Cox Automotive recently issued a poll that found the average cost of a used automobile to be $26,446, a significant amount that should be carefully considered. With so many choices on the market, it’s easier to fall for luxurious and gleaming exteriors only to discover that the car is plagued by numerous interior issues, thus wasting money.
To help you make informed decisions, we’re spotlighting 15 models that you should avoid. Our list is based on consumer reports that have surveyed millions of car owners to discover the most plagued ones. And these 15 models stand out.
2020 Chevrolet Bolt
This one has many reliability issues for a car with an amazing EPA range of 259 miles. The main problem that worries people is that EV batteries break down and need to be changed. That’s not all—you have to wait a long time for new batteries, which makes things even worse. One more reason to stay away from it is that its electrical devices and in-car electronics are problematic.
2021 Volkswagen ID.4
This eco-friendly car seems to be a perfect bargain on the secondary market, but the reliability report casts doubt on that assumption. Consumers have problems with the car’s technology, such as incompatibility with Apple CarPlay, broken backup cameras, and frozen screens. To make matters worse and raise safety concerns, there are issues with automatic lighting, warning lights, and electric vehicle charging. And with the nine recalls, avoiding this in the used market is a good call.
2022 Model X
The 2022 Model X reliability reports suggest loose interior and exterior trim, which is shocking considering the price point and the luxury appeal. Other issues like vibrations in the driveline, irregular charging, and the climate system not working properly further add to the disappointment for those expecting top-tier quality. Consider the astonishing 19 recalls made by the NHTSA, and the problems with paint, brakes, electronics, and even the electrical motor make it a strong contender for a used car to avoid.
2022 Rivian R1T
The Rivian R1T of 2022 is a pioneering electric vehicle but is not without issues. Owners complain about having to repair the air conditioner many times and having refrigerant leaks, which can be quite irritating in any weather situation.
The problem increases when some owners have full strut failure when off-roading. This is a major problem for a truck designed as an adventure vehicle. The 2022 R1T has been recalled eight times, including one instance where the electric motor needed replacing.
2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
This hybrid makes an attractive option as a family car but not when you’re in a used market. Countless owners have reported problems with the car’s electronics, which often remain unresponsive.
The screen freezes and goes black, disturbing the audio, climate settings, and GPS. Add the battery issues, including problems with the cooling system and the entire hybrid system shutting down, this car is too risky to buy in a used market.
2022 Ford F-150
The 2022 Ford F-150, one of the best-selling cars in the world, has been the center of many complaints in the reliability report. Consumer reports list persistent problems associated with its electrical systems, such as disconnecting Apple CarPlay and freezing screens.
The temperature control system occasionally malfunctions, and the 10-speed automatic gearbox is hardly smooth. Moreover, it suffers from electric and brake malfunctions. The 2022 F-150 has racked up 13 recalls issued by NHTS, making it difficult for the used car buyer to ignore the reliability issues.
2021 Jeep Wrangler
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler has a rugged image but is plagued by reliability issues. The NHTSA recalls 12 serious problems, a major one being a “death wobble” caused by issues with the steering and suspension.
Owners also mention problems with the in-car electronics, engine cooling, and major transmission failures. These hardware and software problems, not to mention frequent electrical glitches and engine overheating, suggest that the vehicle is more likely to leave you stranded than conquer the great outdoors.
2023 Nissan Pathfinder
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder has shown some serious unreliability issues. Consumer surveys confirmed frequent and common malfunctioning seat controls and seatbelt sensors. Despite its premium segment positioning, it lacks memory seat controls in certain trims.
Also, some owners struggle with the body’s hardware defects, such as broken windows, locks, latches, and seat belts. Faulty paint and trim defects are also reported, with reports of the paint being scratched and the interior trim being too loose to stay in place.
2023 Mazda CX-9
The 2023 Mazda CX-9, while a true disrupter in the beginning, has revealed disturbing reliability problems to the customers of Consumer Reports. Owners reported serious issues with the drive system, including driveline vibrations and differential difficulties severe enough to make potential buyers reconsider their choice. One consumer report about transmission failure just 922 miles into the vehicle’s life raises serious concerns about longevity.
2023 Volvo XC60
While the 2023 Volvo XC60 is known for its safety and luxury, it has revealed worrying reliability problems. The owners narrate the story of malfunctioning in-car electronics, such as Apple CarPlay connectivity, which is glitchy and causes total reboots, affecting essential functions like climate control.
Moreover, there have been cases when the car shut down, and the owner was left helpless. Besides, the paint quality can also prove to be a letdown thus making it a tough choice in the used car market.
2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class may appear to be luxurious, but it also has many problems. It has been subject to 19 recalls due to various serious technical issues. Owners have encountered problems with parts such as the convertible tops and seatbelt buttons falling apart.
The driveshaft can break, and it is common for the vehicle to shake when driven, which can cost a lot to resolve. Furthermore, the paint can flake off, and air can intrude into the cabin. The air conditioning may even stop functioning, leaving you annoyed as well as sweaty.
2020 Jeep Gladiator
The owners of this jeep have experienced serious problems with various vital components, including electrical systems, steering, transmission, paint, and body pieces. The most significant issues are auxiliary battery failure, which costs $500, and generator replacement, which costs about $710. Steering issues were also noted, particularly a “dead spot” in the steering box control. Some owners also reported steering issues.
2018 Hyundai Sonata
There have been several recalls of Sonata due to safety concerns. The electrical system, including the battery and ignition, is a common source of owner complaints. Also, the engine issues are serious; sometimes, you must replace it entirely since it leaks oil.
Despite many recalls, Hyundai has not yet resolved the problem of the color peeling off. In addition to this, the vehicle’s gearbox and steering issues make it a wrong choice.
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
Buying a used 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan is risky because of all the problems associated with the model. Often, owners deal with the fuel system’s issues, such as a defective fuel injector, which could lead to a sudden car’s slowing down.
The interior electronics are also no different. There are problems with the infotainment system and backup cameras, as well as issues related to steering and seat adjustments reported by many owners. Buying this used car means more frequent visits to the technician and more expensive repairs.
2018 Ford Explorer
The 2018 Ford Explorer has faced its fair share of issues, resulting in four recalls. Among the most common complaints is a problematic transmission that often fails, leading to costly and time-consuming repairs. The air conditioning and fans are also prone to malfunction, adding to the vehicle’s woes. These recurring problems can be a real headache, making the 2018 Explorer a less-than-ideal option for those considering a used SUV purchase.
Do Your Research!
When you are out buying a second-hand car, make sure you dig deep to find the vehicle that offers more than just a pretty face. Hopefully, you have already figured out that even the best cars may have secret problems, such as broken electronics and worse mechanical failures. Prevent that by finding durable cars with positive reviews rather than fancy designs and first impressions. Choose wisely and prioritize longevity over aesthetics.
Source
All the information has been retrieved from each car’s Consumer Reports reliability section.
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Zainab Noor is a motoring journalist. Childhood rides in Nissan Almera fueled her love for cars. After graduating from AIOU in 2021, she steered her passion into freelance writing. You can find Zainab on LinkedIn.
