Wallet-Friendly Wheels vs. Bank-Busting Rides: The Ultimate Guide to Car Maintenance Costs

3. The Ford Explorer

Model Years: 1991–Present; Average Annual Repair Costs: $732* Once more, Ford's dependability isn't particularly impressive. The American automaker's "famous line," the Explorer, is a "disappointment" in a number of "categories," according to MotorVerso. Body and transmission difficulties are frequent concerns, and Explorers frequently jolt and lunge, making it difficult for drivers to interact with the car.

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Ford Explorer on Twitter and HodgAmanda Over the first ten years of its existence, the average maintenance cost has been $9,017, which is more than the average for popular SUVs. The average annual maintenance cost is $732. According to J.D. Power, the 2022 Explorer has shown signs of improvement, earning an 81/100 reliability rating that solidifies its status as a "great" vehicle.

4. The Traverse by Chevrolet

Model Years: 2009–Present; Average Annual Repair Costs: $656* Engine problems have dogged the Traverse for a number of model years. This is particularly valid for the 2010 and 2011 Chevy crossover model years. Engine failure appears to be the most common complaint, and as automobile owners are aware, replacing an engine is one of the most costly issues.

Chevrolet Traverse on Twitter and @MrVAAuto The estimated cost to replace the Traverse's engine is $5,200. For the Traverse, only repairing the engine doesn't appear to work; instead, a complete replacement is sometimes required. The total annual cost of upkeep and repairs for this G.M. SUV is approximately $656, which is more than the industry average for the Traverse's class of vehicles.