LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Thinking about buying a new or used car in the new year? Experts say choosing a reliable vehicle can save you thousands of dollars and prevent major repair headaches down the road.
Consumer Reports recently released its latest rankings of the most reliable car brands, with Lexus, Toyota, Mazda, Acura and Honda topping the list. Mechanics say those brands are often easier to maintain and tend to have fewer long-term issues.
A separate study found that many 5- to 10-year-old vehicles are lasting longer than ever, making used cars a better value for buyers who do their research. Kelley Blue Book also analyzed the total cost of owning a car over five years, factoring in maintenance, insurance, fuel and depreciation. Toyota and Lexus ranked among the least expensive brands to own.
Experts recommend buyers always get a vehicle history report and a professional inspection before purchasing a used car. They also stress the importance of following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to keep a vehicle running longer.
Before you buy, consumer advocates say checking reliability ratings could make the difference between a dependable ride and costly repairs.
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