Purchasing a car is not only about the features it offers upfront but also the long-term cost of keeping it on the road. Maintenance and repairs can be very costly, taking a massive chunk of one’s wallet. Cars that may look like a dream to own do come with flaws and frequent issues. From transmission issues to oil leaks, they are notorious for becoming financial black holes. Here are 20 cars that will empty your wallet in repairs:
Land Rover Range Rover
The Land Rover Range Over is an opulent choice known for its brilliant off-road capabilities and luxurious features. While it is reliable, the air suspension system can cost hundreds and thousands of dollars to repair. The same goes for malfunctions in the infotainment systems and sensors and emptying wallets in repairs.
BMW 7 Series
The brand’s flagship luxury sedan, the BMW 7 Series, stands out with its cutting-edge technology. However, the iDrive system can cost a fortune during repairs or fixing glitches. The adaptive suspension system, which is also prone to failure, costs a lot. As the vehicle ages, oil leaks also tend to pose a threat.
Mercedes Benz S Class
The Mercedes-Benz S Class pushes the limits of innovation and comfort. Offering a luxurious ride, failures in the Command system always result in a hefty repair bill. The S-Class’s complex engine designs, particularly in AMG models, are prone to overheating and oil leaks.
Audi Q7
There have been many cases with the Audi Q7’s engine timing belt. These often lead to poor engine performances, resulting in breakdowns and damages if not replaced on time. While the vehicle is punctuated with luxurious features, electrical failures and repair costs are not budget-friendly.
Jaguar XF
Characterized by its sleek and stylish design, the Jaguar XF falls short on reliability. From issues in the infotainment systems to software bugs, the replacements are not cheap at all. Engine issues, such as oil leaks and turbocharger failures, are common, particularly in older models.
Volkswagen Touareg
The Volkswagen Touareg has had a series of issues dating back to 2002. The vehicle has a history of engine and transmission issues, especially in older models. Fuel system failures and sensor malfunctions have also led to a loss of credibility, costing high repair prices.
Chrysler 300
The Chrysler 300 has a bad reputation for transmission issues and should be avoided. Problems like shuddering, slipping gears, or outright failure are common. Other problems that have been reported are high repair costs due to electrical complexities and a few engine problems.
Mini Cooper
The turbocharged Mini Cooper models do not have the best reputation. Turbocharger failure is costly, and oil leaks are much higher. While the vehicle is an astonishing choice for the urban landscape, the pressure on the cooling system leads to failures.
Maserati Quattroporte
The best Italian craftsmanship comes with a cost for expensive parts and specialized components. The Maserati Quattroporte’s clutch and transmission are way more expensive than others. Moreover, repairing these also requires highly skilled technicians who may not be available everywhere.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a versatile workhorse that can still increase repair costs. The 2014-2019 models have often reported transmission issues and shuddering. While the durability and rugged build make it stand out, the brakes that get strained can cost up to $1,000 per axle.
Fiat 500
With its compact nature and Italian style, the Fiat 500 can be costly. One of the biggest reasons is the clutch issue in the manual transmission. Replacing a clutch, including labor, can cost $1,000- $2,000. Other common complaints include issues with the Blue&Me system, turbocharger failures, and failing alternators.
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima’s 2.5L four-cylinder engine is highly fuel efficient, making it a popular midsize sedan. It is affordable, but repairs and maintenance can be draining. For instance, CVT transmission repairs can cost $1,000-$2,500. Worn-out brake pads and suspension issues in the 2013-2016 models are also unpleasant.
Subaru WRX
Equipped with its symmetrical all-wheel drive, the Subaru WRX can tackle any terrain. However, the 2.0L turbocharged engines can fail if pushed hard without proper care, draining the wallet. A common issue reported in the WRX models (2015-2020) is the piston ring lands, which can crack under high boost or poor fuel quality.
Ford Focus
Introduced in 1998, the Ford Focus has come about to build a loyal fanbase. However, some models, like the 2012-2018, have faced transmission issues. They are infamous for shuddering, jerking, or failing, costing over $1,000 in repairs. Problems in the EcoBoost models due to oil starvation are also expensive.
Chevrolet Cruze
Standing out with its fuel efficiency and comfortable cabin, the Chevrolet Cruze is decent. The older model years (2011-2014), alongside a few newer ones, suffer from sluggish shifting or torque converter issues. Water pump failures and cracked coolant reservoirs are another nagging issue, taking a significant portion for repairs.
Dodge Dart
The Dodge Dart was reintroduced in 2013 as a compact sedan offering a sporty ride. Nonetheless, the dual-clutch transmission issues are a nightmare for drivers and cost a lot to repair. Additionally, the Dart has faced stalling issues due to excessive oil consumption or low oil pressure, requiring immediate attention.
Porsche Panamera
The Porsche Panamera is a high-performance sedan that showcases exhilarating performance. Powered by a strong V6 or other hybrid options, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in only 3 seconds. The issue lies in the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch transmission, which can cost up to $5,000 in repairs. The older 2010-2013 models also have a bad reputation for oil leaks.
Tesla Model S Plaid
A futuristic and industry-leading green vehicle, the Tesla Model S Plaid is an absolute powerhouse. This symbolizes class, whether it’s the performance, autopilot, or upscale cabin. While it may be the best, maintenance and battery unit issues are costly. Moreover, any malfunction in the infotainment systems or suspension can exceed $5,000.
Volvo XC90
Safety is a key component in the Volvo XC90, which is equipped with Volvo City Safety to keep everyone safe. This vehicle is also available as an electric and hybrid variant. Drivers should avoid the early second generation due to failures with the 8-speed automatic transmission. The electrical, software glitches, and turbocharger issues in the T6 models are also quite expensive to fix.
Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder has much to offer with its rugged nature and family-friendly features. With a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds and more than 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space, it is an excellent pick. Heavy tasks wear out struts, shocks, and bushings, especially in 4WD models. Repairs to the electrical systems and sensors are also quite costly.
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