LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Buying a car this month for a student heading off to school? Or just need a used car for yourself?
You can save a lot of hassle and money if you buy a reliable used car.
Consumer Reports recently released a ratings list of the most reliable car brands. It includes Lexus, Toyota, Mazda, Acura, and Honda in the top five.
One study finds that some 5-10 year old used cars offer much better value, clocking in with better value and longer lifespans than ever before.
A recent report from Kelley Blue Book looked at the total cost of a car over five years, based on insurance, maintenance costs, fuel, and depreciation.
Like Consumer Reports, it says the cheapest brands to own over five years are Toyota and Lexus.
The lowest cost to own SUVs include the Subaru Forester and Outback, Nissan Altima, and Acura MDX. The lowest cost cars include the Toyota Corolla and the Honda Accord.
Buying a used vehicle and making it last is all about following the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle. It's also smart to order a CarFax report and do an inspection on any vehicle before you buy it to make sure it received regular maintenance.
More area business stories:
Buffalo Trace Distillery is back to business after historic flooding in April
Barry Bagels set to open 3rd Louisville location downtown
Texas Roadhouse doubles down in Louisville with $25M purchase of corporate headquarters
Gourmet cinnamon roll bakery set to open 1st Kentucky location in St. Matthews
