I Asked ChatGPT Which SUVs Retirees Should Avoid in 2026
Written by
Laura Beck
Edited by
Molly Sullivan
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Shopping for an SUV when you’re retired or close to it means thinking differently than you might have in your working years. You’re probably planning to keep the vehicle for a decade or longer, and the last thing you want is constant repair bills eating into a fixed income.
I asked ChatGPT which SUVs retirees should steer clear of in 2026, focusing on reliability, maintenance costs and long-term dependability. The AI pulled from Consumer Reports predictions, recall histories and expert warnings to flag the models that could become expensive headaches down the road.
2026 GMC Acadia
ChatGPT immediately flagged the 2026 GMC Acadia as a problem vehicle. Consumer Reports gave this SUV a predicted reliability score of just 14 out of 100, which is extremely low.
The AI pointed to numerous recalls and ongoing electrical and build quality problems as reasons to avoid it. If you want an SUV you can count on without frequent dealer visits, the Acadia doesn’t fit the bill.
2026 Kia EV6 and EV9
Both of these electric SUVs got poor reliability predictions from Consumer Reports, with scores around 25 or worse. ChatGPT highlighted issues with the powertrain and charging systems that could become expensive and inconvenient over time.
The AI’s take was that electric SUVs with reliability questions aren’t ideal for retirees who need dependable daily transportation without surprises.
Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Compass
ChatGPT warned against both of these Jeep models due to persistent electrical and transmission reliability problems. The AI noted they historically score below average in dependability surveys and often come with higher maintenance costs.
As a bonus concern, ChatGPT mentioned that some Jeep plug-in hybrid models like the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe have had serious recalls related to potential engine damage and fire risk.
Ford Explorer
The Explorer made ChatGPT’s avoid list because of ongoing reliability issues with the transmission, electronics and mysterious oil leaks. The AI said experts specifically warn retirees against this model because frequent repairs can become both a hassle and a financial drain.
GMC Yukon XL and Other Large SUVs
ChatGPT flagged the Yukon XL and similar large SUVs not necessarily for reliability problems, but for their high cost of ownership. The AI pointed out that high fuel costs, expensive insurance and steep depreciation make these vehicles bad value for retirees on a fixed income.
Even routine maintenance can turn into a financial headache when you’re dealing with a vehicle this size.
Volkswagen Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport and ID.4
ChatGPT added these VW models as additional concerns. Some have had serious safety recalls, including wheel-detachment warnings and fire risk recalls. The AI suggested these safety issues should make retirees think twice.
Older Used Models With Known Problems
The AI specifically called out the 2019 Jeep Compass and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport as used SUVs to avoid. Both have histories of electrical and ride-comfort complaints that could become expensive over time.
Editor’s note: Photos are for representational purposes only and might not reflect the exact year, make or model of the vehicle(s) listed in this article.
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