6 Low‑Cost Cars With Engines That Last for Years
When you’re shopping for a car, a few concerns should be uppermost in your mind. Cost matters, of course. But reliability deserves equal weight — especially when it comes to the engine. After all, the engine is one of the most expensive components to repair or replace.
Think of it this way: If there’s one thing you never want to hear from your mechanic, it’s “your engine is shot.” To help you avoid hearing those words anytime soon, MoneyLion explored budget-friendly vehicles with a track record of dependable engines, backed by expert insight and industry analysis.
1. Mazda3
As the founder and CEO of A1 Xpress, a family-owned courier and trucking company, Ford A. Smith knows how to spot a reliable vehicle. He’s a fan of the Mazda3 because its engine doesn’t rely on turbochargers or complex boost systems to produce power.
In practical terms, the engine is less complicated, with fewer moving parts that can wear out and require repair.
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“Mazda’s kept the engineering lean on this one, and it shows in the long-term reliability,” Smith said. “Built with tight tolerances, it runs cooler and cleaner than earlier-generation Mazda engines. It doesn’t burn oil, doesn’t overheat unless neglected, and has proven itself over a decade of production. With regular maintenance, it’s common to see these engines push well beyond 200,000 miles without a rebuild.”
Smith also notes that Mazda3 owners spend roughly $433 per year on routine maintenance, which is lower than many competitors in the compact-car segment.
“Simple engine, smart design, reliable materials and no gimmicks,” he said. “Stay on top of basic maintenance, and you’re in for a long service life.”
2. Toyota Prius
When it comes to hybrid vehicles, Smith likes the way the Toyota Prius engine is built. While many people associate hybrids with complexity, he points to this engine’s relative simplicity.
“The internal combustion engine in this setup is actually simpler and more durable than what you’ll find in many conventional gas-only vehicles,” he said. “And because the engine is part of a hybrid system, there’s no conventional automatic transmission bolted to it.”
He describes the Prius engine as a sealed system that minimizes wear and tear — which is why it’s not uncommon for these engines to last more than 200,000 miles with minimal problems.
“Even routine maintenance is easier on the wallet because belt-driven accessories like the A/C compressor and water pump are electric,” Smith said. “One less failure point, one less thing to replace. With regular oil changes and basic care, it’s common to rack up a lot of miles.”
3. Honda CR-V
Smith also has high praise for the Honda CR-V and its naturally aspirated i-VTEC engine.
“That engine is about as proven as it gets,” he said.
Hondas are known for longevity, and the i-VTEC system has been on the road for more than 20 years. Smith notes that in the CR-V, the system is tuned for consistency rather than performance extremes — a major factor in the vehicle’s durability.
“The engine is tuned for torque and efficiency, not aggressive throttle mapping,” he said. “Mechanics like working on them. That’s part of what makes them cheap to own.”
Smith adds that the CR-V averages roughly $400 to $450 per year in maintenance costs.
4. Honda Accord
When Orbi Motors compiled its own list of reliable car engines, it praised the 2.4L K-Series (K20/K24) commonly found in Honda Accords for its “smooth power delivery and bulletproof construction.”
With proper care — including regular oil changes and timely servicing — these engines are known to exceed 180,000 miles, with many lasting well beyond that mark.
5. BMW 3 Series
Orbi Motors also highlighted the 3.0L inline-six (N52) engine available in the BMW 3 Series, calling it “one of BMW’s most dependable non-turbo engines.”
The outlet cited its relatively simple construction and fewer failure-prone electronics as key contributors to the model’s longevity.
While maintenance costs for the 3 Series are typically higher than mass-market brands, the N52 engine has a solid reputation for longevity when properly cared for.
6. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is well known for handling a wide range of terrain, but it also earns praise for its 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine.
This horizontally opposed four-cylinder design lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity, which improves balance and handling while also contributing to engine stability.
The engine is widely regarded as a workhorse, capable of going the distance with regular maintenance.
The Bottom Line
When you’re shopping for your next car, reliability matters — especially when it comes to the engine. Choosing a budget-friendly vehicle with a proven powertrain can keep you out of the repair shop and help your money go further over the long haul.
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This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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