I’m a Car Expert: These 4 Used Cars Will Not Be a Good Deal in 2025
Written by
Sean Bryant
Edited by
Amen Oyiboke
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Brand-new cars will often depreciate when you drive them away from the dealership. According to Kelley Blue Book, a car’s value will decrease by 20% within its first year. In many situations, buying a used car is usually a smarter financial decision, but that sometimes won’t ring true.
Not all used cars are practical choices or will hold their value over the years. Factors like reliability, maintenance costs or depreciation can make some vehicles unsuitable for the used car market.
In this article, we’ll cover four used cars that are not a good deal in 2025 and why you should avoid them.
Nissan Rogue (2014-2018)
While the Nissan Rogue is a very popular car model, it depreciates much faster than other compact SUVs. With all the new technology available in cars, the Nissan Rogue does not measure up.
Occasionally, transmission issues have been reported, and the repair cost is high. Plus, with so many hybrid and EV options now available in the compact SUV market, gas-only models are becoming less popular and less valuable.
“Nissan Rogues are cheap to buy but have significant CVT transmission problems,” said Alex Black, CMO of EpicVin. “Fixes can come close to the price of the vehicle itself, and Nissan’s extended warranties on these cars are running out. Resale value is bad as well because buyers know about the transmission issue.”
Toyota Tundra (2021)
Unfortunately, the Toyota Tundra was built on a platform that is more than 10 years old. It lacks many modern interior features and fuel efficiency that you would expect from newer trucks. V8 engines are also known for poor gas mileage, so you’ll spend more on fuel.
With so many newer trucks available on the market, like hybrid models from Dodge General Motors or even the Ford F-150 Lightning, the Toyota Tundra does not compare in terms of value and technology.
“The 2021 Toyota Tundra model will face real challenges as a financially sound used vehicle purchase,” said Joe Giranda, director of sales & marketing at CFR Classic. “It has a reliable V8 engine and spacious cabin but is still lacking in design and fuel economy. The Tundra was substantially refreshed in 2022, which makes the 2021 model feel dated.”
BMW 3 Series (2012-2017)
BMWs are often associated with luxury and high performance, but the BMW 3 Series does not live up to that reputation. Luxury vehicles, in general, lose value faster due to the rapid evolution of technology and the initial higher price point required to afford one.
Older BMWs are often known for high maintenance bills and repair costs due to issues with the fuel pumps, turbochargers, and electrical systems. Additionally, the BMW 3 series does not have many safety features or modern infotainment that many customers are looking for from their vehicle, making it less appealing than other used cars.
“Nice price, but maintenance costs will drain your wallet,” said Black. “Turbo issues, oil leaks, and electronic problems make it a money pit. Also, since newer models are more reliable, these older models will only depreciate further in value.”
Chevrolet Spark (2022)
While a Chevrolet Spark typically has a lower price point, it also doesn’t retain its value, especially since there is not much demand in the United States for subcompact vehicles.
While it has basic technology and safety features, it feels very outdated, and competitors will offer affordable EV subcompacts with better features. Additionally, the small space and limited performance have pushed customers to pursue larger vehicles that can be used for multiple purposes.
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