The global health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on automotive supply chains, leading to difficulties and high costs in sourcing replacement parts. While this challenge has largely subsided, certain vehicles and auto brands still present higher maintenance costs and difficulties in finding replacement parts. Zutobi, an online driver’s education provider, recently compiled a list of cars with the most expensive repair costs for replacement parts, and surprisingly, not all of them are high-end European models.
The Ford F-150 Raptor with 27-inch tires emerged as the most costly to repair, averaging at $660.24. Following closely behind was the GMC Sierra at $423.97, and the Hyundai Sonata at $419.97. Other vehicles with expensive repair costs include:
- Ford F-150 Raptor: $660.24
- GMC Sierra: $423.97
- Hyundai Sonata: $419.97
- Ford Escape: $394.97
- Chevrolet Silverado: $383.97
- Tesla Model Y: $383.97
- Tesla Model 3: $383.97
- Subaru Outback: $377.39
- Subaru Forester: $377.39
- Audi A3: $376.39
Zutobi based its calculations on Advance Auto Parts’ catalog when determining repair and replacement costs. It is worth noting that owners may find more affordable parts from alternate retailers. Additionally, the list comprises specific configurations of certain models, indicating the possibility of cheaper parts for other variations.
Furthermore, Zutobi conducted a ranking of gas-powered vehicles based on their operating expenses, and to no one’s surprise, the F-150 Raptor and GMC Sierra claimed the top spots. This assessment factored in fuel and insurance expenses to determine annual running costs, excluding parts and repairs. Actual repair costs, including labor if done at a professional shop, were not considered in this evaluation. Car registration fees can also pose a significant financial burden for drivers, varying by state. Zutobi identified North Dakota as the most expensive state for car registration, with charges reaching up to $274. Conversely, Arizona, Hawaii, and Mississippi were noted as the most budget-friendly states for registration.
FAQ
Q: Are these repair costs inclusive of labor charges?
A: The repair costs mentioned do not include labor charges and reflect the prices solely for replacement parts.
Q: Can owners source cheaper parts from other retailers?
A: Yes, owners may be able to find more affordable parts by exploring options from different retailers than those used in this study.
Conclusion
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic on automotive supply chains, certain vehicles continue to stand out for their high repair and replacement costs. By understanding these expenses and exploring alternative options for parts, owners can better manage and potentially reduce the financial burden of maintenance and repairs.
