15 Cars That’ll Leave You Dangerously Broke. Rent Them Instead

Owning these status-symbol cars will bring you some attention and increase your confidence.  But you’ll probably need a hefty car maintenance fund because these cars are not cheap to maintain.  And for those who can’t justify the costs, it’s okay because you can still get a taste of luxury by renting it for a couple of days.  You get to experience luxury without the financial strain. 

1. BMW 7 Series 

Owning a BMW 7 Series might sound prestigious, but did you know fixing its common electrical glitches can empty your wallet fast? Issues like malfunctioning window regulators or battery problems can cost from $200 to $1,000 to fix. 

2. Mercedes-Benz S-Class 

A Mercedes S-Class rides smoothly until it hits a bump. Air suspension issues are not cheap to fix, and their replacement can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000. Renting one avoids these unpredictable costs.

3. Audi A8 

Consider your options before buying an Audi A8. Its frequent transmission troubles, including slipping gears and leaks, can set you back over $2,000 and can be $3,000 in repairs in some cases.   

4. Jaguar XJ 

Jaguars are sleek, but owning an XJ can lead to frequent garage visits. Electrical problems like dashboard display failures cost upwards of $1,500 to repair. Is the stress worth it when you could rent? Maybe!

5. Maserati Ghibli

A Maserati symbolizes luxury, but the Ghibli’s engine and transmission issues come with a hefty repair bill, often surpassing $5,000-$7000 and for engine seize it can cost above $30,000. Consider renting to experience the thrill without the financial sting.  

6. Range Rover 

While robust, the Range Rover is notorious for its air suspension problems, with repairs ranging from $300-$1500. Renting this SUV could be a smarter move financially.  

7. Porsche Panamera 

Owning a Porsche Panamera sounds exciting until you face a cooling system failure, costing over $1,200 to fix. 

8. Tesla Model S 

The Tesla Model S is all about innovation, but battery replacement can cost a shocking $15,000. Renting one lets you enjoy the technology without the investment risk.  

9. Cadillac Escalade 

With its bold appearance, the Escalade is a favorite, but transmission issues, costing around $5,000 to fix, might dampen your enthusiasm.  

10. BMW X5 

The BMW X5 is ideal for family vacations, but not so much when you have cooling system problems that end up costing over $300, and replacement of the radiator will cost more than $1200. Renting makes more sense for occasional use.  

11. Mercedes-Benz E350 

Love the E350’s rugged look. Electrical problems, especially with the battery issue, can exceed $400 in replacement.  

12. Acura NSX

The Acura NSX is a performance powerhouse, but hybrid system failures can be financially draining, often costing a hefty amount, and gearbox problems are most common in it. Even it has annual maintenance costs of $354. The cost of repairs and maintenance varies according to age, mileage, location, and kind of shop. 

13. Bentley Continental GT 

Driving a Bentley might be on your bucket list, but transmission issues are a nightmare and as they are of British origin their replacement is not easily available in the US. Renting one for special occasions might be wiser.  

14. Maserati Quattroporte 

The Quattroporte invites envy but also brings potential repair expenses over $6,000 for transmission issues.  

15. Aston Martin DB11

The Aston Martin DB11 is a symbol of sophistication, yet fixing its frequent electrical problems a lot of bucks. It’s a British marquee and car maintenance costs can range from $4,000 to $20,000 on average each year.