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Maintenance is an essential part of car ownership, though some cars have higher estimated maintenance costs than others. But taking your car to the shop for an oil change keeps the engine in good shape. You can also spot potential problems and get them fixed immediately with regular check-ups from qualified mechanics.

Toyota’s are known for their reliability, but even the most reliable vehicles can require extensive maintenance to improve their chances of longevity. These are the four Toyota models with the highest estimated maintenance costs.

1. Toyota Land Cruiser

According to CarEdge, the Toyota Land Cruiser is the most expensive model to maintain during its first 10 years. You’ll pay an average of $6,782 for an assortment of routine maintenance appointments and repairs. During this time, your Land Cruiser is approximately 16.08% likely to need an expensive repair.

The Toyota Land Cruiser was killed off last year because it was no longer popular amongst American consumers. Despite its size, the third row is too tight to keep adults comfortable. 

It also lacks essential tech like smartphone integration, even in its final model year. Still, this SUV accumulated a loyal following for its off-roading skills and luxury-level interior.

2. Toyota Tundra

A red 2022 Toyota Tundra with one of the highest estimated maintenance costs.
2022 Toyota Tundra | Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

CarEdge tells us that the average Tundra pickup costs $6,738 to maintain after just 10 years. It’s over 2% more likely than the Land Cruiser to need a significant repair in that timeframe. Additionally, its average maintenance is double that of most pickup trucks. 

However, this doesn’t mean that the Tundra is a bad truck, especially after its latest redesign. While the V8 engine might have been discontinued, it was replaced with a hybrid motor option on the standard V6. That powertrain can make 437 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque, capable of towing up to 11,450 lbs.

This truck also has several trim options, one of which is optimized for off-roading. The Toyota Tundra even has an agreeable ride on civilized pavement thanks to the new coil-spring suspension. The updated interior features nicer seating accommodations and tech features.

3. Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma demands $6,420 in ten-year repair/maintenance costs, according to CarEdge statistics. After the twelve-year mark, the likelihood of needing a major repair jumps to nearly 36%. You can also expect to pay an average of $1,341 for annual maintenance after that point.

Most drivers likely won’t be satisfied with the Tacoma’s base engine, a four-cylinder that makes 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain can only tow 3,500 lbs, though the V6 option can tow up to 6,800 lbs. You add this engine to either of the two lowest trims for a minimum of $430.

While the Tacoma has some attractive and reasonably-priced options, Car and Driver warns that this pickup doesn’t have a smooth ride. It may have gotten smartphone integration for the latest model year, but the rest of the interior is still quite basic.

4. Toyota Sequoia

CarEdge reports that you’ll pay around $6,202 to keep the Sequoia in good shape for 10 years. It’s slightly less likely to need a major repair compared to other large SUVs, but it’s still much more expensive to maintain overall.

The Toyota Sequoia is still available for the 2023 model year, now with a hybrid powertrain and several new interior niceties. It also has off-roading skills that match the Land Cruiser and a towing capacity of 9,520 lbs. You’ll have to pay extra for 4WD, but at least this SUV already retails for much less than the Land Cruiser.

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