I’m a Car Expert: These Are 5 Convertibles I Wouldn’t Buy This Year
Written by
Sean Bryant
Edited by
Amber Barkley
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Are you considering purchasing a convertible this year? Although it can seem like a dream to have the wind hitting your face as you cruise down the highway, you might want to save yourself some money and think twice before you sign on the dotted line.
Convertibles are prone to damage and other major issues, making them unreliable. According to Melanie Musson, auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org, if you’re set on buying a convertible, here are the models to avoid.
Mini Cooper Convertible
The Mini Cooper Convertible can seem like a cute and compact car. However, countless owners report cramped seating, taillight issues, engine mount failure and electrical issues. Although newer models claim to address many of these issues, many owners still report problems. The Mini Cooper doesn’t have a strong brand image for reliability, so look elsewhere for your dream convertible.
“It’s cute. But it’s not tough,” said Musson. “The driving experience is lacking, because the Cooper has a small 4-cylinder engine. Usually, when someone buys a convertible, they want to feel the power and control at their fingertips; this car doesn’t have that.”
Fiat 500e Convertible
The Fiat 500e Convertible is another compact car with a convertible option. However, Fiat is a foreign brand manufactured in Italy, making ongoing maintenance expensive. Some Fiat 500e Convertible owners report limited trunk space, reliability issues and a dated interface. The compact size can also make it less than ideal for daily driving and long trips. With other options on the market, avoid the Fiat 500e Convertible.
“Convertibles don’t make good EVs, because the design isn’t very efficient,” said Musson. “One of the biggest problems with EVs is their range; when a convertible top is down, the aerodynamics suffer, and the battery range shortens.
” The 500e tends to have issues related to poor build quality, so you can expect to have annoying issues with the doors, electrical system and suspension.”
Lexus LC 500 Convertible
The Lexus LC 500 is a luxury convertible with a sleek look and design. This two-door coupe feels expensive but comes with major mechanical and comfort issues. The Lexus LC 500 has only two seats, making it a no-go for families and long-distance traveling. In addition, users report limited handling ability, meaning you can’t take sharp turns or feel like you’re on “Fast and Furious.”
Don’t be blinded by this car’s beauty; look for other convertible options with a lower price tag and better driving capabilities.
“The LC 500 is comfortable and luxurious,” said Musson. “But when it starts at over $100,000, you’d expect powerful acceleration and fine-tuned electronics. Unfortunately, the LC 500 lacks in both those areas.”
Nissan 370Z Convertible
The Nissan 370Z is another convertible with a sleek interior and exterior. However, owners report an array of issues, from broken hinges and limited trunk space to faulty steering wheel lock mechanisms and poor power levels. If you’re looking for a daily driver or a car with a luxury feel for road trips, avoid the Nissan 370Z Convertible.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Convertible
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Convertible can seem like an affordable convertible option, but isn’t necessarily true. Owners report rattling noises, manual transmission shifting difficulties, stuck roofs, brake pedal pulsation and delayed airbag deployment. In addition, Mitsubishi discontinued its Eclipse Convertible line, making sourcing parts and fixing problems more expensive.
If you’ve seen the Eclipse Convertible for sale, steer clear unless you want a laundry list of issues and an endless headache.
The Bottom Line
If you’re considering purchasing a convertible, think twice about any of the above options. Remember to factor in your climate. If you live in an area prone to cold weather, make sure your convertible has air-tight seals and a solid heating function.
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