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From the host of the Royalty Auto Service YouTube channel, viewers are provided with a bit of fresh air when it comes to being not just another one of those "Best of" or "Worst of" reviews we see too often.
Related article: "These Top Models from Honda, Subaru, Toyota, and Others Should Suit All budgets" - 56 Best Used SUVs, Sedans, and Small Cars of 2024
The host takes the unique approach that rather than saying this car brand or model is bad and you should avoid it, he views many of these cars as good―which is among the reasons why people still buy them―but that they do have issues. And issues that can be fixed; No car is perfect for everyone.
The Value of This List and Video
The value of the host's approach is that it is based more on the practical side of ownership―what you can expect in cost from multiple makes as long as they are maintained and cared for, as witnessed by the mechanics who do the repairs.
Furthermore, if you own one of these makes or are thinking about buying one, pay special attention to the video's comments sections, where owners of models within these makes provide some useful owner-experienced views.
Where the Data Came From
- Over the past two years, how many vehicles were worked on by each car line.
- The car line numbers were combined for car lines close in design (e.g., makes like Audi and Volkswagen share the same engine platform and engine in some models) and repair cost.
- The numbers were separated for car lines close in design but with disparate repair costs.
- The average cost is calculated by dividing the amount of money spent on those vehicles serviced and repaired by the garage over the past two years by the number of vehicles worked on.
Important Points Made by the Host
The channel's host makes it clear that the list does not mean some cars are bad ones you should avoid, only that, from their experience, some cars do have particular issues and that the cost of maintaining and repairing those issues is higher in some cars than in others with the same repair type.
In addition, this is not a multi-factorial statistical analysis. Neither the age nor the number of miles were factored in. Rather, this observation is what the garage sees in the real world: what it costs to own these models when it comes to servicing and repair.
Here is the video posted below that is a recommended watch. However, if you prefer, a summary is provided below the video.
Ranking The Top 5 Most Expensive Vehicles To Maintain That We Work On At Our Shop!
Top 5 Most Expensive Vehicles To Maintain Summary
Ranked from the least to most expensive, here is a summary of the garage's findings:
#5. Audi/Volkswagen: Out of 364 vehicles worked on the past two years, the average was $1,165. 35.
Repair and Maintenance Issues: First off, maintenance on European models are often higher than other car lines. Expect anywhere from $180-$300 for just an oil change.
(1) Annoying whistling crankcase ventilation valve noise is common in Audi and Volkswagen models sharing the same engine. The problem is that in some models, getting access to the ventilation valve involves complicated deep turbocharge/intake manifold disassembly to get to the affected part. In other models, it is relatively easier and less expensive in terms of repair cost. (2) European models are known for oil leaking. The host recommends taking care of the first sign of any oil leak because if you wait until it worsens, it will lead to more problems and a higher repair cost.
#4. Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram: The average cost of the 404 vehicles worked on over the past two years was $1,172. 72.
Maintenance and Repair Issues: (1) Oil and other fluid changes are not expensive for these models. (2) Camshaft issues with the 3.6L engines, oil filter housing leaking, multiple internal engine issues including lifter problems; and sometimes, eventual engine replacement. The host points out that otherwise, these vehicles are worth the expense of engine replacement.
#3. Mercedes: Unfortunately, the host got ahead of himself and missed listing the cost numbers for Mercedes. However, by ranking, it falls between the Chrysler and BMW range.
Maintenance and Repair Issues: Air suspension system problems are common and expensive to repair; however, they might not appear until 10 years or more after buying new. Younger models saw the same European model problem of crankcase ventilation valve noise and oil leaking, as noted with Audi/Volkswagen mentioned above.
#2. BMW: The average cost of 286 vehicles worked on over the past two years was $1,386. 86.
Repair and Maintenance Issues: BMW shares some of the problems with other European models, with an emphasis on very common significant oil leak problems. The host also points out that European models are typically fitted with high-performance tires, which also adds to the costs of these types of vehicles.
#1. Jaguar/Land Rover: The average cost of the 74 vehicles worked on over the past two years was $1,598.69.
Repair and Maintenance Issues: You can expect engine noise, coolant leak problems, timing chain, and sprocket-related repairs, as well as the given oil leak. The host points out that the problem with these models is that not only are they the most expensive to maintain and repair, but the parts are often difficult to find. These models also tend not to last as long as the other vehicles listed, in part because their manufacturer-recommended maintenance is very lenient and the vehicles suffer from this neglect―especially by the time they get around to the 2nd and 3rd owner.
Additional Notables the Garage Found
At first, the host admits he was surprised that Ford and GM came out so high on their list; however, after considering the repairs focused on higher-priced systems (internal engine and transmission issues) and that a lot of the cost is man-hours and difficulty in accessing the systems for repair, it is not so surprising after all.
- The 6th most expensive is Ford. Out of 418 vehicles worked on over the past two years, the average cost came to $1,051.62. EcoBoost engine and electrical system issues were their most common repair problems. Water pump replacement is also very expensive if needed.
Related article: Ford EcoBoost Engine Problems All Ford Owners and Used Car Shoppers Should Understand
- The 7th most expensive is GM. Out of 496 vehicles worked over the past two years, the average was $1,036.68. Transmission problems are common and can happen early. Internal engine problems like lifter issues are also common but typically happen after a good amount of mileage has accumulated.
For additional related articles about car maintenance and repair costs, click on these two: "Why Car Maintenance and Repair is So High Today, Says This Mechanic" and "The Car Repair That Makes Owners Maddest."
Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati who currently researches and works on restoring older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. He also reports on modern cars (including EVs) with a focus on DIY mechanics, buying and using tools, and other related topical automotive repair news. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites as well as on Facebook and his automotive blog "Zen and the Art of DIY Car Repair" for useful daily news and topics related to new and used cars and trucks.
Image Source: Deposit Photos
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