by John Sarkis

Created on: November 08, 2008   Last Updated: October 26, 2010

How to best explain this dilema?  Let's take two similar cars as examples: Toyota Camry XLE V6 and Lexus ES350.  These two cars are almost identical, the main difference is their price tags.  A fully loaded Camry XLE V6, with all the bells and whistles costs around $28-30,000. A similarly fully loaded ES350, costs from $42,000 to around $45,000.  The only difference between the two vehicles, is just how envious you want your neighbors to be.

Here's where "the rubber doesn't meet the road" (my twist on that old saying). These cars are identical; yet, when it comes to their maintenance schedules they couldn't be any more different if they tried. Of course, one thing's for sure: when was the last time you've heard of a Lexus, Infiniti, or Acura being recalled for anything? And if they are recalled, it's usually for something trivial, unlike other generic vehicles, Lexus is as the song goes: "Hey number one!" As expensive as Lexus' are, they have taken a great deal of pride in making automobiles that are near perfect; Lexus' hold the record for having the "highest owner satisfaction" in the car/automotive industry....

Both the Toyota Camry XLE V6 and Lexus ES350 are pretty well built cars (both built by Toyota). Unlike some of their American counterparts; Japanese cars have always been known for having a "high owner satisfaction" ratings. This doesn't mean you won't get a lemon from time to time; and even upper class/expensive vehicles have lemons....

These two vehicles should be able to reach the 100,000 miles mark with few if any problems. The only difference would be maintenance cost. You cannot take a Lexus ES350 to a dealership without it costing you anywhere from $100.00-$150.00 per visit. This is their niche on their name plate. Considering that both these vehicles have maintenance schedules every 5000.00 miles. You'd have visited your dealership (making reference to cars without any problems/recalls) 20 times by the time you reach the 100,000 miles mark. The Camry on the other hand, is much more reasonable. Your regular visits with a Camry would be in the $25-$30.00 price range. Of course an important caveat: I'm referring to oil change, filter, etc., etc., I'm not taking into account things like tires, brakes, and other costs. Just like oil changes/regular maintenance on Lexus' are more expensive than on Camry's.

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