When shopping for a new ride, the last thing you want is to end up with a lemon—a car that’s more trouble than it’s worth.
Steering clear of these automotive nightmares requires knowing which models are known for poor performance, low reliability, and frequent breakdowns.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of ordinary cars you should avoid based on reliability ratings, consumer feedback, and expert reviews.
Ford Focus
The Ford Focus, once a popular choice in the compact car segment, has garnered criticism for its transmission issues.
Many owners reported problems with the automatic transmission, such as jerking and slipping, leading to costly repairs.
Nissan Altima
While the Nissan Altima offers a spacious interior and smooth ride, it’s plagued by issues with its continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Owners have reported transmission failures and frequent repairs, resulting in significant expenses.
Nissan has made numerous attempts to address these concerns, but the Altima’s reliability issues persist, making it one of the worst midsize sedans to buy.
Honda Civic (2016-2020)
The Honda Civic has long been praised for its reliability and fuel efficiency, but recent model years (2016-2020) have experienced problems with engine oil dilution.
Owners have reported issues with fuel mixing with engine oil, leading to premature wear and potential engine damage.
While Honda has issued recalls and extended warranties for affected vehicles, the Civic’s reputation for reliability has taken a hit.
Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee, known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design, has been plagued by transmission issues in recent years.
Owners have reported rough shifting, transmission failures, and other drivetrain problems, resulting in costly repairs.
Despite its iconic nameplate, the Cherokee’s reliability concerns make it a risky choice for buyers seeking a dependable SUV.
Chevrolet Cruze
The Chevrolet Cruze, once touted for its fuel efficiency and spacious interior, has been plagued by various reliability issues.
Common complaints include problems with the engine, transmission, and electrical system, leading to frequent trips to the repair shop.
The Cruze’s poor reliability record makes it one of the worst compact cars to buy.
Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta, known for its European styling and enjoyable driving experience, has been criticized for its reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and electrical system.
Reported issues: Transmission failures, electrical glitches, and other mechanical problems, leading to frustration and costly repairs.
Dodge Journey
Since its introduction, the Dodge Journey, marketed as a family-friendly crossover, has been plagued by reliability issues.
Owners have reported problems with the transmission, engine, and suspension, resulting in frequent repairs and high ownership costs.
Although it has an affordable price tag and spacious interior, the Journey’s poor reliability record makes it one of the worst SUVs to buy.
Hyundai Sonata (2011-2014)
While the Hyundai Sonata offers a comfortable ride and generous standard features, earlier model years (2011-2014) have experienced problems with the engine.
Known issue: Engine seizing and premature wear, leading to expensive repairs and potential safety hazards. Despite Hyundai’s efforts to address these concerns, the Sonata’s reliability issues have affected its resale value.
Kia Soul
The Kia Soul, known for its distinctive styling and practicality, has been criticized for its reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and engine.
Reports show transmission failures, engine stalling, and other mechanical problems, resulting in unexpected repair costs.
Although it is an affordable vehicle and has a spacious cargo area, the Soul’s reliability concerns make it a risky choice for buyers.
Toyota Corolla (2009-2011)
While the Toyota Corolla has a reputation for reliability, earlier model years (2009-2011) have experienced problems with excessive oil consumption.
Many owners have reported issues with the engine burning oil at a higher rate than normal, leading to engine damage and potential safety hazards.
Despite Toyota’s reputation for quality, Corolla’s reliability issues have raised concerns among buyers over the years.
Subaru Outback (2015-2019)
The Subaru Outback, known for its all-wheel-drive capability and spacious interior, has been plagued by problems with its continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners have reported transmission failures, rough shifting, and other drivetrain issues, resulting in costly repairs.
Very popular among outdoor enthusiasts, the Outback’s reliability concerns make it a risky buy in the used car market.
BMW 3 Series (2006-2011)
While the BMW 3 Series offers sporty performance and luxurious features, earlier model years (2006-2011) have experienced problems with engine reliability.
Reported issues with engine overheating, coolant leaks, and premature wear, leading to expensive repairs and potential safety hazards.
It does have a prestigious badge, the 3 Series’ reliability issues during these years have tarnished its reputation among buyers.
Mazda CX-5 (2013-2016)
The Mazda CX-5, known for its stylish design and enjoyable driving dynamics, has been criticized for its reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and engine.
Reported issues include transmission failures, engine stalling, and other mechanical problems, resulting in unexpected repair costs. With its upscale interior and responsive handling, the CX-5’s reliability concerns make it a risky choice for buyers.
Audi A4 (2009-2012)
While the Audi A4 offers a luxurious interior and refined driving experience, earlier model years (2009-2012) have experienced problems with engine reliability.
Owners have reported issues with excessive oil consumption, engine misfires, and premature wear, leading to expensive repairs and potential safety hazards.
It does have premium features that catch the eye but, the A4’s reliability issues have raised concerns among buyers during these years.
GMC Acadia
The GMC Acadia, marketed as a spacious and versatile SUV, has been plagued by reliability issues since its introduction.
Owners have reported problems with the transmission, engine, and electrical system, resulting in frequent repairs and high ownership costs.
The upside is its comfortable ride and upscale features; the Acadia’s poor reliability record makes it one of the worst SUVs to buy.
15 Things So Expensive People Are Now Making Do Without
Today’s economy is harsh! The cost of living continues to soar, rendering once-commonplace items unaffordable luxuries for many. From everyday necessities to small indulgences, some simple…
15 Things So Expensive People Are Now Making Do Without
The 15 Hardest Parts of Growing Old That Everyone Refuses to Talk About
Growing old is a natural part of life, but it comes with its own set of challenges that aren’t always openly discussed. From physical ailments to…
The 15 Hardest Parts of Growing Old That Everyone Refuses to Talk About
15 Attractive Qualities That Make A Man Stand Out From The Others
Certain qualities distinguish exceptional men from those who seek recognition, success, and material possessions. Whether it’s their confidence, integrity, or empathy, these traits leave a lasting…
15 Attractive Qualities That Make A Man Stand Out From The Others
Victoria Cornell helps women adopt a positive mindset even when the struggles of motherhood feel overwhelming. Victoria writes for multiple media outlets where she writes about, saving money, retirement, ways to reduce stress with mindset, manifesting, goal planning, productivity, and more.
