Maintenance costs are a key factor to consider before buying a vehicle, especially when it comes to luxury models, sports cars, or high-end SUVs. While some vehicles impress with their performance, comfort, or technology, they can also hold some very unpleasant surprises when it’s time to visit the garage.
Expensive parts, specialized labor, complex electronics, or sophisticated engines: a simple breakdown can quickly turn into a bill running into the thousands of dollars. Before succumbing to a tempting purchase price on the used-car market, it’s therefore worth researching the true cost of ownership. Here are 14 vehicles known for costing a fortune in repairs.
Ford F-150 EcoBoost
The Ford F-150 EcoBoost is one of the most popular pickup trucks in North America, but certain generations have experienced mechanical issues that can be costly. Turbochargers, timing chains, camshaft phasers, and certain fuel system components are among the most expensive repairs.
Vehicles used for heavy-duty towing are more prone to premature wear on these components. Fortunately, thorough maintenance can often help minimize the risks. Still, when a major repair is needed, the bill can quickly run into the thousands of dollars, a reminder that even a popular pickup truck can become expensive to maintain.
BMW 750i
The BMW 750i is one of the German automaker’s most luxurious sedans, but also one of its most mechanically complex. Its twin-turbo V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, and numerous onboard technologies make every repair particularly expensive.
Fuel injectors, turbochargers, cooling systems, and electronic modules are among the components likely to result in high repair bills. Since few independent repair shops have all the necessary expertise, many owners have to turn to dealerships. Once the warranty expires, maintenance costs can quickly exceed those of many sports cars.
Tesla Model S
The first Tesla Model S vehicles are relatively economical to maintain on a day-to-day basis, as they require neither oil changes nor traditional engine maintenance. However, when a major repair is needed, the costs can be staggering. Replacing a high-voltage battery, an electric motor, or a central display involves significant expenses.
Bodywork repairs are also known to be time-consuming and expensive due to the vehicle’s aluminum frame. Some parts are available exclusively through the Tesla network, limiting options for owners. Despite all its innovations, an aging Model S can quickly become a very expensive vehicle to repair.
Nissan GT-R
The Nissan GT-R is an exceptional performance car whose maintenance costs are on par with its capabilities. Its hand-assembled twin-turbo V6 engine, dual-clutch transmission, and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system require highly qualified technicians. Brakes, high-performance tires, and specialized fluids also represent significant expenses.
Intensive track use significantly accelerates wear and tear on several components. Even a routine service can cost several thousand dollars. Although the GT-R is known for its durability, it remains a true supercar in terms of maintenance and repair costs.
Volkswagen Touareg
The Volkswagen Touareg shares several mechanical components with the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7, which explains why repairs are often much more expensive than those for a conventional Volkswagen SUV. Models equipped with V6 TDI engines or air suspension are particularly expensive to maintain.
Many repairs require complex disassembly, increasing labor hours. Sophisticated electronic systems can also lead to costly repairs over time. Although the Touareg is known for its comfort, build quality, and towing capabilities, it requires a maintenance budget comparable to that of a German luxury vehicle.
Jaguar F-Pace
The Jaguar F-Pace combines British elegance with impressive performance, but it’s also among the SUVs whose repairs can be particularly expensive. Its supercharged engines, sophisticated suspensions, and numerous electronic systems sometimes require major repairs.
Some parts must be imported, which increases both turnaround times and costs. Owners appreciate its comfort and handling, but many experts recommend setting aside a substantial maintenance budget. Without a warranty, a major breakdown can quickly turn this luxury SUV into a real financial drain.
Maserati Ghibli
The Maserati Ghibli perfectly embodies Italian refinement with its elegant design, luxurious interior, and performance worthy of a sports sedan. However, owning this model requires a well-stocked wallet. Replacement parts are expensive and sometimes hard to come by, which can prolong repair times.
The V6 engines, developed in collaboration with Ferrari for certain generations, require rigorous maintenance and specialized expertise. Added to this are complex electronic systems that can lead to frequent visits to the dealership. Although the Ghibli depreciates quickly on the used-car market, maintenance costs remain comparable to those of a new luxury car, making it a demanding vehicle to own in the long term.
Mini Cooper S
The Mini Cooper S appeals with its dynamic handling and unique style, but its turbocharged engine can lead to significant expenses. Early models are known for problems with the timing chain, water pump, turbocharger, and oil consumption. The limited space under the hood also complicates mechanical work, which increases labor time.
Many repairs require the removal of numerous components. As a result, even a relatively simple repair can quickly end up costing much more than on a conventional compact car, much to the dismay of some owners.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee, particularly in its high-end trim levels equipped with the Quadra-Lift air suspension, can become expensive to maintain over the years. Compressors, air springs, and sensors sometimes eventually fail, leading to repairs that can easily exceed several thousand dollars.
Certain engines, notably the HEMI V8, also require rigorous maintenance. The onboard electronics can also throw up a few surprises as mileage increases. Despite its excellent off-road capabilities and comfort, this American SUV often requires a higher maintenance budget than many of its competitors.
Porsche Cayenne
The first Porsche Cayenne popularized sport utility vehicles, but it also became notorious for its high repair costs. Early models suffer from several known mechanical issues, particularly with the cooling system, driveshaft, air suspension, and certain engine components.
Porsche parts are expensive and often require the expertise of specialized technicians. Although it’s possible to buy a used Cayenne at an affordable price, maintenance costs can quickly exceed the vehicle’s value. It’s an attractive model, but a financially demanding one.
Audi A8
The Audi A8 impresses with its comfort, build quality, and technological innovations. However, this large luxury sedan is also known for its high maintenance costs. The air suspension, quattro all-wheel drive, sophisticated engines, and numerous electronic modules can result in very expensive repairs.
Repairs often require specialized tools and several hours of labor. Even a simple electronic issue can leave the vehicle out of commission for several days. Owners generally appreciate its refinement, but they also know that a trip to the shop can quickly cost several thousand dollars.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class represents the pinnacle of automotive luxury, but all that sophistication comes at a price. Its technological features, advanced driver-assistance systems, AIRMATIC suspension, and powerful engines make every repair particularly expensive. Even relatively common components, such as a headlight or a multimedia screen, can cost several thousand dollars to replace.
Older models also require rigorous maintenance to avoid major mechanical problems. For many experts, buying a used S-Class without a solid maintenance budget is a risky gamble, despite all the prestige it offers.
BMW X5
The BMW X5 is known for its driving pleasure and performance, but it can quickly become a financial nightmare once the warranty expires. Models equipped with V8 or turbocharged six-cylinder engines are particularly expensive to repair. Cooling systems, turbos, air suspension, and electronic components are among the most commonly cited issues.
Since the parts are high-end and specialized labor is expensive, repair bills can quickly add up. Some owners spend several thousand dollars each year just to keep their vehicle in top working condition.
Land Rover Range Rover
The Land Rover Range Rover is often considered one of the most refined luxury SUVs in the world, but also one of the most expensive to maintain. Its exceptional comfort, impressive off-road capabilities, and numerous technological features come with extremely complex mechanics. Air suspension, electronic systems, supercharged engines, and numerous computer components can result in repairs costing several thousand dollars.
A simple suspension failure can easily exceed $3,000, while engine or transmission issues can drive the bill up to over $10,000. For many owners, an extended warranty becomes almost essential to avoid particularly high unexpected expenses.