20+ Used Car Models You Should Steer Clear Of
Used cars are great. Not only do they come at a fraction of the cost, but they can be just as reliable and efficient as their shiny, brand-new counterparts. But before you start adding all those pre-owned beauties and beasts to your cart, there are a few things to keep in mind.
After all, you don't want to end up buying a car with known issues that takes up valuable real estate in your garage. Join us as we explore the world of used cars and make sure you're getting the best bang for your buck. Let's examine the used cars we should all avoid.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Tiguan failed the reliability test twice, in 2011 and in 2013.
There are many reasons for its poor reliability ratings. Multiple engine problems, poor electric work, and power equipment that doesn't work properly. All of this can be annoying, both to the mind and the bank account.
Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse has had a hard time since its initial release.
As with every other Chevrolet car, the Traverse has poor climate systems and suspension along with poor reliability ratings. More specifically, models from 2009-2011 and the ones from 2013 should be avoided if you can.
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Infiniti Q50
The Infiniti Q50 looks very appealing, but if we are to go with the 2014 reports, there's more dirt to it than meets the eye.
The pump seal failure and problems with the master cylinder will set you back by a whopping $2000. Add to it the quick wear and tear of the tires and the brake system, and you're going to shell out more and more as a recurring cost.
Ram 1500
The decision to buy a Ram 1500 quickly turns into a headache if it's used.
The poor reliability scores of the Ram 1500 come from poor brake systems and power components. The 2010 model comes with a list of more than 1500 problems, from body structure issues and transmission problems to TIMP issues and coolant leaks.
Nissan Armada
A used Armada is simply not worth buying. It is a budget SUV with almost everything graded 'low' in the ratings.
The V8 engine is not impressive, so forget any kind of fuel efficiency. Let us also not forget to mention the poor cargo capabilities and low reliability ratings.
Dodge Caliber
Poor engine performance leads to poor fuel economy in the Dodge Caliber.
The plastic interiors make it worse, and you'll have to tolerate them for a slightly longer time because the car doesn't have a quick response to start and stop.
Mini Cooper
Mini Cooper is 'all that Jazz' of course but only when it is brand new. The luxury hatchback could spell disaster if it has been pre-owned. The attraction to its 'luxury' hatchback appeal comes from the design and since it comes from the house of BMW, who would think twice?
Just to put some facts into place, a study by J. D Power in 2016 revealed a whopping 127 problems in every 100 Mini Coopers sold. Now imagine, if the first owner is going to face so many issues with the car's functionality, what will be your plight as the second owner?
Jaguar S-Type
Now, who doesn't love a Jag? Besides being the status symbol it is, the car is quite a beast on the road and has lived up to the expectations of millions of owners worldwide. Owning a Jaguar is a dream for most and finding it at a reasonable price could make one's dream come true.
The word of caution here is that the production of Jaguar S-Type stopped in 2007. This was more than a decade ago. If you can't find yourself a Jaguar owner who has maintained the condition that can be defined as nothing less than 'top-notch,' going in for the purchase might not be the best decision.
Range Rover
Before you think this is impossible, put on your seat-belts for the bumpy ride up ahead. The Range Rover is an iconic car and owning one is not just about prestige but also about an accomplishment. It's an easy decision to buy one, you might think but wait. As robust as it may seem, does it deliver and live up to the reputation it has been given?
Who could've imagined that the Range Rover can give the owner trouble with suspension and oil leaks? Add to it the high miles typically seen on used cars and the cost of maintenance and this is a used car that is best avoided at all costs.
Chevrolet Aveo
The good thing - Chevrolet Aveo is still in production! The bad thing, it is not worth your pennies. Despite rolling out multiple variants of Aveo, Chevrolet simply fails to impress here. An unappealing exterior with a performance that can hardly be called 'performance' will make you think twice.
With a 1.5 star rating on reliability, you wouldn't want to risk even a penny. According to consumer affairs, the Aveo 2007 model can't run for two hours without a single problem. It overheats too quickly and continues to lose power. It is advisable to give this one a miss unless you want to get stranded in the middle of a highway looking for help.
Cadillac STS
Who wouldn't want to own the beast that comes with a V8 engine pumping out 302 HP? Well, if this beast isn't under warranty, which it most likely isn't as a used car, then there's going to be some trouble. After a while, the catalytic converters begin to get clogged. An expensive affair time and again.
Is it worth shelling out money for something that just looks good but doesn't do what it's supposed to? Take a call but don't forget the overheads you'll have to live with till you have this one parked in your garage.
BMW X5
There's no denying that the BMW X5 is a great car to drive and to own but there's something major that will put you off if you're to go in for a used BMW X5. The air suspension will have you shelling out a huge sum of $3000 every time it gets itself into trouble. As reported by Report Pal, this is one of the biggest issues owners of this undeniably amazing SUV face.
The bad always comes with the good so either you live with it or leave it. The water pump and thermostat will also be a nuisance along with oil leaks in older versions. Dream about it but think twice before making this one a reality as the biggest issue you're going to face is extremely expensive repairs that will ultimately add to your frustration.
Jeep Wrangler
When you think 'off-road,' does the Jeep Wrangler seamlessly show up in your imagination? A roof and doors that detach help you breeze through the summertime, making you feel like you made the right decision but the deal was too good to be true. Despite being in 'mint' condition on the outside, the owners of Jeep Wranglers, particularly the 2008 model have reported over 1665 issues. That's a lot for any product, let alone a car.
If a $1300 bill for the TIMP failure and an additional $800 for the death wobble is what you'll have to see regularly, then this Jeep comes highly recommended.
Nissan Pathfinder
If the used Nissan Pathfinder that you're currently considering is from 2005, it is time for you to take a 'U' turn and never return. In 2005, there were numerous problems reported eith transmission taking the very first spot on the list.
As we move to the models from 2013, there's even more reason to say a big NO. There were nine recalls, all of which had major issues that couldn't just be fixed. As reported by cars.com, the very first recall was for an issue with a loss of transmission fluids.
Tesla Model X
The Tesla X is premium with all the good things Teslas usually comes with albeit with hiccups that could last way longer and cause hindrances in regular usage. Out of all the three; Model S, 3 and X, the X has been deemed the worst for a first-hand purchase, let alone a used one.
The reliability stats on the X aren't very praiseworthy. Add to this the gigantic amount of time it takes for Tesla to fix problems in your car and you're so done. A used Tesla X means no warranty, more bills and falcon wings (doors) that you can't even fly with.
Volkswagen Touareg
Volkswagen is a great car to drive but with the Touareg, you might have to be careful if it is a used one you're thinking of purchasing. Stay particularly away from the 2007 model as the number of problems it comes with are bound to run your pockets dry.
A gigantic cost of $5,000 added to your bills will be when you get the EPC warning lights fixed. The fuel pump failure will rob you of another $11,000.
Chevrolet Camaro
We love American products but when it comes to cars, let's face it, the country's vehicles haven't been very impressive. While the very first batch of Chevrolet Camaros had everything one would want in a car, all the other generations that trickled down couldn't live up to the initial reputation.
The biggest problems that first owners face come from the 2010 and 2013 models, so if you are looking at used Camaros from these years, you're in trouble. The engine is faulty and the premature timing chain wear can set you back by $2000.
Volvo XC70
When Volvo came out with a fleet of exquisite new cars recently, everyone wanted to own one. With all the promises that the brand made, it lived up to only a few causing a cloud of disappointment to hover over every owner's head. Volvo's ratings have come crashing down in the past few years and there's enough reason why if you take a look at all the consumer reports.
When you consider the Volvo XC70 from a 'used' car point of view, don't get fooled by the design. Although it might look tempting at a lower cost than expected, the lack of build quality is what will frustrate you.
Mercedes-Benz SL 600
With the Mercedes SL 600, a few problems that may look manageable come with a heavy cost, especially if it is a used one. The problem is the big maintenance cost that comes with a V12 engine. It might tempt you but if you're wise, you'd rather choose a V8 engine car that is well-maintained.
The V12 engine only makes this amazing car more of a problem than an asset because the fuel mileage is also affected. With a used car, the last thing you want is more expenses, so give this one a miss before you regret it.
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Fiat 500
Consistently unreliable, bad suspension and constantly in depreciating value is what the Fiat 500 is made of. Did we bust the bubble too soon? Honesty is the best policy and though we know this one will most certainly fit anyone's budget, especially as a used car, we still don't recommend getting carried away.
Digging deeper, we found out that the 2017 model has caused major disappointment in most owners with multiple problems popping up frequently. This makes this apparently cute city car not-so-cute in the end.
Dodge Nitro
If you think car interiors matter just wait until you get a glimpse inside the SUV! You will most certainly care if you see the Dodge Nitro because the interiors are just plain unappealing.
With many problems in the V6 engine that pumps 216HP, sales started to drop and it came to a point where producing any more Nitros would mean incurring losses. You may want to look away from the Dodge Nitro even if the price appeals to you. The car's performance and its interiors certainly won't.
Chrysler Town and Country
In production from 1990 up till 2016, the Town and Country is another highly popular car on this list. It helped that it came in at a lower price than competitors in the same vehicle class.
The Chrysler Town and Country has consistently had a 1.5-star rating on consumer affairs and other forums. The transmission is a constant cause of trouble and one of the consumers reported that the car caught fire, too.
Ford Explorer
The number 12,000 is not the cost of a used Explorer. This is the number of problems reported by the owners of the Ford Explorer. As if that wasn't all, the year 2004 spelled more disaster for the manufacturer, magnifying all the problems that the car would come with.
Transmission problems, bad quality interior accessories and hundreds of complaints on the engine are reason enough to choose another ride. Let's not boil everything down to budget because any purchase, even if it is for a used car, needs to justify the price you pay; not only in wealth but also in peace of mind.
Volkswagen Jetta
It might be the most popular model in USA but if you look at it closely, it starts to look lesser and lesser beautiful when you zoom in. It has been under the critics since forever for it's less than perfect reliability and if you're looking at the models between 2014 to 2016, there's more hassle for you than delight.
The audio system, power windows and cruise control, interiors, just about everything is faulty and not in consistence with Volkswagen standards. Most electrical components won't flatter your pockets as they will continue to cause trouble, hurting your bank account time and again. A used Volkswagen Jetta isn't something you'd want to put your money to.
Cadillac Escalade
What's wrong with this Cadillac? Through 2015 and 2016, the car's reliability ratings plummeted and there's no reason why you should overlook that when considering a used Cadillac Escalade for purchase.
From the transmission and powertrain to paint quality and body components, everything screams 'no'. Despite some improvements in the 2016 models, there isn't much that can be relied upon. This luxury vehicle is best left with the previous owner.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD
Chevrolet makes great vehicles for the primary market, but when they hit the secondary market, a few major faults are exposed. Don't go by the looks of the Silverado, in case you love the 'pickup truck' style and think of it as a rugged heavy-duty vehicle that you need.
Your basic needs will be failed by a Silverado. It's suspension, leaks, cabin noises, faulty power equipment, and poor brake system are all pain points for previous owners. What will a used one do for you?
GMC Acadia
We are still waiting for a GMC car to turn out right and prove everyone wrong. The Acadia scored low marks as a brand new vehicle, meaning a used one would be unimaginably bad. As we always say, don't go by the price, go by the value.
This SUV is a complete disaster, especially if it is a model from 2007-2014. All eight editions are not even worth consideration. From constant transmission issues and climate system malfunctions, there's nothing that will not put you off.
Chevrolet Cruze
No matter how hard Chevrolet tries, everything just seems to fall apart for them. There's one good thing here. The redesigned Cruze is much, much better than it used to be, but let's rewind a little bit since what you're considering right now is a used car.
Models from 2011-2013 should not be considered at all. The body integrity, poor climate control, transmission, and lofty engine cooling will burn several holes in your wallet. Don't even think about it.
Suzuki XL7
Who doesn't like a lot of space, fair reliability and slower wear and tear? Unfortunately, when it comes to Suzuki XL7, there can be an equal number of reasons not to choose it while considering a used car.
If you're a fan of quiet then the XL7 will disappoint you because it tends to bring all the noise inside the cabin. While you might not think of this as a big deal, you'll know what we mean if you experience this yourself. Moreover, a bigger reason to steer clear of this one is the slow braking system that isn't quick to stop the car immediately if needed.
Acura RLX
For safety ratings, the RLX lives up to the expectations of any and every owner. When it first came out, there were many features that lured people in, turning them into customers who regretted the purchase soon after.
The reliability rating is low, it isn't a smooth drive on even slightly bumpy or non-ideal roads, the infotainment system can distract the driver, and the seats aren't very comfortable either. All in all, not worth your money even if it is a used one. We say look elsewhere.
Chrysler Sebring
Why aren't we surprised that Chrysler makes it to this list yet again? If you are a fan of Chrysler and have been looking around for a used one, reading this might put a brake on that because of the several issues it comes with.
A used base model might make you go weak in the knees with its price tag but that isn't the only factor, is it? To give you an overview, Sebring was voted as the worst car of the decade by Top Speed. The base model doesn't even have the standard four-wheel disc brakes.
Lincoln Navigator
Lincoln neither lives up to the brand name nor the model name. A used Navigator is all tempting with a price so low it seems unbelievable. Here's the answer to your raised eyebrows.
It is spacious, yes. And it's good for families. The vehicle's performance, however, leaves something to be desired. Many 2006 models of the Lincoln Navigator have been recalled. Poor automatic transmission, loss of wiper function from time to time, belt corrosion leading to a tread separation which could mean a car crash for you are just a few of the reasons why you shouldn't navigate your money on this one.
Mitsubishi Outlander
If you think the Outlander is a reliable and spacious SUV that you've been looking for, remove the 'reliable' from the statement. The Outlander has poor reliability ratings. There are so many problems with everything in the car that they might outnumber the problems in your life.
The constantly variable transmission, relatively old and outdated infotainment system and the plasticky interiors will all want to make you get out of this car in an instant. The models from before 2016 have major issues reported regarding the Bluetooth connectivity. The touchscreen functionality has also received a lot of flak from the owners. The engine makes a lot of noise, too.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe
The Hyundai Genesis is very affordable for the first owner, and even more affordable for the second owner. Don't get too excited though, because there's no value you will get out of the Genesis Coupe. This sports car is not worth the bucks.
The first thing that will put any sports car lover off is the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that doesn't deliver what it's supposed to. Moreover, the four-seater comes with just rear-wheel-drive. This is not a sports car when it comes to performance despite claiming to be one, so why not put your money into something a little more exciting?
Mitsubishi Eclipse
When there's nothing to tempt you with the Eclipse, why is it even being considered as an option? There are so many other better used options!. We seriously hope you haven't spent even a minute thinking about the Eclipse.
The ride is bad, the braking system is even worse which means zero comfort. Safety? The GT Trim will give you a lot of torque steer which simply means that your chances of getting into a crash are higher because it is so hard to control the car when accelerating quickly. All of this is one giant red flag.
Mazda RX-8
Who doesn't love the RX-8? We do too but only when it's brand new right off the lot. There are a lot of problems the RX-8 comes with as a used car and we are trying to save you from burning a hole in your bank account.
Most Mazda RX-8 cars that are available as used cars are at least a decade old. This means that the 1.3 Wankel engine is outdated. The 2004-2005 models should be avoided the most. The older the model, the worse it is because of the wear and tear of the engine rotors. If the RX-8 has been ill-maintained, there's no chance it is going to be the same RX-8 that was first bought a decade ago.
Saab 9-7X
The SAAB 9-7X only lasted for five years and was not a favorite of consumers during that time. With an SUV market stuffed with other, more reliable options, the 9-7X never stood a chance.
Its really short existence says it all already and for a used car this spells disaster. The fuel economy is the reason why most owners got enraged. The safety ratings were not up to the mark, either. What's the point of having a spacious car if you can't drive it?
Pontiac Torrent
If we have done our homework, we already know that Pontiac comes from the house of GM. They planned to safeguard themselves from falling but Pontiac only pushed them further towards the edge of the cliff.
From atrocious reliability ratings from 2006 all through 2009, this model became the talk, or rather, the joke of the town. The fuel system, the power equipment, the drivetrain is all faulty and you ask what's the problem with it? Now that you know, will you please remove this from your list of used cars that you are considering to buy? Thank you.
Honda Prelude
The Prelude can be called an old sports car now. However, that's no excuse for a sports car to not live up to our expectations. As a sports car lover, you might want this iconic car in your car park but we say no.
As the prelude ages, the automatic transmission becomes undrivable. If you're not someone who wants to take the hassle of constantly changing gears, you're in trouble. Add to it the maintenance the car requires, who would want to pay for a used car that makes you do all the work with its manual transmission and dries up your pockets, too?
