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Yahoo
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
I Have Driven Over 250 Car Models: These Are the 3 Best and Worst for Your Money
With so many models and options on the market, choosing the right car for your money isn't easy. The wrong choice leaves you trapped in a money pit, draining your finances with repair costs, poor gas mileage and lack of options to recoup your investment. But the right car purchase serve you well for years with affordable upkeep, great fuel economy and strong resale value. Find Out: Check Out: To help you get the most bang for your buck, we spoke to Melanie Musson, an auto industry expert with to get her opinion on the car models she thinks are the best value, as well as which are the worst. Best Values Honda Civic The Honda Civic is a compact sedan with great fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of up to 36 mpg combined for models with the 1.5L turbo engine. The base model 2024 Honda Civic LX has a starting MSRP of $23,950. Don't let the small size fool you — the Civic's well-designed interior gives you plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Its strong resale value and low maintenance costs make it a smart choice for those seeking a dependable and economical vehicle. 'They have very few problems even when they reach high mileage,' said Musson. 'They're luxurious at a budget price.' Good To Know: Honda Odyssey If you're looking for a minivan, the Honda Odyssey is a great pick. The cavernous interior provides comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, and the powerful V6 engine delivers smooth performance while still achieving a respectable 22 mpg combined. The starting MSRP is $38,240, and it will serve you well for over 200,000 miles with just routine maintenance. 'The Honda Civic and Honda Odyssey are two of the most reliable vehicles,' said Musson. 'Their safety features make you feel secure.' Subaru Outback The Subaru Outback is a rugged midsize SUV with all-wheel-drive capability and solid fuel efficiency at 29 mpg combined. The roomy interior carries a lot of cargo. Subaru is also known for its durability — you should expect it to last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. 'Subaru Outbacks are great buys for your money,' Musson said. 'The all-wheel-drive standard feature is hard to beat. The interior has a great, user-friendly design. They're workhorses and will provide reliable service for years.' Worst Values Ram 2500/3500 Diesel If you're in the market for a truck, you may want to think twice about the diesel engine RAM 2500 or 3500. You might be drawn to the macho image of heavy-duty trucks, but diesel engines require more expensive maintenance and repairs. 'One of the worst vehicles for your money is a Ram diesel,' Musson said. 'The parts on a diesel truck are ridiculously expensive. Not every mechanic will work on a diesel, so your options for repair shops are limited. The parts fail, and you'll need repairs frequently.' But what makes these trucks a bad value is their poor fuel economy. With an estimated 15-20 mpg combined, you'll spend big bucks at the pump. Diesel fuel also tends to be more expensive than gas, which will add up over time. Land Rover Range Rover Another worst buy, according to Musson, is the Land Rover Range Rover. While they're undeniably stylish, she says they're a maintenance nightmare. 'Their starting price is high, so you'd expect reliability,' said Musson. 'That's not the case though. They're one of the least reliable vehicles, and they're frustrating when parts start breaking down.' The starting MSRP for the 2024 model is $107,400. For most buyers, these luxury SUVs just aren't worth the financial pain. Ford Focus The Ford Focus has been a popular choice for car buyers on a budget for a long time. Ford has recently stopped making the Focus. You might be tempted to get an even better bargain by picking up a used one. But even for the price, they underperform consistently. One of the main issues is poor reliability. 'Skip the Ford Focus,' said Musson. 'It's a budget car to begin with, so at least you're not spending a ton on the purchase price. However, it's the kind of car that just has a lot of annoying problems like window electronics that stop working and a noisy ride.' You might get a great deal upfront, but the high likelihood of costly repairs and low resale value make it a poor choice. More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard 10 Genius Things Warren Buffett Says To Do With Your Money 7 Tax Loopholes the Rich Use To Pay Less and Build More Wealth This article originally appeared on I Have Driven Over 250 Car Models: These Are the 3 Best and Worst for Your Money
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
3 SUVs That Will Break Down More Than the Average Vehicle
Not all SUVs are built with long-term reliability in mind, and some models are more likely to leave you dealing with unexpected repair bills. 'While some are known for their exceptional reliability, others are prone to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs,' explained Ruth Calkins, general manager and car expert at Findbyplate. 'This is just one of the reasons buyers shouldn't be easily swayed by the physical appearance or feature of an SUV when deciding to buy.' Trending Now: Find Out: If you're shopping for a dependable ride, these are three SUVs experts say tend to break down more often than the average vehicle. The Land Rover Range Rover isn't cheap. Kelley Blue Book shows a starting MSRP of over $109,000 brand new, but 'it costs a lot of money to buy new, but it loses value quickly because of how problematic ownership can become,' Melanie Musson, auto industry expert with wrote in an email. One of the most frustrating issues is with the infotainment system, which often malfunctions, as well as electrical issues and air suspension failures. 'Engine problems can result in repairs that take weeks to restore the vehicle's operational status,' Musson added. Consider This: The Volkswagen Taos is notorious for its engine issues, which are expensive to repair. According to Edmunds reviewers, maintenance issues are frequent, and the vehicle has unreliable electronics and some have faced costly repairs early on in ownership. 'Fuel system problems can cause drivers to run out of gas because the gauges malfunction, preventing them from accurately indicating the fuel level,' Musson wrote. 'The brakes often wear out quickly,' she added. This leads to frequent brake service, which can be costly. While it's known for off-roading, it doesn't mean the Jeep Grand Cherokee is reliable overall. 'Jeep, as a whole, has a reputation for breaking down,' Musson said. 'With the Grand Cherokee, different model years tend to have varying breakdown issues; however, there are consistently recurring issues that affect reliability and are frustrating for owners to have to repair.' This doesn't apply only to the newest model. 'There is also a serious concern with the fact that the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been recalled 11 times by NHTSA, over various safety concerns including issues with airbags, electrical systems, suspension and steering,' Calkins wrote. 'This recall points to potential gaps in the design or manufacturing of this vehicle, that may compromise its reliability as well as safety.' More From GOBankingRates 7 Luxury SUVs That Will Become Affordable in 2025 This article originally appeared on 3 SUVs That Will Break Down More Than the Average Vehicle
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
4 SUVs That Will Break Down Less Than the Average Vehicle
When you're shopping for an SUV, there's one thing you don't want to overlook: Reliability. After all, no one wants to deal with unexpected breakdowns or expensive repairs a few months or years down the road. Trending Now: Read Next: If you're looking for a vehicle built to last and won't leave you stranded, these four SUVs are less likely to break down compared to the average vehicle. The Honda CR-V has a reputation for being a long-lasting, reliable vehicle. CarEdge reported the CR-V's maintenance costs beat the industry average for popular SUV models by $543. 'The CR-V has been one of the most dependable SUVs for years. It's manufactured to last longer than the warranty,' Melanie Musson, auto industry expert with wrote in an email. 'It's unfortunate that many vehicles are built to make it to the end of the warranty, so the manufacturer isn't liable to fix the common issues.' According to Musson, the CR-V engine and transmission were designed to outlast the competition. 'This reputation has taken years to build, and owners can expect a CR-V to last 25% to 50% longer than other small SUV competitors,' she added. For You: The RAV4 is a popular Toyota compact SUV known for its solid build and reliability. Car maintenance is $1,600 lower than the industry average within the first five years, CarEdge found. 'The RAV4 breaks down less frequently than the average vehicle because its engine and transmission are engineered with reliability as a priority,' Musson explained. 'The brakes, fluids and electrical system can last for years and require only regular maintenance to achieve maximum lifespan.' That reliability is also supported by its standout powertrain. 'There is also the fact that this vehicle comes with a relatively simple powertrain (especially the hybrid) that makes it easier to maintain and repair,' Ruth Calkins, general manager and car expert at Findbyplate, told GOBankingRates in an email. Another vehicle that breaks down less often is the Lexus NX, specifically the hybrid. According to Calkins, this SUV comes with advanced safety features, a reliable powertrain and a reputation for durability. 'There is also the advantage that the cost of maintaining both of these SUVs is relatively low compared to other models in their class,' she added. CarEdge reported that maintenance costs within the first five years beat the industry average for luxury SUVs by over $3,000. Maintenance and repairs for the Subaru Forester cost less than average during its first five years, but there's a higher chance of something happening between six and ten years of ownership, according to CarEdge. 'The Forester uses high-quality parts in its manufacturing, which is why it may cost more than similarly sized vehicles,' Musson wrote. 'Still, what you get in terms of reliability, durability and peace of mind is often worth it for owners.' More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard 4 Housing Markets That Have Plummeted in Value Over the Past 5 Years 4 Affordable Car Brands You Won't Regret Buying in 2025 This article originally appeared on 4 SUVs That Will Break Down Less Than the Average Vehicle
Epoch Times
30-04-2025
- Automotive
- Epoch Times
GM Recalls 600,000 US Cadillac, Chevy and GMC Automobiles
General Motors announced it is recalling 600,000 SUVs and trucks in the United States because of defects that could lead to engine problems. GM said in an Vehicles being recalled include 2021 through 2024 model-year Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV; Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe; and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with 6.2L V8 gas engines. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration initiated an investigation in January into reports of engine breakdowns in GM vehicles with the V8 engine. Drivers were hearing knocking or banging sounds and seeing the 'check engine' light turning on. After conducting its own inquiry, GM reported 12 crashes and 12 injuries possibly related to the engine problem. GM identified 28,102 field complaints or incidents related to the engine issues, of which 14,332 allegedly lost propulsion. Related Stories 4/11/2025 3/31/2025 Some 600,000 vehicles in the United States are included in the recall, but only 3 percent have the malfunction, according to GM. Letters to owners are expected to be mailed starting June 9. 'While the recall is currently voluntary, it is critical for GM drivers with vehicles identified in the recall to have their vehicles inspected,' Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm attorney Rhyan Lindley told NTD in an email on April 29. Dealers have vowed to inspect the affected vehicles and if needed, repair or replace the engine without cost. The cost of the recall is undisclosed by GM, but will likely be high, according to German Car Depot owner Alan Gelfand. 'People should always ask about loaner vehicles when they make an appointment for recall work, and an affected GM vehicle owner should book their recall service appointment as soon as they receive their notification,' Gelfand told NTD on April 29. But vehicle owners were advised that the recall might not go smoothly. 'Those who have vehicles that are part of the recall will likely face extensive wait times for repairs and the inconvenience of being without their vehicle for a while,' auto industry expert Melanie Musson told NTD on April 29. 'The dealership may offer a loaner or a rental, but it's not guaranteed.' provides insurance and auto industry education. 'They are not replacing entire cars—only repairing or replacing engines when necessary,' EpicVIN chief marketing officer Alex Black told NTD on April 29. 'If your engine passes the test, you'll receive new oil, a new oil filter, and a new oil cap.' EpicVIN is a vehicle history reports platform. The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.
Yahoo
22-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Tariffs have "a profound effect" on new car prices — but may boost value of your used car
On April 2, a month-long reprieve that U.S. automakers were given from a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports is set to expire. That means car prices are expected to rise dramatically, given that they'll also be impacted by President Trump's 25% tariff on steel and aluminum, which went into effect last week. The steel and aluminum tariffs alone are 'going to have a profound effect on the prices of vehicles,' Joe Giranda, director of sales and marketing for CFR Classic, told Salon. Combined with the tariff on Mexico and Canada — countries that provide supplies for U.S. automakers — he said he expects prices to rise by as much as $4,000 to $10,000 per vehicle. So, what does this uplifting economic news mean for you? That depends. If you were already planning on buying a car, experts agree: Buy it before Trump's tariffs take effect. 'If buying a new car was in your plans for the first half of the year, and you've been saving for a down payment and have worked the car into your budget, then you should do some car shopping,' Melanie Musson, an auto industry expert with told Salon. Used car prices tend to increase alongside new car prices, Musson said. Experts also encourage consumers to make mechanical repairs to their cars before the tariffs take effect, too, since tariffs will likely raise the price of auto parts. Shoppers who already have a vehicle they can sell or trade in may find themselves in a better situation, Musson said. 'If new cars are more expensive, your used car will likely be worth more, which will help offset the cost of a new car,' she told Salon. But for anybody who wasn't planning on buying a new car, the advice from experts is clear: Don't make financial decisions from a place of fear. 'There's no need to put yourself in a position where you could be financially strapped just because you're afraid that car prices could increase,' Musson said. 'No one knows for sure what will happen, and this is not a time to panic.' Nearly 92% of American households have at least one car, according to Forbes Advisor; a fifth of U.S. households have three. Much of this is because America is built for car ownership: Urban walkable areas account for just 1.2% of the nation's land mass, and the average American now lives 27 miles away from their job — a figure that may be distorted by remote workers living further away from their workplaces than regular commuters. For most American workers, it's not a practical option to live without a car if you can afford one. Unless you're living in a handful of mostly expensive, East Coast cities with robust public transit, you're often left to rely on an underfunded, unreliable and disparately connected patchwork of a transit system, one that might turn a 15-minute commute into one that takes an hour or more. 'North America really is unique in the world in the lack of good public transit,' the author Jake Berman told The Guardian. So if you can afford to own a car, it makes sense that the attitudes around car ownership in the U.S. dictate that you should own a car (and, to please the ever-present Joneses, as nice a car as possible). We don't have an inherent need for cars, though, anymore than we have an inherent need for airplanes. Cars give us access to the thing we need: transportation to and from the places we frequent, as well as the places we want — or need — to get to quickly. Our vehicles, like all of our most expensive purchases, should enhance our lives, or at least add more to our lives than the financial stress removes. And while the benefits of car ownership are often enormous, the downsides — maintenance costs, filling and refilling the tank, the perpetual risk of emergency repairs — can be significant, and likely to intensify in the coming months. Depending on what type of city or town you're in, the question 'Could you live without a car?' might feel impossible under any circumstances (for most Americans, it's probably the latter). But if it feels possible — if, say, you live in an urban area, have a regular routine that'd be bikeable, own multiple cars in your family or are simply considering a lifestyle shift away from certain polluters — it's worth crunching the numbers on at least one alternative to permanent car ownership: day-to-day car rentals. The gig economy's answer to Hertz and Enterprise is a slew of apps that allow individuals to rent out their cars in the way Airbnb allows folks to rent out their houses. The mobile app Turo is perhaps the most popular option (or at least the one I encounter the most). Day rates for most car rental companies tend to range from $50 to $100, while Turo charges around $49 per day to rent a car in Los Angeles. So, for the purposes of this exercise, let's say it costs $80 per day to rent a car, adding a little cushion for gas and unforeseen costs. If you own a car, you're paying for a few things: gas, monthly insurance and potentially a car payment. The average American driver spends around $200 a month on gas and around $220 for full-coverage car insurance. That's $420 a month right there. New car owners with a monthly car note pay an average of $742, per month, while used cars owners have an average monthly payment of $525, according to Experian data. So, let's average out that monthly car note to $600. Combined with gas and insurance, it costs American car owners around $1,000 a month for the gift of said ownership. And at $80 per day, a consumer could afford to rent a car for 12 days a month and still save $40. Of course, that's a crude analysis. And it also feels worth mentioning that my last car payment, for a 2019 Kia Optima, was around $425 a month — well below the figure we used here. Still, at the very least, perhaps this exercise is a nudge to consider what ideas might be calcified in your consumer psyche as hard and fast truths about our spending lives — what you need to have, how you need to live — that may not be serving you, your wallet or your overall well-being. I'll also confess that I write this all as a car owner living in Brooklyn, New York, where it's more of a headache to own a car than to go without (we traded in the Optima for an old SUV). We've lived here for around two years with this car, and I tell myself that when our two senior pups decide to 'move to Santorini,' we'll sell it. But then I think about how frequently I use it to drive to estate sales and was able to haul home a vintage chair for pennies on the dollar, or pop into Manhattan to pick up a designer bookcase some rich, disassociated banker is selling for $20. Never mind the parking tickets I get each month, or the speeding tickets I can't seem to escape as a driver raised on Houston's infamous Interstate 45, or the fact that walks and subway rides leave me feeling far more connected to humanity than a trip in my cramped metal box. Suffice it to say, some engrained consumer habits can fester for years if left unaddressed — long beyond the point that they're serving you.
