Steer Clear of These
While many modern crossovers are built to last, some models are notorious for spending more time on a mechanic's lift than on the open road. From high-tech electrical nightmares to engines that seem to have a personal grudge against their owners, certain years and brands just haven't aged gracefully. With that in mind, avoid these 20 SUVs if you’re buying used.
1. Dodge Hornet
The Hornet may sound cool as a sporty compact crossover, but it’s quickly developed a reputation as an electronics nightmare. Parts are sourced from a variety of Fiat Chrysler plants all over Europe, making it tough to find a shop willing to work on it.
2. Jeep Compass
You don’t need the Compass to live the Jeep life if you’re buying an older model with zero off-road capability. Electrical issues and slow acceleration plague many of these SUVs, making highway merges an exercise in heroics. Beware of buying any SUV with more check engine lights than seats.
3. Volkswagen Taos
It’s still new but has managed to rank near the bottom in owner satisfaction scores. Complaints include stuttering acceleration and brakes that can feel somewhat disconnected. You can do better than a cheap subcompact that seems bug-worthy.
4. Ford Bronco Sport (1.5L Models)
Don’t confuse this smaller sibling of the full-size Bronco, as its characteristics are worlds apart. The entry-level Sport model with the three-cylinder engine will struggle on hills and leave you guzzling fuel. A turbo three-cylinder will do everything it can to idle at a stoplight, causing excessive wear and tear.
5. Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
Early iterations of this plug-in hybrid SUV are like an invitation for headaches. Putting a gas engine and electric motors together sounds smart until the car’s computer starts malfunctioning and strands you at home. It’s essentially rolling around with a fancy gas guzzler strapped to your door.
6. Nissan Rogue (Early CVT Years)
Though one of Nissan’s bestselling models for good reason, first-generation CVT models have a reputation for dying on owners at low mileage. The interior is spacious and comfortable, but hard to enjoy while listening to your gearbox shudder violently.
7. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Little did we know that when Mitsubishi revived this sports car icon, they would put such an uninspired SUV underneath the name. Depreciation on these crossovers is through the roof, meaning you will lose equity quickly. You will likely be disappointed with rear visibility, as well as a CVT that moans when you accelerate.
8. Land Rover Discovery
Yes, they’re British trucks and have all the luxury appeal in the world, but they’re also hugely expensive to own without a warranty, and Land Rovers aren’t cheap either. Air suspension issues and glitches in electrical components require a trip to the dealer for repairs.
9. GMC Acadia (First Generation)
Timing chain problems and transmissions that “brick” the car are all too common in early Acadia models. These SUVs are fantastic three-row family haulers, but expect costly repairs after you hit 100k miles. Go for a more dependable option.
10. Chevrolet Equinox (Gas Models)
Another vehicle that seems to be everywhere these days, but if you buy an older gas-powered version, it’ll drink oil. Literally. Chevrolet Equinox owners have reported having to add several ounces of oil between fill-ups. Practical size betrays how hungry these engines can be for maintenance.
11. Mazda CX-90 PHEV
Typically, a brand you can trust, but their debut into the plug-in hybrid game has been rocky, with multiple recalls. Software glitches and cooling issues with the electric motor plague this otherwise spacious SUV. Their reliable gas-powered models are far safer than leaping into unknown problems.
12. VinFast VF 8
VinFast is brand-new to the U.S., but you wouldn’t guess that by how buggy the electronics are in their VF 8 SUV. With a service network that can be described as nonexistent, you could be stranded waiting for parts to arrive.
13. Ford Expedition (2018–2021)
These massive family haulers have a history of cam phaser issues in their EcoBoost engines, which results in a loud rattling sound on startup. While they can tow a house, the repair for that specific engine problem is labor-intensive and incredibly pricey. You'll want to check the service records very carefully to see if the engine has been opened up for repairs before you buy.
14. Kia Soul (Engine Fire Recalls)
That aggressive-looking SUV will have your heart, but read up on recalls for certain engine years that had fire risks. Kia Souls have an adorable design. Run the VIN through a recall website and make sure everything has been resolved to the customers’ satisfaction.
15. Audi Q7 (Older V6 Models)
While the interior is a masterclass in German luxury, the older V6 engines are known for oil leaks and expensive timing chain tensioner problems. Once these SUVs fall out of warranty, the cost of standard maintenance can easily double or triple compared to a domestic brand. You’ll feel like a million bucks driving it until you get your first invoice from the Audi dealership.
16. Nissan Pathfinder (2013–2015)
Switching to car-like foundations also introduced a CVT into the Pathfinder equation. Nissan wasn’t quite ready for the jump to CVT transmissions in “trucky” SUVs like the Pathfinder. Warranties were extended for countless owners who suffered from what is now known as “the judder.”
17. Range Rover Sport
Everything about owning a Range Rover ends up costing you more money, from updating your smartphone to the car’s infotainment to maintaining air suspension units. Plan and bring a spare paycheck.
18. Chevrolet Blazer EV
Stop-sale orders were issued by Chevrolet after a bad rollout and software problems across the board. Customers have complained about touchscreen blackouts and malfunctioning charging ports at public stations. Great-looking electric SUV, but it feels like it needs a few more software updates.
19. Rivian R1S (Early Production)
Rivian has some of the coolest trucks out there, with some major problems for early-entry buyers. Everything from alignment issues to suspension creaks has been commonplace with first-year production models. They don’t have the dealership model we’re used to.
20. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Hybrids have gone mainstream, but Pacifica Hybrid reliability is far from it. The company issued a recall for faults in the hybrid system that could cause fires or stall out while driving. Lease one if you can find one available, or at least take the gas-only Pacifica since it’s significantly more reliable.
