When shopping for a reliable car, many American buyers narrow their choices down to two popular Japanese brands: Honda and Nissan. Both offer affordable sedans, SUVs, and crossovers that are known for practicality and comfort. But when it comes to the bigger financial picture, the question remains: Honda vs Nissan, which brand has lower long-term ownership costs?
The answer is not as straightforward as looking at sticker prices. Factors like reliability, annual maintenance costs, resale value, and safety technology all play a major role in determining how much you’ll spend over five or even ten years of ownership. For budget-conscious buyers, this comparison could mean saving thousands of dollars over time.
In this article, we’ll break down ownership costs with data from trusted sources such as Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, and Edmunds. By the end, you’ll know which brand offers the better value for your lifestyle, whether you’re a student buying your first car, a family looking for a safe SUV, or a commuter searching for long-term savings.
Quick Overview of Honda and Nissan in the U.S.
Honda and Nissan are two of the most established Japanese automakers in the U.S. market.
- Honda consistently ranks among the top five brands in reliability and resale value, with models like the Accord and CR-V leading sales.
- Nissan remains a strong competitor, often offering lower upfront prices on models such as the Altima and Rogue.
According to industry data, Honda sold over 1.2 million vehicles in the U.S. in 2023, while Nissan moved about 725,000. This gap reflects Honda’s stronger brand loyalty and higher resale values, but Nissan continues to attract budget-conscious buyers with competitive pricing and frequent dealer incentives.
Key Factors to Consider
Reliability & Durability
Consumer Reports consistently places Honda above Nissan in reliability rankings. Models like the Honda Accord, Civic, and CR-V often score higher in long-term durability tests. Nissan has improved in recent years, particularly with the Rogue, but some older models have struggled with transmission issues.
Maintenance & Repair Costs
According to RepairPal, Honda’s average annual maintenance cost is about $428, while Nissan averages around $500. Over five years, that’s a difference of nearly $400. While not huge, it adds up when combined with other ownership factors.
Resale Value in the USA
Kelley Blue Book shows Honda vehicles typically retain 55–60% of their value after five years, while Nissan models average closer to 45–50%. This means Honda owners lose less money to depreciation, making the brand a better choice for resale or trade-in.
