While every vehicle requires some maintenance, some cars are total nightmares. They are known for their constant repairs and horrible reputation, draining all wallets. From high repair costs to frequent breakdowns and engine issues, they are notorious for mechanical failures. While they may excel in one aspect, repairing and keeping them on the road is a financial burden. Here are 20 cars that will drain your wallet with constant repairs.
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 is a high-end vehicle, marked by its outstanding performance. However, maintaining this vehicle is a huge hassle, and owners can spend over $20,000 on maintenance over ten years. With issues such as oil leaks, suspension wear, and poor brake pads, drivers should avoid this due to labor-intensive repairs.
BMW 7 Series
One of the best vehicle lineups available in the industry, the BMW 7 Series is one of a kind. With high-tech features and immense reliability, air suspension failures can cost up to $7,000 to repair. Electronics frequently malfunction, leading to expensive repairs in iDrive systems and climate controls.
Land Rover Range Rover
The older Land Rover Range Rover models are prone to air suspension leaks. Issues like the water pump and head gasket failures also make this a pitfall. The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission develops shifting issues, requiring replacements that cost over $6,000.
Jaguar XF
The Jaguar XF is a luxury car characterized by its modern design and aerodynamics. Powered by a range of engine options, the all-wheel drive ensures a smooth and comfortable ride. However, it drains the wallet with its electrical issues, and dashboard malfunctions can cost up to $2,000. Cooling system issues and radiator failure are also common, with repairs averaging over $1,500 to $3,000.
Mercedes Benz S Class
The Mercedes Benz S Class stands for utmost comfort, making every ride enjoyable. It transforms every journey into an opulent one, offering numerous luxurious features. However, the airmatic suspension system is a major weak point, with replacement costs ranging from $2,500 to $7,000 per axle.
Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 is a great family vehicle for urban commutes and weekend trips. The T6 and T8 engines suffer from turbocharger failures, with repairs exceeding $4,000. While the hybrid engine option offers immense fuel efficiency, the replacement costs due to premature degrading can cost up to $10,000.
Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac Escalade offers numerous power-operated features and can accommodate up to eight passengers. It is also an extremely convenient and rugged vehicle that can tow up to 8,200 pounds. Unfortunately, the 6.2L V8 engine in the Escalade suffers from lifter failures, leading to expensive camshaft repairs costing up to $8,000. Fuel pump failures and excessive oil consumption are also common.
Audi A8
One of the best vehicles in the Audi lineup, the A8 is also available as a hybrid option. The interior has dual 10.1-inch touchscreen displays and a 12.3-inch Virtual Audi Cockpit. The repair costs for the 8-speed transmission can be draining, requiring more than $6,000 in repairs. The turbocharged failures are another nightmare, resulting in over $8,000 in repairs.
Lincoln Navigator
Known for its space and high performance, the Lincoln Navigator is a luxury pick. Powered by a 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 engine, it produces up to 440 horsepower. However, the timing chain stretch, water pump leaks, and turbocharger failures can exceed $6,000. The combination of these issues, alongside door lock sensor failures, make this an expensive SUV to maintain
Infiniti QX80
The Infiniti QX80 is a highly comfortable vehicle with tri-zone climate control for a year-round ride. The ProPilot Assist features numerous security and advanced assistance features, enhancing navigation and safety. Failures in the hydraulic body motion control system can cost up to $4,000 in repairs. Electrical failures and sensor issues are also costly.
Maserati Ghibli
A 3.0L twin turbo V6 engine powers an elegant Italian luxury sedan, the Maserati Ghibli. It offers a thrilling drive with Ferrari-derived engineering and a premium interior. Such performance demands expensive repairs, like the automatic transmission, which can cost up to $5,000. The brake pads and rotors cost nearly $2,500 per set to repair.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Known for its luxurious features and off-road suite, the Jeep Grand Cherokee can tackle any terrain. Adored for its Terrain Management systems and Crawl Control, it offers a smooth ride. The Quadra-Lift air suspension has a high failure rate, with repairs exceeding $3,500 per axle.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
Delivering the best of all aspects, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is a super smooth vehicle. Powered by a 2.9L twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with an all-wheel drive, it produces up to 505 horsepower. While excellent for performance, the carbon-ceramic brakes cost over $8,000 to replace, draining the wallet with constant repairs.
Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is a great car in one’s garage. It is a futuristic and eco-friendly vehicle. It is a charming choice whether it’s the performance, autopilot, or advanced safety features. While it is a convenient choice, the repairs are expensive. Battery replacements cost over $15,000. Even the door mechanics and multimedia unit cost nearly $2,000 for repairs.
Chevrolet Corvette C8
With a rich history and iconic heritage, the Chevrolet Corvette C8 is built for the tracks. Equipped with a lightning-fast dual-clutch transmission, the mighty V8 engine knows no limits. The electronic rear differential is prone to failure, costing up to $4,500 in repairs. The cooling system also sometimes struggles, with radiator replacements costing $2,500.
Nissan GT-R
Also known as the “Godzilla,” the Nissan GT-R is a cult favorite for its extreme performance. Equipped with an advanced all-wheel drive system, the strong V6 engine produces up to 565 horsepower. The electronic rear differential is prone to failure, requiring an expensive replacement costing $4,500. Even minor damages and basic brake jobs cost $4,000 due to the Brembo carbon-ceramic rotors.
Ford F-150
The EcoBoost Ford F-150 models have reportedly had problems with the power steering, which cost more than $2,000. The cam phasers in early models cause rattling noises, requiring costly replacements. Offering a mighty towing capacity, the EcoBoost engine suffers from carbon buildup, leading to expenses that can drain wallets.
Chrysler 300C
The Chrysler 300C is an exceptional choice, punctuated with premium features like the Uconnect system and Harman Kardon sound system. However, it falls short in maintenance and often demands expensive repairs. The suspension components wear out quickly, with control arm replacements averaging $1,800. The cooling system and weak radiators also cause overheating, demanding $1,200 for repairs.
Acura MDX
The Acura MDX is a luxurious SUV loaded with features like the AcuraWatch for advanced driver assistance. It can comfortably seat up to seven passengers and is paired with a super-handling all-wheel drive system for stability. Unfortunately, the rear differential requires frequent maintenance, or it risks failure, which can cost $2,000. Other issues, such as clutch pack malfunctions and sunroof drain clogs, are also prevalent.
Subaru WRX STI
With a rally-inspired heritage and track-ready capabilities, the Subaru WRX STI suits all occasions. It takes a hit with the mechanical vulnerabilities in the all-wheel drive and turbocharged power. The turbo oil supply lines frequently clog, leading to turbo failures costing $3,000. The 2.5L EJ257 engine also suffers from ringland failures, draining wallets.
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