Why Depreciation Takes Such A Toll On Used Range Rovers

Luxury cars, such as Range Rovers, are known for their high initial prices, but they can also lose a significant amount of value over time.

In fact, according to CarEdge, a Range Rover can lose up to 74% of its value after just five years on the road.

For example, a high-spec long-wheelbase SV Range Rover Autobiography that cost around $200,000 in 2020 could lose close to $150,000 by 2025, which translates to roughly $80 per day.

This rapid depreciation is largely due to reliability concerns, high ownership costs, theft risks, and a used market that has learned to price in the risk of buying one.

Range Rovers are notorious for their air suspension failures, which can result in bills of $4,000 or more, and timing chain failures, which can lead to repairs costing over $11,000.

Additionally, dealership maintenance on JLR vehicles is nearly double the industry average cost, with routine oil changes costing nearly $500.

The brand’s reputation for poor reliability and high maintenance costs can make it difficult to sell used Range Rovers, as buyers demand discounts to compensate for the risks associated with the nameplate.

However, not all Range Rovers are created equal, and some models may fare better on the second market than others.

To minimize depreciation, it’s essential to keep the vehicle well-maintained, documented, and garaged, and to avoid modifications that cannot be returned to stock.

Timing also matters, as selling before the warranty expires can help reduce the demand for discounts.

JLR’s Vehicle Service Protection plan, which covers up to seven years or 120,000 miles, can also be transferred to a new owner, removing a significant objection for used buyers.