I’m a Mechanic: 5 Used Cars I Would Never Buy and Why They Aren’t Worth It
Written by
Tobi Opeyemi Amure
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Shopping for a used car might seem like a smart way to save money, but not every model is a safe bet. Too many people pick a car based on style or reputation, but later struggle with repairs, hard-to-find parts or unexpected failures. Greg Damon, host of KMOX’s “At Your Service” and winner of the 2007 Ultimate Golden Mechanic Award, said buyers should look beyond the badge and carefully research each option.
“As someone who spends every week inspecting and repairing vehicles, I’ve seen certain models rack up huge bills for their owners,” he said. Americans are sometimes attracted to European and Korean models without realizing the true cost of long-term ownership. Damon said if you want reliability and peace of mind, here are vehicles you should never buy used.
BMW X5
BMW’s X5 SUV is loved for its prestige and sporty handling, but mechanics agree the ownership experience can be frustrating. According to CarBuzz, the X5 struggles with oil leaks, unreliable air suspension and frequent electronic problems that are expensive to fix. Damon points out that the most significant problem with European cars like BMW is how complex and pricey repairs become once out of warranty.
CarExamer reports that owners are often shocked by how hard it is to source affordable parts and find local mechanics experienced with the X5’s unique systems. Those who ignore small oil leaks or ride problems can face thousands in repair bills, making this fancy SUV a money pit for budget-focused buyers.
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima is known for fuel efficiency, but models made from 2013 to 2015 have chronic transmission and engine trouble that should scare off buyers. According to CoPilot, these years suffer from major transmission problems due to Nissan’s CVT design, frequent engine issues and even steering failures.
Damon emphasizes that CVT transmissions are expensive and complicated to repair, with common failures occurring well before 100,000 miles. These headaches result in high long-term costs and potential safety risks, especially if the transmission slips or the engine stalls at speed. It’s best to look for other sedans with fewer big-ticket repair risks.
Hyundai Kona
Americans seeking reliable small SUVs should approach slightly used Hyundai Konas with caution. Multiple years, especially 2018 and 2021, are plagued by dangerous engine defects and electrical problems, according to CoPilot and Vehicle Accident Injury. Owners reported abnormal knocking noises, engine stalling and even complete engine failures tied to faulty piston rings.
Damon notes that Korean models sometimes hide complicated reliability issues below the surface and recalls and repairs can be costly, with replacement engines running into the thousands if out of warranty. Even minor electrical bugs are surprisingly common on Konas, adding further stress to ownership for risk-averse shoppers.
Chevrolet Cruze
The Chevy Cruze promised affordability and efficiency, but owners often face engine, transmission and coolant problems, especially in 2012 and early years. Kelley Blue Book highlights that the Cruze is prone to leaks, electrical issues and stalling, with some repairs easily topping the vehicle’s remaining value.
Mechanics have seen recurring coolant leaks, failed water pumps and rough transmissions that “just aren’t worth it” for savvy buyers. Other sedans like the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic have better records and will likely cost less to keep on the road.
Land Rover Range Rover
The Range Rover is famous for luxury and off-road ability, but its reliability track record is notoriously poor. According to Autotrader, the Range Rover faces persistent suspension, engine and electronic failures, all of which can become immensely costly to repair. Damon specifically singles out European luxury vehicles for high parts prices and intricate diagnostics that require dealership-level expertise.
Air suspension problems are especially expensive and common, turning even minor wear and tear into major repairs for unwary owners, per CoPilot report. Used Range Rovers can lose value rapidly and unexpected bills often force owners to sell regardless of the car’s appearance.
More From GOBankingRates
