Owning a car involves more than just the purchase price. Maintenance and repairs are inevitable, and for some vehicles, those costs can quickly escalate. While the average car repair is around $838, certain models are statistically more prone to exceeding $10,000 in expenses before reaching 100,000 miles. This isn’t just about bad luck; it’s a pattern linked to complex engineering, expensive parts, and higher labor costs.
Luxury Brands at the Top of the List
Several European luxury brands consistently rank among the most expensive vehicles to maintain. This is partly due to specialized parts, complex systems, and the fact that these cars are often engineered for performance rather than long-term affordability.
Land Rover
Consumer Reports data shows Land Rover as one of the priciest brands, with a 10-year repair and maintenance cost averaging $17,450. Models like the Discovery, Defender, and Range Rover may easily surpass $10,000 in repairs before hitting 100,000 miles. This is driven by issues with air suspension, electrical systems, and other complex components.
Porsche
Porsches are known for their performance, but that comes at a cost. Repair expenses can quickly add up, exceeding expectations for many owners. Whether you’re considering a Macan, Cayenne, or 911, be prepared for potentially high maintenance bills.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz vehicles also appear frequently on “most expensive to repair” lists. Consumer Reports estimates a 10-year cost of $13,100 for repairs and maintenance. If you’re looking at models like the GLE or GLC, factor in the potential for significant expenses.
Audi
Audi rounds out the list of luxury brands with high repair costs. The average 10-year cost is reported at $11,050, making it one of the more expensive cars to maintain. This is due to issues with their advanced technology, intricate mechanical systems, and sometimes, high parts costs.
Volvo: Unexpectedly Costly?
Volvo often ranks as a safer and more reliable brand than others, but it’s not immune to high repair costs. With an average 10-year cost of $9,825, models like the XC60, XC90, and S60 may still require significant investments in maintenance and repairs.
Ultimately, car ownership requires realistic budgeting. While some brands offer better reliability than others, all vehicles will eventually need repairs. Considering long-term costs is just as important as the initial purchase price.
