Buying a car is not just about the sticker price: it is about what drivers will pay long after they leave the dealership. For many people, reliability becomes the deciding factor in whether a car saves money or drains it. While a lower upfront price may seem appealing, unreliable vehicles often come with hidden repair costs that outweigh the initial savings.

“You want more stuff that’s imported, and unfortunately, it is more expensive with Toyota, Honda, [and] Mazda as well,” College of DuPage automotive technician student Jordy Carrillo said. “Anything that’s like imported outside of the United States is much more reliable because of their quality and parts. And their work ethics, I’d say are a bit more better than here.”

Carrillo also believes the work ethics are higher when the manufacturer is foreign. Others agree.

“As far as reliability goes? I think like Honda, some of the Nissans, Toyotas, I think they get very good recommendations regarding reliability,” a local resident said.

Hondas and Toyotas seem to be the most commonly mentioned for reliability, according to residents. The experts agree: according to annual vehicle dependability studies from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, brands like Toyota, Lexus, Honda, and Mazda frequently rank near the top for long-term reliability and owner satisfaction. These rankings are based on reported mechanical problems, maintenance issues, and overall owner experiences.

One reason these brands are often considered reliable is their long-lasting engines and consistent performance over time. With proper maintenance, many vehicles from these manufacturers can last well over 200,000 miles. This longevity can help drivers save money by reducing repair and replacement costs over time.

According to The Model Garage, one of the main reasons Honda vehicles have such impressive longevity is their meticulously engineered engines and transmissions. Honda’s four-cylinder engines, including the K-series and Earth Dreams technology, are built for durability and efficiency. With proper maintenance, many of these engines easily surpass 200,000 miles, and some owners report their Hondas still running strong past 300,000 miles.

That said, reliability also depends on how well drivers maintain their vehicles. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks can significantly extend the lifespan of a car. Even vehicles with strong reputations for reliability can develop expensive problems if maintenance is ignored.

Apart from that, what makes Toyota a reliable brand is because “not only are Toyota cars crafted by the best, with parts and features that are built to last, but they are constantly evolving with the times, creating new and innovative features designed to adapt to what the roads demand,” according to Toyota of Danvers.

While reliability is important, buyers — especially first-time car owners — should carefully research their options and avoid making emotional decisions.

“Don’t go crazy. Start with a beater. Stay within your price range and don’t do anything stupid,” a local resident said.

“Be smart. Don’t be dumb, but if you’re gonna be smart, be smart in a luxurious way. You know… Don’t go for the really super performance cars. Don’t go for anything that’s already like eye candy. Basically, you want to go to the smart options,” Carrillo said.

For first-time buyers, choosing a reliable vehicle can make a major financial difference. While flashy sports cars and luxury vehicles may be appealing, dependable vehicles with affordable maintenance costs may ultimately provide more value in the long run.