Buying a used car at a good price might look like a time saver, but repairs can make an affordable used vehicle an expensive headache. Budget-conscious shoppers might find the 2014 Hyundai Elantra or Kia Sorento tempting, but the number of mechanical issues, including engine and transmission problems, make it a far-from-perfect choice. On the other end of the spectrum, luxury cars including the Lincoln Navigator, Mercedes-Benz S550, Jaguar XJ, BMW 750i xDrive and Land Rover Range Rover come with a lower cost when being sold as a used vehicle, but high-end vehicles tend to be expensive to maintain and repair due to complex engineering and aging parts. Performance and adventure-focused vehicles, such as the BMW M5, Cadillac Escalade ESV and Jeep Wrangler are also listed as some of the most unreliable cars.
But the true cost of a used car involves far more than the sticker price What’s the annual cost of ownership when factoring in normal service, the chance of breakdowns, spare parts, and a potentially high cost of specialist labor? The Repair Pal numbers provided here reveal annual repair averages from as low as $452 (for the Hyundai Elantra among these models) to $1,411 (BMW 750i xDrive). Other issues involve air-suspension failures in luxury SUVs, electrical gremlins, engine problems, transmission issues, and high oil consumption. While the above doesn’t imply any one of these vehicles will have serious issues, it does give you an idea of what to look for so you’re not stuck with an unexpected bill. Look at service histories, get a pre-purchase vehicle inspection, research common problems with that model, and find out what kind of warranty coverage is available.
1. Hyundai Elantra
Even if the Hyundai Elantra looks like an inexpensive compact sedan, it’s not always cheap to own. Repair Pal reports the average annual repair cost is $452, but some owners and mechanics have questioned its reliability. They have provided information on 142 reported problems, with transmission and engine reliability being high items for a used car. Forums confirm the quality can be inconsistent, with one Elantra member describing quality as “Very hit or miss,” and several other members warning to be cautious when buying. Another car specialist questioned the brand’s reliability reputation. Concerns like those should make you do an in-depth review on the vehicle before deciding on an inexpensive secondhand Elantra.
Hyundai Elantra Reliability Concerns:
- Average annual repair cost $452
- 142 reported problems documented
- Engine reliability raises concerns
- Transmission issues worry buyers
- Some engines reportedly fail early
Elantra, a car suggests that an appealing purchase price isn’t necessarily an indication of affordable ownership. Although the stated repair cost of $452 for an entire year of ownership is indeed low, the abundance of overall problems and concerns with major mechanical parts should also give note. Defects in the transmission can lead to costly repair, and reports of premature engine failure make the vehicle’s service history all that more important. In addition, owner conversations show that even the cost of manufacture can be inconsistent among vehicles. Those who plan to buy a used Elantra should weigh on its repair records and vehicle service life rather than simply on its purchase price. Just because a car seems cheap at first doesn’t mean it won’t become expensive later.
2. Lincoln Navigator
Lincoln Navigator full-size luxury SUV, three rows of seats, strong V6 engine, high towing capacity. Full-size luxury SUVs can be attractive options in the used market because of the unique trim levels and offering a comfortable ride and hefty towing capacity. The Navigator has high-end amenities and a “big” presence on the road that appeal to consumers. They can also put a big dent in household budgets when they’re due for repair. Repair Pal gives an average annual repair cost of $1,089. Untrained mechanics and owners point out the air-suspension system and complex electronics as a costly fix potential. A buyer in r/lincolnmotorco was advised to get an extended warranty if upgrading from a Toyota Sequoia, with the commenter warning of the challenge of reaching 200,000 miles without major repairs.
Lincoln Navigator Ownership Expenses:
- Spacious three-row luxury cabin
- Powerful V6 engine
- Average annual repairs cost $1,089
- Air suspension repairs can be expensive
- Complex electronics increase ownership risks
A used luxury SUV’s trade-off between purchase price and costs can be brought home by the Navigator. With its interior roominess, towing capacity, and high-end features, its appeal is undeniable, but the mechanical and electronic systems required to support those features add up to a number of potential trouble spots. Air-suspension issues can result in hefty repair bills. Complex electrical systems often fail, necessitating diagnostic work that is anything but straightforward. The average annual cost of repairs, $1,089, can give buyers a place to start in preparing for routine maintenance and repairs, and the warning about costly repairs before 200,000 miles on the odometer reminds buyers to consider overall vehicle age and prior maintenance. Extended warranties can ease the burden of expensive repairs, if they are purchased at a reasonable cost and cover necessary repairs.
3. Mercedes-Benz S550
The Mercedes-Benz S550 was the flagship luxury sedan from 2007 through 2017. On the used market, S550s can go for a tenth of the original MSRP and still endow luxuriously equipped sedans with the feel of a luxury-car experience. The price paid, though, is just one aspect of owning a Mercedes-Benz, which Repair Pal pegs at an annual repair cost of $1249. Mercedes engineering demands routine maintenance and careful monitoring of the vehicle to head off small problems before they turn into costly breakdowns. A r/mercedes_benz forum contributor notes that well-maintained S550s are worthy, but the owner may need to replace certain parts before they are needed, and one should never push back on scheduled maintenance to avoid a repair when something is going to have to be replaced anyway.
Mercedes-Benz S550 Maintenance Risks:
- Flagship luxury sedan
- Used prices below original MSRP
- Average annual repairs cost $1,249
- Complex engineering requires scheduled maintenance
- Delayed servicing can worsen problems
The S550 can deliver a comfortable drive at a used-car price that seems pretty cheap. However, all its high-end systems and equipment means its maintenance budget should align with the flagship luxury sedan it is. A repair record of $1,249 per year underlines why no one should believe depreciation makes ownership cheaper by default. Maintenance is essential because aging parts and minor mechanical issues tend to escalate in price if they are ignored. Key owner comments reinforce the idea that scheduled maintenance and preventative maintenance are essential many mentioned replacing more parts before they fail in order to avoid more costly repairs later. Buyers should request maintenance records and assess if the previous owner kept up with the required service schedule. If not, this $120,000 car may soon cost a lot more than its initial investment.
4. Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV with attractive looks, a well-equipped interior, and a reasonable purchase price. These factors could lead it to be an ideal family SUV for a used vehicle buyer who is seeking modern features. The information that follows could however raise red flags about its mechanical reliability despite having a relatively low median yearly repair cost. According to Repair Pal, the average yearly cost of repairs on a Sorento is $533, with 110 problems reported in total, ranging from transmission problems to airbag issues. According to certain mechanics, some buyers could also be turned off by the fact that features and gadgets can be distracting. User feedback in the r/askcarguys forum indicated that feature-laden cars can lead to the user being disappointed when seven years of service are up, with some mentioning issues with engines and dual-clutch transmissions.
Kia Sorento Reliability Issues:
- Feature-rich midsize SUV
- Average annual repairs cost $533
- 110 reported problems documented
- Transmission defects raise concerns
- Engine issues worry some owners
The Sorento illustrates the difference between a good looking package and a reliable time investment. Styling, interior features and a low entry price make the Sorento attractive to many, but transmission problems and reports of engine failures should give prospective owners pause. Repair Pal shows an average year-to-year repair cost of just $533 for the vehicle, which is decent, but the 110 problems that have been reported may lead one to look past the sticker. Airbag problems also present a safety concern, and online forums reveal some owners question the long-term reliability of extremely feature rich models when they get older. The information proves there is no guarantee of big problems, but pre-sale inspections are smart. Buying a good used Sorento means examining for mechanical problems, service history and transmission issues.
5. Jaguar XJ
Available from 1968-2019, the Jaguar XJ is a luxury sedan known for its sophisticated styling and roominess. Used models can be appealing since their purchase price can be well below other luxury sedans, but repairs can eat into the potential savings quickly. According to Repair Pal, the average annual repair cost on the XJ is $1,232, and the car has a reputation for cooling-system issues and electrical problems in the various systems aboard the vehicle. Because luxury cars often require special tools and parts to repair, repairs can be costly in individual repair visits, and upkeep of the XJ requires the skills of technicians familiar with this model, especially when an electrical or cooling system problem develops. Potential Jaguar XJ buyers may want to factor in a good record of the vehicle’s maintenance, and how well it can be repaired, before settling for a low used-car price.
Jaguar XJ Repair Challenges:
- Elegant luxury sedan styling
- Spacious passenger cabin
- Average annual repairs cost $1,232
- Cooling-system defects require attention
- Electrical glitches increase repair expenses
While this luxury car’s depreciation can bring it within reach of many buyers, it cannot eliminate the costs of its engineering. The XJ continues to appeal thanks to its stylish design and roomy cabin, but cooling-system failures and electrical issues can translate into costly ownership experiences. Repair Pal’s estimate of an average annual repair cost of $1,232 gives an idea of the expenses incurred by owning and maintaining this vehicle. The make and model of the parts and labor required will add to the costs that a consumer has to bear when repairs are needed. Always watch out for signs of cooling-system care, the functionality of on-board electronics, and make sure that the availability of original replacement parts and qualified technicians can be found. An inexpensive XJ can be a luxurious experience, but the car’s condition and ownership expenses could tell a different story.
6. BMW M5
Performance and feeling are what the BMW M5 promises to give you, along with a lot of engine performance. The datasheet offers up a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 putting out 717-horsepower, which makes this powertrain configuration attractive to a buyer who prefers the M5 for high-speed acceleration and speed. When performance comes at such high levels, the costs of maintaining the machine can be significant. Expert mechanics in online car forums like r/whatcarshouldIbuy warn that very high-output German performance sedans like the BMWs can weigh heavily on your checkbook. An expert in the forum said that BMW V8 models carrying the “-50i” suffix can be especially costly. A high-performance M5 version with a V10 engine could be downright impossible to maintain on an affordable day-to-day basis, according to another posting. Repair Pal indicates an average yearly cost of $1,173 to maintain the M5.
BMW M5 Ownership Costs:
- 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8
- Power output reaches 717 horsepower
- Average annual repairs cost $1,173
- High-performance components require attention
- Maintenance can strain budgets
The M5 also demonstrates the other side of owning a high-performance, high-dollar machine the extra bucks needed to maintain a car this hard core. The broad appeal of the M5 is obvious with its power and driving dynamics, but the mechanical systems that bring this kind of car to life can add up to far more than the promised moon on the when it’s time to take the dog for a walk. Repair Pal’s projected average annual repair cost of $1,173 can be a starting point, but vehicles can vary. Technician reviews on the internet point to BMW engines and high-end performance BMWs costing more than you might expect. The noted M5 owner should carefully review the maintenance history, look over the engine and engine bay, and consider the cost of regular maintenance. Don’t buy without an idea of the repair budget, especially with used cars.
7. BMW 750i xDrive
The BMW 750i xDrive is part of the flagship 7 Series lineup that adds technology, comfort and driving excellence. While its features could be attractive to used car consumers seeking a high-end luxury vehicle at a significant discount, the complex mechanical systems could be costly to maintain. Owners in particular complain of exorbitant expenses related to air suspension, turbocharger failures, and complicated repairs related to the fuel system. Repair Pal estimates the BMW 750i xDrive will cost an average of $1,411 a year to repair. Online discussions among experienced BMW owners suggest the possibility of significant expense to repair luxury BMWs if their drivers are unable to get protection plans that sometimes can be more than $6,000. Buyers must consider the costs of available comfort and technology against potentially expensive repairs.
BMW 750i xDrive Maintenance Expenses:
- Flagship 7 Series luxury sedan
- Advanced technology and lavish comfort
- Average annual repairs cost $1,411
- Air suspension repairs can be expensive
- Extended warranties may exceed $6,000
The 750i xDrive can be just as costly to own as a brand new model as evidenced by the average $1,411 annual repair cost. While its style and features may provide a luxurious experience, its air suspension can cause costly repairs, turbocharger issues can require major repairs, and repairs to its fuel-system components can add up. Although an extended warranty can help counterbalance the expensive replacement parts, a coverage plan that costs more than $6,000 can require potential BMW buyers to proceed with caution. Its age, mileage, maintenance records, and mechanical condition all affect its ownership costs and the question that BMW prospective buyers should answer before purchase is whether it’s worth the high price.
8. Cadillac Escalade ESV
The Escalade ESV is an attractive big family vehicle with its huge cabin and V8 engine. It is an ideal luxury family SUV for a road trip. It is a luxury vehicle with a commanding appearance and interior but can be costly to preserve. According to repair specialists, the Cadillac Escalade ESV version has had a total of 28 frequent reported issues including faulty sensors, electronic issues, and a deadly engine failure. The Escalade ESV has an average annual cost of upkeep of $1,127. It can be an on-going struggle to take a visit to the working classes with lots of elements sharing at the same time, particularly when buying a used version.
Cadillac Escalade ESV Repair Risks:
- Spacious luxury SUV cabin
- Powerful V8 engine
- 28 commonly reported problems
- Average annual repairs cost $1,127
- Sensor and electronic failures occur
While the Escalade ESV delivers an abundance of passenger space and has the traits of a high-end American SUV, consider that its repair history is not ideal. Known problems include electronic and sensor failures as well as more serious engine issues. Repair Pal estimates that the average annual repair costs are $1,127, but it’s worth noting that repairs are often costly and will vary depending on the specific condition and mileage. All of the 28 most common problems reported have potential to ruin a good deal and should prompt you to check out a specific model carefully. Focus on the engine, electronics, and any signs of recurring warning lights and unresolved issues. If the status is good and the service history complete, this could still be a family hauler with high-end appeal.
9. Land Rover Range Rover
For being such a recognizable luxury badge, there’s something exotic about the Range Rover that turns it into a status symbol. The high-end SUV typically depreciates sharply on the used market, giving it the appearance of being more affordable. But under the layers of luxury features, it’s a complex vehicle with a history of costly repairs. Repair Pal reports 153 repairs, with common problems including air-suspension issues and the high-cost components of drivetrain repairs. The average yearly repair cost, according to Repair Pal, is $1,174. Mechanical problems can make for a prolonged ownership experience and higher bills. Just because you paid less for it doesn’t mean that the Range Rover will be less expensive to repair.
Range Rover Reliability Concerns:
- Luxury SUV with off-road capability
- 153 reported problems documented
- Average annual repairs cost $1,174
- Air suspension can develop problems
- Drivetrain repairs can be expensive
The Range Rover demonstrates the pitfalls of buying a highly advanced luxury SUV without planning for its expensive upkeep down the road. Off-road agility and a lavish cabin are appealing, but the air suspension system and powertrain can produce high repair costs, and the 153 trouble reports reflect a range of issues to be aware of in a used vehicle. Averaging $1,174 in annual repairs according to Repair Pal, depreciation does not make the Range Rover cheap to run keep an eye on service history, check for mechanical issues and get an inspection before buying. Find out if a mechanic can be located nearby, and consider whether repair work can be done there in your car’s region. The Range Rover can balance finesse and off-road ability, but a cheap purchase could be expensive to maintain.
10. Jeep Wrangler
This is an off-road capable, go-anywhere, open-air driving machine that appeals to thrill seekers and casual drivers alike. This gets a bit complicated when the rest of the information provided seems to highlight multiple reliability issues that can be an annoyance to used owners. According to Repair Pal, 105 individual repair issues have been reported to involve excessive oil consumption, engine failures, electrical issues, sensor problems, among others. Even with these issues, the average cost to repair a used Jeep Wrangler has been $694 per year but users have voiced concerns on online forums that repeated repairs can be a source of frustration even when the individual cost to fix issues is not particularly high. One r/Ask Mechanics forum contributor said that Jeep is notorious for minor malfunctions, while another said that Jeep, Hyundai, and Kia cars make their (considerable) profits off of replacement parts.
Jeep Wrangler Ownership Challenges:
- Rugged off-road-oriented design
- 105 reported problems documented
- Average annual repairs cost $694
- Excessive oil consumption concerns
- Electrical and sensor failures reported
A rough-and-ready image doesn’t always equate to freedom from problems. The Wrangler still benefits from a strong off-road character and the freedom of open-air motoring, but consistent reports of oil consumption, along with issues with the electrical system and sensors, can make it a constant source of repair and expense. Repair Pal’s average annual repair cost of $694 may seem reasonable compared to the pricier machines on this list, but repeated issues can be a source of inconvenience and cost. Examining engine health, looking for evidence of excess oil consumption, and assessing its electrical system and service history can help get to the bottom of any problems. And knowing how it was driven especially if it was used off-road often is also an important part of the decision-making process.
