When a Bargain Can Becomes a Problem
Buying a used car can save you plenty of money, but a low sticker price isn't much of a bargain if the engine is known for expensive problems. Certain models and engine combinations have developed reputations for premature failures. That doesn't mean every example will fail, since maintenance history and production year matter enormously, but these vehicles deserve extra caution before you hand over your money.
1. 2007-2012 Nissan Altima With the 2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder
The QR25DE four-cylinder used in these Altimas has been associated with excessive oil consumption and other engine-related complaints, particularly as mileage climbs. Poor maintenance can make existing problems considerably worse, so a neglected example is especially risky. Before buying one, check the oil level.
2. 2008-2010 Chrysler Town & Country With the 4.0-Liter V6
Many of the internals and valvetrain components in Chrysler minivans with this engine are costly to replace. Engine problems become even uglier when they reach the cylinder heads, many of which are also difficult to remove without further engine damage. Maintenance records are important for these vehicles, so avoid used models that make odd sounds.
3. 2001-2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser With the 2.4-Liter Engine
The 2.4-liter engine in early PT Cruisers isn't necessarily doomed, but neglected examples can develop significant timing-belt and cooling-system problems. Since the timing belt is a maintenance item, evidence that it hasn't been replaced on schedule should immediately raise questions. You're better off looking for a car with documented maintenance.
4. 2001-2005 Ford Explorer With the 4.0-Liter SOHC V6
The 4.0-liter SOHC V6 used in this generation of Explorer is known for timing-chain-related problems. Failed or damaged timing components can lead to serious engine damage, making an apparently inexpensive SUV much more costly to own. Listen carefully for rattling noises during startup.
5. 2004-2010 Chrysler Pacifica With the 3.5-Liter V6
Cooling-system failures, inadequate lubrication, and busted engine internals aren’t a given with these vans, but they become much more likely when maintenance is ignored. These vans are getting old enough that maintenance history should heavily factor into your decision whether or not you buy.
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6. 2008-2013 BMW 5 Series With the N63 V8
The early BMW N63 V8 is famous for being powerful, refined, and expensive when things go wrong. Excessive oil consumption, heat management problems, and numerous surrounding components can make ownership costly, especially on a poorly maintained car.
7. 2009-2014 BMW X6 With the N63 V8
The early X6 equipped with BMW's N63 V8 carries many of the same concerns as other N63-powered vehicles from the period. The engine operates under substantial heat and complexity, while repairs can involve expensive components and significant labor. A bargain-priced example should therefore be approached with caution.
8. 2006-2010 BMW 3 Series With the N54 Twin-Turbo Six-Cylinder
Thanks to exciting performance figures and sleek styling, the N54 still holds value as a used car. Keep in mind that older means more maintenance, and any potential N54 purchase should be scrutinized for tell-tale issues. High-pressure fuel system repairs and dozens of other problems can sneak up on you
9. 2011-2016 Mini Cooper With the N14 Turbocharged Engine
The N14 turbocharged four-cylinder used in certain Mini Cooper models has been associated with timing-chain, oil-consumption, and cooling-system problems. Repairs can become particularly expensive because several issues may appear as the vehicle gets older. A neglected Mini can quickly turn into a nightmare.
10. 2003-2007 Honda Accord With the 3.0-Liter V6
Honda has an excellent reputation for dependable engines, but certain Accord V6 models from this era deserve careful inspection because they use a timing belt. The belt and related components require scheduled replacement, and ignoring that service can result in severe engine damage.
11. 2003-2007 Honda Odyssey With the 3.5-Liter V6
While these engines can go for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance, a neglected timing belt is a literal disaster waiting to happen. Oddly enough, some trims of this Odyssey also share a history of transmission issues, leading to more expensive repairs when the drivetrain is involved.
12. 2006-2010 Volkswagen Passat With the 2.0T FSI Engine
The early 2.0T FSI engine used in certain Passat models has several known maintenance concerns, including carbon buildup and issues involving the timing system and high-pressure fuel components. Regular servicing is especially important because small problems can become expensive when ignored.
13. 2008-2013 Subaru Impreza With the 2.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine
Subaru's turbocharged 2.5-liter engines can deliver plenty of performance, but modified or poorly maintained examples can be risky purchases. Issues can arise from overheating, inadequate lubrication, aggressive tuning, or neglected maintenance. You should be especially cautious about what you're actually buying.
14. 2008-2014 Subaru WRX With the 2.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine
The WRX attracts enthusiasts, which means some used examples have lived much harder lives than their mileage suggests. Turbocharged engines don't respond well to neglected oil changes, overheating, or poorly executed modifications. An unknown history should make you think twice before purchasing.
15. 2010-2014 Volkswagen Golf GTI With the 2.0T TSI Engine
The same engine used in the GTI, the EA888, was also installed in numerous other Volkswagen vehicles that had issues with excessive oil consumption. Failed tensioners will roast your engine, so pay close attention to the maintenance records and have your mechanic verify that there were no previous oil consumption problems.
16. 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata With the 2.4-Liter Four-Cylinder
Certain Hyundai Sonata models from this period were affected by serious engine problems and recalls involving the 2.4-liter four-cylinder. Engine failure can occur with little financial appeal in an older vehicle, particularly if warranty or recall coverage is no longer available. Check the vehicle identification number for completed recalls.
17. 2011-2014 Kia Optima With the 2.4-Liter Four-Cylinder
The Kia Optima shared some engine-related concerns with other Hyundai-Kia vehicles using related four-cylinder engines from this era. Certain engines were subject to recalls and warranty campaigns because of internal engine problems that could result in failure. You should verify the specific engine.
18. 2005-2010 Chrysler 300 With the 2.7-Liter V6
We’ve talked about neglected oil changes, but when ignored, the 2.7-liter V6 engine is risky. Failures due to oil burning by itself or sludge buildup tend to be terminal and require a teardown or full engine replacement. Your best bet is to avoid ownership completely.
19. 2002-2006 Volkswagen Passat With the 2.8-Liter V6
The 2.8-liter V6 found in older Passat models can be costly to maintain, especially as age-related leaks and timing-belt service come into play. The engine itself isn't guaranteed to fail, but deferred maintenance can turn routine ownership into a steady stream of repair bills. If you're looking at one today, age, mileage, service records, and overall condition should all factor heavily into your decision.
20. 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR With the 2.4-Liter Four-Cylinder
The Chevrolet HHR isn't automatically a bad purchase, but older examples with neglected maintenance can develop problems involving oil consumption, timing components, and other engine systems. At this age, the condition of the individual vehicle matters enormously. If the seller can't provide convincing maintenance, don’t risk it.
