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10 Solid Cars That Will Last a Long Time

These cars can offer good value over the long haul.

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Updated Sept. 24, 2024
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With proper care and regular maintenance, today’s cars can often last 200,000 miles or more. Once your car is paid for, yearly costs will mostly come down to maintenance.

You will still need to pay for car insurance and registration fees, of course. 

But if you pick a good, reliable vehicle, you can drive it for 10 or more years. If you are in the market for a new vehicle, here are the cars that will last a long time.

The five-year maintenance costs come from research by CarEdge.

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Toyota Camry

Courtesy of Toyota toyota camry

2024 model MSRP: $26,420

Five-year maintenance cost: $1,168

Consumer reviews praise the Toyota Camry for being easy to drive and having responsive handling. The Camry gets a combined 32 mpg. So, even though it’s a midsize sedan, it’s almost as fuel-efficient as a compact car.

According to a survey from Consumer Reports, Toyota models have fewer problems than cars from other brands.

Toyota Prius

Courtesy of Toyota toyota prius

2024 model MSRP: $27,950

Five-year maintenance cost: $1,124

The Toyota Prius was one of the first hybrid cars available for purchase and it’s still as popular as ever. Drivers love this zippy, hybrid model because it combines Toyota’s reputation for reliability with incredible fuel efficiency.

A Toyota Prius gets combined 52 or 57 MPG, depending on the model. You can expect to travel around 40 miles operating in electric-only mode. 

Despite introducing cutting-edge technology, Toyota has managed to keep the price reasonable, making this a great choice for those looking for a hybrid vehicle.

Honda Accord

Courtesy of Honda honda accord

2024 model MSRP: $27,895

Five-year maintenance cost: $1,485

Customers often compare the Honda Accord to vehicles from premium brands such as Audi. What impresses people about this midsize sedan is how smooth the drive is, even going over bumps or turning corners.

If you keep up with regular maintenance, it’s not unheard of for an Accord to last 300,000 miles.

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Honda CR-V

Courtesy of Honda black honda cr v

2024 model MSRP: $30,100

Five-year maintenance cost: $1,925

A Honda CR-V has an MPG of 28 in the city and 34 on the highway. It is a small SUV that is perfect for families and individual drivers alike.

With ample legroom and storage space, you don’t have to choose between passengers or cargo — there is plenty of room for both. Provided you keep up with recommended maintenance, you can anticipate driving a Honda CR-V for many years.

Toyota Tacoma

Courtesy of Toyota toyota tacoma

2024 model MSRP: $31,500

Five-year maintenance cost: $1,757

The Toyota Tacoma has a loyal following. Perhaps that is due to how affordable the midsize truck is compared to its competitors.

When it’s time to upgrade, these vehicles have great resale value. Tacomas are made to be reliable and durable. Many drivers report logging 300,000 miles or more on their vehicles.

Toyota Tundra

Courtesy of Toyota Toyota Tundra

2024 model MSRP: $39,965

Five-year maintenance cost: $1,916

The Tundra is Toyota’s full-size truck option. It’s known for its reliability and durability, with a couple of owners pushing the odometer beyond 1 million miles on their vehicles.

Beyond the vehicle’s long lifespan and hauling capacity, drivers love how comfortable this truck is when traveling everything from city roads to country lanes.

Toyota Corolla

Courtesy of Toyota toyota corolla

2024 model MSRP: $22,050

Five-year maintenance cost: $1,110

The Toyota Corolla is a low-cost, fuel-efficient, and reliable vehicle, making it a great car for new drivers, families, or retirees.

Because of its long lifespan, you might be able to save even more money by buying an older model that will still last for many years. This compact car isn’t made to be flashy or fancy, but if you’re looking for an affordable, compact car that will last, the Corolla fits the bill.

Honda Odyssey

Courtesy of Honda A Honda Odyssey

2024 model MSRP: $38,240

Five-year maintenance cost: $1,996

The Honda Odyssey has won the hearts of many drivers. Its dual power-sliding doors and reliability are highlights.

Whether you are hauling a bunch of people around town or embarking on cross-country road trips, this minivan offers comfort and safety to all your passengers. The Odyssey also has a reputation for lasting up to 300,000 miles.

Ford F-150

Courtesy of Ford Ford F-150

2024 model MSRP: $36,965

Five-year maintenance cost: $2,718

Durability is one of the strong selling points for the Ford F-150 full-size truck. This truck can tow trailers, campers, or RVs with relative ease.

The Ford F-150 typically will last for 150,000 to 200,000 miles. For those looking for a tough truck that can handle all kinds of terrain, it’s tough to beat the power and performance of this vehicle.

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Mazda MX-5 Miata

Courtesy of Mazda mazda miata

2024 model MSRP: $28,985

Five-year maintenance cost: $1,564

If you are looking for an affordable car full of personality, the Mazda MX-5 Miata should be at the top of your list.

The sporty car is great for driving through the mountains or winding down the coast. Not only does this reasonably priced car help you keep more cash in your wallet, it earns an excellent reliability score from Consumer Reports.

Bottom line

Song_about_summer/Adobe travel by car

One of the best money moves for car owners is to buy a reliable vehicle that will last. So, make sure you account for maintenance, insurance, and gas when deciding what vehicle to buy.

While purchase price is important, figuring out your costs over the lifetime of the vehicle will help give you a more accurate picture of the total cost.

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