Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular due to their environmental benefits and cutting-edge technology. However, owning an EV isn’t always as cost-effective as it seems.
While they generally require less maintenance than traditional cars, repairs for certain EVs can come with an unexpectedly high price tag.
The high cost of repairing an EV can be attributed to the advanced technology used in these vehicles, such as electric motors, specialized batteries, and intricate electronics.
These components can be pricey to fix or replace, especially if they are not covered under warranty. Some models even require specialized tools and technicians, further driving up costs.
As EVs become more mainstream, repair shops may face challenges in keeping up with the necessary knowledge and tools to service these cars.
For drivers, this means potentially higher bills when something goes wrong. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 12 EVs that are known for their sky-high repair costs and discuss why these repairs can be so expensive.
12) Polestar 2
Polestar is a newer electric vehicle brand that became independent in 2017 and is owned by Volvo. Known for its sleek design, performance, and long-range, the Polestar 2 stands out as a luxury electric sedan priced between $50,000 and $60,000. Though it offers safety and luxury, its maintenance and repair costs are higher than expected for some owners.
The Polestar 2 has a five-star safety rating, which reflects its solid build. However, it isn’t completely flawless.
The luxury sedan has had one recall so far, concerning a rearview camera issue where the image doesn’t show up for the driver. While not critical, owners should get it fixed, but this issue doesn’t significantly impact its resale value.
In terms of maintenance, the Polestar 2 requires an average of $1,915 in upkeep costs over five years. This figure is not unusual for luxury EVs, but it’s still high compared to other electric vehicles, such as the Tesla Model 3.
What makes the Polestar 2 more costly is the additional repair expenses, which average $1,224 during the first five years of ownership.
For a luxury vehicle like the Polestar 2, it’s not just the purchase price that matters. Owners should expect depreciation to be significant, with an estimated drop of $34,499 in value over the first five years.
This depreciation, combined with maintenance and repair costs, means that owning the Polestar 2 can become a more expensive commitment over time.
Despite these costs, the Polestar 2 is still an attractive option for buyers who value luxury, performance, and the environmentally friendly benefits of driving an EV.
However, potential owners should be prepared for higher-than-average maintenance bills and understand that owning a luxury EV goes beyond the initial price tag.
11) Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is a luxury electric sedan priced at around $75,000, making it more expensive than the smaller Model 3.
It offers impressive features like advanced performance and long-range capabilities, but its maintenance costs are higher than many other electric vehicles. As a full-size sedan, it’s built for comfort and speed, but that comes with additional expenses.
Tesla’s reliability ratings for the Model S are not the best. The 2023 and 2024 models did not receive safety ratings, though some recalls from earlier versions were resolved.
One recall, related to the hood not latching properly, has been carried over from the Model 3. Although this issue can obstruct the driver’s view, it’s not as serious as it sounds. Another minor recall concerns the font size of warning lights, which is unlikely to cause significant problems on the road.
When it comes to maintenance costs, owners can expect to spend around $445 per year, with a total of $2,225 for the first five years. This cost is not unusual for a luxury EV but still higher than other models. The Tesla Model S also faces repair expenses of around $1,224 during the first five years, adding to the ownership costs.
Reliability for the Model S is a concern, as it received a low rating of 30 out of 100 for the 2024 model year. This is a bit better than the Polestar 2, which scored much lower in reliability.
Despite these issues, the Model S remains a popular choice for many EV buyers, who value its speed, technology, and performance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the high maintenance and repair costs that come with owning this luxury electric vehicle.
Over five years, the total cost to own a Tesla Model S can reach over $100,000, making it one of the more expensive EVs in terms of ownership costs.
10) Lucid Air
Lucid Motors is a newer American electric vehicle manufacturer, founded in 2007, but it only launched its first car, the Lucid Air, in 2021. Despite being a recent addition to the market, the Lucid Air offers a luxury EV experience, with prices ranging from $69,900 for the base model to $249,000 for the top-tier Air Sapphire trim.
The Lucid Air has not been rated for reliability, but it has faced some recalls. One recall is related to the coolant heater failing to properly defrost the windows, which could cause visibility issues.
Another recall is a software problem that might lead to a loss of drive power. These issues, while not catastrophic, could lead to significant repair costs and inconvenience for owners.
In terms of maintenance, the Lucid Air is one of the more expensive luxury EVs to own. The estimated maintenance cost over the first five years is $3,115, which is nearly $1,000 more than the Tesla Model S.
Repair costs are also higher, with an average of $2,510 over the same period. This makes the Lucid Air a costly option for those looking to keep long-term expenses low.
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The Lucid Air is not a great investment if resale value is important to you. After five years, the car’s depreciation is estimated at $50,694, which means owners can expect to lose a significant amount of money when selling.
Despite its impressive range, performance, and luxurious design, the Lucid Air’s high maintenance and repair costs, combined with poor resale value, make it a costly choice for potential buyers.
For those looking for a top-of-the-line luxury EV, the Lucid Air certainly offers a premium experience. However, the long-term costs of ownership may outweigh the benefits for some buyers.
9) Audi e-tron GT
Audi is committed to fully electrifying its vehicle lineup by 2033, with the Audi e-tron being one of its early steps toward this goal.
The e-tron GT, a luxury electric vehicle, has a starting price of $106,500 for the 2024 model. While it offers high-end performance and technology, its maintenance and repair costs are high, which could be a concern for potential buyers.
The Audi e-tron GT has not yet received official safety ratings, but the 2024 model has faced a few recalls. The most serious of these recalls include issues like front brake hoses tearing and leaking fluid, potential short-circuiting of high-voltage batteries, and the possibility of the power outlet overheating the charging cable.
These problems are more catastrophic and costly to repair compared to the minor recalls seen in other EVs.
Maintenance for the Audi e-tron GT is expensive, with an estimated cost of $3,237 over the first five years of ownership. On top of that, repair costs are estimated at $2,072 for the same period.
These high maintenance and repair expenses are typical of German luxury cars, which are known for their higher upkeep costs. The e-tron GT’s maintenance expenses are in line with expectations for a luxury vehicle, but they still add up over time.
The e-Tron GT also faces significant depreciation, with an estimated drop of $74,051 in value after five years. This means owners will lose a little over 25% of their initial investment.
For those who are considering buying this luxury electric vehicle, it’s important to factor in both the high maintenance costs and the steep depreciation when calculating the total cost of ownership.
8) Genesis Electrified G80
The Genesis Electrified G80, a luxury electric sedan, debuted in 2021 and is the second electric model from the South Korean automaker.
With a starting price of $74,375, the Electrified G80 offers a premium driving experience, but it comes with higher-than-expected maintenance costs. This EV is relatively new but is already raising concerns about its reliability and maintenance expenses.
Despite its luxury status, the Genesis Electrified G80 has some issues with reliability, scoring only 44 out of 100. The 2023 and 2024 models haven’t received safety ratings yet, but a significant recall was identified in the 2023 version.
The seat belt pretensioners in these models sometimes exploded, releasing metal fragments inside the car. However, this issue has been addressed in the latest models, providing reassurance to potential buyers.
In terms of maintenance, the Genesis Electrified G80 is one of the more expensive vehicles to maintain. Over the first five years of ownership, owners can expect to spend $6,755 on maintenance.
While this figure is high compared to other electric vehicles, the G80 has relatively low repair costs. In the first four years, no repairs are expected, with an estimated repair cost of just $744 in the fifth year. This makes the G80’s repair expenses slightly more manageable compared to other models.
However, the Electrified G80 follows a common trend among electric vehicles, with significant depreciation. After five years, the G80 is expected to lose $34,302 in value, which is approximately fifty percent of its original price.
This depreciation is in line with other EVs, meaning that while the G80 offers a luxurious driving experience, its long-term value may not be as strong as other models.
The Genesis Electrified G80 offers a high maintenance cost for a luxury electric vehicle. Despite some issues with reliability and recalls, the car offers a premium experience. Buyers should weigh the potential for high maintenance costs and depreciation before purchasing this luxury sedan.
7) BMW i7
The BMW 7 Series has long been associated with luxury, and the i7, the electric version of this prestigious sedan, is no exception.
Released in 2023, the i7 is available in multiple configurations, with prices ranging from $105,700 for the base model to $168,500 for the i7 M70. Known for its lavish interior and powerful electric powertrain, the i7 offers a premium driving experience, but it comes with substantial costs.
While the BMW i7 is still a new model, it has already encountered some issues, leading to several recalls. The 2023 model faced eight recalls, and the 2024 model has two recalls so far.
These issues mainly involve brake system malfunctions and problems with detection systems, which owners will need to address to ensure the car’s safety and proper functioning. While these issues may not be catastrophic, they contribute to the ownership costs.
In terms of maintenance, the BMW i7 is an expensive vehicle to own. Owners can expect to spend around $5,002 on maintenance during the first five years of ownership, along with an additional $1,807 for repairs.
The total maintenance and repair costs for the first five years add up to $6,801, making it one of the higher-cost luxury electric vehicles to maintain. These expenses reflect the high-end nature of the i7, but potential buyers should consider them before making a purchase.
Depreciation is another significant factor for the BMW i7. After five years of ownership, the i7 is expected to lose $78,311 in value, which is more than half of its base MSRP.
This steep depreciation makes the i7 a less favorable investment if resale value is a priority. In comparison, the gasoline-powered 7 Series also sees a high depreciation rate, with ownership costs averaging $137,823 over five years.
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BMW i7 offers the luxury, power, and innovation of electric vehicles, but it comes with high maintenance, repair, and depreciation costs.
Buyers should weigh these factors carefully, especially if resale value is a concern. The i7 is a premium investment, but it’s important to consider the long-term financial impact of owning such an expensive luxury EV.
6) Porsche Taycan
The Porsche Taycan, an electric sports car that debuted in 2019, has quickly become a standout in the electric vehicle market.
Known for its sleek design and high performance, the Taycan offers impressive trims like the Turbo GT and the Weissach Package, which recently earned the title of the fastest electric series-production car. Despite its popularity, the Taycan comes with high maintenance and repair costs.
The Porsche Taycan starts at $99,400, and prices can go up to $230,000 for the high-performance Turbo GT with the Weissach package. While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not yet rated the Taycan’s safety, the car has had eight recalls.
Five of these recalls are serious, with issues like the charging cable overheating due to faulty power outlets and a malfunctioning seatbelt warning system. Additionally, the high-voltage batteries in some Taycan models are prone to short-circuiting, leading to repeated recalls even after fixes.
In terms of maintenance, the Porsche Taycan is one of the more expensive electric vehicles to own. Over the first five years of ownership, owners can expect to pay $4,266 in maintenance costs and an additional $2,759 in repair costs.
While Porsches are known for their high-quality performance, they also come with significant costs. The average yearly maintenance cost for a Taycan is around $853, which adds up over time.
Depreciation is another factor to consider when owning a Porsche Taycan. After five years, it is estimated that the car will lose $54,780 in value, which is a significant financial hit for owners.
Despite this, the Taycan remains a popular choice for car enthusiasts who appreciate the brand’s performance and luxury. However, potential buyers should be prepared for the high costs of ownership, including maintenance, repairs, and depreciation.
The Porsche Taycan offers incredible performance and luxury, it comes with high maintenance and repair costs. Buyers should carefully weigh these expenses when considering the long-term value of owning this electric sports car.
5) BMW i4
BMW, known for its luxurious and performance-driven vehicles, has entered the electric vehicle market with the i4, which debuted in 2021.
The i4 is part of BMW’s strategy to include electric and hydrogen cars in their future lineup. While the i4 offers a sleek design and impressive performance, its maintenance and repair costs can be quite high for potential buyers.
The BMW i4 is relatively new, and it quickly became the best-selling electric BMW in the first half of 2024. It is praised for its reliability, road tests, and high owner satisfaction, ranking as the top electric luxury car in these areas.
Although the 2023 and 2024 models have not yet received official safety ratings, they have faced several recalls. The 2023 model had five recalls, while the 2024 model has had two, including issues with the left longitudinal beam cracking and the high-voltage battery potentially overheating.
Maintenance costs for the BMW i4 are relatively high, with an estimated $3,808 in maintenance expenses over the first five years of ownership.
However, owners can expect to spend nothing on maintenance during the first two years. Afterward, maintenance costs rise, and by year five, the costs start to add up. Repair expenses are even higher, with an estimated $4,851 in repair costs over the first five years.
Despite these high maintenance and repair costs, the BMW i4 holds up well compared to its competitors. It has a lower depreciation rate, estimated at $18,340 over five years.
The base price for a BMW i4 starts at $52,200 for the eDrive35 model, making it an attractive choice for luxury EV buyers. However, potential owners should be aware of the substantial long-term costs of ownership, including repairs and maintenance.
4) Mercedes EQS Sedan
The Mercedes EQS Sedan is one of the most luxurious electric vehicles available, but it comes with high ownership costs. With a starting price of $104,400 for the 450+ Sedan and reaching $147,550 for the AMG 4MATIC+ Sedan, the EQS is aimed at buyers looking for a premium experience.
However, the high price tag is accompanied by equally high maintenance and depreciation expenses, making it a costly investment.
Reliability for the EQS Sedan is not as impressive as its price suggests, with a predicted reliability score of just 20 out of 100. The vehicle shares similar issues with the EQE Sedan, including recalls for the amp fuse and battery failure.
These issues could lead to significant repair costs, affecting the ownership experience. While Mercedes offers a luxury EV experience, these reliability concerns may deter potential buyers looking for a smoother ride.
Over the first five years of ownership, the estimated maintenance cost for the Mercedes EQS Sedan is $7,237, while repairs are expected to cost another $2,510. These expenses are among the highest for luxury EVs, contributing to a total five-year ownership cost of $130,592.
The EQS also struggles with depreciation, losing an estimated $64,977 in value over five years. This makes the EQS a poor investment in terms of resale value, despite its luxurious features.
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Mercedes EQS Sedan offers exceptional luxury and performance, its high maintenance costs, reliability issues, and steep depreciation make it a challenging vehicle to own.
Buyers considering this car should be prepared for significant expenses over the first few years of ownership. Despite its appeal, the EQS may not be the best option for those looking for an affordable luxury EV experience.
3) Mercedes EQE Sedan
The Mercedes EQE Sedan is a luxury electric vehicle (EV) designed to offer a more affordable option in the German automaker’s lineup.
Priced starting at $74,900, the EQE provides a more accessible way to own a Mercedes EV, though it lacks some of the range, power, and features of its higher-end sibling, the EQS Sedan. Despite being a luxury model, the EQE comes with considerable maintenance and depreciation costs.
Reliability is a concern for the EQE, with a low reliability score of just 23 out of 100. The sedan has been involved in two notable recalls. One involves the high-voltage battery, which can unexpectedly shut down, while the other concerns the amp fuse, which could fail and result in a loss of drive power.
These issues may require immediate attention to prevent any safety hazards. Additionally, the EQE has reported up to six recalls, further complicating ownership.
In terms of costs, the Mercedes EQE Sedan is an expensive car to maintain. Owners can expect to pay an estimated $7,186 for maintenance over the first five years of ownership.
The repair costs add another $2,510 over the same period, bringing the total cost of ownership to a significant $90,498. Compared to the price of the car itself, these costs represent a sizable portion of the vehicle’s value.
When it comes to depreciation, the EQE fares a little better than some other luxury EVs, with an estimated loss of $34,640 over the first five years.
While this depreciation is relatively lower than other models, it still represents a significant financial hit for owners. EQE Sedan offers luxury and an entry point into the Mercedes EV lineup, potential buyers should be aware of the high costs associated with its maintenance and depreciation.
2) Cadillac Lyriq
The Cadillac Lyriq is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV that introduced Cadillac into the electric vehicle (EV) market. While the Lyriq has a lot of appeal in terms of design and features, it hasn’t been as successful as Cadillac may have hoped. One major factor contributing to its less-than-expected success is its high maintenance costs.
In terms of reliability, the Lyriq struggles. It received a low reliability score of 30 out of 100, which raises concerns for potential owners. Additionally, the vehicle has not yet received safety ratings from institutions like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The 2023 model also had five recalls, including issues with the braking system, seatbelt bracket, and high-voltage battery. These issues make the Lyriq less desirable for those looking for a reliable EV.
When it comes to maintenance costs, the Cadillac Lyriq isn’t cheap. Owners can expect to spend $4,855 on maintenance over the first five years of ownership.
Repair costs are estimated at $1,328, which is lower than the Rivian R1S but still significant. In total, the Lyriq’s five-year out-of-pocket expenses are expected to be $39,975, which is more affordable than the Rivian R1S but still a considerable amount.
The Lyriq starts at $57,195, and after five years, it’s expected to depreciate to $36,067, losing over half of its value.
While it may not hold its value well, its expenses in terms of repairs and maintenance are lower than the Rivian R1S. However, the high maintenance fees and reliability concerns make it a less-than-ideal choice for some EV buyers.
1) Rivian R1S
The Rivian R1S is a bold and newly released electric SUV that debuted in 2022. As a fresh addition to the electric vehicle market, Rivian has been around since 2009 but began customer deliveries only a few years ago. While it may not be the most expensive electric SUV, it still comes with significant ownership costs.
The reliability of the Rivian R1S has room for improvement, as it received a low predicted reliability score of 23 out of 100 for 2024.
This is concerning for potential buyers who may expect better performance from a new electric vehicle. Despite this, the R1S holds an impressive safety rating, earning a “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 2023. This may help offset some concerns about its reliability.
In terms of maintenance, Rivian R1S owners can expect to spend around $4,676 on maintenance over the first five years of ownership.
Additional repairs are estimated to cost $2,510. The total cost of ownership for the first five years is expected to reach $94,535, which includes not only maintenance and repairs but also fuel and other necessary payments.
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Another major factor affecting the Rivian R1S is depreciation. Despite starting at $75,900, the vehicle is expected to lose $46,620 in value after five years. This depreciation is something to consider for anyone looking to sell or trade in the vehicle within that time.
The R1S is an attractive electric SUV but comes with costs that may deter those looking for more affordable options. While it brings cutting-edge technology and safety, its potential long-term expenses might not make it the best investment for everyone.
