5 Cars With Low Repair Costs

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Repair costs can determine how affordable a car really is over time.

Some models are known for having readily available parts and fewer issues. Choosing one of these vehicles, ranked for their low repair costs by Insurance Panda, can save owners money and help keep long-term ownership costs from getting out of hand.

1. Kia Soul 

• 2026 starting MSRP: $20,490
• Brake change: $294 to $340
• Oil change: $129 to $159
• Spark plug replacement: $235 to $293

Kia vehicles stand out for their rare 10-year/100,000-mile warranty and have a strong reputation for reliability and value. The Kia maintenance schedule (in the owner’s manual) recommends an oil change, tire rotation and fluids check every 7,500 miles, per Kelley Blue Book. If buying a used Kia, be sure to check for recalls and maintenance history.

2. Toyota Corolla

• 2026 starting MSRP: $22,925
• Brake change: $292 to $344
• Oil change: $131 to $160
• Spark plug replacement: $182 to $261

Drivers seeking dependable daily transportation have long since relied on the Toyota Corolla, thanks to its easy-to-find parts and simple, affordable repairs. Toyota’s use of synthetic motor oil allows the Corolla to go 10,000 miles between oil changes, per Kelley Blue Book. By following the recommended service schedule, replacing worn parts and keeping fluids checked and adjusted, owners can help ensure the Corolla lasts as long as possible.

3. Honda CR-V

• 2026 starting MSRP: $30,920
• Brake change: $257 to $311
• Oil change: $122 to $149
• Spark plug replacement: $169 to $245

The Honda CR-V is a popular model, making maintenance easier and more affordable. However, potential repairs on the all-wheel-drive model are more complex compared with the front-wheel-drive model, per Insurance Panda. Honda’s Maintenance Minder tracks driving conditions and alerts you on the dashboard when service is due, typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, per Kelley Blue Book.

4. Volkswagen Jetta

• 2026 starting MSRP: $23,995
• Brake change: $238 to $302
• Oil change: $151 to $174
• Spark plug replacement: $196 to $311

The Jetta is one of the more practical and affordable Volkswagens to maintain, per Insurance Panda. Volkswagen follows 10,000-mile service intervals, starting with an oil and filter change, brake inspection, and service reminder reset, per Kelley Blue Book. When your Jetta needs repairs, Insurance Panda recommends finding a reputable and experienced Volkswagen mechanic for the best prices.

5. Toyota Prius 

• 2026 starting MSRP: $28,550
• Brake change: $294 to $345
• Oil change: $136 to $165
• Spark plug replacement: $256 to $356

The current Prius uses synthetic oil, so oil and filter changes are typically needed every 10,000 miles, according to Kelley Blue Book. Regular maintenance will help keep the car running smoothly. Replacing the hybrid battery is the main long-term expense, per Insurance Panda.

Editor’s note: Brake change, oil change and spark plug replacement figures were sourced from RepairPal.

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