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10 SUVs That NEVER BREAK DOWN: Buy One Once and Drive It Forever!
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- Published on Apr 18, 2026
- Some SUVs on the road today are so reliable, people just… never sell them. We're talking 200, 300, even 500,000 miles. No major repairs. No nightmares at the dealership. Just drive it, maintain it, and it keeps going.
In this video we're counting down the 10 most reliable SUVs ever built - the ones owners refuse to sell, mechanics respect, and families pass down for generations. From compact crossovers to full-size beasts, these are the vehicles built to last decades, not just years.
We're covering everything from what makes these engines and transmissions so durable, to the real ownership costs you can expect at high mileage - so you can make a smarter buying decision before you spend a dime.
Subaru Forester, Honda Pilot, Acura RDX, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Toyota Highlander, Lexi RX 350, Toyota Sequoia, Lexus GX 460, Toyota 4 Runner
Lex us RX 300 1999 is great
Lexus is great but repairs are expensive!
@24-43DK-7ive been fortunate. Have used individual good mechanics so very low expenses. I had a 1997 Mercedes E 320 too. Much more expensive. Good car but not as good as this Lexus.
Im so upset my Lexus RX 350 got hit in an accident and was declared a total loss. I miss it sooo much 😢
I've seen more broken down Foresters in Alaska than any other vehicle not wearing a Jeep badge.
Sure, maybe they're fine vehicles everywhere else, but mostly urban garbage.
The thing is, they're like iPhones, it's cultish...you can point out their faults and present first person evidence to their disciples, but you'll never convince them...even as you call a tow truck for them.
And yes, I've worked Alaskan highways since 1999.
You want a great SUV? It better say Toyota, Lexus, or Honda on it somewhere.
my 2002 Acura MDX has a little over 498,000 miles on it, never broken down, still going strong. awesome car!
I purchased a 1992 Subaru Legacy brand new in July 1992! Here it is in 2026 and it is still running in excellent condition, with minimal repairs! You can’t beat that!
😮amazing!
We pull more broken Subarus off Alaska highways than anything except Jeep.
My guess is you drive carefully and in the 48.
My 07 Tahoe has 276k miles on her, I’ve never had to do anything to fix it besides regular maintenance she’s a beast!
I have a 2012 RX350. Bought used 6 years ago. It now has 240,000 on it. All I have done is regular oil changes, tires and 1 set of brake pads. It's my doggo's car. It smells like dog, is a muddy dirt slop mess inside by the end of winter. I had to repair the drivers seat because she put her huge paw claw into it. But, It cleans up great even with all that mess! It's almost spring. I have been on long trips with it, and it can't be beat for comfort. It's a true joy to drive. The only thing I need to fix is one fog light got broken and a couple of dents from people in parking lots. I plan on keeping it until it dies. I honestly don't know if I can ever replace it with a more reliable vehicle. I would actually buy one will less mileage to replace this one, but why? This one is paid for.
2008 crv at 344,000 miles on it. Still keeping my friend for another lifetime
Reliability is the real luxury. 4Runner and GX460 never disappoint. Great list!
Our old car last to 330,000 miles , I miss the family vehicle . 2008 Toyota camry .
My 2015 Subaru Forester is absolutely the best car I have EVER owned. 11 years old, never any problems, still going strong like the first day I drove it. Love, love, LOVE my "Suby"!
I have a 2007 Toyota Corolla with close to 277,000 miles. It runs well as I keep it maintained.
Where the Toyota Rav4 at?
I think he forgets 😂❤
Yea the RAV4 is the best selling suv of all time
They are number 11.
In the junkyards being scrapped
Thanks!
My wife has a CX5 and we love it. Reliable, fun to drive, comfortable and affordable.
Yes I need one
My friend has a 2008 Highlander with over 250k miles on it. She gave me a ride in it a few times and the thing looks and drives like a new car!
I cried when I traded in my 11 year old highlander with over 265K miles. Replaced water pump, timing belt at around 100K miles. Seal around the engine at around 235K miles. $1,250 in repairs over 11 years.
Mine is 2017, it’s still looks new. Only thing I don’t like is the back seat doesn’t have air vent and gets stuffy hot in the summer.
@emachado7091ever changed the transmission fluid or still orig
Why old models are under discussion in 2026?. Why not to compare latest models.
Got my second Highlander; a 2007. Love it! ❤
Have a 2020 CX-5 with turbo never had any real problems with it. I don’t drive a whole lot so only about 34,000 miles on it, but super reliable, love it
Love my 4runner. !!! 360K with no major issues, just oil change and regular maintenance.
I have a 2014 Toyota Versus and I now have about 50,000 miles with only normal maintenance. Love this car!
I have a 2016 Honda CR-V. That's the last year for the 2.4 engine. I don't drive much anymore, so it's got less than 37000 miles on it. I like new vehicles, but can't bear to get rid of my little silver dude, as I call it. People offer to buy him a lot, but he runs so we'll and looks so good- he gets garage every night, washed once a week and I pay the cost of having him serviced by the Honda dealer where I bought him. As the Beach Boys sang in little deuce coupe: Buddy, you don't know what I've got! But, I do.
I highly recommend you keep it… the newer cars (even Hondas and Toyotas) are not as reliable as the older vehicles… I have 2012 and 2017 vehicles myself, and plan on maintaining them and driving them for at least the next 5 years before even thinking of getting new cars!
Same here bud. I have 2016 crv se silver. I call him silver or buddy. Canadian driven 183k km. Even at freezing temp never failed to start every morning. It still has the original battery from factory 2016.
Tested on road trips as we do travel nursing montreal to newfoundland, nova scotia and now usa. Fully loaded with 2 kids dog and cat and roof top cargo bag for 2 large luggages. I love my crv i do all the maintenance by my self. Im keeping it till it dies on me.
Dont like the new cars with high payments and full of bs electronics and bs features.
I have a 2.4 2018 ltr engine. Honda CRV.
Just bought a 1-owner 2015 Honda Pilot AWD with 80k miles. It was well maintained by the previous owner. My first 'import'. Looking forward to a long ownership.
Yes I got RDx an love it
I just had to get a new CVT transmission for my 2018 Nissan Sentra SV at 63,000 miles. $6000. Glad I started an extended warranty about 7 months ago.
Nice ....
I need one .....
With all respect for TRUTH AND KNOWLEDGE
Driving a 2001 Gen 3 - 4Runner that I bought in 2015 for $7500. I ride the train to work so I drive less than 4,000 miles a year. It currently has 155,000 miles on it. I change oil twice a year and the oil comes out almost as clean as it went it. Had a Lexus LS400 before the 4Runner and had a case of OEM Toyota oil filters for the Lexus. The LS400 oil filter is about 1/3 longer than the oil filter for my 4Runner. Same thread and same gasket. I've been using those YZZD3 Lexus (instead of the YZZD1) filters on my 4Runner for 10 years. My reasoning is that the bigger filter has more filter area to keep the oil clean. Rust is the killer in my area, and is what killed my Lexus. I've sanded and painted the inside and outside of my 4Runner frame with Por15 and Easton frame paint, three times since I've owned it. Still solid.
I like how every car is Japanese 🇯🇵
They are the best no matter what.
NOT TRUE - The Honorable Mention SUVs are the AMERICAN built GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe.
@robertchoutka3191 🤣 Way to set the bar high, not even in the top 10 but an “honorable mention”.
And NOT One American Made. Sickening.
@1988remixx participation trophy anyone?
I own a Lexus and it's amazing.
my 2004 pilot is still going strong with 300k miles. ❤
Loved my Hyundai Santa Fay. Wish I had never sold it!!
Fabulous vehicle !!
My 2011 Suburu Outback is amazing with 250,000 miles. Drives like a brand new car😊with AWD, heated seats, ac/heat and nice looking interior 😅
It’s hard to find a vehicle now without a turbo or CVT … so I now have a Mazda with a regular gas engine. I sold my BMW X4 which I absolutely loved but was worried about maintenance and repair costs. I miss it every day.
I also drove a Lexus RX for years and loved it!! No issues ever. But now that they moved away from the V6 engine, I moved away from the RX.
2:04 I think this could not go wrong
Test drove a Honda crv today. Year 2017. We are looking for an older car , a grocery getter. We got it in the interstate and it did a weird hiccup. We felt it. It was like the bottom middle of the car. We got off the interstate. Hiccuped again. Stopped at a light and when it was time to go it would not go fast. 20mph max. Had to pull off and get a ride back to dealership. I have been a Honda lover all my life. I can say I have never experienced that before. Kinda shattered to be honest. I hope to have faith restored in some other test drives.
We're a 3-Highlander family. One replaced an older Highlander, and one replaced a Toyota Sienna van that lasted from our son's toddler stage well into his college years.
I have a 4Runner TRD Off-Road, and I don't plan to get rid of it. Love my 4Runner!
It has been my twenty plus year old CLEAN 2005 GMC Envoy Denali: beside oil pan replacement and one exhaust gasket wearing out, this buggy still says “Vrooom!” when she starts up. She has 291,455 miles heading toward 300, 000 miles. Huge cargo and seating areas makes this the SUV that I will keep and leave for my grandson to enter and win car show competitions. 🏆
You can't go wrong! in a Lexus!. even much older versions !.You can see them on the road passing by you like champs! .My truck was brought in for a new tires set , and had no choice but to drive my wife's 2015 RX to work , that thing is sweet.
2016 Ford Escape with 2.5L engine. Over 240000 miles and no major repairs.
I have the 15. It’s got 130,000. Same here. Minor sensor repair but that’s it. Looking forward to making it to your number. lol
2019 4 runner here, planning on driving it into the ground. Honestly never want another car, this one is everything I want/need!
Right on !!!....the 4runner.The UNDISPUTED KING😉☺️...both on-road & off-road.
Time stamps. please!
A win for TOYOTA 🎉
Volvo 2.5L 5 cylinder turbo is very reliable and a beast. This review is skewed to Japanese OEMs. Seems it was sponsored.
MY 2014 Highlander AWD XLE V6, 6 speed, only 108K after 12 years, but still rock solid--just like our 2014 V6 FWD Sienna. Gas milage isn't that great tho'.
5th gen Outback - esp 3.6R
2013kia optima hybrid 100,000 has been great for our family
We have a 2022 Subaru Forrester Touring SUVwe bought it new and ohhh are we so glad, we love it!! It’s what
They changed things after 2019 and they’re much better than the earlier models. We won’t have any other kind of vehicle
( for so many years we wasted thousands $$ on old cars and it was a waste. Subaru Tourister is the best!
My 2001 ford explorer
I have a 2013 Subaru outback 3.6 R which beats the first half of your list, and most definitely that Forester
Silver 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer LT single owner well maintained daily driver approaching 200,000 miles here in New York…would buy again in a heartbeat. Money saved purchased brand new summer car, silver 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. Enough said.
Landcruiser is #1
And no Rav4 included? That's gotta hurt😅
All the 10+1 = Rav4
No RAV 4?? That is some BS! I had a 2015 forester and it’s a good car (son owns it now with 135k miles) but it is in now way as reliable as any of the Toyotas let alone the 2021 RAV4 hybrid I’m driving now. RAV 4 needed tires and oil changes only for 100k. Forester 3 wheel bearings, 2 full brake jobs, a/c compressor, a/c relay, plus regular maintenance.
I have a 2001 Lexus RX 300 with less than 150,000 miles! It has serviced me well! If and when I buy another car, it will definitely be a Toyota product.
My daughter has a 2017 Nissan Rogue with 270k miles on it. Change the fluid in the CVT every 30k miles and don’t stress.
Don't waste any money on lottery tickets because you have used up a lifetime of good luck.
@JD-tn5lz Much more like I used common sense. No problems with the CVT on my wife’s 2019 Rogue (just replaced with a 2026 Forester) or my 2015 Legacy 3.6. Change the oil. Change the transmission fluid. Or live in fear for no reason.
My Dodge Dakota 2003 pickup has 303,000 plus miles and just tires, a battery, brake pads[twice] and a few more things.
My 2004 has 106,000 miles, is on the 3rd water pump. 1st water pump leaked down at 75,000 miles overheated, warped L cylinder head and exhaust manifold. Has gone through 4 window regulators and a complete brake job. These Dakotas love to drop the windows. DON'T slam the doors.
You forgot the new Nissan Pathfinder
2017-2019 Ford Escape S, no turbo, no infotainment, no issues.
Check out variable timing control issues (VTC) on a honda CRV, common problem, very expensive fix. I have one so I know firsthand.
How about the main bearing replacement on the 2016-2020 0n the 3.5?
My Subaru Crosstrek year 2022 is awesome
Have a subaru Crosstrek 2020 - still going strong ❤
You also missed the Mazda CX9.
2018 we’ve got 200,000 miles on it. We travel a lot for kids sports. No repairs that I can think of only maintenance only bought it used.
ACC and I love it!!
Agree! I have a Mazda CX9 2018. It’s been awesome. 😎 only maintenance.
My SC430 is perfect. The 4.3 V8 is considered (by many) to be the best V8 in the world (6-bolt main). Thing rips too, a torque monster, and you don't have to baby it. I can open the hood, place a glass of water on top of the intake manifold and rev up the gas to 4K. Glass does not vibrate off and nary a ripple in the water. And that's with 180K miles.
i live in the NE. cars rust out before they fail. about 125,000 miles.
I live in Florida. Similar issue - the plastic parts will get brittle from all the sun exposure before the metal parts fail. Still, we had our Toyota Sienna for 20+ years. No road salt here, but there is some rust since we are a mile from the ocean.
You missed the Rav4, fantastic vehicle.
Exactly considering it’s the best selling suv of all time
I recently bought a 2017 RAV4 because ... yea. I have the RAV4 as the "nice car" and an 08 Honda Element 5spd for the chores and dirty work.
We went halfers on a 12 Rav with our daughter a decade ago when she was 16 (she had a great after school job). She graduated, went to university, practicum, moved across 2 provinces, then back close to home. I've put a water pump in it, two front wheel bearings, and basic service, repairs. 280,000 km and still running strong. Crazy! If they built this buggy new, we'd just go buy another. Incredibly reliable and super cheap to run. I have 7 vehicles, only one in the build process, the rest run well or next to new. This little Rav is the most surprising of them all, and cheapest and easiest to daily.
We have 2 rav4 s , there a great vehicle
2003 and up RX350s and 2003-2009 GX470s are two of the most reliable SUVs even made. 500-750K miles easily! And can be had for $5-10K based on condition. Mine is a 2004 GX in my profile pic. Close to 250K miles and in many ways looks new and runs like a dream!
You couldn't pay me to drive an SUV
2004 2006 Saturn Vue with Hondas legendary 3.5 Liter V- tech makes it to 250,000 miles with no problems if timing belt is replaced as see them with 300,000 at scrap yard because frame rot after 22 years but taxi cabs in New York have 500,000 k on Honda odyssey mini vans with that same 3.5 L V-tech.
3:17 Acura RDXs have had SH-AWD since gen 1 in 2007 though?
2015 lexus rx350 that I've had since 2014. Has 162k miles and still runs like brand new❤
Rav 4 didn't make the list? Not even honorable mention?
2008 rx400h now has over 240,000 miles
Okay, owner of 2006 Toyota 4Runner at 190,000 miles. Had to remove the X-REAS suspension, major brake work, timing belt replaced at 120,000 miles, regular synthetic oil changes with filter at every 5,000 miles. Want to keep the V8 (2UZ‑FE) going for a while longer. No mentions of that X-REAS. Any thoughts? Great list!
I have a Audi A4 avant with 311k running Fine
I have had nothing but Toyotas, I went through this list waiting to see what you say about the Rav4's, but no mention at all. What gives?
I am very disappointed, our Rav4's have not needed any repairs at all.
I would argue that the Rav4 may be the MOST reliable automobile ever built.
2007 RAV4 Piece of junk
It's on all the other lists that exist
do you have a Rav4???
@charlesharrington1565 I'm looking at Rav4 , wonder how dependable they are ?
Do you have any Pros or Cons ??? What is your personal opinion? Thank you !
Mixes two row and three row. The Forester is much smaller than most of the others.
You had me nodding along until the mention of the Tahoe at the end. I know 3 people who owned Tahoes and had to replace - not repair - replace the transmission at
My dads 2020 Rav 4 just drove past 253000 miles
My 2009 Lexus Rx350 now has 225,000 and not had a single problem in the almost 2 decades of ownership. Just annual maintenance.😊
Rav 4 is number 1 hands down
We have a Toyota Sequoia at work. The turbo has failed two times before 40k miles.
I have a 2008 Honda Pilot and I plan to hold on to it for all eternity. I'm just over 190,000 so we're good for a while.
2014 4Runner Limited❤
RAV4?
I have a 1996 stick shift that has only 220,000 miles on it. A true gem.
That RX350 is a TANK! Best purchase i ever made
My favorite as a Buick sedan owner.
Handling is boring
@Andreymatveyevyes, but reliable
@Andreymatveyev ZFG I am not 20 years old anymore ...
@jjrr2273Good handling doesn’t mean for fun and for the speeding and cornering. I am 50+, my wife as well and we did like Lexus RX
My rx350 Lexus 2013 522 000 miles love it no major issues drives like new oil changes every 10k still not black great car
Cool I just brought a 2013 in pristine condition with just over a 140,00 miles. It has a great service history and if I could reach anywhere close to where yours is at I would be a happy camper.
But, but, what about the Rav 4???
8 speed transmission is terrible
I like to know too about Rav 4 , thank you .
You forgot the Honda Passport. Same engine and underpinings as the Pilot
Toyota my best car brand
Bought my oldest boy a Lexus Rx, and it was perfect! Aaaaand he wrecked it after 6 mo! Not his fault, but still a heartbreaker.
As long as your son is okay , that's all , that matters !!!
wish they were more comfortable. and affordable.
I’ve driven both RX350 and Nissan Murano. Both with a 3.5 V6 engine but to my surprise, the RX350 feels underpowered and noisy. However, the Murano is so silent and buttery smooth, and much more torqy
I have a 2011 Lexus RX 350 270k miles she’s still going!
If the Honda has an interference engine and a timing belt, the belt has to be replaced at 105,000 miles or seven years. If you put on at least 12,000 miles a year, that's fine. However, I only put on about 3,000 miles a year. I have a 2015 Odyssey with around 36,000 miles. I am long past the seven-year replacement recommendation. If that belt breaks, the pistons hit the valves, and you are screwed. Most manufacturers are dumping the belt in favor of the chain, which rarely breaks. If you have a non-interference engine, it doesn't make any difference what you have, because the car will just stop, and no damage will occur. Replace the belt, and you are on your way.
I bought a brand new Infinity FX in 2012. My son still drives it. Replace a/c but that’s it
2:20 Long time Honda owner here. I've had Civics, Elements, and FITS. I love my Hondas but their parts ain't cheap.
Honda is not that great anymore
@Andreymatveyev A Honda mechanic told me the same thing. Bummer
When comparing hondas to hondas sure...but compared to the rest of the industry currently....still way ahead of the pack.
Sold my 2015 Subaru emprezza with 50,000 miles !, RAN GREAT NO problems in 2026 , wanted a newer high tech larger car !, BIGGEST MISTAKE I EVER MADE !!!. Bought a 2023 ford escape with only 2000 miles on it !. First long trip to South Carolina 950 miles away ,started 2nd day got in pushed start button and nothing happened but fault messages all over panel !, would not do a thing !!!. Going back home hopefully non stop And selling this computer night mare and buy a used SUBARU FORESTER WITHOUT ALL THE COMPUTER BS !!!.
The thing I like about Toyota vehicles, is that they continue to improve their automobiles. They just keep getting better.
Yes brother your correct ❤
Same with the Subaru. I think it's a Japanese car-manufacturing trait, or maybe Toyota's 20% ownership of Subaru made the difference. We have 3 in our family, and each year they continue to get a little bit better.
@kf6pfk I guess Toyota is big brother. Think they partnered with Mazda also.
All depends on your driving style!
2022-23 Mazda CX-9 should absolutely be in here. By 2022 they redesigned the cylinder head, the vehicle is basically bulletproof. And it will run circles around Highlander (literally and figuratively) in terms of bang for the buck.
First gen sequoia is better than the second generation
Totally.
I owned a 2018 Honda CRV while it was a reliable ride I had to replace all the fuel injectors at about 90k and that cost 2 grand. Honda warranties end after 60k. The car had a timing chain but it also came with CVT transmission, a nightmare if it breaks down. In my experience the 4 speed 1992 civic was a better car. New cars are designed to keep you indentured for as long as you own them.