As you’re shopping around for used cars, you might have a difficult time zeroing in on a specific target. Naturally, you might find yourself gravitating towards some of the more mainstream models, as these vehicles tend to be everywhere. However, when you really dig into the specific vehicles’ capabilities over time, you’ll find that they’re not nearly as enticing.
Below, we’ve reviewed a number of used vehicles that we’d recommend you avoid altogether. Then, when you’re fully ready to start shopping for used cars, you’ll already know what models you should be avoiding…
We’d Recommend You Avoid the: Ford Explorer
This SUV is still one of the most popular offerings on the road, but customers should be particularly wary of this nameplate when they’re shopping for a used ride. The 2003 model has specifically been criticized by pundits, with one website even claiming it to be one of the 20 worst vehicles of all time. This can be attributed to the various mechanical issues, including a faulty transmission. The exterior has also seen its fair share of problems, as owners have remarked that rust tends to accumulate relatively quickly.
Sure, the vehicle is large, leading to plenty of cargo room. The brand also did an admirable job of equipping the SUV with a number of notable safety functions, explaining why the nameplate is consistently lauded for this attribute. However, when you explore everything else that the vehicle provides (or doesn’t provide), it’s clear that the model should be avoided.
We’d Recommend You Avoid the: Jeep Wrangler
Similar to the Ford Explorer, the Jeep Wrangler is also one of the most renowned vehicles on the road. However, many owners complain of mechanical issues, which is a common problem for those with Jeeps. The brand has also had a number of recalls on various aspects of the vehicle, and there’s no guarantee that a used model would have undergone all of the necessary and required changes.
Furthermore, from a practical standpoint, we’d assume that a used Jeep Wrangler has seen its fair share of off-roading excursions. We certainly don’t blame the previous owner, as the nameplate is known for its ability to travel off the beaten path. However, the vehicle’s capabilities slowly wear down over time, especially if it’s previously been called on for off-roading. In this case, you might find that the Jeep Wrangler’s exterior may look as good as new, but the accompanying mechanics are in complete disarray. There’s a considerable risk here, and it’s better just to avoid the model altogether.
We’d Recommend You Avoid the: Dodge Intrepid
This is a bit of an outdated inclusion, as the nameplate hasn’t been produced in more than a decade. However, the models are currently flooding the used market, and car buyers should generally be aware of the accompanying issues. Ultimately, the car has proven to deliver horrible reliability, as the vehicle’s accompanying 2.7-liter V6 engine compromises relatively quickly. There is an assortment of additional problems that have popped up, including issues with the electrical configuration and the climate control system.
Sure, when new, the Dodge Intrepid was a perfect choice, as the car delivered impressive interior space, solid handling and control, and a stylish body. However, since any used model has presumably surpassed its tenth birthday, we’d say you’re better off just avoiding this car altogether.
We’d Recommend You Avoid the: PT Cruiser
This popular Chrysler model was seemingly everywhere several years ago. Consumers were apparently enticed by the vehicle’s bold and unique construction, and owners were also fond of the various amenities included throughout the interior. However, as time went on, these individuals found that these were really the lone positive attributes of this nameplate.
The PT Cruiser already didn’t provide drivers with ideal performance specs, and these numbers predictably declined after the vehicle was on the road for several years. Furthermore, fuel efficiency was reduced after a few years, meaning buyers won’t even have the opportunity to save money at the gas pump. Ultimately, many used buyers tend to replace the engine, and this doesn’t even lead to many improvements. If you’re looking to save yourself some money, then a used PT Cruiser isn’t the way to go.
We’d Recommend You Avoid the: Land Rover
Ah, the infamous Land Rover. There was a time where this particular vehicle was considered to be the crown jewel of the industry, and seemingly every consumer wanted to get their hands on the nameplate. Nowadays, this sentiment has surely gone away. The hulking SUV already isn’t known for its fuel efficiency, and the ludicrous prices for new models means you won’t see a bunch of savings on the used market.
Furthermore, the vehicle’s reliability has been called into question, as the model runs into a number of mechanical issues after several years on the road. The brakes and electric inclusions have specifically seen problems, as have other components of the vehicle’s mechanics (including the suspension). Unless you’re a professional mechanic, the abundance of impending repairs means you should probably avoid this ride.
We’d Recommend You Avoid the: Chevy Colorado
Nowadays, consumers are in love with the Chevy Silverado, meaning the Colorado tends to get put on the back burner. While this is mostly due to the Silverado’s popularity and versatile lineup, it should also have to do with the Colorado’s accompanying issues. These various problems are only highlighted when you pursue a used version of the pickup.
Owners have criticized the vehicle’s surprising lack of power, an attribute that usually isn’t criticized when it comes to this segment. Furthermore, the safety amenities have proven to be underwhelming, and we’d assume that no driver wants to travel around in a vehicle that won’t protect them during a collision. Predictably, the vehicle has seen plenty of additional problems, including issues with the transmission and suspension. If you opt for a used model, there’s a good chance that the truck is already partly compromised, explaining why you should just avoid the nameplate altogether.
