5 Sedans That Will Cost the Most Money Over Time, According To Car Experts
Are you in the market for a new vehicle? Maybe you just received a promotion that boosted your net worth or it’s just finally time to trade in something you’ve had for years. Whatever the case, it’s important to do your research before signing on the dotted line. Although no vehicle will have zero problems, some have more noted issues.
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In this article, we’ll cover the five sedans that cost the most money over time, helping you make an informed purchase decision on your next vehicle.
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BMW 5 Series
The BMW 5 Series has had several recalls, including gearbox problems, cooling issues and premature rotor wear. In addition, BMW’s a luxury vehicle brand, making the pricing for parts and labor higher than other average.
Even if you avoid any major issues, ongoing maintenance is also expensive. BMWs use premium materials, so it’s no surprise that the average maintenance cost over five years is over $4,400 for a new vehicle. Although this might not seem like a lot, the total cost of owning a BMW 5 Series, including depreciation, insurance, maintenance, loan interest, and fuel costs, is $81,249.
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“Despite being a high-performance, luxurious vehicle, the cost of maintaining a BMW 5 Series can add up quickly,” says Blake Shaw, Automotive Expert at All About Wheels. “Due to the high cost of parts and the intricate engineering of BMWs, maintenance and repair expenses can be enormous. When compared to non-luxury brands, regular services like oil changes, brake replacements, and repairs to electronic systems are often more expensive.”
Audi A6
The Audi A6 is a popular mid-sized sedan in the luxury vehicle sector. However, this vehicle has known issues, like faulty wiring, blown fuses, and malfunctioning control models. Audi is a German brand, meaning most materials will need to be ordered, and you need to find a mechanic who is well-versed in foreign vehicles.
These factors can drive up the cost of owning the Audi A6, even for regular maintenance. The average cost of repairs during the first five years of owning the Audi A6 is $3,074. The total cost of owning the Audi A6 over five years is slightly lower than the BMW 5 Series at $78,947.
“Common problems (with an Audi A6) include shifting gears not working properly, oil leaking, and turbocharger issues,” says Cruze. “The A6 and other Audis tend to have above-average repair costs and frequencies. In addition, the premium parts and specialized service needed for routine maintenance make it more expensive.”
Chevrolet Cruze
The Chevrolet Cruze was discontinued in 2019. If you’re thinking about buying a used Chevrolet Cruze, you might want to reconsider your decision. For one, this vehicle will already be a few years old, and maintenance costs continue to rise on older vehicles.
For the average Chevrolet vehicle, maintenance costs jump from $859 to $1,078 between years five and six. By year 9, the expected annual maintenance is $1,358, and there is a 22.44% probability of having a major repair. Couple ongoing maintenance with the higher risk of a major repair, and you might want to cross the Chevrolet Cruze off your sedan list.
“With an exterior design that balances between simple and a sleek elegance, what the Chevy Cruze makes up for with an impressive gas millage and comfortable and spacious interior, it lacks in a high maintenance cost,” says Peter Dubois, general manager at Find By Plate. “From transmission issues to cooling system problems to engine leaks which cause the car to wear and tear easily, maintenance costs for this car can sometimes become overbearing for owners.”
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Mercedes is a well-known brand, giving the impression of class and wealth. Is paying more in maintenance costs worth the brand image? The average cost of owning a Mercedes-Benz S-Class for five years is $144,327, with more than half of this figure coming from depreciation. After five years of depreciation, the average residual value of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class is around $66,000.
Maintenance is also expensive, averaging $4,266 after five years. These expenses include general maintenance and normal wear and tear. During the first ten years of owning the S-Class, there is a 31.57% chance of having a major repair. This can add thousands to your maintenance bill. Are you ready to pay for that?
Volvo S90
The Volvo S90 makes the list because of its hidden costs. Over the long term, it is known for issues in its advanced safety system, which can result in high, unexpected expenses. The average cost of owning the Volvo S90 for five years is $81,159. Maintenance in the first five years averages $3,110.
Like many other vehicles on this list, maintenance costs increase after five years. Starting in year six of ownership, expect to pay over $1,000 yearly for regular maintenance. By year 10, there is a 26.81% chance of the vehicle needing a major repair. Despite being known as a reliable brand, maintenance costs for the Volvo S90 can catch you by surprise, especially when you have technology issues.
The Bottom Line
Finding your next sedan purchase takes careful consideration of more factors than the upfront cost or purchase price. How much is your annual insurance? What can you expect to pay for non-covered maintenance in the first five years? These questions are especially important if you are buying a luxury brand. After all, you want to get your money’s worth.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Sedans That Will Cost the Most Money Over Time, According To Car Experts