first-time buyer, a budget-conscious driver, or simply seeking a dependable vehicle with fewer repair costs, knowing which car brands offer the most value is essential. 

In this article, we present the Top 10 Low-Maintenance Cars of 2025, categorizing them based on what matters most to drivers today: fuel efficiency, long-term reliability, affordability, spaciousness, and modern innovation.

Overview

Fuel Efficiency Leaders

Vehicles like the Toyota Prius are renowned for their exceptional mileage, significantly reducing gas expenses.

Reliability Icons

Models such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry boast reputations for durability, leading to fewer unexpected repairs and lower maintenance costs.

Budget-Friendly Options

Cars like the Ford Fiesta and Chevrolet Spark offer low initial purchase prices and economical running costs, making them accessible to first-time buyers.

Spacious and Practical Choices

The Honda CR-V and Subaru Outback provide ample cargo space and all-weather capability while maintaining reasonable maintenance demands.

Luxury with Lower Upkeep

The Lexus RX offers a premium driving experience with lower maintenance costs than other luxury brands.

Electric Vehicle Advantages

Tesla Model 3 and other EVs minimize traditional maintenance needs like oil changes, though battery care is a consideration.

Other Notable Maintenance Tips

Following the manufacturer's recommended service intervals and practicing responsible driving habits can reduce repair costs and extend vehicle lifespan.

Low-maintenance Car Brands Mentioned in This Guide

Here are the best cars for low maintenance costs in 2025:

• Toyota Prius

• Toyota Corolla

• Honda Civic

• Toyota Camry

• Nissan Versa

• Chevrolet Trax

• Honda CR-V 

• Subaru Outback

• Lexus RX

• Lucid Air Pure 

What Makes a Car Low-Maintenance?

In addition to finding the most affordable places to buy cars, it’s important to know which brand offers the best value. Several characteristics make a car low-maintenance. These include:

• Fuel Efficiency: A key feature of low-maintenance cars in the United States is their fuel efficiency. MPG, or miles per gallon, measures how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. A higher MPG means the car uses fuel more efficiently. In 2025, achieving a combined fuel economy of 33 miles per gallon (MPG) or higher is considered good gas mileage.

• Longer Service Intervals: Some vehicles are designed with longer intervals between scheduled maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine checks.

• Lower Repair Costs: When repairs are necessary, some cars have simpler systems or more readily available expertise, leading to lower labor costs.

• Readily Available and Affordable Parts: Cars from popular manufacturers typically have a wide range of replacement parts available at competitive prices.

• Reliability and Durability: Some manufacturers have a long-standing reputation for building reliable and durable vehicles that are less prone to breakdowns. Cars with less complex designs and fewer moving parts often experience fewer issues. Use of high-quality materials and manufacturing processes contributes to the longevity of parts.  

• Strong Warranty and Support: A good manufacturer's warranty can cover unexpected repairs during the initial ownership period, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

Fuel-Efficient Leaders

Toyota Prius (Hybrid)

The Toyota Prius is now a plug-in hybrid that combines fuel efficiency, enhanced driving dynamics, and a more appealing design.

• Starting Price: $28,350

• MPG: 57 Combined

• Horsepower: 194-196 Net Combined

• Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

• Key Features: Prius Plug-In Hybrid offers an all-electric range of up to 44 miles.

Toyota Corolla (Hybrid)

It features a hybrid engine that generates 169 horsepower, along with available Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and an optional Sport Mode. According to the 2025 Consumer Reports, hybrid vehicles have the best reliability among electrified powertrains.

• Starting Price: $22,325

• MPG: 35 Combined 

• Horsepower: 169

• Drive Type: FWD or AWD

• Key Features: Advanced safety technologies like Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

Reliability Icons

Honda Civic

With 92 awards, Honda has won more accolades from Car and Driver than any other brand. The 2024 Civic has been named to the 10 Best Cars list. Honda Civic has built a reputation for its durability, resulting in fewer unexpected repairs and lower maintenance costs.

• Starting Price: $24,250

• MPG: 50 City/47 Highway

• Horsepower: 200

• Drive Type: FWD

• Key Features: Comes with Google built-in, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto

Toyota Camry

The Camry has a long-standing reputation for reliability and durability, having been a popular choice for decades.

• Starting Price: $28,700

• MPG: 51 Combined

• Horsepower: 232 Net Combined

• Drive Type:  FWD or Electronic On-Demand AWD

• Key Features: Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), advanced driver assistance

Budget-Friendly Low-Maintenance Cars

Nissan Versa

The Nissan Versa is an affordable subcompact sedan recognized for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and many standard safety features. While the Nissan Versa has a low starting price, its total cost of ownership remains economical due to excellent fuel economy and affordable insurance rates.

• Starting Price: $17,190

• MPG: 32 City/40 Highway

• Horsepower: 122

• Drive Type: FWD

• Key Features: Safety (Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert)

Chevrolet Trax

The Chevrolet Trax is commended for its fuel efficiency, lively engine, and comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for urban commutes and highway driving.

• Starting Price: $20,500

• MPG: 30 Combined

• Horsepower: 137

• Drive Type: FWD

• Key Features: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Spacious and Practical Choices

Honda CR-V 

The Honda CR-V is renowned for its reliability and longevity. It usually has lower maintenance costs compared to other cars. These cars provide ample cargo space and all-weather capability while maintaining reasonable maintenance demands. 

• Starting Price: $30,100

• MPG: 40 City/34 Highway

• Horsepower: 204 Hybrid Powertrain

• Drive Type: Real-Time AWD

• Key Features: Up to 76.5 cubic feet of cargo

Subaru Outback

The 2025 Outback is affordable, reliable, and safe in all weather conditions. It is also durable, making it practical for singles, families, and empty nesters. Outback is a sensible choice for people who want to maximize their car usage.

• Starting Price: $29,010

• MPG: 26 City/32 Highway

• Horsepower: 182-260

• Drive Type: AWD

• Key Features: Up to 9.5 inches of Ground Clearance

Luxury Car with Low Maintenance Cost

Lexus RX

The Lexus RX is known for its comfortable ride and nice interior. It offers good quality, even though it's not the sportiest compact luxury SUV. Lexus offers a premium driving experience without the high maintenance costs typically associated with other luxury brands.

• Starting Price: $50,475

• MPG: 26 City/32 Highway

• Horsepower: 275

• Drive Type: AWD or FWD

• Key Features: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Integration, Lexus Safety System

Electric-Powered Car

Lucid Air Pure 

According to the US Department of Energy, Lucid Air Pure is listed as the top all-electric vehicle (EV) in 2025. Lucid Air Pure reduces traditional maintenance requirements, such as oil changes, although battery maintenance remains essential. It is considered the best low-maintenance car available due to its high MPG.

• Starting Price: $71,400

• MPG: 146

• Horsepower: 430

• Drive Type: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or  AWD

• Key Features: 420 miles of estimated driving range, 12-way power-adjustable heated front seats, and many driver-assistance features

Tips for the Proper Care of Low-Maintenance Cars

Here are some tips to make sure your low-maintenance SUV stays in good condition:

• Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule to keep your vehicle running well.

• Regularly check essential fluids, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, and battery.

• Maintain your tire pressure at the recommended level for improved fuel efficiency and extended tire life.

• Rotate your tires regularly for even wear.

• Inspect your brakes often.

• Change the engine and cabin air filters as recommended.

• Wash your car regularly to maintain its appearance and protect the paint from damage.

• Address minor issues promptly to prevent future problems.

• Use high-quality replacement parts and fluids.

• Find a reliable mechanic for your car's needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most reliable car with low maintenance costs?

The Toyota Prius is widely regarded as one of the most reliable cars, boasting low maintenance costs due to its proven hybrid technology, excellent fuel efficiency, and strong track record of durability.

Which car is best for low maintenance?

The Toyota Corolla is one of the most reliable and low-maintenance cars, offering excellent fuel efficiency and a budget-friendly starting price.

What car has the fewest problems?

The Toyota Corolla is renowned for having the fewest problems among compact cars, thanks to its exceptional reliability, straightforward design, and strong track record spanning many years.

What is the cheapest luxury car to maintain?

The Lexus ES is often regarded as the most affordable luxury car to maintain. It offers long-term reliability, affordable service costs, and high-quality features typically found in more expensive brands.

What are the cheapest cars to maintain over 10 years?

The Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Toyota Prius are among the most affordable cars to maintain over a 10-year period, thanks to their outstanding reliability, low repair frequency, and reasonably priced parts.