The Range Rover is one of the most popular luxury SUVs on the market. This lineup of popular British car brand, Land Rover, is hailed globally for its opulence, performance, and off-road prowess. It is indeed a dream ride for many car enthusiasts. However, simply because a vehicle’s looks and features attract you does not mean it is the right purchase for you.
There are several things to consider, like long-term financial commitments, maintenance costs, and more. Sometimes keeping a vehicle turns out to be more expensive than buying it, making you miserable in the long run. So, if you do wish to be a pitiful owner of a premium Range Rover, you need to find answers to common potential buyers questions like are Range Rovers expensive to maintain and more.
Lucky for you, today we are going to find out whether Range Rovers are expensive to maintain, delve into the range rover maintenance cost, and discuss whether Land Rovers are good cars.
Let us begin.
8 Common Factors That Affecting The Range Rover Maintenance Cost
Before we talk about actual figures, let us first talk about the things that drive up the cost of maintaining a vehicle. As a potential buyer, you need to be clear on why the vehicle you desire to buy costs more to upkeep compared to other models in the same class.
1. Model
The type of model you own also contributes to the final maintenance cost. If you choose to buy performance-oriented Range Rover models like Sport, then you should know that such models come with steeper costs compared to their base models. The more expensive the model, the higher the maintenance cost.
2. Age and Mileage
It is common for any car’s maintenance costs to climb with age. The older the model with higher mileage on it, the more likely it is to require frequent repairs and part replacements. In addition, regular wear and tear can lead to an increased need for maintenance over time.
3. Luxury Parts
One of the most obvious reasons for the expensive upkeep of a Range Rover is the integration of premium materials inside and out. All these features come at a premium, so replacing or fixing them tends to be expensive, adding to the vehicle’s overall maintenance price.
4. Driving Habits
How you drive your vehicle also contributes to keeping it in great health. Aggressive driving, long commutes, and frequent off-roading can accelerate the wear and tear on your ride. Whereas gentle driving and periodic maintenance can prolong the lifespan of various components.
5. Location and Service Providers
Where you live and where you choose to have your Range Rover serviced can impact your overall maintenance expenses. For example, urban cities with high costs of living generally have high labor rates at vehicle service centers. In addition, if you opt for authorized dealer shops or specialized luxury vehicle mechanics, it will cost you more than visiting a general auto repair shop.
6. Common Repairs and Issues
Despite their high reputation for luxury and performance, Range Rovers are known to have certain common issues that can become a headache for you. Many owners frequently report problems like air suspension failures, electrical system malfunctions, and transmission issues. The concerning thing here is that repairs to all these issues can be pricey. It is simply because parts and labor for luxury vehicles are at a premium level.
7. Routine Maintenance
To keep a vehicle in its utmost health, routine maintenance is a necessity. For Range Rovers, regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid top-offs are the basics of regular upkeep. While in regular vehicles, routine maintenance is not a big deal, in expensive vehicles, it is an extravagant event because of the high-quality parts and specialized knowledge required for them.
8. Advanced Technology and Features
All Land Rover vehicles, especially Range Rovers, come equipped with sophisticated features and cutting-edge technology that work wonders at enhancing your driving experience. While all these advanced features are desirable, they can also contribute to your ride’s high maintenance costs as they require specialized attention and high-quality replacement parts.
Are Range Rovers Expensive to Maintain?
We will not keep you stranded. The maintenance cost for Range Rovers is not exactly cheap, but it is not the worst one either. Range Rovers do require more upkeep than your average SUV or sedan. The annual maintenance costs for a Range Rover can go around $9000, which is no doubt higher than the industry average.
However, if you compare it to other luxury car brands, Range Rover’s parent company, Land Rover, falls somewhere in the middle. It means that, like their above-average buying costs, Range Rovers come with above-average maintenance costs.
Land Rover’s German rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz can drain your wallet faster in the name of car maintenance. Thus, compared to them, owning a Range Rover and maintaining it is much cheaper and lighter on your pocket.
Land Rover Range Rover Maintenance Costs
Below, we have a table that contains an estimation of major repairs you will encounter during your years of Range Rover ownership and approximately how much it will cost you to handle them.
| Year | Major Repair Probability (Approx.) | Annual Costs (Approx.) |
| 1 | 5.12% | $735 |
| 2 | 8.49% | $832 |
| 3 | 9.53% | $985 |
| 4 | 16.83% | $1,231 |
| 5 | 24.11% | $1,435 |
| 6 | 27.11% | $1,757 |
| 7 | 29.25% | $2,409 |
| 8 | 37.81% | $2,668 |
| 9 | 41.78% | $2,909 |
| 10 | 49.63% | $3,267 |
| 11 | 76.88% | $3,313 |
| 12 | 95.64% | $3,697 |
4 Steps To Reduce Maintenance Management Costs
We admit that Range Rovers do not come with budget-friendly upkeep. However, this should not demotivate you from buying your dream car. You can buy the premium Range Rover despite its high cost of maintenance if only you learn how to be smart about it.
There are many ways in which, if you act, you can save yourself an impressive deal of money in the long run. Here we have some tips for managing maintenance costs that will come in handy no matter which car brand you own.
1. Regular Maintenance
Build a regular maintenance schedule as recommended by the manufacturer of your ride. You can refer to the owner’s manual to get a better idea. Regular maintenance can help you prevent minor issues from growing into major and costly repairs.
2. Research and Comparison
Before committing to a car service provider, we recommend you research well and compare prices. Authorized dealerships may charge premium rates; thus, it is wise to look out for independent repair shops that specialize in Land Rovers. They ought to offer you quality services at competitive rates.
3. Extended Warranty
Consider buying an extended warranty at the time of your car purchase. This is a great idea, as an extended warranty can provide coverage against potential repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty expires. Having an extended warranty at your disposal will provide you with much-needed peace of mind.
4. DIY Basics
If you can handle minor car maintenance tasks like oil changes or air filter replacements, then performing them yourself can save you money. However, just because they are minor tasks does not mean they do not require knowledge, tools, and precision. Go forward with performing such tasks at home only if you are sure you have the necessary skills for them.
Common Range Rover Repairs and Costs
Range Rovers are innovative vehicles, but they are not among the most reliable ones. In the surveys of many top vehicle testing websites like Consumer Reports and RepairPal, Land Rover Range Rover SUVs have given underwhelming performance in terms of reliability.
One of the biggest reasons for such a poor performance is that Range Rovers continue to be affected by similar issues year after year. Below is a list of some of the most common issues you can face after buying a Range Rover, along with the estimated price you will have to pay to get them fixed.
Brake Issues
The brake problems are one of the most commonly reported issues among Range Rover owners. Fixes for the issues include an ABS control module replacement, which can cost about $1,685; or installing a new ABS hydraulic pump, which can cost approximately $3,413.
Electrical Problems
The NHTSA (National Highway Transportation Safety Administration) has received many complaints regarding electrical issues in Range Rovers. Finding these issues is a tricky task and generally involves other related systems.
For example, it can cost you about $1,547 to replace an alternator and about $75 on average to simply diagnose a troublesome anti-theft system.
Drivetrain Troubles
The drivetrain of a vehicle comprises many parts working in harmony, from the engine, transmission, driveshaft, axles, and other interwoven components. So, if the drivetrain troubles arise in your Range Rover, there is a lot that can go wrong.
A basic engine diagnosis in the premium Range Rover can easily cost you around $150. However, the repairs and related costs can vary depending on the main reason. For example, it can cost you thousands of dollars if your ride requires an engine or transmission replacement, and the installation of a new powertrain control module can cost about $1,382.
HVAC Issues
Another noted problem that has been a thorn in the feet of Land Rover Range Rover owners is associated with the vehicle’s heat and cooling systems.
Replacing the air conditioning compressor would generally cost about $1,687, whereas other HVAC services like a new air conditioner evaporator can range from $1,865 to $2,453.
Are Land Rovers Good Cars?
This particular question goes beyond the maintenance costs. Land Rovers, including the hailed Range Rovers, are known for their exceptional off-road capabilities and premium luxury. However, its reliability ratings are lower compared to some other car brands. Overall, Land Rovers are exceptional vehicles, offering exceptional features:
Performance and Capability
Land Rovers are known for their performance and both on- and off-road capabilities. This brand’s automobiles are designed to handle challenging terrain while simultaneously offering a comfortable and luxurious ride.
And when you add the potent engines, advanced suspension systems, and cutting-edge technology, you get the much-desired exceptional performance.
Comfort and Luxury
Land Rovers are all about luxury. All the builds feature high-quality materials, plush interiors, and advanced features that are bound to make your every single drive a memorable one. From heated seats to premium sound systems, all Land Rovers offer a level of comfort that is hard to match.
Reliability and Longevity
Land Rovers excel in luxury and performance. However, when it comes to reliability, they are somehow lagging behind their competitors. Land Rovers, including Range Rovers, are reported to come down with frequent repairs and maintenance issues, ruining the overall driving experience for the owners. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can make your Land Rover model provide you with years of reliable service.
Ultimately, whether Land Rovers are good vehicles depends on your priorities. If you are a buyer who prefers exceptional off-road capabilities packed with luxury and desires a unique driving experience, a Land Rover is perfect for you, even with an understanding of its potentially above-average maintenance costs.
Land Rover Range Rover Maintenance Schedule
If you wish to ensure that your Range Rover purchase does not turn into a burden, you need to follow its manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule religiously.
To help you get a better idea, below we have a detailed overview of Land Rover’s recommended maintenance for its vehicles based on mileage.
| Mileage | Range Rover’s Recommended Maintenance |
| 7,500 | Change Oil and Filter, Differential / Gear Oil Replacement |
| 15,000 | Change Oil and Filter, Rotate Tires, Lubricate Hood Hinge, Cabin Replace Air Filter, Lubricate Trunk, Service Battery/cables, Lubricate Doors, Lubricate Driveshaft |
| 22,500 | Change Oil and Oil Filter |
| 30,000 | Transfer Case Fluid Replacement, Transmission Fluid Service, Service Battery/cables, Lubricate Trunk, Lubricate Doors, Lubricate Hood Hinge, Lubricate Driveshaft, Rotate Tires |
| 37,500 | Change Oil and Filter |
| 45,000 | Rotate Tires, Lubricate Doors, Change Oil and Filter, Lubricate Hood Hinge, Cabin Replace Air Filter, Lubricate Driveshaft, Service Battery/cables, Lubricate Trunk |
| 52,500 | Change Oil and Filter |
| 60,000 | Transfer Case Fluid Replacement, Service Battery/cables, Rotate Tires, Lubricate Trunk, Lubricate Doors, Spark Plugs Replacement, Lubricate Driveshaft, Transmission Fluid Service |
| 67,500 | Change Oil and Filter |
| 75,000 | Transfer Case Fluid Replacement, Cabin Replace Air Filter, Rotate Tires, Service Battery/cables, and Lubricate Doors, Driveshaft, Hood Hinge, & Trunk |
| 82,500 | Change Oil and Filter |
| 90,000 | Rotate Tires, Brake Hose Replacement, Transfer Case Fluid Replacement, Service Battery/cables, Transmission Fluid Service, and Lubricate Trunk, Doors, & Driveshaft |
| 97,500 | Change Oil and Filter |
| 105,000 | Rotate Tires, Lubricate Hood Hinge, Service Battery/cables, Lubricate Trunk, Lubricate Doors, Lubricate Driveshaft, Spark Plugs Replacement, Cabin Replace Air Filter |
| 112,500 | Change Oil and Filter |
| 120,000 | Transfer Case Fluid Replacement, Spark Plugs Replacement, Rotate Tires, Transmission Fluid Service, Service Battery/cables, Lubricate Trunk, Lubricate Doors, Lubricate Driveshaft |
| 127,500 | Change Oil and Filter |
| 135,000 | Lubricate Hood Hinge, Cabin Replace Air Filter, Service Battery/cables, Lubricate Trunk, Lubricate Doors, Lubricate Driveshaft, Change Oil and Filter, Rotate Tires |
| 142,500 | Change Oil and Filter |
| 150,000 | Cabin Replace Air Filter, Service Battery/cables, Rotate Tires, Transfer Case Fluid Replacement, Transmission Fluid Service, Lubricate Trunk, Lubricate Doors, Lubricate Driveshaft |
In conclusion, Range Rovers are extravagant rides that are not cheap to maintain. However, compared to other prominent luxury SUV brands like BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and others, maintaining a Land Rover Range Rover is surprisingly affordable.
However, with proper maintenance and care, you can lower your maintenance expenses to a great level. All you need to do is refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual, and you are good to go.
Do not let fear of questions like are Range Rovers expensive to maintain, and more, keep you from owning your dream ride. However, the upkeep cost is a major factor in car buying that should not be overlooked.
