You might think you’ve found a great deal on a used car or discovered a new car that will last a lifetime, but one thing that is not calculated in the initial price is repairs
that you’ll need over the years. Just like with any big purchase, a low price tag upfront doesn’t necessarily mean savings down the road. Sure, you’d expect expensive repairs when necessary with something like a European luxury car
, with specialized, imported parts that require an expert hand to install. But you’d be surprised to find out that some lower-cost models can run up just as big of a tab at the mechanic over time. By no means does this mean that these are necessarily good or bad cars to own, but Hotcars
compiled a list of some of the most expensive cars to maintain. Read on below to find out just what it is about these models that will have you footing the bill on your mechanic’s next vacation. 2015-2016 Audi Q3
MORE: Should Your Right to Repair Your Car Be Protected?
The nimble crossover from Aldi is sporty and stylish, but you might want to think twice before committing to the Q3.
The Q3 is half the size of the Q7, but size is no indicator of the ease of maintaining this model. It’s estimated that over a 10-year period, Q3 owners will shell out approximately $11,957 on repairs, primarily for the transmission, electrical components, and windshield.
Busted timing chains, which can lead to sudden engine failure
Sunroof leaks, which can lead to massive amounts of water damage
Windshield breaks, which is dangerous for the driver and can be penalized by fines
Jeep Compass
You might be tempted to go for the Jeep Compass based on its stylish appearance and relatively low price point when compared to the subcompact crossover Jeep Renegade, but you’ll be making up the difference and then some when you spend up $10,127 at the repair shop. The most common problems with the Jeep Compass have to do with the:
Excessive emissions and oil consumption. A big defect of the Compass’s 2.4L Tigershark engine causes an unusual amount of oil and emissions to be burned off during regular engine function.
Poor construction has led to interior water leaks. Not great for a brand that designs cars for off-roading adventures under any weather conditions.
Chevrolet Trax
This crossover SUV is only going to cost you about $26,753 upfront, but you might want to calculate an extra $8,595 in repairs for the next decade. Common failures of the Trax include:
A/C and heating system failures
Instability on inclines, causing the car to start to roll back
Total, sudden shutdown while driving
The Chevrolet Trax has already had a ten-year run, and some car enthusiasts argue that it’s time to retire this glitchy model altogether.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
Topping this list in repair expenses, a Land Rover Discovery Sport will cost you on average $16,000 to maintain for over 10 years. At just 15,000 miles, you’ll be due for battery/cable servicing, but that's not all you have to watch out for. According to Consumer Reports
, The Discovery Sport has also had several recalls for issues with the: Electrical system short-circuiting, increasing the risk of fire
Unsecured child restraint systems
Confusing onboard infotainment system
2014-2017 Ford EcoSport
The Ford EcoSport was first introduced as a reliable, affordable car with good fuel economy, but didn’t exactly deliver on any front. The sticker price is only about $25,531, but you’re going to need to factor in about $8,743 in repairs over the next decade. Not only that, but after ten years the resale value dips to about $6,000—ouch! If you have an Ecosport, plan on keeping an eye on the following:
Powershift transmission problems, which caused unpleasant lurching, surging, and shuddering for drivers
Faulty door locks, particularly when its wet or raining outside
Poor mpg in spite of its advertised above-average fuel economy
Car maintenance might be getting more expensive, but you can cut the cost of owning a vehicle by finding cheap car insurance
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