Although buying a car can be a major decision, it is not the only one. It will eventually need service. What will it cost to repair the model you are interested in?
You can find out. CarMD crunched the numbers in its 2018 Vehicle Health Index(tm). They analyzed 5.6 million vehicles that had a check-engine light on in 2018 and determined which makes and models were the most affordable to fix. These are the results:
1. Mazda
The Japanese automaker was the top-ranked with $285.70 as the average cost of check-engine-related repairs. If you love convertibles, you are in luck. The 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata was the cheapest Mazda model to repair, at an average $81.
2. KIA
The average repair cost for this South Korean automaker was $319.97. Which model was the cheapest to repair? The 2016 KIA Soul had a repair cost of approximately $70. Frugal friends, check out how much your favorite products cost when they were first produced.
3. Dodge
The average cost of fixing this American automaker is $326.41. At $144, the 2017 Dodge Durango was among the most affordable to repair. Here are 7 ways you’re wasting money on your car maintenance.
4. Hyundai
Hyundai has fallen in the rankings since 2017, when it occupied the top spot. The average repair cost for 2018 by the South Korean automaker was $328.32. What is the most affordable model? The average cost to fix the 2017 Hyundai Tucson was just $66
5. Chrysler
The average cost of repairing a Chrysler with engine problems was $329.43 in 2018. With an average cost of $204 per repair, the mid-sized 2017 Chrysler 200 was America’s most affordable carmaker. Find out the 14 signs your car’s about to die.
6. Jeep
In 2018, Jeep owners spent an average of $338.57 to fix their check engine lights. The 2017 Wrangler was the most affordable model, costing an average $120 to fix.
8. VW
The average repair cost for this German carmaker was $357.92. The 2017 VW Tiguan is a great choice if you love VW cars and want to save some money. It cost an average of $121 for engine-related repairs.
9. Honda
Although the Japanese automaker did not make it onto the 2017 list, repairs in 2018 averaged $426.86. Which model is the most affordable? The 2016 Honda CR-V is the most economical model, at $136 per year in average repairs. Be sure to check out the best and worst car brands ranked for customer satisfaction.
10. Toyota
Another prominent Japanese automaker made it to the top ten in 2018, but not 2017. The best way to save money is? The 2014 Prius C has an average engine repair p