What Car Brands Cost the Most to Maintain?

To keep your vehicle running smoothly and reliably, regular car maintenance is essential. From tire rotations and oil changes to wiper replacements, the cost of maintaining certain car brands over 10 years can be quite high. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac, Audi, and Porsche are some of the most expensive car brands to maintain due to their complex engineering and high-priced spare parts. Alex, Chief Claims Officer for Endurance Dealer Services, has over 20 years of experience in the automotive service industry and explains why preventive maintenance is so important.

When buying a new car, it's important to consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term maintenance costs. The 20 vehicles on this list are expensive to own and maintain over time. Porsche Cayenne and Macan SUVs are known for their performance capabilities but come with a hefty price tag for repairs and spare parts. BMW X6 and X7 mid-size SUVs have impressive technology built in but can be costly to maintain.

The iconic Porsche 911 is one of the best sports cars on the market but also one of the most expensive to maintain. The BMW X2, X1, and RAM 1500 are also expensive to maintain due to their complex engineering and high-priced spare parts. Of all car brands, luxury cars from Germany such as BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz are the most expensive to maintain. Lexus, Toyota, and Scion are at the other end of the spectrum as they are generally less expensive to repair and maintain.

It's important to consider how car costs change with age as this is when a car owner decides if they should stay with their current vehicle or upgrade it. Knowing the relative maintenance costs of different brands can help drivers make an informed decision when buying a new car.