The UAE is a car-loving nation, and owning a vehicle here can provide the convenience and freedom to explore the vast desert highways, bustling cities, and luxurious suburbs. However, one key factor that UAE residents must consider when purchasing a car is the cost of maintenance. Maintenance expenses can vary significantly based on the brand, and choosing a car with low maintenance costs can save you a considerable amount over time.
In this guide, we will explore the top five car brands in the UAE known for their low maintenance costs and starting price of cars under AED 45,000, helping you make an informed decision when buying your next vehicle. Interested buyers can approach the nearest dealership for the latest new car prices.
1. Toyota
Toyota has long been a favourite among UAE car buyers, primarily due to its unmatched reputation for reliability, durability, and low maintenance costs. Whether you are looking for a practical sedan like the Toyota Corolla, an off-roading beast like the Land Cruiser, or a family-friendly SUV like the Prado, Toyota consistently delivers affordable service and maintenance packages.
Why Toyota is a Low-Cost Maintenance Leader:
- Affordable Parts: Toyota’s global presence means spare parts are widely available and competitively priced in the UAE.
- Long Service Intervals: Toyota vehicles are engineered to require fewer frequent services. For example, oil changes, air filters, and general servicing have longer intervals than many other brands.
- Wide Service Network: Toyota has a comprehensive network of service centers throughout the UAE, making it convenient for owners to get their cars serviced without waiting for long appointments or parts.

2. Nissan
Nissan is another highly popular brand in the UAE, known for producing reliable vehicles that cater to a variety of drivers. From the compact Nissan Sunny, which is common among city drivers, to the off-road king Nissan Patrol, the brand offers cars that are both affordable to buy and maintain.
Why Nissan is a Budget-Friendly Option:
- Low-Cost Replacement Parts: Nissan's parts are readily available and affordably priced, which reduces the overall cost of repairs and maintenance.
- Efficient Engines: Nissan’s vehicles, especially in their smaller models, are designed with fuel efficiency and reduced wear-and-tear in mind, leading to lower maintenance costs.
- Ease of Servicing: Nissan has a strong presence in the UAE, offering multiple authorised service centres and quick access to spare parts, which keeps labour costs down.

3. Hyundai
Hyundai has emerged as a popular choice in the UAE market, thanks to its combination of affordability, advanced technology, and low maintenance costs. The Korean automaker has been particularly appealing to budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable sedans and SUVs, like the Hyundai Elantra and Hyundai Tucson.
Why Hyundai is an Economical Choice:
- Warranty and Service Plans: Hyundai offers some of the most comprehensive warranty packages, including extended warranties and free maintenance for several years, which can dramatically lower the cost of ownership.
- Affordable Labor and Parts: Hyundai’s parts are known to be affordable, and the labour costs at Hyundai’s authorised service centres are usually lower compared to European brands.
- Innovative Design: Hyundai cars are designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind, which translates to less frequent repairs and lower long-term maintenance expenses.

4. Kia
Kia, Hyundai’s sister brand, has a strong foothold in the UAE, offering an excellent range of vehicles with low ownership costs. Kia models such as the Kia Sportage, Kia Seltos, and Kia Picanto are particularly popular for their affordable price points and low maintenance requirements. The brand has earned a solid reputation for being budget-friendly while still offering stylish, well-equipped vehicles.
Why Kia is a Low Maintenance Contender:
- Affordable Spare Parts: Similar to Hyundai, Kia benefits from shared technology and parts, which keeps the cost of spare parts low.
- Extended Warranty: Kia vehicles come with excellent warranties, offering coverage for up to 5 years or more, significantly reducing long-term maintenance expenses.
- Reliable and Durable Engines: Kia’s engines and components are engineered for durability, meaning fewer breakdowns and fewer expensive repairs.

5. Honda
Honda is another highly trusted brand known for producing cars with excellent reliability and low maintenance costs. Popular models like the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, and Honda CR-V offer long-lasting performance, making Honda a top choice for budget-conscious drivers in the UAE.
Why Honda Shines in Low Maintenance:
- Exceptional Reliability: Honda’s cars are engineered for durability, with engines and transmissions designed to last for many years with minimal repairs.
- Low-Cost Parts and Labor: Honda’s service and repair costs are generally lower than many other brands, with affordable parts and widespread service centres.
- Fuel Efficiency: Honda’s cars are also known for their fuel efficiency, meaning you spend less on running costs. This, combined with low service costs, makes Honda vehicles a very economical option in the UAE.

Key factors that affect maintenance costs
When considering the total cost of maintaining a car, it is important to understand the various factors that can influence these expenses. Even for brands known for low maintenance costs, the following factors can still impact your overall spending:
1. Model and Engine Type
Different models within a brand can have vastly different maintenance costs. For example, a compact sedan like the Toyota Yaris will typically have lower maintenance costs than a larger, more complex SUV like the Toyota Land Cruiser. Similarly, smaller, fuel-efficient engines often result in lower maintenance costs than larger, performance-oriented engines.
2. Driving Conditions
In the UAE, the climate and driving conditions can affect your vehicle's maintenance needs. High temperatures, frequent off-road driving, and long-distance highway driving can lead to increased wear and tear on your vehicle, requiring more frequent maintenance.
3. Maintenance Frequency
Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is crucial. Skipping regular maintenance or using non-genuine parts can lead to more significant issues down the line, increasing overall costs.
4. Aftermarket Parts vs. Genuine Parts
While aftermarket parts can sometimes be more affordable upfront, they may not offer the same longevity or quality as genuine parts. Using manufacturer-approved parts may reduce the likelihood of additional repairs in the future.

Conclusion
Choosing a car with low maintenance costs is a smart decision, especially in a market like the UAE where vehicle maintenance can be a significant part of ownership costs. Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, and Honda are five brands that consistently deliver reliability, affordability, and convenience when it comes to servicing and maintaining their vehicles.
Whether you are looking for a compact city car, a family SUV, or an off-road champion, these brands offer lowest priced under AED 50,000 cars that combine low upfront costs with affordable long-term ownership. By choosing wisely and adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, you can ensure that your vehicle remains in optimal condition without breaking the bank.