Home » Are Hondas Expensive to Maintain? (Common Myth DEBUNKED!)

Are Hondas Expensive to Maintain? (Common Myth DEBUNKED!)

If you’re considering purchasing a Honda or already own one, you may be wondering about the cost of maintenance, “are they expensive to maintain?”

Honda is a popular car brand known for its reliability and longevity, but how much does it cost to keep a Honda running smoothly?

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the maintenance costs associated with owning a Honda and provide you with some tips on how to keep those costs low.

Also, we’ll take a look at how the maintenance costs stack up against other brands. 

So, let’s get started!

Honda Maintenance Cost

According to RepairPal, Honda owners pay an average of $428 per year for maintenance and repairs. This cost is below the industry average of $652 per year.

Honda vehicles are reliable, and their maintenance costs are generally lower than other brands.  Honda vehicles have a maintenance reminder system that alerts the driver to needed maintenance.

If you use your Honda for business purposes, you may be eligible for tax deductions for maintenance and repair costs. Consult with a tax professional to determine if you qualify for these deductions.

Comparison of Honda Maintenance with Other Brands

Honda owners pay about $428 per year for maintenance and repairs, which is much cheaper than the industry average of $652 per year.

In comparison to other popular brands, Honda maintenance costs are generally lower.

For example, Ford owners pay an average of $775 per year, while Toyota owners pay an average of $441 per year.

Acura, which is a luxury brand owned by Honda, has slightly higher maintenance costs, with an average of $501 per year.

When it comes to specific maintenance tasks, Honda vehicles generally require less frequent visits to the repair shop.

For example, Honda drivers take their vehicles to the repair shop less often for unscheduled maintenance than the average vehicle, according to RepairPal.

On average, Honda drivers visit the repair shop 0.3 times per year, while the industry average is 0.4 times per year.

In comparison, Ford drivers visit the repair shop 0.4 times per year, while Toyota drivers visit the repair shop 0.5 times per year.

In terms of major repairs, Honda owners have a lower chance of needing them.

According to RepairPal, just 10% of Honda visits to the repair shop are for severe repairs, which is less than the average of 12% across all other major brands. This means that Honda owners can expect to have fewer major repairs and therefore save money in the long run.

Overall, Honda maintenance costs are generally lower than the industry average and other popular brands, they require less frequent visits to the repair shop and have a lower chance of needing major repairs, making them a reliable and affordable choice for car owners.

Specific Honda Models and Their Maintenance

When it comes to Honda models and their maintenance costs, it’s important to note that costs can vary depending on the specific model and year.

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is a popular midsize sedan that has been around for decades.

The estimated cost to maintain a Honda Accord for 100,000 miles is around $6,100.

However, the actual costs can vary depending on the year and model of the Accord.

It’s important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual to keep your Accord running smoothly.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a popular compact SUV that is known for its reliability and practicality.

Honda owners pay an average of $428 per year for maintenance and repairs.

However, some models of the CR-V may cost more to maintain than others.

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is a popular compact car that is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability.

According to ConsumerAffairs, Honda Civics are generally reliable vehicles with relatively affordable repairs and maintenance compared to other automakers.

However, the cost to maintain a Civic can vary depending on the model and year.

Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV that is popular among families due to its spacious interior and safety features.

The estimated cost to maintain a Honda Pilot for 100,000 miles is around $7,000. However, the actual costs can vary depending on the year and model of the Pilot.

In general, Honda vehicles are known for their reliability and affordability when it comes to maintenance.

However, it’s important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual to keep your Honda running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road.

Common Honda Repairs and Their Costs

As with any vehicle, Honda cars require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly.

Here are some common Honda repairs and their estimated costs:

Oil Change

Regular oil changes are essential to keep your Honda’s engine running smoothly.

The cost of an oil change varies depending on the type of oil used and your location.

On average, an oil change for a Honda costs around $50.

Brake Pads and Rotors

Brakes are an important safety feature of any vehicle. The cost of replacing brake pads and rotors on a Honda can vary depending on the model and your location.

On average, the cost for replacing brake pads and rotors on a Honda is around $250 to $500.

Suspension Components

The suspension system of a Honda is responsible for providing a smooth ride and handling.

The cost of replacing suspension components can vary depending on the model and your location.

On average, the cost for replacing suspension components on a Honda is around $500 to $1,500.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine. The cost of replacing spark plugs on a Honda can vary depending on the model and your location.

On average, the cost for replacing spark plugs on a Honda is around $100 to $300.

Timing Belt

The timing belt is responsible for keeping the engine’s valves and pistons in sync. The cost of replacing the timing belt on a Honda can vary depending on the model and your location.

On average, the cost for replacing the timing belt on a Honda is around $500 to $1,000.

Transmission Failure

Transmission failure can be a costly repair for any vehicle. The cost of repairing or replacing a transmission on a Honda can vary depending on the model and your location.

On average, the cost for repairing or replacing a transmission on a Honda is around $2,500 to $4,000.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is an important feature for many Honda drivers. The cost of repairing or replacing the air conditioning system on a Honda can vary depending on the model and your location.

On average, the cost for repairing or replacing the air conditioning system on a Honda is around $500 to $1,500.

Check Engine Light

The check engine light can indicate a range of issues with your Honda. The cost of diagnosing and repairing the issue can vary depending on the problem and your location.

On average, the cost for diagnosing and repairing the check engine light on a Honda is around $100 to $500.

Tire Rotation and Replacement

Tires are an important component of any vehicle. The cost of rotating and replacing tires on a Honda can vary depending on the model and your location.

On average, the cost for rotating and replacing tires on a Honda is around $100 to $1,000.

Exhaust System

On average, the cost for repairing or replacing the exhaust system on a Honda is around $500 to $1,500.

Engine Mounts

Engine mounts are responsible for holding the engine in place. The cost of replacing engine mounts on a Honda can vary depending on the model and your location.

On average, the cost for replacing engine mounts on a Honda is around $300 to $600.

Fuel Lines

On average, the cost for repairing or replacing fuel lines on a Honda is around $300 to $600.

In conclusion, Honda cars are generally reliable and affordable to maintain.

However, as with any vehicle, regular maintenance and repairs are necessary to keep your Honda running smoothly.

Understanding Warranties and Service Contracts

When it comes to owning a Honda, understanding warranties and service contracts is essential to keep your maintenance costs in check. Here’s what you need to know:

Honda Warranties

Honda vehicles come with two types of warranties: the bumper-to-bumper warranty and the powertrain warranty.

  • The bumper-to-bumper warranty covers most parts of the vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
  • The powertrain warranty covers the engine, transmission, and other key components for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Honda Care

Honda Care is an extended warranty program offered by Honda that provides additional coverage beyond the original warranties.

Honda Care offers a variety of mechanical and electrical coverage with terms up to 8 years/120,000 miles.

Honda Care can be purchased at any time during the original warranty period, and it can be used at any Honda dealership in the United States.

Third-Party Providers

If you’re looking for an extended warranty or service contract beyond what Honda offers, there are third-party providers that offer similar coverage.

These extended car warranty companies can match Honda Care in covered repairs and can last longer than this.

However, it’s important to research these providers carefully to ensure they are reputable and offer reliable coverage.

Prepaid Maintenance Plans

Another way to keep your maintenance costs in check is by purchasing a prepaid maintenance plan. These plans allow you to pay for your vehicle’s maintenance upfront, which can save you money in the long run.

Honda offers prepaid maintenance plans that cover routine maintenance services like oil changes, tire rotations, and more.

Whether you choose to purchase an extended warranty, use a third-party provider, or opt for a prepaid maintenance plan, taking proactive steps to maintain your vehicle can save you money in the long run.

Tips for Honda Owners to Avoid Costly Repairs

As a Honda owner, there are a few things you can do to keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.

Here are some tips to help you maintain your Honda and keep it in great condition:

1. Follow the Maintenance Schedule in Your Owner’s Manual

One of the most important things you can do to keep your Honda running smoothly is to follow the maintenance schedule outlined in your owner’s manual.

This will help you stay on top of routine maintenance tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.

You can also use the maintenance minder system in your Honda to help you keep track of when maintenance is due.

2. Pay Attention to Warning Lights

If you see a warning light on your dashboard, don’t ignore it.

The check engine light, for example, can indicate a range of issues, from a loose gas cap to a serious engine problem.

If you’re not sure what a warning light means, consult your owner’s manual or take your vehicle to a licensed mechanic for a diagnosis.

3. Regularly Check and Replace Your Air Filter

Your Honda’s air filter helps keep dust and debris from getting into your engine.

Over time, the filter can become clogged, which can reduce performance and fuel efficiency.

Check your air filter regularly and replace it as needed to keep your engine running smoothly.

4. Keep Your Tires Inflated and Rotated

Proper tire maintenance is important for your safety and the longevity of your Honda.

Check your tire pressure regularly and keep your tires inflated to the recommended level.

You should also have your tires rotated regularly to help ensure even wear and extend their lifespan.

5. Use Quality Parts and Fluids

When it comes to replacing parts or fluids in your Honda, it’s important to use quality, manufacturer-recommended products.

This can help ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly and that you avoid potential issues down the line.

By following these tips and staying on top of routine maintenance, you can help keep your Honda running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.