Which is cheaper to maintain, Lexus or BMW?
When it comes to luxury vehicles, Lexus and BMW are two of the most popular brands on the market. However, one of the most common questions potential buyers ask is: which brand is cheaper to maintain? As the owner of Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ll break down the key factors that influence maintenance costs for these two brands to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Maintenance Costs
Maintenance costs for any vehicle depend on several factors, including the frequency of required services, the cost of replacement parts, and the complexity of repairs. Both Lexus and BMW are luxury brands, but they differ significantly in their approach to engineering and design, which impacts their maintenance costs.
Why Lexus is Generally Cheaper to Maintain
Lexus, as Toyota's luxury division, benefits from Toyota's reputation for reliability and cost-effective engineering. Here are some reasons why Lexus vehicles are often cheaper to maintain:
- Reliability: Lexus vehicles are known for their exceptional reliability, which means fewer unexpected repairs over time.
- Parts Availability: Lexus shares many components with Toyota models, making replacement parts more affordable and widely available.
- Lower Labor Costs: Repairs for Lexus vehicles are often less complex, leading to lower labor costs at repair shops.
Overall, Lexus vehicles are designed with longevity and ease of maintenance in mind, which translates to lower ownership costs for most drivers.
Why BMW Maintenance Costs Tend to Be Higher
BMW, on the other hand, is known for its performance-oriented engineering and advanced technology. While this makes BMW vehicles a joy to drive, it also contributes to higher maintenance costs. Here’s why:
- Complex Engineering: BMWs are built with intricate systems and advanced features, which can make repairs more time-consuming and expensive.
- Specialized Parts: BMW parts are often proprietary and imported, leading to higher costs for replacements.
- Frequent Maintenance: BMWs typically require more frequent servicing, such as oil changes and inspections, to maintain peak performance.
While BMW offers an exhilarating driving experience, the cost of maintaining these vehicles can add up quickly, especially as they age.
Which Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for a luxury vehicle with lower maintenance costs, Lexus is the clear winner. Its reliability, affordable parts, and straightforward repairs make it a more budget-friendly option in the long run. However, if you prioritize performance and cutting-edge technology and are willing to invest in higher maintenance costs, BMW might be the better choice for you.
At Kevin's Autos, we’ve serviced countless Lexus and BMW vehicles over the years, and we’ve seen firsthand how these differences play out. Whether you own a Lexus, a BMW, or any other vehicle, regular maintenance is key to keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs down the road. Feel free to reach out to us for expert advice or to schedule your next service appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lexus or BMW more expensive to maintain?
Maintenance Costs: Lexus vehicles tend to have lower maintenance and repair costs compared to BMW. BMWs can be more expensive to maintain, partly due to their complex engineering and the cost of parts.
Is Lexus cheaper to maintain?
According to RepairPal, Lexus ranks 7th out of 32 car brands for reliability, and a large part of that ranking is their low maintenance costs. The agency estimates that the average Lexus costs about $551 per year to maintain, compared to the national average of $652.
Which has better resale value, BMW or Lexus?
Lexus was named the Best Luxury Brand for resale value in 2023, with six different models being named as specific standouts, more than any other brand.. No BMW models were named. Here are the winning Lexus models: 2024 Lexus UX.
Why is an oil change for a Lexus so expensive?
The higher cost of a Lexus oil change can be attributed to several factors. These include the use of synthetic oil, higher labor costs at a dealership, and the inclusion of additional services and inspections.
What car is better than Lexus?
On the whole, Mercedes-Benz models offer higher performance capabilities, unique interior features as standard, and greater efficiency than Lexus models. We compare the two brands side by side for Rancho Cucamonga drivers below to show them why Mercedes-Benz is truly a one-of-a-kind brand.
Is BMW reliable in the long term?
When asking, “How many miles do BMWs last?” It's probably more than most! J.D. Power: A 2023 study, conducted every year since 1989 measured problems experienced by original owners over 12 months in three-year-old vehicles. BMW was in the top five and better than the industry average for luxury vehicles.
Which car is better than Lexus?
On the whole, Mercedes-Benz models offer higher performance capabilities, unique interior features as standard, and greater efficiency than Lexus models. We compare the two brands side by side for Rancho Cucamonga drivers below to show them why Mercedes-Benz is truly a one-of-a-kind brand.
Is Lexus more reliable than German cars?
Lexus vehicles are ranked highest for reliability and the clear favorite in the BMW vs. Mercedes vs. Lexus comparison.
Is Lexus more reliable than BMW?
Not only is Lexus a more dependable brand, but its average annual maintenance costs are also lower than BMW's. On average, Lexus owners report spending approximately $550 per year on maintenance. Comparatively, BMW owners report spending an average of $1,000 to $1,700 per year to maintain their vehicle.
Is Lexus a good long-term car?
Reliability and Longevity
Many owners report their Lexus cars lasting well over 200,000 miles with proper care. This reliability translates into fewer repairs and lower long-term ownership costs. Consider the following: Lexus regularly ranks high in reliability surveys and reports.
