Do You Own One of the Worst Used Cars? Expensive Repairs and Constant Issues

Written by Josefine Bagger Sommerlund

Apr.04 - 2025 1:41 PM CET

Thinking about buying a used car? These 12 models could end up draining your wallet

Trending Now

TRENDING NOW

Used cars can be a great investment — but not if you end up with one of these 12 models. They're known for frequent issues, costly repairs, and disappointed owners.

Why Are These Cars Not Recommended?

Photo: Shutterstock.com

  • High repair and maintenance costs

  • Recurring technical problems

  • Low resale value

  • Poor reliability ratings

  • Numerous recalls and owner complaints

1. BMW 5 Series (2011–2016)

Photo: Shutterstock.com

  • Electrical issues and costly engine failures

  • Expensive parts and repair bills

  • Luxurious, but with a high price tag for upkeep

2. Jeep Grand Cherokee (2014–2019)

Photo: Victor Maschek / Shutterstock.com

  • Transmission issues and electrical failures

  • Engine problems even at low mileage

  • Frequently mentioned in complaints about unreliable electronics

3. Ford Focus (2012–2016)

Photo: defpicture / Shutterstock.com

  • Known for Powershift transmission problems

  • Costly gearbox repairs

  • Many owners report jerky gear changes

4. Fiat 500 (2012–2018)

Photo: S.Candide / Shutterstock.com

  • Compact but unstable

  • Prone to electrical issues and poor build quality

  • Not suited for long-term ownership

5. Mini Cooper (2010–2015)

Photo: Heinsdorff Jularlak / Shutterstock.com

  • Charming, but unreliable

  • Turbo and engine troubles

  • High repair costs despite its small size

6. Nissan Pathfinder (2013–2017)

Photo: YaromirM / Shutterstock.com

  • CVT transmission issues

  • Expensive replacements and fixes

  • Low owner satisfaction ratings

7. Dodge Journey (2009–2018)

Photo: The Global Guy / Shutterstock.com

  • Suspension, electrical, and engine problems

  • Poor build quality

  • Often criticized in reviews and road tests

8. Chevrolet Cruze (2011–2015)

Photo: Zoran Karapancev / Shutterstock.com

  • Recurring engine and cooling system failures

  • Poor insulation and uncomfortable ride

  • Numerous reports of overheating

9. Land Rover Discovery Sport (2015–2019)

Photo: Sue Thatcher / Shutterstock.com

  • Expensive luxury repairs

  • Frequent mechanical and electrical issues

  • Lacks long-term reliability

10. Chrysler 200 (2011–2017)

Photo: Darren Brode / Shutterstock.com

  • Poorly designed transmission

  • Suspension and engine troubles

  • Often ranked at the bottom of reliability surveys

11. Volkswagen Tiguan (2009–2017)

Photo: Art Konovalov / Shutterstock.com

  • Coil pack and turbocharger problems

  • Pricey repairs, especially in early models

  • DSG transmission issues

12. Cadillac CTS (2008–2014)

Photo: Art Konovalov / Shutterstock.com

  • Expensive repairs and weak reliability

  • Electrical and engine-related problems

  • Low resale value despite a luxury look