Changing the oil on a Bugatti Veyron can cost up to R$120, enough to buy a brand new Toyota Corolla in Brazil.
Owning a Bugatti is the ultimate automotive dream for many supercar enthusiasts. These vehicles represent the ultimate in engineering and design. However, what few consider are the astronomical maintenance costs that come with these elite vehicles. For example, did you know that a simple oil change can cost the same as a popular car?
Let's explore the details and understand why maintaining a Bugatti is not cheap at all.
Oil change: a luxury procedure
In regular vehicles, changing the oil is a routine and relatively inexpensive task. However, for a Bugatti Veyron, this service can cost around US$ 21.000 (approximately BRL 108.000).
This amount is enough to buy a brand new popular car in Brazil.
The reason for this high cost is the complexity of the procedure. The Veyron has 16 oil drain plugs, and accessing them requires removing several parts of the vehicle, including the rear wheels, brakes and fender liners.
This meticulous process demands time and specialized labor, justifying the high price.
Tires and wheels: recurring investments
The tires on a Bugatti are not just components; they are works of engineering designed to withstand extreme speeds and deliver maximum performance. A set of tires for the Veyron costs around $30.000.
Additionally, Bugatti recommends replacing wheels every 16.000 kilometers, which adds more US$ 38.000 (approximately R$ 180.000) to maintenance costs.
These tires are developed specifically for the Veyron, ensuring grip and safety at speeds exceeding 400 km/h. Specialized manufacturing and high-quality materials contribute to the high price.
General maintenance: cumulative costs
Maintaining a Bugatti isn’t limited to oil changes and tires. Other components also require regular attention. For example:
- Brake discs and calipers: Replacement can cost around US$ 58.862.
- Turbochargers: The Veyron has four turbos, and replacing them all could cost up to US$ 25.941.
- Fuel tank: The exchange can cost up to € 37.904 (approximately BRL 200.000).
Additionally, Bugatti recommends a full service every 15.000 kilometers or annually, whichever comes first. These services can easily exceed US$ 100.000 (around R$500.000) per year.
Maintenance programs: an attempt to control costs
To help owners, Bugatti offers maintenance programs such as the “Passeport Tranquillité.” Available in 2- or 4-year plans, this service includes annual visits for cleaning and detailing, as well as a major maintenance every four years. The cost for the 4-year plan is $68.500 (about R$370.000).
While this program offers some predictability in spending, services like wheel and brake replacements are not included, meaning owners will still face significant additional expenses.
Comparisons with other hypercars
Bugatti is not alone in the world of expensive maintenance. Brands like Ferrari and McLaren also have high costs.
For example, a McLaren P1 can be similarly expensive to maintain, with oil and tire changes costing similar amounts to the Veyron.
However, the Bugatti stands out for the complexity and costs associated with its regular maintenance.