I'm a Mechanic: These SUVs Cost the Least To Maintain After 100K Miles
Which SUVs cost the least to maintain after 100,000 miles?
Chris Pyle, an auto expert with JustAnswer, said the answer depends more on the person in the driver's seat than the brand on the grille. If you take care of a vehicle, it can easily pass 100,000 miles without costing an arm and leg.
"There are some models of course that just struggle to stay out of the shop, regardless of how well you maintain them," Pyle said. But his top picks share a common trait: Customers report relatively minor repairs with original engines and transmissions well above 150,000 miles.
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Ford SUVs: Explorer, Expedition and Escape
Pyle listed three Ford SUVs as low-maintenance options after 100,000 miles. The Explorer, Expedition and Escape all get plenty of customers asking for help with minor repairs but report they're still on the original engine and transmission.
When diagnosing concerns on these Fords, Pyle normally hears responses about how good the vehicle has been. Owners report just normal maintenance has been done with no major component replacements.
Chevrolet: Equinox and Traverse
The Chevy Equinox and Traverse made Pyle's list for the same reasons as the Fords. Customers bring them in for routine work or small fixes rather than major repairs.
These Chevys frequently hit 150,000 miles or more on original drivetrains when properly maintained. Parts availability is excellent and repair costs stay reasonable compared to luxury brands.
Toyota: 4Runner, Highlander and RAV4
Toyota's reputation for reliability shows up in Pyle's real-world experience. The 4Runner, Highlander and RAV4 all deliver low maintenance costs after 100,000 miles.
Pyle often asks about prior repairs when diagnosing a concern. For these Toyotas, he normally gets responses about exceptional reliability with just oil changes, tires and brakes over the years: in other words, normal maintenance of wear and tear.
Honda: CR-V, Pilot and Passport
Honda matches Toyota for low-maintenance SUVs, according to Pyle. The CR-V, Pilot and Passport all make his recommended list.
Customers with these Hondas tell Pyle they've done normal maintenance and avoided major repair bills. The vehicles stay out of the shop for serious problems even as mileage climbs past 150,000.
Kia: Sportage and Sorento
Kia SUVs have improved significantly in recent years. Pyle included the Sportage and Sorento as solid low-maintenance choices after 100,000 miles.
These Kias cost less to buy than comparable Toyotas or Hondas. Parts prices stay reasonable and the vehicles hold up well when owners follow the maintenance schedule.
Hyundai: Tucson and Santa Fe
Hyundai shares platforms and engineering with Kia so similar reliability follows. The Tucson and Santa Fe both made Pyle's list of SUVs that cost the least to maintain.
Customers bring these Hyundais in for routine service rather than emergency repairs. Original engines and transmissions regularly exceed 150,000 miles, according to Pyle's shop experience.
The Maintenance Factor Matters Most
Pyle was clear that taking care of a vehicle determines long-term costs more than the brand name. Follow the service schedule, change oil on time and address small problems before they become big ones.
"It all comes down to the person in the driver's seat or the prior owner(s)," he said. A well-maintained Chevy Equinox will outlast a neglected Toyota RAV4.
When buying a used SUV with 100,000 miles or more, service records matter as much as the make and model. Ask for documentation showing oil changes, tire rotations and scheduled maintenance.
What To Avoid
Pyle mentioned some models struggle to stay out of the shop regardless of maintenance. He didn't name specific problem SUVs but the implication is clear: Avoid models with known engine, transmission or electrical issues.
Research reliability ratings and owner forums before buying. If a particular model year has widespread complaints about the same components failing, walk away regardless of price.
The Bottom Line
All 14 SUVs on Pyle's list share common traits. They use proven powertrains, parts are readily available and repair costs stay manageable. Customers report minor repairs rather than major component failures even at high mileage.
The Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Honda, Kia and Hyundai SUVs he recommended all deliver low maintenance costs after 100,000 miles when properly cared for. But maintenance history matters more than the badge on the hood.
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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