Auto Experts Say Retirees Should Stop Buying These 5 SUVs Immediately
Written by
Heather Altamirano
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Jenna Klaverweiden
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SUVs are a popular choice for retirees due to their comfort level, spaciousness and smooth ride. Many models offer solid reliability, budget-friendly pricing and modern features that enhance the driving experience, making it more enjoyable in retirement.
But according to auto experts, not all SUVs are worth your hard-earned money. Some come with not-so-obvious drawbacks, such as high maintenance costs, bad fuel efficiency or poor dependability. If you’re in the market for a retirement-friendly vehicle, here are five SUVs experts say you should avoid.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is ideal for retirees seeking a midsize, sporty SUV that offers two- or three-row options and ample cargo space. But car experts say there are better choices.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is “hit or miss on reliability (electrical/TIPM issues, transmission hiccups), and some years have more recalls than others, especially years 2011-2015,” said Rob Dillan, automotive expert and founder of EVhype.
Other auto experts agree that the Jeep Grand Cherokee isn’t the best value for your money.
“The SUV presents a stylish and powerful design; however, it has experienced numerous recalls and electronic system issues,” said Alan Gelfand, owner of German Car Depot.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is an elegant SUV with high-end tech and safety features, but the maintenance is pricey. According to CarEdge, owners can expect to spend $15,234 on maintenance and repairs during the first 10 years of service, which is $2,740 over the industry standard for a luxury SUV.
Additionally, Gelfand said the suspension and electronics frequently break down and “create high risks for retirees with limited financial resources.”
Land Rover Range Rover
A Land Rover Range Rover boasts a chic and attractive style, complete with the latest features; however, it can be expensive and consume retirement savings with frequent repairs.
According to CarEdge, maintenance costs average $20,136 for the first 10 years of service, including repairs, which is $7,642 more than the industry standard. Plus, there’s a 51.26% chance that the upscale SUV will need a major repair in that time frame.
“The maintenance fees are ridiculously expensive,” Dillan said. He explained that common problems include air suspension, cooling and electrical issues that require “constant servicing,” and insurance premiums are also an issue.
“Aftermarket repairs can easily add up to four figures, leaving users on a fixed income at a disadvantage,” Dillan said. “You can also add infotainment lag, as well as drive modes that are so complicated they’re more annoying than their much less complicated rivals.”
BMW X5
The BMW X5 is a compelling choice due to its powerful performance, but its repair costs could put a dent in your wallet. According to CarEdge, maintenance prices can rack up to $19,514 during its first 10 years of service, which is $7,020 higher than the industry average. In addition, there’s a 56.41% chance that the SUV will need a big repair during the first decade of ownership.
Reliability is also a problem. “The vehicle experiences regular problems with cooling systems and transmissions and electrical components after reaching 100,000 miles, while repair expenses remain high,” Gelfand explained. “The unpredictability of these vehicles creates both financial strain and emotional distress for retirees.”
Dillan agreed that the X5 is problematic and said it’s not a comfortable ride unless you pay extra. “Many safety and comfort features desired for seniors are hidden behind expensive option packages, so affordable models often lack senior-friendly driver aids,” he said.
Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac Escalade is packed with features, has a sleek design and screams sophistication, but it can blow your budget. Maintenance costs for the first 10 years of service average $14,667, which is $2,173 more than the industry standard, per CarEdge.
“The Escalade presents an attractive appearance, yet its large size creates driving challenges and poor fuel efficiency,” Gelfand said. “The Escalade exceeds what most retirees need since it has three rows of seats, while its high maintenance expenses could deplete their retirement savings.”
SUVS are a practical, cost-effective and smart option for retirement, but some models have significant disadvantages to be wary of beforehand.
“The best retirement vehicle choice involves selecting cars that provide comfort and style while being easy to operate and maintain at affordable prices,” Gelfand said.
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