When it comes to the long-term costs of owning a car, maintenance and repairs are key factors that can significantly impact a buyer’s decision. A recent survey by Consumer Reports shed light on the maintenance costs of various car brands over a 10-year ownership period, excluding collision repair costs.
In a surprising turn, Tesla emerged as the least expensive brand to maintain over a decade of ownership, beating out traditional favorites like Buick and Toyota. The average cost to maintain a Tesla for the first five years is just $580, and $4,035 for the first 10 years, according to the survey. However, it’s important to note that this study does not factor in the potential cost of a battery replacement, which could substantially change the cost equation.
American brands dominated the list of cheapest maintenance and repair costs, indicating that opting for a domestic automaker can be a wise financial decision for budget-conscious buyers. On the other hand, Land Rover stood out as the most expensive brand to maintain, followed by premium German automakers.
While Tesla’s maintenance costs are low, there are other considerations for potential buyers. Tesla is the only brand in the survey that exclusively offers electric vehicles (EVs), which typically have lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. However, the potential cost of a battery replacement, ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on the model, could negate some of the cost savings.
Despite being cost-efficient in maintenance, repairing a Tesla after a collision is notably more expensive compared to other EVs and gasoline vehicles. This is attributed to the high-tech features, the scarcity of aftermarket parts, and the tendency for Teslas to be declared total losses in accidents rather than being repaired.
Hertz recently voiced concerns about the expensive repair bills for their Tesla Model 3 fleet, which is primarily attributed to the higher incidence of damage among EV rideshare drivers compared to regular EV owners.
Overall, while Tesla’s maintenance costs are favorable, potential buyers should consider the long-term implications of battery replacements and repair costs, especially in the context of collision repairs.
