10 Cars Retirees Should Avoid Plus the Best Cars To Own on Social Security

Car ownership looks a bit different in retirement. While some retirees may invest in flashy dream cars, many more downsize to smaller, cheaper vehicles that are reliable and easy to drive. 

Below, GOBankingRates has compiled a list of the top cars retirees should avoid purchasing due to key factors like cost and impracticality. We also reveal some of the best vehicles for retirees.

The 10 cars retirees should avoid were chosen based on expert guidance curated specifically for retirees. The full list ranges from luxury brands to sport utility vehicles. All starting prices were sourced from Kelley Blue Book for 2025 models.

• Starting price: $34,090

The Jeep Wrangler was unanimously agreed on in three separate GOBankingRates articles as a vehicle retirees should avoid buying. 

Some of its most glaring issues include a high step-in height that makes getting in and out difficult and limited cargo space for storing essentials.

• Starting price: $38,490

Like the Wrangler, retirees face similar problems with the Jeep Grand Cherokee especially since it’s a bigger vehicle. The price tag is problematic for fixed incomes as the Grand Cherokee costs $4,000 more.

• Starting price: $67,475

If you’re buying a BMW X5, chances are good you’re doing it slightly less for the SUV’s benefits, like the roomy interior and good performance, and more for brand bragging rights. 

Not only will you pay more for the car itself; but, when it comes time for repairs, X5 owners pay more for the specific German-made parts.

• Starting price: $118,900

Ouch, that price tag! The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the only six-figure car to be featured in our top 10. Despite offering up a smooth ride, many retirees might not be able to swing the luxury sedan’s cost.

• Starting price: $60,090

There are more cons than pros that come from buying a Cadillac Lyriq. There’s the pricey MSRP, plus experts revealed the interior tech is not only difficult to figure out but costs a lot to replace when and if it should fail.

• Starting price: $41,450

We’re not wild about the Ford Explorer for retirees. Aside from the expensive cost, Edmunds has reported this SUV suffers from transmission issues and recalls.

• Starting price: $42,220

The less-than-great fuel economy is as much of a reason to steer clear of the Toyota 4Runner as the price tag. Experts told GOBankingRates this SUV has a reputation for being a gas guzzler — another bill stretching a retiree’s budget thin.

• Starting price: $55,535

If the starting price for the Lincoln Nautilus isn’t alarming enough, its depreciation value is a code red. 

According to experts, this SUV depreciates quickly and leaves its buyers with car payments and pricey repair costs.

• Starting price: $30,920

The Volkswagen Tiguan may be the cheapest of the 10 cars, but its tech is what makes the compact SUV not worth the money. Big touchscreen systems may be available, but these can act as distractions for drivers — especially since they’re so touch sensitive. 

• Starting price: $39,195

You can tow quite a bit with the Chevrolet Silverado, like trailers and boats. The size, however, presents a problem for swiftly getting in and out. Parking can also be a hassle for such a large pickup truck.

Retirees on fixed incomes will find these three recommended cars should fit their budgets and lifestyles. Each vehicle was recommended by experts in previous GOBankingRates content. All starting prices are sourced from Kelley Blue Book for 2025 models.

• Starting price: $27,595

Reliability, safety features and plenty of room are all major perks to owning a Honda HR-V in retirement. The price is pretty low and few maintenance costs are needed for this subcompact SUV.

• Starting price: $24,495

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is the only car of our three recommendations with an MSRP under $25,000. 

Like the Honda HR-V, this vehicle has few maintenance costs and typically doesn’t need major repairs on a regular basis. And the interior seat height is accommodating for retirees who like to sit higher. 

Starting price: $29,280

Last but not least is a recommended EV for retirees — the Nissan Leaf. The 2025 model has an EV range of 149-212 miles and has been described by KBB as the lowest-priced electric car on the market. 

Retirees interested in shopping for the 2026 model won’t need to pay an arm and a leg for it either. The 2026 Nissan Leaf starts at $31,485.

Editor’s note: Photos are for representational purposes only and might not reflect the exact makes and models of the vehicles listed in this article.