Driving a ‘Wallet-Drainer’? Unmasking 12 Sedans with Surprisingly High Maintenance Costs

Ever felt that cold dread when your car’s check engine light suddenly flickers on, or that familiar sinking feeling after a hefty mechanic’s bill? Yep, we’ve all been there! Car ownership is a curious blend of freedom and, let’s be honest, often unexpected financial surprises. It turns out, some sedans—those sleek, four-door rides we love—can secretly be “wallet-drainers” when it comes to their long-term upkeep. Today, we’re uncovering 12 such vehicles, shining a light on their hidden maintenance costs.

The automotive world has certainly shifted gears, hasn’t it? Sedans, once the undisputed champions of our driveways, have seen their sales take a backseat to the ever-popular crossovers, SUVs, and pickups. Many American car companies have even pivoted, focusing their efforts elsewhere. But don’t count sedans out entirely; plenty of fantastic options, often with four doors and seating for four or more, still cruise our streets.

Here’s the unfiltered truth: a car’s initial price tag is just the beginning of your financial journey with it. Think of car maintenance budgeting like prepping for those inevitable surprise pizza nights—you know they’re coming, but the exact timing? Who knows! The wisdom here is simple: plan ahead, and you won’t be scrambling when that notorious repair bill lands. A smart move is to stash away $50–$100 each month specifically for maintenance, because the high-tech, high-performance, and truly luxurious sedans we’re about to explore will definitely put that fund to the test.

1. **BMW 7 Series**Kicking off our list of high-maintenance sedans is the illustrious BMW 7 Series. This isn’t merely a mode of transport; it’s BMW’s flagship luxury sedan, a definitive statement of prestige and cutting-edge engineering. When you choose a vehicle of this caliber, you’re not just buying a car; you’re investing in an experience defined by advanced technology and premium components.

And that investment, dear reader, extends far beyond the showroom. The intricate systems and bespoke materials woven into a 7 Series mean that routine upkeep isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill service. From specialized diagnostics required for its sophisticated electronics to the high cost of replacement parts, the context wisely notes that these repairs “can leave a significant dent in your wallet.” Keeping this German marvel performing at its peak demands both expert attention and a healthy budget.

Every component in the 7 Series is meticulously designed to elevate your driving pleasure. This pursuit of automotive perfection, while exhilarating on the open road, directly translates into what the context refers to as “fancy repair bills.” Whether it’s the adaptive suspension system, the state-of-the-art infotainment, or the potent powertrain, each element requires specialized care. This is definitely not a car for those who shy away from substantial ongoing financial commitments for its meticulous upkeep.

Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE SEL 2.4
Name: BMW 7 Series
Caption: BMW 7 Series (G11)
Manufacturer: BMW
Production: 1977–present
Class: Full-size car,luxury car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Predecessor: BMW New Six
Categories: All articles with dead external links, Articles with dead external links from July 2021, Articles with short description, BMW vehicle series, CS1 Chinese-language sources (zh)
Summary: The BMW 7 Series is a full-size luxury sedan manufactured and marketed by the German automaker BMW since 1977. It is the successor to the BMW E3 “New Six” sedan and is now in its seventh generation. The 7 Series is BMW’s flagship car and is only available in a sedan bodystyle (including long wheelbase and limousine models). It traditionally introduces technologies and exterior design themes before other models in BMW’s lineup. The first generation of the 7 Series was powered by straight-6 petrol engines, and following generations have been powered by inline-4, straight-6, V8 and V12 engines with both natural aspiration and turbocharging. Since 1995, diesel engines have been optional in the 7 Series. Unlike the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series sedans, BMW does not offer a full M model, but once offered an M performance variant, the BMW M760 with its 6.6L V12 (at the time the most powerful BMW ever made, not to be confused with BMW 760 6.6 V12 which does not offer the same performance). The Alpina B7 served as the high-performance variant of the 7 Series.

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Price: $24,691 Mileage: 18,621 mi.

2. **Mercedes-Benz S-Class**Hot on the heels of BMW, we present another titan of luxury, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. This vehicle isn’t just a car; it’s practically the dictionary definition of automotive innovation and supreme comfort. The S-Class consistently pioneers new features, setting industry benchmarks and showcasing the very best of what modern automotive engineering can achieve.

Yet, this relentless pursuit of the cutting-edge and the ultra-luxurious comes with a predictable trade-off in the long run. Those very “cutting-edge features often come with hefty repair bills,” solidifying the S-Class’s reputation as a “costly car to maintain.” It’s a clear example of how premium features translate into premium expenses, not just in the initial purchase but throughout the vehicle’s lifespan.

The S-Class offers an incredibly sophisticated ride, an opulent interior, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assist technologies. All these marvels rely on deeply integrated and complex systems. When these intricate components inevitably require attention, the fixes are rarely straightforward. Specialized technicians and exclusive, expensive replacement parts are often a necessity, perfectly illustrating that “fancy cars = fancy repair bills.” It’s a dream to drive, but a significant commitment to maintain impeccably.

“Audi S3” by FotoSleuth is licensed under CC BY 2.0

3. **Audi A8**Next in our lineup of sedans with demanding maintenance schedules is the sleek Audi A8. As Audi’s flagship sedan, the A8 is a masterclass in high-tech integration and precise German engineering. It effortlessly combines powerful, dynamic performance with an understated yet undeniable sense of luxury, appealing to discerning drivers who appreciate elegant design alongside robust capability.

The sheer sophistication of the A8’s components and its intricate architecture mean that “maintaining this luxury vehicle often requires specialized knowledge and parts, leading to steep bills.” This isn’t a car that you can simply entrust to any local garage; it typically demands certified Audi technicians who deeply understand its unique complexities and can access genuine, precisely engineered parts.

From its legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system to its immersive virtual cockpit and advanced adaptive air suspension, every aspect of the A8 is engineered for a superior, seamless driving experience. This inherent complexity, while delivering an absolutely incredible ride, inevitably contributes to “high maintenance costs.” Owners often find themselves investing substantially to ensure these intricate systems continue to operate flawlessly, reinforcing the idea that premium vehicles, like the A8, come with premium upkeep requirements.

Car Model Information: 2019 Audi A8 L 55
Name: Audi A8
Manufacturer: Audi AG
Assembly: Neckarsulm
Production: #D2
Class: Full-size,luxury car
BodyStyle: sedan (automobile)
Platform: List of Volkswagen Group platforms
Layout: FF layout
Related: Audi S8
Predecessor: Audi V8
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles lacking reliable references
Summary: The Audi A8 is a full-size luxury sedan manufactured and marketed by the German automaker Audi since 1994. Succeeding the Audi V8, and now in its fourth generation, the A8 has been offered with either front- or permanent all-wheel drive and in short- and long-wheelbase variants. The first two generations employed the Volkswagen Group D platform, with the current generation deriving from the MLB platform. After the original model’s 1994 release, Audi released the second generation in late 2002, the third in late 2009, and the fourth and current iteration in 2017. Noted as the first mass-market car with an aluminium chassis, all A8 models have used this construction method co-developed with Alcoa and marketed as the Audi Space Frame. A mechanically upgraded, high-performance version of the A8 debuted in 1996 as the Audi S8. Produced exclusively at Audi’s Neckarsulm plant, the S8 is fitted standard with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system. The S8 was only offered with a short-wheelbase for the first three generations, being joined by a long-wheelbase variant for the fourth generation.

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Price: $28,330 Mileage: 60,140 mi.

4. **Jaguar XF**Crossing over to the British side of luxury, we find the Jaguar XF, a stylish sedan renowned for its distinct elegance and spirited driving dynamics. Jaguars have always exuded a certain undeniable allure, blending traditional opulence with a sporty edge that captivates drivers. The XF, in particular, perfectly embodies this refined fusion of sophistication and engaging performance.

However, the undeniable charm of the Jaguar XF often comes with a significant consideration: “maintaining one isn’t for the faint of heart.” The context explicitly highlights a challenging combination for owners: “reliability issues and pricey parts are a double whammy.” This means you might face a higher frequency of repairs, and each visit to the service center is likely to involve a notably expensive bill.

The XF’s unique engineering, characteristic of its British heritage, can mean that certain specialized parts might not be as readily available or as cost-effective as those for more mass-market vehicles. When you couple this with potential “reliability issues,” the ongoing cost of ownership has the potential to climb quite rapidly. It’s a car that undoubtedly turns heads and offers a memorable driving experience, but its owners must be prepared for the financial commitment that accompanies its distinctive character and often specialized components.

Car Model Information: 2021 Jaguar XF SE
Categories: All set index articles, Articles with short description, Jaguar vehicles, Set index articles, Short description is different from Wikidata
Summary: Jaguar XF may refer to: Jaguar XF (X250) (2007–2015), an executive/luxury mid-size sports saloon car Jaguar XF (X260) (2015–2024), the second generation of the executive/mid-size luxury sports saloon

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Price: $32,995 Mileage: 32,933 mi.

5. **Tesla Model S**Now, let’s accelerate into the electrifying world of the Tesla Model S. This groundbreaking vehicle fundamentally reshaped our expectations for what an electric car could achieve, swiftly becoming Tesla’s flagship model and a powerful symbol of sustainable, high-performance driving. It’s celebrated for its blistering acceleration, impressive long-distance range, and a cabin crammed with futuristic technology.

While electric vehicles are often praised for sidestepping traditional engine maintenance—no oil changes, no spark plugs, no exhaust system woes—the Model S introduces a different, yet equally impactful, set of financial considerations. The context underscores that “battery-related repairs and high-tech updates can be surprisingly expensive.” This is a crucial distinction for prospective EV owners: traditional costs may vanish, but new, specialized expenses emerge.

The Model S integrates a massive battery pack, sophisticated computer systems, and relies heavily on over-the-air software updates, all contributing to a highly complex ecosystem. Should a critical component, such as the formidable battery, require servicing or replacement, the financial outlay can be substantial. Moreover, the specialized diagnostics and deep expertise needed for advanced EV systems mean that maintenance, though distinct from gasoline cars, can still lead to “hefty repair bills,” establishing it as an investment that extends far beyond just its charging infrastructure.

Car Model Information: 2023 INFINITI QX60 Luxe
Name: Tesla Model S
ModelYears: 2013–present
Alt: A front-three quarter view of a gray Model S
Caption: #2016–2019: First major update
Designer: Franz von Holzhausen
Weight: cvt
Height: cvt
Width: cvt
Length: cvt
Wheelbase: cvt
ElectricRange: cvt
Battery: kWh,lithium-ion battery
Motor: Unbulleted list
Transmission: Reduction drive
Related: Tesla Model X
Layout: Rear-motor, rear-wheel drive,Dual-motor, all-wheel-drive,Tri-motor, all-wheel-drive layout
BodyStyle: liftback,sedan (automobile)
Class: Full-size car
Assembly: Unbulleted list
Production: June 2012 – present
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Sp: us
Chassis: Unibody
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2025
Summary: The Tesla Model S is a battery-electric, four-door full-size car produced by the American automaker Tesla since 2012. The automaker’s second vehicle and longest-produced model, the Model S has been described as one of the most influential electric cars in the industry. Car and Driver named it one of the best cars of the year in 2015 and 2016. Its various accolades include the Motor Trend Car of the Year Award in 2013. Tesla started developing the Model S around 2007 under the codename WhiteStar, with Henrik Fisker appointed as lead designer for the project. After a dispute with Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, Fisker was replaced by Franz von Holzhausen who, by 2008, had designed the production Model S’s exterior. Tesla unveiled a prototype of the vehicle in March 2009 in Hawthorne, California. In 2010, Tesla acquired a facility in Fremont, California, to produce the Model S, which was previously owned by General Motors and Toyota. Series manufacture of the car officially began at the Tesla Fremont Factory in June 2012. Tesla carried out the final assembly for European markets at its facilities in Tilburg, Netherlands, between 2013 and 2021. Constructed mostly of aluminum, the Model S shares 30 percent of its components with the Model X—a crossover SUV that was introduced in 2015. The Model S has undergone several updates during its production, the most prominent ones occurring in 2016 and 2021. These updates have usually included modifications to the motor, such as changes to power or torque, revised exterior elements, and refreshed interior features. One such change included the 2015 introduction of Tesla Autopilot—a partial vehicle automation advanced driver-assistance system. The 2021 update led to the introduction of the high-performance, three-motor Plaid—Tesla’s most powerful model. In 2015, the Model S was the world’s best-selling plug-in electric vehicle. In 2012, it was included on Time’s list of the Best Inventions of the Year, and the magazine later included it on its list of the 10 Best Gadgets of the 2010s in 2019. In 2014, The Daily Telegraph described the Model S as a “car that changed the world”. Road & Track argued that, with the introduction of the Plaid and features such as the yoke steering wheel, Tesla managed to turn the Model S into “perhaps one of the worst [cars in the world]”.

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6. **Lexus LS**Finally, for this initial deep dive, we shift our focus to the serene and sophisticated Lexus LS. Lexus has meticulously cultivated a formidable reputation for unwavering reliability, frequently earning accolades for building vehicles that are simply built to last. The LS, as their flagship luxury sedan, perfectly embodies much of this renowned dependability, offering an exquisitely quiet and opulent experience matched with meticulous Japanese precision.

However, even a brand as celebrated for its bulletproof reliability as Lexus can still present “costly” maintenance scenarios, especially when it comes to its top-tier models. The context clearly states that “the LS flagship sedan’s premium components and complex systems make repairs costly.” This serves as an important reminder: while a vehicle might be less prone to *frequent* breakdowns, the *individual cost* of repairing or maintaining its advanced luxury features can still be significantly high.

The LS delivers an incredibly tranquil and refined ride, its interior lavishly appointed with advanced comfort features and sophisticated powertrain options. These “premium components” and “complex systems,” while absolutely central to its luxurious appeal, inevitably demand more expensive parts and highly specialized labor when they eventually require attention. It truly is a luxury car in every sense, and its maintenance bills will unequivocally reflect that elevated status, serving as a testament that even legendary reliability doesn’t automatically translate into cheap ongoing upkeep.

Car Model Information: 2008 Lexus LS 460 Base
Name: Lexus LS
Caption: 2019 Lexus LS 500 AWD (VXFA55, US)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: Toyota Celsior (Japan, 1989–2006)
Production: May 1989 – present
ModelYears: 1990–present
Assembly: Tahara, Aichi
Class: Full-size,luxury car
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile)
Layout: unbulleted list
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Lexus LS (Japanese: レクサス・LS, Hepburn: Rekusasu LS) is a series of full-size luxury sedans that have served as the flagship model of Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, since 1989. For the first four generations, all LS models featured V8 engines and were predominantly rear-wheel-drive. In the fourth generation, Lexus offered all-wheel-drive, hybrid, and long-wheelbase variants. The fifth generation changed to using a V6 engine with no V8 option, and only one length was offered. As the first model developed by Lexus, the LS 400 debuted in January 1989 with the second generation debuting in November 1994. The LS 430 debuted in January 2000 and the LS 460/LS 460 L series in 2006. A domestic-market version of the LS 400 and LS 430, badged as the Toyota Celsior (Japanese: トヨタ・セルシオ, Hepburn: Toyota Serushio), was sold in Japan until the Lexus marque was introduced there in 2006. In 2006 (for the 2007 model year), the fourth generation LS 460 debuted the first production eight-speed automatic transmission and an automatic parking system. In 2007, V8 hybrid powertrains were introduced on the LS 600h/LS 600h L sedans. Development of the LS began in 1983 as the F1 project, the code name for a secret flagship sedan. At the time, Toyota’s two existing flagship models were the Crown and Century models – both of which catered exclusively for the Japanese market and had little global appeal that could compete with international luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Jaguar. The resulting sedan followed an extended five-year design process at a cost of over US$1 billion and premiered with a new V8 engine and numerous luxury features. The Lexus LS was intended from its inception for export markets, and the Lexus division was formed to market and service the vehicle internationally. The original LS 400 debuted to strong sales and was largely responsible for the successful launch of the Lexus marque. Since the start of production, each generation of the Lexus LS has been manufactured in the Japanese city of Tahara, Aichi. The name “LS” stands for “Luxury Sedan”, although some Lexus importers have preferred to define it as “Luxury Saloon”. The name “Celsior” is taken from Latin word “celsus”, meaning “lofty” or “elevated”.

Get more information about: Lexus LS

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Brand: Lexus Model: LS
Price: $11,924 Mileage: 144,661 mi.

7. **Cadillac Celestiq**If you thought the previous entries were eye-watering, prepare yourself for the Cadillac Celestiq. This isn’t just a car; it’s a bespoke, ultra-luxury statement piece, starting north of $400,000. It’s explicitly marketed towards an audience accustomed to the finest things in life, designed to compete head-to-head with automotive titans like the Rolls-Royce Ghost and Bentley Flying Spur. When you step into this echelon of exclusivity, every single component, every stitch, and every piece of technology is meticulously crafted.

This kind of unparalleled luxury, where the brand’s DNA is “cranked up to a level” beyond anything else they offer, translates directly into an equally unparalleled cost of ownership. The Celestiq isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a hand-built masterpiece. From its advanced, custom-engineered systems to its exquisite, often bespoke materials, any maintenance or repair will demand specialized expertise, custom-made parts, and certainly a bill that reflects its stratospheric price point.

Think of it this way: if a vehicle’s starting price is equivalent to a small house, then its repair costs will certainly follow suit. This is a car for those who view maintenance not as an expense, but as an ongoing investment in preserving a rare and magnificent work of automotive art. The Celestiq truly embodies the saying: fancy cars indeed equal fancy repair bills, on a scale few other vehicles can ever hope to reach.

8. **Dodge Charger**Shifting gears a bit, let’s talk about the Dodge Charger. This iconic American muscle car has undergone a fascinating transformation, now available as both a two-door coupe or a four-door sedan. What’s truly buzzworthy is the choice it offers: you can opt for the fully electric Daytona EV, or the Six Pack, which packs a powerful I6 Hurricane engine. This dual-powertrain strategy brings with it a whole new spectrum of potential maintenance considerations.

While the new-generation Charger might not rumble with quite the same V8 growl as its predecessors, the context assures us “it’s no slouch on performance.” This continued emphasis on performance, whether from the new Hurricane engine or the instant torque of the EV, means that its components—from braking systems to suspension—are designed for demanding use. These robust, performance-oriented parts generally command higher replacement costs and often require specialized technician skills for proper servicing.

Crucially, the introduction of the electric Daytona EV variant means traditional engine maintenance might be a thing of the past, but new, highly specialized EV-related costs will take its place. Just as with the Tesla Model S we discussed earlier, “battery-related repairs and high-tech updates can be surprisingly expensive.” Whether it’s a high-voltage battery issue, electric motor maintenance, or sophisticated charging system diagnostics, these are not typical garage fixes.

So, whether you’re revving an I6 Hurricane or silently accelerating in a Daytona EV, owning a new-generation Dodge Charger means being prepared for maintenance expenses that reflect its innovative, performance-driven nature. It’s a statement of power, but also a commitment to its advanced engineering.

Car Model Information: 2023 Dodge Charger R/T
Name: Dodge Charger
Caption: 1969 Dodge Charger
Manufacturer: Dodge
Production: 1966–1978,1981–1987,2005–present
ModelYears: 1966–1978,1982–1987,2006–present
Categories: 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars
Summary: The Dodge Charger is a model of automobile marketed by Dodge in various forms over eight generations since 1966. The first Charger was a show car in 1964. A 1965 Charger II concept car resembled the 1966 production version. In the United States, the Charger nameplate has been used on mid-size cars, personal luxury coupes, subcompact hatchbacks, and full-size sedans.

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Price: $35,000 Mileage: 42,779 mi.

9. **Lucid Air**Making significant waves in the electric vehicle landscape, the Lucid Air is a relatively new contender that has rapidly carved out a reputation for itself. It boasts a luxurious interior, is incredibly quick, and perhaps most intriguingly, offers an astonishing range, with some trims like the Grand Touring estimated to reach 512 miles. For those who live life in the fast lane, the Air Sapphire delivers a mind-boggling 1,234 horsepower, hitting 0-60 in a blistering 1.89 seconds.

As a cutting-edge electric vehicle, the Lucid Air inherently comes with its own set of specialized maintenance demands. While you’ll wave goodbye to oil changes and spark plug replacements, you’ll be embracing the world of complex battery diagnostics, electric motor servicing, and highly integrated software systems. Much like its high-performance EV peers, “battery-related repairs and high-tech updates can be surprisingly expensive,” forming a core part of its ongoing upkeep costs.

The Air’s “luxurious interior” also means that any repairs or replacements involving its premium materials, advanced infotainment, or intricate comfort features will likely come with a premium price tag. These aren’t generic parts; they’re designed for a high-end experience, and their maintenance reflects that. Imagine an issue with its expansive glass canopy or its intricate display screens – these are specialist jobs.

Furthermore, the “very quick” nature of the Lucid Air, especially in its 1,234 horsepower Sapphire guise, demands top-tier performance components. Think specialized tires, robust braking systems, and finely tuned suspension. These parts wear differently under extreme use and require precise, often more expensive, replacements and adjustments. Owning a Lucid Air is a thrilling experience, but it definitely asks for a dedicated maintenance fund to keep that performance and luxury perfectly intact.

Car Model Information: 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring
Name: Lucid Air
Caption: 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring in Zenith Red
Manufacturer: Lucid Motors
Production: September 2021 – present
ModelYears: 2022–present
Assembly: Casa Grande, Arizona
Designer: Derek Jenkins
Class: Executive car
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile)
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: Lucid Gravity
Transmission: One-speed fixed gear
Powerout: cvt
Battery: kWh,Lithium-ion battery
ElectricRange: cvt
Charging: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: 2960 mm
Order: flip
Abbr: on
Length: 4975 mm
Width: 1939 mm
Height: 1410 mm
Weight: convert
Sp: us
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2021
Summary: The Lucid Air is a battery electric four-door luxury sedan made by Lucid Motors. The car was announced in December 2016 and sold starting in 2021 as the brand’s first car. It has been positively reviewed by critics and is known for its range and performance capabilities. The Dream Edition’s EPA range is estimated at 520 miles (840 km), the longest on the market as of 2024. The production model was unveiled in September 2020, and production began in late 2021. In November 2020, the Lucid Air Pure was announced with 406 miles (653 km) of projected range and 480 horsepower (360 kW) and a starting price of US$77,400. The range of trim levels includes Pure, Touring, Grand Touring, and Dream Edition. On September 28, 2021, Lucid Motors announced that production had begun, with the base Pure model expected in late 2022. Deliveries commenced on October 30, 2021, with the first reservation holders taking delivery of Air Dream Editions in an event in California.

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Brand: Lucid Model: Air
Price: $61,990 Mileage: 17,499 mi.

10. **Tesla Model 3**Ah, the Tesla Model 3, often hailed as the entry point into the Tesla universe. Starting at a more accessible $34,490, it offers a compelling blend of comfort and quickness, all wrapped up with a “boatload of technology.” For many, it represents great value, democratizing the EV experience. But like any advanced vehicle, especially an EV, its long-term maintenance story is a little more nuanced than its attractive initial price tag suggests.

Despite its ‘entry-level’ status compared to the Model S, the Model 3 is fundamentally an electric vehicle, sharing core architectural principles with its more expensive sibling. This means that while you escape the traditional costs associated with internal combustion engines, you inherit the specialized expenses of EV ownership. As the context points out for EVs in general, “battery-related repairs and high-tech updates can be surprisingly expensive.” These are costs that a new EV owner needs to factor in, even if they’re not a frequent occurrence.

The Model 3’s much-vaunted “boatload of technology” — from its minimalist interior dominated by a central touchscreen to its advanced driver-assist systems and over-the-air updates — relies on complex software and intricate electronic components. When these sophisticated systems require troubleshooting or repair, they often demand specialized diagnostic tools and expertise, typically from Tesla service centers. These aren’t quick, cheap fixes you’d find at any corner garage.

And for those who crave even more exhilaration, the Model 3 Performance variant exists to deliver greater quickness. This boost in performance inherently places more stress on components like tires and brakes, potentially leading to more frequent replacements with higher-grade, more expensive parts. So, while the Model 3 provides immense value and a futuristic driving experience, planning for its specialized EV and tech-driven maintenance is a smart move for any owner.

Car Model Information: 2023 INFINITI QX60 Luxe
Name: Tesla Model 3
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Production: 2017–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Designer: Franz von Holzhausen
Class: Mid-size car
BodyStyle: Sedan (car)
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: Tesla Model Y
Motor: unbulleted list
Transmission: Single-speed fixed (9:1 ratio)
Battery: unbulleted list
ElectricRange: unbulleted list
Charging: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: unbulleted list
Width: cvt
Height: unbulleted list
Weight: cvt
Caption: 2019 Tesla Model 3 Performance
Categories: 2020s cars, ANCAP large family cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Tesla Model 3 is a battery electric powered mid-size sedan with a fastback body style built by Tesla, Inc., introduced in 2017. The vehicle is marketed as being more affordable to more people than previous models made by Tesla. The Model 3 was the world’s top-selling plug-in electric car for three years, from 2018 to 2020, before the Tesla Model Y, a crossover SUV based on the Model 3 chassis, took the top spot. In June 2021, the Model 3 became the first electric car to pass global sales of 1 million. A facelifted Model 3 with revamped interior and exterior styling was introduced in late 2023 for countries supplied by Gigafactory Shanghai and in early 2024 in North America and other countries supplied by the Tesla Fremont Factory.

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Price: $33,990 Mileage: 23,460 mi.

Cadillac Northstar Supercharged V8 (Custom Applications): A Recipe for Disaster — Cheapest New Cadillac Model Is a Luxury Car Bargain, Photo by motorbiscuit.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

11. **Cadillac CT4**Moving back to more traditional luxury, the Cadillac CT4 represents the brand’s entry-level offering, providing a decent mix of luxury and sportiness starting as low as $35,600. It’s designed to bring a premium feel to a slightly more accessible price point, embodying Cadillac’s contemporary design and performance aspirations. However, being an entry-level *luxury* vehicle from an American premium brand still places it firmly in the category of cars with higher maintenance costs.

Even at this entry point, the CT4 carries the Cadillac legacy, meaning it utilizes premium components and sophisticated engineering. As we’ve learned, “fancy cars = fancy repair bills,” and while it might not be a Celestiq, it’s certainly not a budget sedan when it comes to upkeep. Expect parts to be more expensive than for mass-market vehicles, and specialized labor often required for diagnostics and repairs, reflecting its luxurious pedigree.

For those who desire an even greater adrenaline rush, the CT4 offers performance variants like the CT4-V or the track-focused CT4-V Blackwing. These upgrades take “performance to the next level,” and with that enhanced capability comes the expectation of higher maintenance. Performance-tuned engines, upgraded braking systems, and specialized suspension components are robust but also more costly to service and replace when necessary, adding to the long-term financial commitment.

Thus, while the CT4 offers an enticing blend of luxury and sportiness, prospective owners should be realistic about the ongoing costs. Its identity as a luxury sedan, combined with the option for high-performance trims, means that routine upkeep and unexpected repairs will likely be more substantial than for a non-luxury counterpart.

Car Model Information: 2023 Cadillac CT4-V V-Series Blackwing
Name: Cadillac CT4
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: Lansing, Michigan
Designer: Aaron Riggs and Dillon Blanski
Class: Compact executive car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Platform: GM Alpha platform
Related: Cadillac CT5,Chevrolet Camaro (sixth generation)
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive
Engine: ubl
Transmission: Tremec TR-6060 transmission
Wheelbase: 109.3 in
Abbr: on (CT4-V, RWD)
Length: 187.2 in
Width: 71.5 in
Height: 56.0 in
Weight: 3616 lb
Predecessor: Cadillac ATS,Cadillac ATS-V
Categories: 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from July 2024
Summary: The Cadillac CT4 is a sedan manufactured and marketed by Cadillac. It replaced the Cadillac ATS sedan and sits below the CT5 in Cadillac’s lineup. The CT4-V was unveiled on May 30, 2019, followed by the standard CT4 four months later.

Get more information about: Cadillac CT4

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Brand: Cadillac Model: CT4
Price: $62,710 Mileage: 8,615 mi.

Cadillac Escalade with Super Cruise: Hands-Free Luxury Highway Travel — 2025 Cadillac CT5 Specs and Features, Photo by motortrend.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

12. **Cadillac CT5**Stepping up from the CT4, we find its “big brother,” the Cadillac CT5, playing a crucial role in keeping Cadillac’s sedan lineup thriving. It offers more interior and cargo space, catering to those who desire a more substantial and accommodating luxury sedan experience. As a larger, more comprehensively equipped luxury offering from Cadillac, the CT5 naturally inherits the characteristics that translate into notable maintenance expenses.

Just like the CT4, the CT5’s status as a luxury vehicle ensures that its components are premium and its systems are advanced. This means that when it comes time for routine service or unexpected repairs, the cost of parts and the specialized labor required will generally be higher than for non-luxury sedans. The bigger the car, and the more luxurious its features, the more likely you are to encounter significant “fancy repair bills.”

Perhaps the most compelling argument for the CT5’s inclusion on this list is the option to power it with a V8 engine in the formidable CT5-V Blackwing. Outfitting a sedan with a high-performance V8 is a clear indicator of a significant financial commitment beyond the purchase price. These engines demand specific, high-quality fluids, more robust and costly replacement parts, and highly skilled technicians for precise maintenance and repair, all contributing to elevated upkeep costs.

In essence, the Cadillac CT5, especially in its performance iterations, perfectly encapsulates the idea that luxury and high performance go hand-in-hand with higher maintenance. It’s a testament to American luxury and engineering, but also a friendly reminder that such automotive excellence demands a proportionate investment to keep it running smoothly and powerfully on the road.

Car Model Information: 2021 Cadillac CT5 Sport AWD
Name: Cadillac CT5
Caption: 2024 CT5-V
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: November 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: Lansing, Michigan,SAIC-GM
Designer: Josh Thurber,
Class: Mid-size,luxury car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Platform: GM Alpha platform
Related: Chevrolet Camaro (sixth generation),Cadillac CT4
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout,FMR layout
Engine: ubl
Transmission: Tremec TR-6060 transmission,Ford-GM 10-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 116.0 in
Abbr: on (Luxury RWD)
Length: {{convert,193.8,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Width: 74.1 in
Height: {{convert,57.2,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Weight: 3660 lb
Predecessor: Cadillac CTS
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cadillac vehicles
Summary: The Cadillac CT5 is a mid-size luxury car manufactured and marketed by General Motors under the Cadillac brand since 2019. It is the replacement for the Cadillac CTS.

Get more information about: Cadillac CT5

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Cadillac Model: CT5
Price: $36,771 Mileage: 7,421 mi.

So, there you have it: a dozen sedans that, while thrilling to own and drive, are certainly not for the financially faint of heart when it comes to maintenance. From cutting-edge electric powertrains to bespoke luxury components and high-performance engines, these vehicles demand a commitment that extends far beyond their initial purchase price. The takeaway is clear: enjoy the ride, but always be prepared for those inevitable “fancy repair bills” by building up that dedicated maintenance fund. Your wallet—and your stress levels—will thank you!