If you’re looking for a people mover or a toy hauler but don’t want a minivan, consider an SUV.
The average price for a brand-new SUV last year was $70,170. If you don’t have that kind of money to splurge on a new vehicle or don’t want to fork over anything close to that amount, check out some used models and get some bang for your buck.
That said, there are some used SUVs to steer clear of unless you want a money pit in your garage, on your driveway, or at your local mechanic.
Here’s a look at 16 used SUVs to avoid if you value your hard-earned money.
2015 Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V brand might seem like a curious addition to such a list, but don’t let the automaker’s tradition of manufacturing reliable vehicles fool you. Some duds exist in its lineup of cars, SUVs, and trucks. The 2015 Honda CR-V is one head-scratcher.
Common issues for the 2015 model year include starting problems, front-end vibration, spontaneous sunroof shattering, and stalling when the vehicle is put in reverse.
2005 Chevrolet Equinox
The 2005 Chevrolet Equinox is a first-gen compact SUV with more than its fair share of head gasket issues — problems that can lead to catastrophic engine failure. You can find used 2005 Chevrolet Equinox SUVs in the mid-$3,000 range, which seems reasonable. But a gasket repair can cost $2,280, so you should skip this SUV and spend more money to get a better vehicle.
2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
If you’re considering a Volkswagen Tiguan, avoid the 2010 model year. One of the most reported problems is engine failure, with an average repair cost of $3,900.
The problem tends to raise its ugly head as the SUV approaches the 100,000-mile mark. Other top issues include a skipping timing chain and main oil seal leaks.
2005 Nissan Xterra
The Nissan Xterra is known for its rugged good looks and offroad capability. But the 2005 Nissan Xterra presents some reliability challenges you’ll want to avoid if seeking a used SUV.
Transmission issues plague the 2005 model year. In addition to tranny issues, the 2005 Nissan Xterra has other problems. A check engine light due to a faulty fuel level sensor, engine noise, and loose screws inside the intake manifold aren’t uncommon.
2007 Toyota RAV4
A Toyota also seems like a surprise addition to any list of the worst used SUVs to purchase. But the 2007 Toyota RAV4 is one SUV to take a pass on even if the price is enticing.
There are problems with the EVAP canister, oxygen sensor, automatic transmission, oil leaks, and more. If you want an RAV4, find one from a model year that doesn’t have enough issues to make your head spin and your bank account deplete.
2014 Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee has an illustrious history. It changed the game by popularizing the SUV segment. And while there are some solid model years, the 2014 model year isn’t one of them.
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee is rife with issues. So, don’t be deceived by the rugged good looks
According to Consumer Reports, problems with the 2014 Jeep Cherokee include engine oil leaks, slipping and rough-shifting transmission, exhaust leaks, and more. It’s also been subject to 13 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recalls. Yes, 13.
2011 GMC Terrain
Another used SUV to avoid is the 2011 GMC Terrain. One source notes you can only expect it to last about 150,000 miles and that costly engine and transmission problems aren’t uncommon.
Excessive oil consumption can lead to catastrophic engine failure. The fix? A new engine for north of $5,000. You can get a reliable used SUV for that much money. Transmission failures can cost thousands to fix as well. The vehicle has been subject to four recalls.
2005 Saturn Vue CVT VTi
If you’re ever offered a great deal on a 2005 Saturn Vue CVT VTi, don’t take the bait unless you’re okay with the vehicle’s unmitigated disaster of an infamous CVT transmission.
Frustrated owners have flooded online forums to complain about transmission issues. Consider yourself warned!
2000 Dodge Durango
When behind the wheel of a vehicle, you don’t want it to stall. That’s one reason to give the 2000 Dodge Durango a pass. Its Magnum V8 engine is the opposite of reliable because of sludge buildup and other problems. Stalling on the highway or roadway? No, thanks!
2010 Dodge Journey
The 2010 Dodge Journey has its fair share of problems. According to one source, the remote keyless entry system works inconsistently, the engine can overheat, dampness builds up inside the vehicle due to water leaks, the brakes and rotors wear prematurely, and more.
With plenty of reliable used SUVs up for sale, you can skip the 2010 Dodge Journey.
2004 Ford Explorer
While Ford Explorers are iconic SUVs that helped popularize the segment, they aren’t trouble-free. But some model years, like the 2004 Ford Explorer, are worse than others.
There’s a long list of issues like rough idling and stalling, automatic transmission failure, spark plug ejection, cracks in the plastic intake manifold, and more.
2017 GMC Yukon
According to Consumer Reports, the 2017 GMC Yukon is less dependable than the average new vehicle. It’s also been subject to three recalls. Owners have complained about the electrical accessories, transmission, climate system, and more.
2012 Chevy Suburban
The 2012 Chevy Suburban is a capable SUV if you want size, space, and storage. But it won’t hold up over the long haul, so it’s not a used SUV you need on your consideration list.
The power door lock actuators are known to fail, the speedometer or other instrument panel gauges might work inconsistently, the daytime running lights can burn out prematurely, the door handles inside and outside may break, and more. There have been four recalls.
2008 GMC Acadia
If you want a GMC Acadia, skip the 2008 model year since power steering and transmission failure issues were rampant. There are also problems with the airbags, windshield wipers, and more.
For the money you’d spend on a used 2008 GMC Acadia, you can buy a much better SUV.
2008 Buick Enclave
Another problematic used SUV to avoid is the 2008 Buick Enclave. While transmission issues plagued all Enclaves, the 2008 model year was the worst. Problems usually start before the 100,000-mile mark. So, buying one nearing or past that mark is buying someone’s problem.
2013 Dodge Durango
Owners of the 2013 Dodge Durango complain about a faulty Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which can cause electrical issues impacting the engine, windows, and more. You’ll want to avoid a 2013 Dodge Durango with unfixed TIPM issues.
The Car Complaints website notes 943 complaints, 11 recalls, and four investigations for the SUV.
Buy With Caution
Avoid these 16 used SUVs at all costs — unless you like headaches and money pits.
Reliable used SUVs are available, so there’s no need to buy something known to be problematic. You can find the right non-minivan people mover or toy hauler for your needs.
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