Used Cars to Avoid at All Costs: The Models With the Worst Reliability Records

You’ve found it. The perfect used car. It’s the right color, has the features you want, and the price seems too good to be true. But is it? That sinking feeling in your stomach is a valid concern. Buying a used car can feel like navigating a minefield, with the constant fear of ending up with a lemon that drains your bank account and your patience. The truth is, not all cars are created equal—and some models have a well-documented history of being, to put it mildly, problematic.

We’re not talking about minor annoyances like a squeaky brake or a dashboard rattle. We’re talking about catastrophic engine failures, transmissions that give up the ghost, and electrical systems with minds of their own. These are the cars that turn the dream of a new-to-you vehicle into a recurring nightmare of repair-shop visits and wallet-emptying invoices. We’ve sifted through the data and owner complaints to compile a list of used cars to avoid at all costs. Think of us as your car-savvy friend, here to help you dodge a bullet.

The Usual Suspects: Well-Known Models with Persistent Problems

Some cars just can’t shake their reputation for poor reliability. These models frequently top the “worst of” lists, and for good reason: outdated technology, cheap interior materials, and a long record of mechanical issues.

Fiat 500L (2014–2020)

The Fiat 500L looks fun and quirky on the outside but is a headache to own. Owners have reported a litany of problems, from transmission woes to electrical gremlins. According to U.S. News, the 2020 Fiat 500L suffers from an “unsettled ride, disappointing fuel economy, low-rent materials, and hard seats,” and it lacks many of the driver aids that are standard on competitors. With a U.S. News rating of just 6.4/10, this is a car to steer clear of.

Dodge Journey (2009–2020)

The Dodge Journey has consistently underwhelmed. It tempts buyers with a low price and an available third-row seat, but the ownership experience is often fraught with problems: a weak engine, poor handling, and a cabin full of cheap plastics. More concerning are reports of premature brake wear and transmission issues. U.S. News gives the 2020 model a 6.4/10, noting its lack of advanced driver-assistance features—a real red flag for a family vehicle.

Illustrative industry-average depreciation: steepest loss in years 0–2, flattening after year 5.

The Surprise Money Pits: Popular Cars with Hidden Flaws

You might be surprised to see familiar names here. These are popular models from well-known brands that, for specific model years, developed a reputation for unreliability. This is where doing your homework becomes crucial.

Ford Explorer (2016–2019)

The Ford Explorer is one of the best-selling SUVs of all time, but certain model years are best avoided. The 2016–2019 models in particular have been plagued with issues: Consumer Reports gives the 2016 Explorer a reliability score of just 16 out of 100, with owners reporting major problems with the transmission, drive system, and in-car electronics. Repair bills can be substantial—transmission replacements run into the thousands.

Nissan Sentra (2013–2017)

The Nissan Sentra is a popular compact, but models equipped with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) have frustrated many owners. The CVT in these years is known to fail prematurely, leading to costly repairs. Consumer Reports gives the 2017 Sentra a dismal reliability score of 9 out of 100. If you’re considering one, have the transmission thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic first.

The Tech Troubles: Modern Features That Become Major Headaches

Modern cars are packed with more technology than ever. Convenient—until it breaks. These luxury models are a case in point.

Lincoln Aviator (2020–2021)

The Lincoln Aviator is stylish and luxurious, but it has been hampered by a host of technology-related issues: infotainment glitches, power equipment failures, and climate control problems. Consumer Reports gives the 2020 Aviator a rock-bottom reliability score of 8 out of 100. These aren’t minor hiccups; they’re persistent problems that make the car frustrating to live with.

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2020–2022)

The Mercedes-Benz GLE has also struggled, plagued by electrical and in-car electronics issues. With a Consumer Reports reliability score of just 23 out of 100 for the 2022 model, it’s a risky proposition for a used buyer. When the tech in your luxury car doesn’t work, the luxury evaporates fast.

The Pickup Predicament: When Workhorses Won’t Work

Pickups are the workhorses of the automotive world, but even they can be problem-prone.

Ford F-150 Hybrid (2021)

The F-150 is America’s best-selling vehicle, but the hybrid version had a rocky start. Consumer Reports gives the 2021 F-150 Hybrid a shockingly low reliability score of 4 out of 100, with owners reporting problems with the hybrid system, transmission, and in-car electronics. A fuel-efficient pickup is appealing in theory; owning this particular one is often a different story.

Jeep Gladiator (2020–2021)

The Gladiator combines Wrangler styling with pickup utility—and unfortunately shares the Wrangler’s reputation for poor reliability. The 2021 Gladiator scores just 21 out of 100 with Consumer Reports, with reported issues in the transmission, drive system, and brakes. If you want a reliable midsize pickup, there are better options.

The EV & Hybrid Headaches: Not-So-Green Machines

EVs and hybrids are the future, but some early models have been far from reliable, combining ordinary car complexity with high-voltage batteries and electric motors.

Hyundai Kona Electric (2019–2021)

The Kona Electric was the subject of a major recall for battery packs that could catch fire. Even beyond the recall, its reliability record is poor: Consumer Reports gives the 2021 model a score of just 5 out of 100. If you’re shopping for a used EV, this is one to avoid.

Chevrolet Bolt (2017–2022)

The Bolt has likewise been dogged by battery issues and was recalled for fire risk. The 2022 Bolt carries a Consumer Reports reliability score of 17 out of 100. It offers impressive range and a fun drive, but the battery history is a major concern.

How to Spot a Lemon Before You Buy

So how do you avoid these unreliable used cars? Do your research and be a savvy shopper:

Check reliability ratings: Consumer Reports and J.D. Power publish detailed reliability data for most makes and models.
Get a vehicle history report: A history report can reveal accidents, title issues, and service records from the car’s past.
Have the car inspected: A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is the single best way to uncover hidden problems.
Run a deal check: Enter the VIN, mileage, and asking price at Carmadeal and it pulls the car’s recalls, known problem areas, safety ratings, and owner sentiment from public data—then scores the deal 0–100 with a Buy, Negotiate, Inspect, or Pass verdict.

Key Takeaways and Your Next Step

Buying a used car doesn’t have to be a gamble. Arm yourself with knowledge and you can avoid the models most likely to cause trouble:

Brand reputation isn’t everything: Even respected brands produce unreliable models.
Newer doesn’t always mean more reliable: Some of the newest, most tech-laden cars are also the most problematic.
Do your homework before you buy: A little research saves a lot of money and headaches.

You’re now equipped to steer clear of the worst offenders on the used market. Shop smart, and you’ll find a reliable, affordable vehicle you’ll love for years. Happy car hunting!

Check the deal before you commit. Paste the VIN, mileage, and asking price into Carmadeal and get a 0–100 score with a clear Buy / Negotiate / Inspect / Pass verdict — free.