how much does a fisker karma car cost net worth
Key Takeaways
- The Fisker Karma had an original MSRP of approximately $127,610 when new (2013 model year).
- Today, a used Fisker Karma trades in the range of $20,000–$55,000, depending on condition, mileage, and model year.
- Fisker Automotive filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April 2013 and eventually dissolved — its net worth became effectively zero.
- Owners should budget for higher-than-average maintenance, as parts and service support remain limited after 12+ years since production ended.
What Is the Fisker Karma?
The Fisker Karma is a plug-in hybrid electric sedan that debuted at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show and entered production in late 2011. Produced by Fisker Automotive in Anaheim, California, it combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder range-extender gasoline engine with dual electric motors producing a combined 403 horsepower. The vehicle could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone before the gasoline engine engaged to extend range to approximately 330 total miles.
Known for its striking design by Henrik Fisker and early adoption of the plug-in hybrid luxury sedan segment, the Karma aimed to prove that sustainability and performance could coexist. However, the company's financial troubles overshadowed the product from its earliest days.
Original Cost: Pricing When New
When the Fisker Karma reached dealerships, pricing reflected its luxury positioning:
- 2013 Fisker Karma: MSRP started at approximately $127,610, including destination charges.
- 2014 Fisker Karma: Price increased slightly to around $134,050.
- A federal tax credit of up to $7,500 was available for qualifying plug-in hybrid vehicles, effectively reducing the purchase price for some buyers.
These figures made the Karma one of the more affordable entry points into the plug-in hybrid luxury market at launch, though still a significant investment.
Current Used Car Market Prices (2024–2025)
Over a decade after production ceased, the Fisker Karma occupies a niche in the used-car market. Values have depreciated steeply, reflecting both the vehicle's age and the absence of factory warranty and parts support.
Price Ranges by Condition
| Condition | Estimated Price | Mileage Expectation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excellent / Low Miles | $45,000 – $55,000 | Under 30,000 mi | Rare; typically shows at specialty auctions or through curated private sellers |
| Good Condition | $30,000 – $45,000 | 30,000 – 60,000 mi | Well-maintained examples with complete service records |
| Fair Condition | $20,000 – $30,000 | 60,000 – 90,000 mi | May need brake, suspension, or battery health inspections |
| Project / As-Is | $10,000 – $20,000 | 90,000+ mi | Requires significant mechanical work or battery replacement |
Factors That Drive Price Variation
- Model year: Early 2012 models carry some collector interest; 2013–2014 are more common.
- Maintenance history: A full dealer or specialist service log adds substantial value.
- Battery health: The high-voltage lithium-ion pack is the single most expensive component to replace (~$15,000+ if out of warranty).
- Cosmetic condition: The Karma's aluminum body panels and glass roof are distinctive but costly to repair.
Fisker Automotive's Net Worth and Bankruptcy History
The financial trajectory of Fisker Automotive is inseparable from any discussion of the Karma's cost. The company's "net worth" effectively went to zero through a series of corporate restructurings:
- April 2013: Fisker Automotive filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing production shortfalls, cash-flow problems, and an inability to meet delivery targets.
- August 2013: General Motors purchased the Karma's tooling, IP, and remaining inventory through its financial subsidiary, ending Fisker Automotive's existence as an operating manufacturer.
- 2016: The brand was relaunched as Fisker Inc. under a completely different corporate structure, initially focusing on a different vehicle line (the Fisker EMotion, later cancelled).
- 2023–2024: The new Fisker Inc. filed for bankruptcy in mid-2024, further complicating any residual parts ecosystem for original Karma owners.
In short: the company that built the Karma no longer exists as a going concern, and neither its predecessor nor its successor carries meaningful net worth to support long-term parts availability.
Ownership Costs and Running Expenses
Beyond purchase price, prospective Karma owners must account for costs that exceed those of conventional luxury sedans:
Maintenance Checklist
- Annual multi-point inspection — recommended every 12 months regardless of mileage
- Brake pad and rotor replacement — $800–$1,500 per axle due to regenerative braking complexity
- Suspension component service — $500–$1,200 per component (air suspension not applicable; Karma uses conventional dampers)
- Range-extender engine oil and filter — $150–$300 per service interval
- Tire replacement — $200–$400 per tire (low-rolling-resistance EV-specific tires)
- High-voltage battery pack replacement: $15,000–$22,000 (if out of warranty)
Insurance Estimates
Annual comprehensive insurance for a used Fisker Karma typically ranges from $1,800 to $3,200, varying by driver profile, location, and coverage level. The low production volume and specialized parts network can push premiums higher than comparable-volume luxury sedans.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does a used Fisker Karma cost in 2025?
As of 2025, a used Fisker Karma generally sells for between $20,000 and $55,000. Lower-mileage, well-documented examples in excellent condition can approach $55,000, while higher-mileage units requiring battery or major service work may be found near $20,000 or below.
2. Did Fisker Automotive ever have positive net worth?
Fisker Automotive never achieved sustainable profitability. Despite raising over $500 million in venture and equity financing before production even began, the company burned through capital rapidly due to manufacturing inefficiencies, delayed deliveries, and an over-leveraged cost structure. By the time of its Chapter 11 filing in 2013, the company's liabilities exceeded its assets, resulting in negative net worth.
3. Is the Fisker Karma a good investment or collector's car?
The Karma holds cult and design significance but remains a high-risk purchase