05Jul
Documented public opinion says to avoid these cars, but there are nice things to know about them, anyway.
When buying a used car, it can be tempting to go for the cheapest or nicest option available. However, some used cars have a history of problems or are known for their poor reliability. So, it's only sensible to avoid these cars no matter what. Now, before we embark on this noble fault-finding rampage, keep in mind that we’ve gone to great lengths to single out and dig up the exact offending model year of the affected brand.
In other words, instead of smearing mud on an entire brand, we point our gnarly fingers at the exact model and year that just so happens to leave people with a sour taste. However, we also remind you of the features and reasons you might want to skip the court of public opinion on these cars. Fair enough, right? Also, if we're going to point accusing fingers, we better have proof, right?
That’s why we’ve tallied each car we’ve dragged out here with the common problems that ultimately made them best left alone. So, yeah, we aren’t making baseless claims here. If you don’t believe us, you’re always welcome to ask Consumer Reports what they think about each car we’ve got on this infamous list. Now, without further ado, below are some of the worst used cars to avoid at all costs.
Related: 10 Reasons The Toyota Camry Is So Special
1. 2020 Acura MDX/RDX
- Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 3 Out Of 5
The 2020 Acura MDX is a midsize luxury SUV produced by Acura, the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Honda.
Nice To Know: The MDX is one of Acura's flagship models and is known for its combination of luxury, performance, and practicality. The 2020 MDX is available in different trim levels, including standard, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance, each with varying features and amenities.
Some of the key features of the 2020 MDX include a powerful V6 engine, available all-wheel drive, advanced safety features, and a spacious and comfortable interior with seating for up to seven passengers.
The 2020 Acura MDX/RDX Common Problems
Unfortunately, complaints began pouring in from owners about various issues barely a year into the SUV’s market release. Here are some of the reported problems with the 2020 Acura MDX:
- Infotainment system glitches: Some owners have reported issues with the MDX's infotainment system, including freezing, crashing, and slow response times.
- Transmission problems: A few owners have reported issues with the MDX's transmission, including rough shifting, hesitation, and slipping.
- Electrical problems: A few owners have reported electrical problems, such as the door locks not working properly, the battery dying unexpectedly, and the dashboard warning lights coming on for no apparent reason.
- Suspension issues: Some owners have reported a rough ride and noise from the suspension system.
It is worth noting that these issues are not necessarily widespread, and many 2020 Acura MDX owners have reported being very satisfied with their vehicles.
As with any vehicle, it's important to perform regular maintenance and address any issues as soon as they arise to prevent more serious problems down the road.
2. 2012/2013 Audi Q5
- Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 2 Out Of 5
The 2012-2013 Audi Q5 is a compact luxury crossover SUV produced by the German automaker Audi. The Q5 was first introduced in 2008 and has since become a popular model thanks to its combination of luxury, performance, and practicality.
The 2012-2013 Q5 was available in different trim levels, including the base 2.0T Premium, 3.2 Premium Plus, and 3.2 Prestige.
The 2.0T models get power from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 211 horsepower, while the 3.2 models got urged by a 3.2-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower. Both engines mate with a six-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is standard on all models.
Nice To Know: Some key features of the 2012-2013 Q5 include a luxurious and spacious interior with seating for up to five passengers, advanced safety features such as stability control, traction control, antilock brakes, and a high-quality sound system.
Additionally, the Q5 offers a smooth and comfortable ride, agile handling, and good fuel efficiency for its class.
The 2012/2013 Audi Q5 Common Problems
A Consumer Reports 2 out of 5 reliability score signals that you might be better off giving the 2012-2013 Audi Q5 a wide berth. Here are some of the most commonly reported issues about the 2012-2013 Audi Q5:
- Oil consumption: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, which is already bad enough for your wallet but can also lead to engine damage if not addressed.
- Electrical problems: There have been reports of various electrical problems, including issues with the power windows, door locks, and the MMI infotainment system.
- Transmission issues: A few owners have reported problems with the transmission, such as rough shifting and slippage.
- Timing chain tensioner: Some Q5 owners have reported problems with the timing chain tensioner, which can result in engine damage if not addressed.
- Sunroof issues: There have been reports of problems with the sunroof, including leaks and malfunctions.
3. 2014 BMW X1
- Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 2 Out Of 5
The 2014 BMW X1 is a compact five-passenger luxury crossover SUV that BMW first introduced in 2009. It has since become popular in the BMW lineup, but we wouldn't touch the 2014 model.
Nice To Know: The 2014 BMW X1 was available in several trim levels, including the sDrive28i, xDrive28i, and xDrive35i.
The sDrive28i and xDrive28i models get their urging from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 240 horsepower, while the xDrive35i model got powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower.
All models feature an eight-speed automatic transmission and either rear-wheel drive (sDrive28i) or all-wheel drive (xDrive28i and xDrive35i). Some of the X1’s key features include a luxurious and well-crafted interior, excellent driving dynamics, and a high-quality sound system.
Although it was a compact SUV, the X1 offered a surprisingly spacious cabin for passengers and cargo. The rear seats could get folded down to create additional cargo space, and the X1 also featured a power liftgate for easy loading and unloading.
The 2014 BMW X1 Common Problems
Again, a reliability score of 2 out of 5 is bad enough to keep wary shoppers away, even more so when the car in question is a German machine like the notorious Bimmer. Below are the most common issues associated with this model-year X1:
- Engine oil leaks: Some owners have reported oil leaks from the engine, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Electrical problems: There have been reports of various electrical problems, including issues with the power windows, door locks, and the infotainment system.
- Transmission issues: A few owners have reported problems with the transmission, such as rough shifting and slipping.
- Suspension problems: Some owners have reported a rough ride and noise from the suspension system.
- Cooling system issues: There have been reports of issues with the cooling system, including coolant leaks and overheating.
4. 2015-2017 Buick Encore
- Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 3 Out Of 5 Consumer Reports Reliability Score
Introduced in 2013, the Encore subcompact luxury crossover SUV has since become popular in America.
The 2015-2017 Buick Encore was available in several trim levels, including the base Encore, Encore Convenience, Encore Leather, and Encore Premium. All trims get motivation from a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque.
The engine marries a six-speed automatic transmission and a standard front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is an available option.
Nice To Know: Some key features of the 2015-2017 Buick Encore include a luxurious and well-crafted interior with seating for up to five passengers, advanced safety features such as stability control, traction control, antilock brakes, and a high-quality sound system.
Additionally, the Encore offers a smooth and comfortable ride, agile handling, and good fuel efficiency for its class.
2015-2017 Buick Encore Common problems
We’ve got to admit the 2015-2017 Buick Encore isn’t so bad if not for a few reported issues just too serious to ignore because they effectively sap the joy of driving this otherwise lovely SUV. They include:
- Transmission problems: Some owners have reported issues with the six-speed automatic transmission, including rough shifting, slipping gears, and difficulty accelerating.
- Electrical problems: Some Buick Encore owners have reported issues with the electrical system, including problems with the radio, navigation, and backup camera.
- Engine problems: Several owners have reported engine problems, including stalling and loss of power.
- Suspension problems: Some owners have reported issues with the suspension system, including noise and a bumpy ride.
- Brake problems: Some owners have reported brake issues, including noise and premature wear.
5. 2019 Cadillac XT4
- Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 3 Out Of 5
The 2019 Cadillac XT4 is a compact, luxury crossover SUV introduced by Cadillac as a new model for the 2019 model year.
It is the smallest SUV in Cadillac's lineup, designed to compete with other compact luxury crossovers such as the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, and Volvo XC40.
General Motors built the XT4 on a new platform and powered it with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available as an option.
Nice To Know: The XT4 offers a range of standard and available features, including a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, and a panoramic sunroof.
The interior features premium materials and a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for up to five passengers. Overall, the 2019 Cadillac XT4 is a stylish and luxurious crossover SUV with a good balance of performance, comfort, and technology.
2019 Cadillac XT4 Common problems
Unfortunately, the 2019 XT4 earned a few deal-breaking complaints from some owners, which didn’t look very nice on a car that only came to the market that year. They include:
- Transmission problems: Some owners have reported issues with the nine-speed automatic transmission, including rough shifting, hesitation, and slipping gears.
- Electrical problems: A few owners have reported issues with the electrical system, including problems with the infotainment system, camera display, and other features.
- Noises and rattles: Some owners have reported hearing rattling or other noises from the interior, particularly from the dashboard or door panels.
It's important to note that these problems are not common among all Cadillac XT4s, and many owners have reported no issues with their vehicles.
If you are considering purchasing a used or new Cadillac XT4, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a trusted mechanic before making a purchase.
Related: The 10 Coolest Features Of The 2022 Honda Accord
6. 2017 Chevrolet Camaro
- Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 3 Out Of 5
The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro was part of the sixth generation of Camaro 2-door sports cars. GM introduced the 6th gen for the 2016 model year.
Nice To Know: The Camaro is a famous American muscle car known for its powerful engine options, sporty handling, and aggressive styling. The 2017 model was available in several trim levels, including the base 1LS, 1LT, 2LT, 1SS, and 2SS. All models were available with a choice of either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.
The base engine was a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 275 horsepower, while a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 335 horsepower was also available. The high-performance SS models got motivation from a 6.2-liter V8 engine that produced 455 horsepower.
The 2017 Camaro offered a range of standard and available features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, a rearview camera, parking sensors, and a variety of safety features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning.
The interior featured a comfortable and supportive design, using high-quality materials and a driver-focused cockpit.
Overall, the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro offered a compelling combination of style, performance, and technology, making it a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts.
2017 Chevrolet Camaro Common Problems
Sadly, the Camaro’s popularity didn't save the 2017 model from the court of public opinion, having exhibited a few issues too disappointing to ignore. They include:
- Transmission problems: Some owners have reported issues with the six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions, including rough shifting, slipping gears, and difficulty engaging gears.
- Electrical problems: A few owners have reported issues with the electrical system, including problems with the infotainment system, backup camera, and other features.
- Engine problems: Several owners have reported engine problems, including stalling, loss of power, and oil leaks.
- Suspension problems: Some owners have reported issues with the suspension system, including noise, a bumpy ride, and premature wear.
- Paint issues: A few owners have reported issues with the paint, including chipping and peeling.
7. 2012 Ford Edge
- Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 3 Out Of 5
The 2012 Ford Edge midsize crossover SUV was part of the first generation of Edges, introduced for the first time in 2007. The Edge is a popular family vehicle known for its spacious and comfortable interior.
Nice To Know: The 2012 Edge was available in several trim levels, including the base SE, SEL, Limited, and Sport. All models were available with a six-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The base engine was a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower, while a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 240 horsepower was also available. The Sport model got powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produced 305 horsepower.
The 2012 Edge offered a range of standard and available features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, parking sensors, and a variety of safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
The 2012 Ford Edge Common problems
Unfortunately, despite offering a good balance of performance, comfort, and technology, as well as receiving generally positive reviews, the 2012 Ford Edge suffered from several familiar damning issues. They include:
- Engine and Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the engine and/or transmission, including rough shifting, hesitation, and loss of power. Some owners have also reported engine stalling, which can be dangerous when driving.
- Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported electrical problems with the 2012 Edge, including issues with the power windows, door locks, and dashboard lights. Some owners have also reported issues with the audio and navigation systems.
- Suspension Issues: Some owners have reported issues with the suspension of the 2012 Edge, including problems with the shocks and struts. This can cause a rough ride and poor handling.
- Braking Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the brakes on the 2012 Edge, including premature wear and noise.
- Fuel System Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the fuel system, including fuel leaks and problems with the fuel pump.
It's worth noting that not all owners will experience these issues, and the severity of the problems can vary.
8. 2014 Infiniti QX60
- JD Power Reliability Score: 2 Out Of 5
The 2014 Infiniti QX60 is a luxury midsize SUV first introduced in 2012 under the name Infiniti JX before being renamed QX60 for the 2014 model year.
The three-row crossover offers a spacious and comfortable interior and advanced safety features.
Nice To Know: The QX60 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
Inside, the QX60 features a luxurious cabin with high-quality materials and advanced technology features, including a 7-inch touchscreen display, a Bose sound system, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a panoramic sunroof.
It also comes with advanced safety features like a backup camera, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning.
2014 Infiniti QX60 Common Problems
The 2014 Infiniti QX60 is summarily a well-rounded luxury SUV that offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced safety features. Unfortunately, the SUV suffered some issues that earned it a bad reputation in the court of public opinion.
- Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported problems with its CVT transmission, including shuddering, hesitation, and failure to shift properly.
- Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported electrical problems, including issues with the power liftgate, backup camera, and audio system.
- Suspension Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the suspension, including noisy shocks and struts and premature wear.
- Air Conditioning Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the air conditioning system, including failure to cool properly and leaks.
- Steering Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the power steering system, including difficulty steering and a clicking noise when turning.
9. 2016 Honda Pilot
- JD Power Reliability Score: 3 Out Of 5
The Honda Pilot midsize crossover SUV got completely redesigned for the 2016 model year while maintaining a reputation for a spacious and versatile interior.
Nice To Know: The 2016 Pilot comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
Inside, the Pilot offers seating for up to eight passengers and comes with a variety of advanced features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port.
Higher trims also offer features like a panoramic sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a premium audio system.
In terms of safety, the 2016 Pilot offers several advanced features, including a collision mitigation braking system, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Unfortunately, that’s not where the story ends for this particular model-year Pilot.
2016 Honda Pilot Common Problems
Frequently reported problems with the 2016 Honda Pilot include
- Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, including hesitation, rough shifting, and failure to engage properly.
- Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported electrical problems, including issues with the infotainment system, audio system, and dashboard warning lights.
- Fuel System Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the fuel system, including fuel leaks and problems with the fuel pump.
- Brake Issues: Some owners have reported premature brake wear and noise from the brakes.
- Engine Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the engine, including excessive oil consumption and engine misfires.
Related: Common Problems With The 2023 Nissan Altima And How To Fix Them
10. 2018 Volvo S90
- JD Power Reliability Score: 2 Out Of 5
The 2018 Volvo S90 is a luxury midsize sedan produced by the Swedish automaker Volvo. It got introduced for the 2017 model year as a replacement for the previous S80 model.
The S90 rode on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, which also underpins the XC90 SUV and other recent Volvo models.
Nice To Know: The S90 features a sleek exterior design with a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight signature.
The interior is also stylish and luxurious, with high-quality materials and advanced technology features such as a large touchscreen infotainment system and a suite of advanced safety features.
Under the hood, the 2018 Volvo S90 offers two engine options: a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 316 horsepower and a more fuel-efficient turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 250 horsepower.
Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and can be equipped with all-wheel drive.
2018 Volvo S90 Common Problems
While the 2018 Volvo S90 received positive reviews from automotive critics for its elegant design, spacious and comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and impressive performance, it eventually got the hammer both from owners and automotive experts.
- Electrical issues: Some owners have reported problems with the vehicle's electrical system, including issues with the infotainment system and other electronic components.
- Brake issues: A small number of owners have reported issues with the brake system, including squeaking or grinding noises, premature wear of brake pads, and problems with the electronic parking brake.
- Transmission issues: Some owners have reported problems with the eight-speed automatic transmission, including rough shifting, hesitation, and slipping.
- Suspension issues: A few owners have reported problems with the suspension system, including noise from the front end and premature wear of suspension components.
- Engine problems: While the engines offered in the 2018 S90 are generally reliable, some owners have reported issues with engine performance or stalling.
It's important to note that these issues are relatively rare, and most 2018 Volvo S90 owners have not experienced any significant problems with their vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent or address any issues that do arise.
11. 2013 Subaru Impreza
- JD Power Reliability Score: 2 Out Of 5
The 2013 Subaru Impreza is a compact car produced by the Japanese automaker Subaru. It got offered as a sedan or a hatchback and is available in several trim levels, including the base 2.0i, the premium 2.0i Premium, the sporty 2.0i Sport Premium, and the performance-oriented WRX and WRX STI models.
Nice To Know: The 2013 Impreza gets power from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and is mated to either a five-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT).
All-wheel drive is standard on all Impreza models, which is a hallmark of Subaru vehicles.
The Impreza features a modern and stylish exterior design and comes equipped with a range of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows and locks, Bluetooth connectivity, and a four-speaker audio system.
Higher trim levels add features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, heated front seats, and a power moonroof.
2013 Subaru Impreza Common Problems
While automotive critics praised the 2013 Impreza for its comfortable ride, practicality, and fuel efficiency, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also awarded it the Top Safety Pick+ designation, the car eventually earned the disapproval of both owners and automotive experts.
- Excessive oil consumption: Some owners have reported that their Impreza engines consume more oil than expected, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Transmission issues: Some owners have reported problems with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), including issues with shifting, slipping, or jerking.
- Electrical issues: A few owners have reported problems with the electrical system, including issues with the battery, alternator, and starter.
- Suspension issues: Some owners have reported problems with the suspension system, including noise from the front end and premature wear of suspension components.
- Brake problems: A small number of owners have reported issues with the brake system, including premature wear of brake pads and rotors.
- Rust issues: Some owners have reported rust issues on the vehicle's exterior, particularly around the wheel wells.
12. 2019 Nissan Rogue
- C&H Reliability Score: 3 Out Of 5
The Nissan Rogue competes with other compact SUVs such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
The 2019 model is offered in three trim levels: S, SV, and SL. It is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available as an option.
Nice To Know: The Rogue features a stylish exterior design with a spacious and comfortable cabin. It comes equipped with a range of standard features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Higher trim levels add features such as a larger touchscreen, a panoramic moonroof, and leather upholstery.
The SUV actually received high marks for safety from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Its safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
2019 Nissan Rogue Common Problems
According to Vehicle History, the Rogue's CVT transmission is infamous for failing below 65,000 miles and often got criticized for slow acceleration, shuddering, and stalling.
Vehicle History also notes that the 2015-2019 Rogue got sued for its AEB (automatic emergency braking) front radar sensors and that the SUV consistently suffers from EVAP canisters, sunroofs, and OCS airbag sensor issues. Let’s make that list, anyway:
- Transmission issues: A few owners have reported issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), including problems with shifting or hesitation when accelerating.
- Electrical issues: Some owners have reported issues with the electrical system, including problems with the infotainment system, the rearview camera, and the power liftgate.
- Brake problems: A small number of owners have reported issues with the brake system, including premature wear of brake pads and rotors and problems with the anti-lock brake system (ABS).
- Steering issues: A few owners have reported problems with the steering system, including a clicking noise when turning or problems with the power steering assist.
- Engine problems: While the 2019 Rogue's engine is generally reliable, some owners have reported engine performance or stalling issues.
13. 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC
- C&H Reliability Score: 3 Out Of 5
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC is a 5-passenger luxury compact SUV released by Mercedes-Benz for the 2019 model year. The GLC can rightly boast of a combination of comfort, performance, and technology.
Nice To Know: The GLC is available in two body styles: the GLC 300 SUV and the GLC 300 Coupe. Both models come standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, which is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The GLC also features a variety of advanced safety and driver assistance features as well as a modern infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display. Additionally, the GLC has an attractive and well-built interior.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC Common problems Unfortunately, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC proves that the three-pointed star isn't immune to imperfections. Here are some common problems reported by owners of the 2019 GLC:
- Electrical issues: Some owners have reported problems with the GLC's electrical system, such as the infotainment system freezing or shutting down unexpectedly.
- Noisy brakes: Some owners have reported that the GLC's brakes can be noisy, especially when coming to a stop.
- Transmission issues: A few owners have reported issues with the GLC's transmission, such as delayed shifting or rough shifting.
- Suspension issues: Some owners have reported that the GLC's suspension can be noisy or uncomfortable over rough roads.
- Wind noise: A few owners have reported that the GLC can be noisy at high speeds, with wind noise coming from the windows or door seals.
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