10 Most Costly Car Brands to Maintain Over 10 Years

When it comes to maintaining a car, the brands you choose can significantly impact your wallet over time. Maintaining a car might not be the most thrilling way to spend your free time, it’s likely even less appealing than a trip to the dentist or tackling your annual taxes. 

However, the choice of car brand can make a substantial difference in how often and how much you spend at the mechanic. A recent study by Consumer Reports reveals that European car brands, in particular, are notorious for hefty maintenance bills over a decade, with some costing nearly five times more than their more economical counterparts.

Land Rover

Topping the list is Land Rover, with staggering maintenance costs averaging $19,250 over ten years. Renowned for its luxury and off-road capability, Land Rover’s high maintenance fees reflect its premium status and complex engineering, making it the most expensive car brand to maintain.

Porsche

Porsche holds the second spot, incurring an average maintenance cost of $14,090 over a decade. While Porsche is celebrated for its exceptional performance and engineering, these attributes come at a price, with significant costs associated with parts and specialized labor.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz is known for its luxury and innovation but ranks third with maintenance costs of $10,525 over ten years. Owners of Mercedes-Benz vehicles often contend with high costs for parts and services once warranty periods are over.

Audi

Fourth on the list is Audi, with a ten-year maintenance cost of $9,890. Audi’s blend of technology and performance translates into higher maintenance needs, where even routine services can be costly due to the sophistication of its systems.

BMW

BMW, another German luxury car brand, follows closely with maintenance costs around $9,500 over ten years. BMW’s advanced technology and high standards in engineering lead to higher maintenance costs, particularly as the vehicle ages.

Volvo

Volvo, a brand that emphasizes safety and quality, faces maintenance costs of $9,285 over ten years. Despite its reputation for durability, the specialized nature of Volvo’s components contributes to its placement on this list.

Infiniti

Japanese luxury brand Infiniti comes in seventh, with average maintenance costs of $8,500 over a decade. Infiniti combines performance with luxury, which naturally results in higher maintenance fees due to its refined components.

Acura

Acura, another premium brand from Japan, has ten-year maintenance costs of $7,800. Similar to its counterparts, Acura’s focus on luxury and technology means maintaining its vehicles can be expensive.

Mini

Mini occupies the ninth spot with maintenance costs of $7,625 over ten years. Despite its compact size, Mini’s unique design and engineering lead to maintenance costs that might surprise many owners.

Subaru

Subaru, well-regarded for its all-wheel-drive systems and reliability, still requires a substantial investment in maintenance, averaging $7,200 over ten years. While known for its durability, the complex systems in Subaru cars contribute to their maintenance costs.

Weighing Cost Against Performance

Choosing a car brand involves balancing the joy of driving with the practicality of maintenance costs. European car brands, known for their luxury and performance, often come with higher maintenance costs. Regular maintenance can mitigate these expenses, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly for longer. Always consider the long-term maintenance costs when choosing your next car to avoid unwelcome surprises.