Some of the main reasons why you shouldn’t buy a Range Rover are the high maintenance costs, reliability issues, and steep depreciation when deciding if a Range Rover is the right choice. Research and weigh all factors against your needs and budget before purchasing.
Range Rovers might look like the epitome of style and comfort, but they’re not all they’re cracked up to be. Their reputation for mechanical issues and high maintenance costs can turn your dream car into a nightmare.
So, before you’re swayed by the allure of a shiny new or used Range Rover, it’s worth looking at the potential pitfalls.
Range Rover is an overpriced luxury
Picture this – you’re cruising down the highway in your glossy Range Rover, drawing admiring looks from other drivers. It’s not difficult to see why you’d be tempted to buy one of these status symbols.
With their sleek design and luxurious interiors, Range Rovers are often seen as a badge of affluence.
But before you give in to the appeal of these high-end SUVs, it’s important to take a closer look at what you’re actually paying for.
When you buy a Range Rover, a large part of what you’re shelling out for is the brand name itself. The Range Rover badge comes at a price and does not necessarily reflect the vehicle’s performance or reliability.
Yes, Range Rovers are undeniably luxurious. But take a moment to consider whether you should be paying so drastically for expensive aesthetics.
What’s more, the Range Rover’s so-called ‘luxury’ often comes with added costs. For starters, let’s talk about fuel consumption. Range Rovers are notoriously thirsty when it comes to gas.
Keeping one of these beasts on the road isn’t cheap.
According to Edmunds, the 2021 Range Rover Sport has a combined MPG of 19. To put this into perspective, a similar class vehicle, the 2021 Audi Q7, offers a combined MPG of 21.
| Vehicle | Combined MPG |
|---|---|
| Range Rover Sport 2021 | 19 |
| Audi Q7 2021 | 21 |
Another hidden cost is the insurance, especially if you live in the UK due to the high amount of theft.
According to Kelly Blue Book, the average annual insurance cost for a new Range Rover can vary between $2,030 and $2,238, depending on specific factors related to the vehicle and its owner.
Are the indulgent interiors, the heightened driving seat, or the towering road presence worth these hidden and extravagant costs? Take a look at your priorities and reconsider the decision to buy a Range Rover.
You might be paying for overpriced luxury that isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
After all, a truly wise car buyer looks beyond the badge and focuses on what truly matters – performance, reliability, and value for money.
Lesson: if you have disposable income that can cover the inevitable breakdown and maintenance costs, don’t worry about buying any Land Rover Range Rover.
Frequent mechanical issues
Your Range Rover may not be as reliable as it seems. High-cost maintenance is a major downside that comes with this luxurious vehicle.
The brand’s reputation for frequent mechanical issues has disappointed many past and present owners.
A high frequency of mechanical issues, particularly in older models, poses a significant downside to owning a Range Rover.
From problems with the air suspension to electrical faults, you’re likely to face an array of issues that don’t match up to its prestigious brand name.
Take, for instance, the air suspension. Many Range Rover owners report problems with the car’s innovative air suspension system.
While it’s a standout feature that offers comfort and luxury, it often comes with unexpected repairs and substantial costs.
A single air suspension repair could set you back thousands. Yet, ignoring the problem could leave your ride feeling far from comfortable.
More troubling are reports of electrical issues. These can range from erratic behaviors like doors refusing to lock or navigational systems failing right through to major glitches that could compromise your vehicle’s safety.
The company’s 2019 reliability rating by J.D. Power hits home at this point. According to the findings, Range Rover received an overall score of just 2 on a scale of 5.
This lands it at the lower end of the reliability spectrum. Here’s how it stacks up against other luxury brands:
| Brand | Score |
|---|---|
| Lexus | 5/5 |
| Porsche | 4.5/5 |
| Mercedes-Benz | 4/5 |
| Range Rover | 2/5 |
If you care about performance and reliability, these numbers should give you pause when considering a Range Rover.
With so many Range Rover alternatives in the market, it’s worth considering other vehicles that could offer you better value for your money.
You might just save yourself a lot of time, stress, and high-cost repairs down the line.
Expensive maintenance and repairs
Mechanical faults, will become your worst nightmare. It’s a known fact that Range Rovers, especially the older models, are notorious for their frequent mechanical issues.
This isn’t just hearsay – it’s backed by hundreds of documented owner complaints. Year after year, such problems pile up, consistently placing this luxury vehicle brand at the lower end of reliability rankings.
One particular issue that can cause a great deal of discomfort is problems with the air suspension. Feel that uneven ride? That’s your Range Rover’s air suspension likely acting up.
It’s a complicated system; when it fails, it can hit your wallet hard. Dealing with this issue isn’t just time-consuming but might also cost you a small fortune.
The issues don’t stop there. Electrical faults are another common occurrence among Range Rovers.
If you enjoy listening to your favorite song on the radio or using the GPS, you may find yourself disappointed. Such systems are known to shut down entirely, leaving the driver baffled and in silence.
| Common Issue | Average Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| Air Suspension Problems | $1,000 to $3,500 |
| Electrical Faults | $500 to $2,000 |
While looking at these numbers, it’s easy to see why some are advising against purchasing a Range Rover. After all, plenty of other luxury brands are out there with much better reliability records and more pocket-friendly maintenance costs.
You deserve to drive in style and comfort and without the constant worry of costly repairs.
Considering the hefty price tag that Range Rovers carry, it’s only logical to expect them to be free from such issues. You deserve nothing less.
So, save yourself from potential stressful trips to the mechanic, and contemplate your options carefully. Remember, an informed decision is always a wise decision.
Poor fuel efficiency
Another noteworthy concern with Range Rovers is their poor fuel efficiency. Despite their luxury status, these vehicles rank low in fuel economy.
For perspective, let’s consider some numbers that highlight the issue.
The table below compares the 2021 Range Rover’s fuel efficiency to its competitors in the luxury SUV market:
| Vehicle | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 Range Rover | 16 | 21 |
| 2021 BMW X5 | 23 | 30 |
| 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE | 27 | 31 |
Fuel efficiency can be a deal-breaker for many buyers. It isn’t just about the cost at the pump – it’s also about being environmentally conscious.
Fuel-efficient vehicles save you money and help reduce your carbon footprint. Seeing the above data, you might start to question Range Rover’s position as a smart choice.
Continuing with the topic of fuel efficiency, it’s worth mentioning that Range Rovers use more than their fair share of gas due to their powerful engines and heavy weight.
Vehicles of this size and strength require an awful lot of energy to move. What’s more, the air suspension, which contributes to the car’s sought-after smooth ride, also has a downside.
The added weight and complexity can contribute to increased fuel consumption.
Lastly, remember that low fuel efficiency is tied to high fuel costs. This could drive up your daily operating expenses. For Range Rovers, fuel costs are likely to take a big chunk out of your wallet, adding to the already substantial ownership costs.
Given these points, you’ll need to evaluate whether a Range Rover’s enhanced driving experience and comfort are worth the added expense.
Considering the high price tag and the exclusivity of Range Rovers, one would expect high performance. However, in terms of fuel efficiency, they lag significantly behind their luxury counterparts.
Weighing these factors might prompt a second look at other brands offering more fuel-efficient alternatives.
FAQs
Are Range Rovers reliable?
Range Rovers have a track record of poor reliability. The numerous reported issues with their electrical systems, air suspension, and engines indicate that they are prone to breakdowns and require frequent repairs.
Do Range Rovers have high maintenance costs?
Yes, Range Rovers have high maintenance costs. Repairs and routine maintenance tasks can be expensive due to the complexity of the vehicle and the need for specialized parts. The high labor costs associated with servicing Range Rovers also contribute to the overall cost of ownership.
Do Range Rovers hold their value?
Range Rovers are known for their rapid depreciation. Despite their initial high sticker prices, they tend to lose their value quickly. This means that if you decide to sell or trade in your Range Rover, you may experience a significant loss in value.
Are Range Rovers fuel-efficient?
No, Range Rovers are not known for their fuel efficiency. The larger engines and weight of these vehicles contribute to higher fuel consumption, resulting in poor gas mileage. Frequent visits to the gas station and increased fuel expenses are common for Range Rover owners.
Are Range Rovers environmentally friendly?
Range Rovers have a higher environmental impact compared to more fuel-efficient vehicles. The combination of their poor fuel economy and higher emissions contributes to air pollution and climate change. If reducing your carbon footprint is a concern, a Range Rover may not be the most environmentally friendly choice.
Summary
So, you’ve seen the dark side of owning a Range Rover. Frequent mechanical issues and costly repairs can make your luxury SUV dream a nightmare.
It’s not just about the initial price tag; the ongoing costs may drain your wallet.
Fuel efficiency is another area where Range Rovers fall short.
When you’re at the pump more often, it’s a constant reminder of the high cost of ownership. Don’t let the allure of a prestigious brand blind you to the practical considerations.
There are other luxury SUVs out there with better reliability and fuel efficiency. So, before you take the plunge, think twice. Your bank account and your peace of mind will thank you.