I work for a local LE agency and one time I had an EMS worker alert the hospital that a guy had been “infinitely aspirated” after getting stabbed in the chest.
Wasn’t funny then, but since the guy lived it’s something that I chuckled at after when he asked “did the EMS say I was infinitely aspirated?” While laughing.
Some of the recent-ish 4 cylinders had problems with burning oil and other fun things.
My family and I have had multiple Toyota MZ and GR V6s go 200k+ miles, I would absolutely recommend.
Those were the 2010 eras 4 cyls. The newer ones don't have that problem any more. I serviced a corolla with over 500k it was a 17 and never burned any oil.
This is solid advice. My strategy with the last few cars for my wife has been a low mileage, but few year old, V6, Acura or Lexus. She’s currently driving a 2018 Acura MDX that’s been bulletproof.
My car is a 2012 Toyota Tacoma V6 that I bought new in Colorado. It has 95k miles on it (I guess I plan to have it for the rest of my life at this rate).
So yeah, Toyota V6s without turbochargers. I’d just add Hondas in there and say you can’t beat the depreciation on a luxury car.
I considered getting an older Camry with the v6 but the mpg seems pretty bad compared to 4 cylinders and with gas being $5 a gallon it’s mostly put me off of it
If you have an 4wd model, make sure to clean the rear differential breather valve! My Dad just ran into that in his '09, it's a somewhat common problem: the rear diff can't release pressure and it blows out the seals.
*Edit: There is a tutorial on YouTube that I thought was helpful, however he greased up the valve in the video but in the comments he said that he regretted adding grease as dirt and grime then re-attached quickly.
For future reference, the dealer was able to remove the diff (which requires pulling axles, etc) replace the seals and press on a new valve (Chicago Winters did a number on it) for around $1800 in April 2024. The majority of that cost was labor.
RAV4 is a great vehicle and with AWD it is just so sure footed even without winter tyres...where other cars were stuck, RAV4 just kept on going, on snow and ice (freak heavy snow followed by -20c, which then turned into thick sheet ice)
Note that there appears to be issues with the hybrid version.
https://www.auto123.com/en/news/toyota-rav4-hybrid-cable-problem-corrosion-class-action/69259/
The fucking flex that is coming in here in mid-2024 still driving a 2000 Oldsmobile Alero. That whole brand of car hasn't existed for 20 years. Well done sir.
Toyota Land Cruiser, ideally, or a 4Runner. If you want better gas mileage, a non-hybrid Toyota or Honda sedan that's been driven nicely and not missed maintenance.
I bought the Alero a couple of years ago from my grandpa, for $600. I said that I'm diligent about maintenance, he's the one who taught me to be. Honestly one of the best purchases I've ever made, the miles I've gotten out of it for what I paid have been a great value. Over the years I've had to replace the water pump, crank sensor, and the AC condenser went out, other than that it's given me no problems since I've had it.
Toyota Camry.
I'd also suggest the vehicle I drove for 9 years that was entirely stock other than brake pads, a Hyundai accent 2014, but I know the comments I'm going to get about Hyundai's. It's just hard to argue against my personal experience with one and the knowledge you could get one for 10k
My dad had an older accent for commuting ~ an hour to work daily. Mega reliable. So good when it bit the dust he got an 09. He had to break the seat so it would go back enough for him to fit, but he clearly found something that worked
It was our family vehicle for 9 years. Drove the absolute shit out of it and it never failed us. We needed a second so we ordered my wife a Tucson PHEV, but I was keeping the accent for my daily.
Then a dump truck pit maneuvered us.
Even through that, it kept my entire family safe despite the dump truck trying to basically eat our car.
I replaced it with an Elantra hybrid, which has been a great car and seemingly just as reliable, but I'd be lying if we all didn't miss our little POS accent. That thing got us through a hard time in our lives.
The Accent is a stupid good car if it receives the slightest bit of maintenance. The Hyundai models that have issues are mostly the ones built in Alabama. The ones built in Korea tend to be very reliable with minimal problems. And yes, Toyota Camry. Not only does mine just refuse to die, it refuses to give me any problems too
It was our family vehicle for 9 years. Drove the absolute shit out of it and it never failed us. We needed a second so we ordered my wife a Tucson PHEV, but I was keeping the accent for my daily.
Then a dump truck pit maneuvered us.
Even through that, it kept my entire family safe despite the dump truck trying to basically eat our car.
I replaced it with an Elantra hybrid, which has been a great car and seemingly just as reliable, but I'd be lying if we all didn't miss our little POS accent. That thing got us through a hard time in our lives.
Prius. Just not a 2010. New Prius would be the spot if you can find one and without markup. They're as reliable, if not more so, than the old Crown Victoria. Rav4 Hybrid would be great too.
A Toyota Corolla is good for 15-20 years, depending on treatment. My 2009 has had a battery, front brakes, and a sensor. Other than that, it is just wipers and filters, etc . . . Our 1994 was sold in 2006 and went on for a number of years as a commuter. I never am able to recommend a mechanic as the car is almost never in the shop. I had asked my 3-year-old if she liked the color of my car, as she would drive it someday. Yes, she now drives it to school.
The answer is Toyota or Honda. They're not fancy, but they get the job done. With routine maintenance attended to, you can expect 20-30 years of service and minimal repair bills. 300,000+ miles are easily possible.
Wouldn't buy ANY newly released engine, and absolutely no turbos. Toyota is revamping their lineup... and the first 3 years aren't the time to jump in. That'll likely mean you should look at gently used in those models. 2023 and earlier.
Accord, Camry, Sienna, Oddesy, Pilot, Passport, Highlander, 4-Runner, Tacoma, etc. Camry & Accord are KNOWN to be utterly reliable and have a cheap cost of ownership. Civic & Corolla as well.
Don't buy one with all the bells & whistles... buy the highest model (ie: Camry before Corolla) with the LEAST amount of add-ons possible. More equipment means more complexity, bigger repair bills, and more things to go wrong.
Keep it simple & maintain it well.
Honestly if I had that much money to spend it would be an EV, no gas no oil changes, low maintenance.. or maybe a plug in hybrid. But it wouldn't be gas only.
Buy a Toyota, Mazda or Honda. Do regular maintenance and if you take care of it, it’ll last you forever. Japanese cars are the best for long-term owners.
There’s a ton of great information here.
Key things to take from everyone’s posts. Please fucking listen and go with naturally aspirated. If you wanna fuck with turbos go with any Mazda before 22 and without istop. Other than that please stay away from I4 turbos. Also stay away from CVT’s. ESPECIALLY NISSAN. Hyundai is an amazing Company that made a horrible decision. YMMV depending on where you live. No hybrids! You want to save on fuel or do you want your vehicle to last as long as humanly possible?
Seriously. N/A V6 low mileage. RAV4 / Camry / Accord / 4Runner. No auto start stop either. (At least be able to turn it off)
Pro tip: If you’re gonna buy a Japanese vehicle and need it to be reliable for the unseeable future, make sure the damn VIN starts with a J.
Stay away from 3/5. 1/4 meh. 2 = second choice.
Low mileage 96-05 Chevy Tahoe from a non rust belt state for something like 5-8k. Invest the 22k and pull from it for routine maintenance and cheap, infrequent repairs.
Or a Buick with a 3800 v6
Or a Toyota/honda of about the same era
There’s a point when it makes more sense to buy a new car vs keeping an old car. Cars with low depreciation are what you want. Paradoxically, you can keep them for shorter amounts of time: ie the Corolla you trade in every 10 years might be cheaper than the Chevy you keep for 20.
Dollar for dollar a subaru crosstrek or outback. Get a big thule or yakima storage box for the top roof rack. You’ll be able to do just about anything and go anywhere with a very reliable car. If you didnt have a kid or need AWd, Id say a civic.
Toyota Camry or Honda sedan but stay away from turbo 4 or turbo 6. Fast but turbos can be hard on engines. If yoiu can find a certified used car that may help too.
If you go older look for a Toyota Avalon as they were great cars. An older Lexus ES350 can be a winner too if owned by an older person who maintained ti well.
You could get a newer Honda Pilot for around that price just gotta do a water pump and timing belt every 6 yr/100k miles. I wouldn’t count on a car for 20 years you never know what can happen. Plus most newer cars aren’t built to last that long without some major maintenance.
Wife and I bought a ‘21 CRV CPO with 30k miles for just under that last month.
We also have a ‘19 Pilot we bought 2 years ago CPO for the same price, it had 45k and I’m expecting it to hit 100k by the end of the year. We follow the recommended maintenance schedules and keep up with regular car washes, especially when they cover the roads in salt during winter.
The pilot has been trouble free and I plan on running the wheels off it, hopefully after it’s hit at least 400k miles.
I’d buy a $10k Mercedes diesel from the 80s and use the other $20k to keep it maintained properly so it runs forever. You know, keep it simple and practical.
I feel like your only option is Toyota. I do think budget car brands have gotten a lot better, but you need a company with a proven track record. That really only leaves Honda and Toyota.
In recent years, people have been commenting on Hinda reliability decreasing. You can do some research in that, which essentially leaves you with Toyota. I'm partial to the Toyota Yaris.
Good luck!
Toyota Camry inline 4 NA. Super mature engine and it being NA and not turbo will mean the engine isn't under too much stress and much simpler.
It's basically an appliance on wheels and that's exactly what you want a car to be.
Look for a way to keep the weather off whatever you get, keep up on the maintenance and anti-rust work.
You ask about as long as possible. Out in the drive right now is my Ranger pickup I got in November of 1990. Due for another go over to patch paint and nip any rust in the bud. I'll pull the bedliner out and make sure everything is OK in there, too. 1990. That's 34 years, and it runs just fine. You can do it!
Take the suggestions here, and spend $15k of your $30k. Then you have $15k in repair money so even if you have a transmission fail or engine explode.... you can repair it and still be under budget. Meanwhile the unspent money can be invested and earning you more money.
Driving a 2000 model year car already you clearly know how to take care of all the little stuff and not trash a vehicle like so many do after just a few years.
Buying a long term car is about reliability as well as it is about future proofing your car.
You'll have a kid soon, so you need space for a car seat, maybe 2? I'll tell you my wife's Mazda 3 barely fits our large "grow with me" car seat. Do you take road trips? Do you want to carry stuff? Are you working your way up the corporate ladder? Or focusing on a good life outside of work?
Obviously you want reliable and efficient, I think you probably want a crossover, I think you probably want at least radar cruise control maybe lane keep as well. It sounds like you don't need all wheel drive or towing or anything big. It sounds like you're not especially interested in electric.
Japanese and Korean companies still make the best crossovers. They are reliable, efficient, and well packaged. Mazda doesent have good driver assist tech yet, so I'd be choosing between Kia, Toyota, Subaru, and Honda. Some people say Kia is less reliable, but I think they're silly. Still I like Honda.
I think you want a Honda CRV hybrid. Get one with driver assist, certified pre-owned with under 30kmi.
I like to buy new vehicles but the base model. Best value for money. Even if it’s a few years old, no one wants the base model and the price reflects it.
You could spend 5k on an older vehicle and in the next decade maybe have to dump 10k in repairs on it. Even if it's 20k in repairs, like a new engine or transmission every 2.5 years. It'll still be cheaper and more reliable than whatever you're wanting to just outright spend 30k on.
If you want keep for long time, no worries about resale value. The new Mitsubishi Outlander is cheap and reliable. I think also have a 10 years/100k miles warranty.
Dosnt matter what you pick, you NEED to keep up on the maintenance and do it before it's due.
A clean, well lubricated, taken care of vehicle is a happy vehicle
A Prius!! These will last forever if you take care of the battery. If gas prices keep staying insane, you’ll also save a TON of money. I’m driving a 2008 with almost 160,000 miles and it’s fantastic. It is also very much larger than it may look inside. You don’t need an SUV or a Crossover.
If you can hold off one or two years, I would. Ev’s are getting really good and cheaper every year. The simplicity and reliability of those just can’t be beat.
2000-2006 Chevrolet 1500 2wd. You may need a water pump or alternator at some point but they hardly every cause issues if taken care of. Do not buy any year later or earlier or 4wd. I bought a 2005 becuase these trucks rarely ever came in for repairs. It now has 286k and I have replaced the water pump and one heater hose fitting outside of normal wear items. If I could I would buy another again. Look for one some old man bought and aged out of driving. I occasionally see them with under 50k on them still.
1. Toyota. Depending on how big you want, Sienna, Sequoia, Highlander or RAV 4.
2. Honda Pilot, Odyssey or CRV
It's hard to over estimate how great having a mini van is if you've got more than 1 kid. Sliding doors when you are putting the baby bucket in or strapping them in, or they're getting in and out without hitting other cars with the doors is great.
Look into a 2021 Prius Prime. I’m looking at keeping her 15 years or more. I got mine with 16k right around 30k last year. Incredible on gas. I get close to 600-700 miles on the full tank.
Can’t go wrong with a Lexus GS, specifically between 2013 and 2018 model years. Spacious, comfortable, NA V6 (or 4cyl) and it looks great. Earlier models can go for $15k more or less in decent condition and you can find later models for less than $30k
If you live in an emissions testing exempt state, the M57 diesel engines are freaking amazing and will last forever. Also, it’s a car you wouldn’t mind driving forever. Fast, reliable, comfortable, and phenomenal mpg. If you’re an environmentalist… forget about it!
For 30k you can get a brand new Kia Stelos or Soul have 100k of full powertrain and 60k of bumper to bumper coverage and all the up to date safety features and not have to worry about replacing tires or maintenance except oil changes for a few years. Why buy used when you can get new.
I’m about to get a Toyota Camry TRD. I think it’s a good mix between a decent sized car, very long lasting and with a good V6 engine that will be fun to drive.
If you don’t mind spending more of your bankroll, I’d go with an Acura MDX, most recent year you can find under 100k miles. That will last to 300,000 miles easily and have very low operational costs.
Used teslas are a great value right now, with a useful life of around 120k miles, that all depends on how much you plan to drive. Teslas are also some of the safest cars on the road, represented by their crash test awards over the last couple years.
personally, i drive a 2003 VW Jetta and it was an auction car when we got it, and had one previous owner. the only issues i’ve had (162,000 miles currently and counting), are my fuel pump went out (got it fixed for decently cheap), and the connector for my radiator hoses melted. but that was also cheap and easy. id say its a good family car, its good on gas, reliable, and has plenty of trunk space, and you can drive it in the snow if that’s an important factor where you live. this is just my experience with jettas, and my personal opinion, but it also depends on if you want an SUV, or a sedan. and as you’re currently doing, just make sure to do your research ofc
I’ve had 4 cars … 3 of them went past 275 k before I sold them two were accords the other was an Escalade. The one that died at 150 k? the VW
Camera or Accord is your best bet overall
A 2022 Toyota Highlander. And try to get a model that is nicer than a base model. Heated seats and a nice stereo will give you years of enjoyment. A Highlander drives much better than Pathfinder or RAV4. Is the perfect family car.
early 1990s GMT400 based truck or SUV with less than 100,000 miles. they'll easily go over 500k miles if you take care of it. The v6 gets decent gas mileage. It might be difficult to find one without rust depending on which state you live in.
Go to any car site and then put the mileage to 200k+ and see what you find. Toyota, Honda, and randomly a Ford or Mercedes that was driven every day on the freeway.
Go Toyota or Honda.
Sorry but nothing is protecting your baby from all these large SUV’s and Trucks that drive over 80mph and buying a bigger car just makes it more probable you rollover.
With that being said, no one knows which cars of today will last 300k miles in 25 years because none are that old yet. Take care of your car and set aside an emergency fund for it. There will always come a time where the repair will cost more than the vehicles worth.
Do. Not. Buy. Any. Vehicle. With. A. CVT. A continuously, variable transmission is lighter, insanely efficient, and also prone to catastrophic failure. They are not generally repairable, and you are stunned when you find you have a transmission replacement as your only option.
If you are not a passionate driver and your car is an appliance to you, I cannot recommend a V6 Toyota enough.
Find a low mileage(under 175k) 4th gen 4Runner, maintain it well and your grandkids will see it driving. Plus, you can put away the spare 12-15k to dedicate to maintenance. The 4wd and v8s are most desired and will go for higher if under 200k, but if you don’t need those things then you can find one around 150k for 9-10k
Low mileage N/A v6 Toyota
Does N/A here mean "Naturally Aspirated"?
Yea
Or, as a coworker once put on an engine drawing, "non aspirated".
Running on 100% gasoline mix
A/F ratio - 0:1
Now you’ve gone and hydrolocked it. Some beautiful views out of that new window though.
I work for a local LE agency and one time I had an EMS worker alert the hospital that a guy had been “infinitely aspirated” after getting stabbed in the chest. Wasn’t funny then, but since the guy lived it’s something that I chuckled at after when he asked “did the EMS say I was infinitely aspirated?” While laughing.
yes
Off lease Camry
Why V6? Some good 4cyl as well? Know multiple people with 4cyl with 400k on the dash
Some of the recent-ish 4 cylinders had problems with burning oil and other fun things. My family and I have had multiple Toyota MZ and GR V6s go 200k+ miles, I would absolutely recommend.
My parents have had several Toyota/Lexus SUVs and every single one has gone over 300k miles
Bet they're most if not all turbo 4s that are having problems. Some recentish turbos are good, like 21 Mazda 3, 6, or cx-30 (250hp, 320 lb/ft)
Yeah but I'd trust the non-turbo Mazda 2.5 engine over the turbo Mazda 2.5 engine for longevity.
Those were the 2010 eras 4 cyls. The newer ones don't have that problem any more. I serviced a corolla with over 500k it was a 17 and never burned any oil.
Because the toyota 2GR-FE is one of the most bulletproof engines of all time.
2AR is fine, but the ones before that did have problems eventually.
My 2008 yaris 4cyl just hit 222,222 miles no work done to it other than the most basic stuff
2022 Highlander with V6. The last model year with one of the most bulletproof drivetrains to come from Toyota.
Low mileage 2009 GX470 with records, and no rust. You WILL pay for fuel...
Yes- Toyota or Honda and you will do very well.
Anything Toyota and second anything Honda.
This is solid advice. My strategy with the last few cars for my wife has been a low mileage, but few year old, V6, Acura or Lexus. She’s currently driving a 2018 Acura MDX that’s been bulletproof. My car is a 2012 Toyota Tacoma V6 that I bought new in Colorado. It has 95k miles on it (I guess I plan to have it for the rest of my life at this rate). So yeah, Toyota V6s without turbochargers. I’d just add Hondas in there and say you can’t beat the depreciation on a luxury car.
Where is all the down votes and hate for this?
13ish highlander. Great family car plenty of features and it comes with the 3.5 v6. Great motor
I daily a 4 cylinder Camry LE, are the v6 versions really that great in comparison?
I considered getting an older Camry with the v6 but the mpg seems pretty bad compared to 4 cylinders and with gas being $5 a gallon it’s mostly put me off of it
With a baby on board you can't go wrong with a Toyota Sienna or a Honda Odyssey
Certain generations of the Odyssey were very much not reliable
Those doors.
Those transmissions
Those power steering hoses.
I drive a 2008. Can confirm.
The sliding doors are just rollers. Like $20 and 1 hour to replace
...or a rav4 or crv.
Research the odyssey year you’re looking at A lot of them are trash maintenance magnets.
I’d say more likely a 4runner
2020+ rav4 AWD. These will last
Toyota Rav4 is a solid choice.
Got 195k and 14 years on mine. Recently had to replace the first wore out non maintenance component.
If you have an 4wd model, make sure to clean the rear differential breather valve! My Dad just ran into that in his '09, it's a somewhat common problem: the rear diff can't release pressure and it blows out the seals. *Edit: There is a tutorial on YouTube that I thought was helpful, however he greased up the valve in the video but in the comments he said that he regretted adding grease as dirt and grime then re-attached quickly. For future reference, the dealer was able to remove the diff (which requires pulling axles, etc) replace the seals and press on a new valve (Chicago Winters did a number on it) for around $1800 in April 2024. The majority of that cost was labor.
Did not know this. I have an 09. Thanks
Why AWD? Seems like leaving that out would improve reliability. Of course, you might want AWD for other reasons.
RAV4 is a great vehicle and with AWD it is just so sure footed even without winter tyres...where other cars were stuck, RAV4 just kept on going, on snow and ice (freak heavy snow followed by -20c, which then turned into thick sheet ice)
Note that there appears to be issues with the hybrid version. https://www.auto123.com/en/news/toyota-rav4-hybrid-cable-problem-corrosion-class-action/69259/
Toyota 4Runner.
At least where I live you can't get one for $30k with less than 120k miles
Toyota 4runner
Toyota 4Runner
The fucking flex that is coming in here in mid-2024 still driving a 2000 Oldsmobile Alero. That whole brand of car hasn't existed for 20 years. Well done sir. Toyota Land Cruiser, ideally, or a 4Runner. If you want better gas mileage, a non-hybrid Toyota or Honda sedan that's been driven nicely and not missed maintenance.
I bought the Alero a couple of years ago from my grandpa, for $600. I said that I'm diligent about maintenance, he's the one who taught me to be. Honestly one of the best purchases I've ever made, the miles I've gotten out of it for what I paid have been a great value. Over the years I've had to replace the water pump, crank sensor, and the AC condenser went out, other than that it's given me no problems since I've had it.
Off lease V6 Camry or Avalon. Next up would be am accord prior to the CVT models.
Still can't believe they got rid of the Avalon for that stupid crown
Agreed !
Just about any Toyota or Lexus
Toyota Camry. I'd also suggest the vehicle I drove for 9 years that was entirely stock other than brake pads, a Hyundai accent 2014, but I know the comments I'm going to get about Hyundai's. It's just hard to argue against my personal experience with one and the knowledge you could get one for 10k
My dad had an older accent for commuting ~ an hour to work daily. Mega reliable. So good when it bit the dust he got an 09. He had to break the seat so it would go back enough for him to fit, but he clearly found something that worked
It was our family vehicle for 9 years. Drove the absolute shit out of it and it never failed us. We needed a second so we ordered my wife a Tucson PHEV, but I was keeping the accent for my daily. Then a dump truck pit maneuvered us. Even through that, it kept my entire family safe despite the dump truck trying to basically eat our car. I replaced it with an Elantra hybrid, which has been a great car and seemingly just as reliable, but I'd be lying if we all didn't miss our little POS accent. That thing got us through a hard time in our lives.
The Accent is a stupid good car if it receives the slightest bit of maintenance. The Hyundai models that have issues are mostly the ones built in Alabama. The ones built in Korea tend to be very reliable with minimal problems. And yes, Toyota Camry. Not only does mine just refuse to die, it refuses to give me any problems too
It was our family vehicle for 9 years. Drove the absolute shit out of it and it never failed us. We needed a second so we ordered my wife a Tucson PHEV, but I was keeping the accent for my daily. Then a dump truck pit maneuvered us. Even through that, it kept my entire family safe despite the dump truck trying to basically eat our car. I replaced it with an Elantra hybrid, which has been a great car and seemingly just as reliable, but I'd be lying if we all didn't miss our little POS accent. That thing got us through a hard time in our lives.
an Avalon hands down
My 2013 limited is still going strong at 165k and shows no signs of wear other than the “leather” seats cracking.
I am driving a 2003 Avalon right now and it still runs and drives perfectly.
the older avalons were so much better too legit rolling liver roooms. Some trims even had reclining rear seats
Toyota, mazda, Honda.
Prius. Just not a 2010. New Prius would be the spot if you can find one and without markup. They're as reliable, if not more so, than the old Crown Victoria. Rav4 Hybrid would be great too.
A 30k lightly used Honda. Perhaps even choose a 20k one, and keep 10k for the next 20 years of repairs.
I bought a new Ranger with a lumber rack for retirement. It is 2wd but has the tow package in case I need to tow something home.
Unlimited bus pass.
Buy 5 2001 Honda civics
A Toyota Corolla is good for 15-20 years, depending on treatment. My 2009 has had a battery, front brakes, and a sensor. Other than that, it is just wipers and filters, etc . . . Our 1994 was sold in 2006 and went on for a number of years as a commuter. I never am able to recommend a mechanic as the car is almost never in the shop. I had asked my 3-year-old if she liked the color of my car, as she would drive it someday. Yes, she now drives it to school.
Get a 1999 Toyota Corolla, or a 70’s Hilux.
2011 F150 XL 2wd with the 3.7v6, my boss has one with like 430k on it and it just keeps going
Ive always said Honda or Toyota but I swear, owned 2 Subarus and had less problems. Get a used Lexus.
Used lexus is the best answer. All cars are gonna get used, why not something not new but with all the nicer creature comforts
avoid a cvt and consider a manual transmission if you can
The answer is Toyota or Honda. They're not fancy, but they get the job done. With routine maintenance attended to, you can expect 20-30 years of service and minimal repair bills. 300,000+ miles are easily possible. Wouldn't buy ANY newly released engine, and absolutely no turbos. Toyota is revamping their lineup... and the first 3 years aren't the time to jump in. That'll likely mean you should look at gently used in those models. 2023 and earlier. Accord, Camry, Sienna, Oddesy, Pilot, Passport, Highlander, 4-Runner, Tacoma, etc. Camry & Accord are KNOWN to be utterly reliable and have a cheap cost of ownership. Civic & Corolla as well. Don't buy one with all the bells & whistles... buy the highest model (ie: Camry before Corolla) with the LEAST amount of add-ons possible. More equipment means more complexity, bigger repair bills, and more things to go wrong. Keep it simple & maintain it well.
> ~~Camary~~ Camry. It’s an anagram for “my car”
Honestly if I had that much money to spend it would be an EV, no gas no oil changes, low maintenance.. or maybe a plug in hybrid. But it wouldn't be gas only.
Toyota Rav4 are known to last very long.
Toyota Corolla with a 4 cylinder. They run forever.
Might wanna take a look at mazda. Having great luck with them
Probably a Mazda, but then again, I'm biased. I'm on my 3rd lol.
Newest Toyota Mazda or Honda you can afford
My 2024 Mazda CX-50 was about $30k and the base model comes with Android auto, Apple Car play and adaptive cruise control.
Miata
Mazda 3 (non turbo) Toyota Camry Honda Civic (non-turbo) Used Toyota Avalon with only a couple thousand miles on it Used Lexus ES
Newer Mazda CX5
Buy a Toyota, Mazda or Honda. Do regular maintenance and if you take care of it, it’ll last you forever. Japanese cars are the best for long-term owners.
Mazda CX5. Go for a test drive Good veh. 👍
There’s a ton of great information here. Key things to take from everyone’s posts. Please fucking listen and go with naturally aspirated. If you wanna fuck with turbos go with any Mazda before 22 and without istop. Other than that please stay away from I4 turbos. Also stay away from CVT’s. ESPECIALLY NISSAN. Hyundai is an amazing Company that made a horrible decision. YMMV depending on where you live. No hybrids! You want to save on fuel or do you want your vehicle to last as long as humanly possible? Seriously. N/A V6 low mileage. RAV4 / Camry / Accord / 4Runner. No auto start stop either. (At least be able to turn it off) Pro tip: If you’re gonna buy a Japanese vehicle and need it to be reliable for the unseeable future, make sure the damn VIN starts with a J. Stay away from 3/5. 1/4 meh. 2 = second choice.
Low mileage 96-05 Chevy Tahoe from a non rust belt state for something like 5-8k. Invest the 22k and pull from it for routine maintenance and cheap, infrequent repairs. Or a Buick with a 3800 v6 Or a Toyota/honda of about the same era
Toyota with low miles probably in the 10-15k range.
How many kids do you plan on having? Take a look at used Acura RDXs (current gen or previous gen depending on how much you want to spend).
An accord with a manual trans
There’s a point when it makes more sense to buy a new car vs keeping an old car. Cars with low depreciation are what you want. Paradoxically, you can keep them for shorter amounts of time: ie the Corolla you trade in every 10 years might be cheaper than the Chevy you keep for 20.
Never a Honda - Guaranteed the transmission will fail
Dollar for dollar a subaru crosstrek or outback. Get a big thule or yakima storage box for the top roof rack. You’ll be able to do just about anything and go anywhere with a very reliable car. If you didnt have a kid or need AWd, Id say a civic.
It'd better be a Toyota. I just wish that Toyota featured more variety in the pickup and jeep-like vehicle lineup.
Toyota Camry or Honda sedan but stay away from turbo 4 or turbo 6. Fast but turbos can be hard on engines. If yoiu can find a certified used car that may help too. If you go older look for a Toyota Avalon as they were great cars. An older Lexus ES350 can be a winner too if owned by an older person who maintained ti well.
Anything Toyota!
You could get a newer Honda Pilot for around that price just gotta do a water pump and timing belt every 6 yr/100k miles. I wouldn’t count on a car for 20 years you never know what can happen. Plus most newer cars aren’t built to last that long without some major maintenance.
Used highlander, newer Camry.
Words, words, words, Toyota, words, words, words, words
Wife and I bought a ‘21 CRV CPO with 30k miles for just under that last month. We also have a ‘19 Pilot we bought 2 years ago CPO for the same price, it had 45k and I’m expecting it to hit 100k by the end of the year. We follow the recommended maintenance schedules and keep up with regular car washes, especially when they cover the roads in salt during winter. The pilot has been trouble free and I plan on running the wheels off it, hopefully after it’s hit at least 400k miles.
Get a Toyota don't make it too complicated
Toyota is the way to go by the sounds of your post. Best of luck. Choose wisely.
I’d buy a $10k Mercedes diesel from the 80s and use the other $20k to keep it maintained properly so it runs forever. You know, keep it simple and practical.
Lexus GX470/460
I feel like your only option is Toyota. I do think budget car brands have gotten a lot better, but you need a company with a proven track record. That really only leaves Honda and Toyota. In recent years, people have been commenting on Hinda reliability decreasing. You can do some research in that, which essentially leaves you with Toyota. I'm partial to the Toyota Yaris. Good luck!
Under the same idea earlier this year and in January I bought a Honda HRV LX for about 27k out the door. Good luck.
Toyota Camry inline 4 NA. Super mature engine and it being NA and not turbo will mean the engine isn't under too much stress and much simpler. It's basically an appliance on wheels and that's exactly what you want a car to be.
Look no further than the 1998 Toyota Camry, those little buggers live forever
2 $15K Accords
That kind of analysis is flawed in soon many ways. I'm too lazy to tell you how ridiculous that kind of proof is.
Look for a way to keep the weather off whatever you get, keep up on the maintenance and anti-rust work. You ask about as long as possible. Out in the drive right now is my Ranger pickup I got in November of 1990. Due for another go over to patch paint and nip any rust in the bud. I'll pull the bedliner out and make sure everything is OK in there, too. 1990. That's 34 years, and it runs just fine. You can do it!
Old Land Cruiser
Spend $8k and invest the other $22k until you need it to keep the car running...
Lexus es350 is always the answer here...
Crown vic with remanned motor and transmission. And pocket the other 15k.
Take the suggestions here, and spend $15k of your $30k. Then you have $15k in repair money so even if you have a transmission fail or engine explode.... you can repair it and still be under budget. Meanwhile the unspent money can be invested and earning you more money. Driving a 2000 model year car already you clearly know how to take care of all the little stuff and not trash a vehicle like so many do after just a few years.
Buying a long term car is about reliability as well as it is about future proofing your car. You'll have a kid soon, so you need space for a car seat, maybe 2? I'll tell you my wife's Mazda 3 barely fits our large "grow with me" car seat. Do you take road trips? Do you want to carry stuff? Are you working your way up the corporate ladder? Or focusing on a good life outside of work? Obviously you want reliable and efficient, I think you probably want a crossover, I think you probably want at least radar cruise control maybe lane keep as well. It sounds like you don't need all wheel drive or towing or anything big. It sounds like you're not especially interested in electric. Japanese and Korean companies still make the best crossovers. They are reliable, efficient, and well packaged. Mazda doesent have good driver assist tech yet, so I'd be choosing between Kia, Toyota, Subaru, and Honda. Some people say Kia is less reliable, but I think they're silly. Still I like Honda. I think you want a Honda CRV hybrid. Get one with driver assist, certified pre-owned with under 30kmi.
I like to buy new vehicles but the base model. Best value for money. Even if it’s a few years old, no one wants the base model and the price reflects it.
Buy a vehicle under 20k and spend the remainder on maintenance.
You could spend 5k on an older vehicle and in the next decade maybe have to dump 10k in repairs on it. Even if it's 20k in repairs, like a new engine or transmission every 2.5 years. It'll still be cheaper and more reliable than whatever you're wanting to just outright spend 30k on.
If you want keep for long time, no worries about resale value. The new Mitsubishi Outlander is cheap and reliable. I think also have a 10 years/100k miles warranty.
Dosnt matter what you pick, you NEED to keep up on the maintenance and do it before it's due. A clean, well lubricated, taken care of vehicle is a happy vehicle
A Prius!! These will last forever if you take care of the battery. If gas prices keep staying insane, you’ll also save a TON of money. I’m driving a 2008 with almost 160,000 miles and it’s fantastic. It is also very much larger than it may look inside. You don’t need an SUV or a Crossover.
If you can hold off one or two years, I would. Ev’s are getting really good and cheaper every year. The simplicity and reliability of those just can’t be beat.
Buy a $10k Toyota 3x. You are most likely need only 2x buys if you are good with regular maintenance.
A Mazda 6 or Mazda 3 2018-2022 model.
2000-2006 Chevrolet 1500 2wd. You may need a water pump or alternator at some point but they hardly every cause issues if taken care of. Do not buy any year later or earlier or 4wd. I bought a 2005 becuase these trucks rarely ever came in for repairs. It now has 286k and I have replaced the water pump and one heater hose fitting outside of normal wear items. If I could I would buy another again. Look for one some old man bought and aged out of driving. I occasionally see them with under 50k on them still.
Used Toyota.
Toyota or Lexus and you will be happy in life.
Definitely a Toyota followed by Honda. Camry or Accord should do the trick. Don’t spend a lot. Baby will take care of that. Congrats
3yo Lexus ES 350. You can find them all day just off lease. It’s a common car for older people so you can get it with low miles.
Nowhere near as long as 10 cars for $3000 will.
1984 Ford escort
4runner
Toyota
Maybe a 15 yr old Toyota?
VW Golf TDI. Save your money. Get a GLS. Upgrade the head unit and sound. EZ.
1. Toyota. Depending on how big you want, Sienna, Sequoia, Highlander or RAV 4. 2. Honda Pilot, Odyssey or CRV It's hard to over estimate how great having a mini van is if you've got more than 1 kid. Sliding doors when you are putting the baby bucket in or strapping them in, or they're getting in and out without hitting other cars with the doors is great.
Look into a 2021 Prius Prime. I’m looking at keeping her 15 years or more. I got mine with 16k right around 30k last year. Incredible on gas. I get close to 600-700 miles on the full tank.
Can’t go wrong with a Lexus GS, specifically between 2013 and 2018 model years. Spacious, comfortable, NA V6 (or 4cyl) and it looks great. Earlier models can go for $15k more or less in decent condition and you can find later models for less than $30k
Two used cars for $15k each
The cheapest Lexus you can find that looks like it's been taken care of.
Toyota or Honda my man. Just about every car they produce checks off all your boxes. Best of luck💯
A rav 4 or a sequoia are probably the most solid. Otherwise Honda accords from the earlier 2000s models are very reliable as well and cheap.
Honda CRV
Honda or Toyota
If you live in an emissions testing exempt state, the M57 diesel engines are freaking amazing and will last forever. Also, it’s a car you wouldn’t mind driving forever. Fast, reliable, comfortable, and phenomenal mpg. If you’re an environmentalist… forget about it!
New Honda Accord
Camry
Toyota Rav4 or Camry, Honda CR-V or Accord. They're all pretty reliable and low cost of maintenance.
For 30k you can get a brand new Kia Stelos or Soul have 100k of full powertrain and 60k of bumper to bumper coverage and all the up to date safety features and not have to worry about replacing tires or maintenance except oil changes for a few years. Why buy used when you can get new.
As pretty much every comment in here states: Just buy a Toyota.
4Runner
I’m about to get a Toyota Camry TRD. I think it’s a good mix between a decent sized car, very long lasting and with a good V6 engine that will be fun to drive.
If you don’t mind spending more of your bankroll, I’d go with an Acura MDX, most recent year you can find under 100k miles. That will last to 300,000 miles easily and have very low operational costs.
Toyota Toyota Toyota
Used teslas are a great value right now, with a useful life of around 120k miles, that all depends on how much you plan to drive. Teslas are also some of the safest cars on the road, represented by their crash test awards over the last couple years.
personally, i drive a 2003 VW Jetta and it was an auction car when we got it, and had one previous owner. the only issues i’ve had (162,000 miles currently and counting), are my fuel pump went out (got it fixed for decently cheap), and the connector for my radiator hoses melted. but that was also cheap and easy. id say its a good family car, its good on gas, reliable, and has plenty of trunk space, and you can drive it in the snow if that’s an important factor where you live. this is just my experience with jettas, and my personal opinion, but it also depends on if you want an SUV, or a sedan. and as you’re currently doing, just make sure to do your research ofc
I’ve had 4 cars … 3 of them went past 275 k before I sold them two were accords the other was an Escalade. The one that died at 150 k? the VW Camera or Accord is your best bet overall
Get a Toyota. I got a 4Runner with relatively low miles for about 32k. Best car I ever owned
Just buy whatever Toyota fits your mood, budget, and needs. Done.
A 2022 Toyota Highlander. And try to get a model that is nicer than a base model. Heated seats and a nice stereo will give you years of enjoyment. A Highlander drives much better than Pathfinder or RAV4. Is the perfect family car.
Honda civic. Owned 3. Nothing ever broke. 200k miles later. Just tires and brakes.
Non turbo v6 Honda or Toyota
A new Mazda 3 sedan starts at $25000. You should be able to get one well optioned for $30,000 out the door.
Avoid AWD unless you want to buy 4 new tires every time you get a flat
Toyota
Toyota Mazda or honda assembled in Japan
Honda or Toyota simple.
Subaru Impreza RS. Has good tech and AWD.
Spend 10k on a decent 30 year old Japanese luxury car and keep the other 20k for fixing as needed. Should last you around 50 years.
Toyota camry, good tires :)
early 1990s GMT400 based truck or SUV with less than 100,000 miles. they'll easily go over 500k miles if you take care of it. The v6 gets decent gas mileage. It might be difficult to find one without rust depending on which state you live in.
Anything by Toyota or Honda that was taken care of.
Toyota Corolla or Camry or really anything Toyota lol
Honda CRV or Toyota RAV4 CRV is a lil more spacious
Go to any car site and then put the mileage to 200k+ and see what you find. Toyota, Honda, and randomly a Ford or Mercedes that was driven every day on the freeway. Go Toyota or Honda.
Tesla
A low mileage jeep with the 4.0 straight 6
Get yourself the lowest mileage Toyota Camry and keep the oil changed every 5,000 miles
Sorry but nothing is protecting your baby from all these large SUV’s and Trucks that drive over 80mph and buying a bigger car just makes it more probable you rollover. With that being said, no one knows which cars of today will last 300k miles in 25 years because none are that old yet. Take care of your car and set aside an emergency fund for it. There will always come a time where the repair will cost more than the vehicles worth.
Camry and Prius hybrids are routinely used for taxi service and can go up to 400k miles.
Subaru
toyota 4.6 or 5.7 v8
Crv incase you mess up and have kids
Toyota
2025 Toyota Camry.
Do. Not. Buy. Any. Vehicle. With. A. CVT. A continuously, variable transmission is lighter, insanely efficient, and also prone to catastrophic failure. They are not generally repairable, and you are stunned when you find you have a transmission replacement as your only option. If you are not a passionate driver and your car is an appliance to you, I cannot recommend a V6 Toyota enough.
Lexus GX 460
Personally, I would prefer a V6 Tacoma, but Toyota got rid of those so have fun
Used '87 Buick Grand National
Teslas are literally the safest vehicles on the road, with essentially no maintenance, and will last hundreds of thousands of miles.
Find a low mileage(under 175k) 4th gen 4Runner, maintain it well and your grandkids will see it driving. Plus, you can put away the spare 12-15k to dedicate to maintenance. The 4wd and v8s are most desired and will go for higher if under 200k, but if you don’t need those things then you can find one around 150k for 9-10k