Problematic Used Cars That You Probably Shouldn't Buy

Problematic Used Cars That You Probably Shouldn't Buy


June 13, 2025 | Ethan Vestby

Problematic Used Cars That You Probably Shouldn't Buy


Is It A Lemon?

Buying a car is a major investment, even when it’s a used model. Thus, you’ve got to be very careful, so take a look at this list before doing so.

Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 charmed a lot of consumers with its compact design and cute exterior, but it’s certainly problematic. Let’s list off all the reasons, shall we?

 A sunshine yellow Fiat 500 parked on a residential street, a classic car design popular for its fuel efficiency and maneuverability.Marvin Samuel Tolentino Pineda, Getty Images

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Fiat 500

The most common complaints for the Fiat 500 are engine problems, in addition to electrical glitches and general flaws in the build. So, a used one may come at a good price, but consider the potential repair costs.

A back view of a sunshine yellow Fiat 500 parked on a residential street, a classic car design popular for its fuel efficiency and maneuverability.Marvin Samuel Tolentino Pineda, Getty Images

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Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta has been considered by many to be an appealing car, with virtues like fuel efficiency. That being said, will it be the best car for you in the long run?

File:Ford Fiesta ST-Line (VII, Facelift) – f 30012023.jpg© M 93, Wikimedia Commons

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Ford Fiesta

Problems such as slipping gears and the longevity of the transmission system have made some people dissatisfied with it. It might be one to avoid, as you have to ask questions about reliability. 

File:Ford Fiesta at B-Park (2017).jpgCharles01, Wikimedia Commons

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Nissan Versa

The Nissan Versa has generally been a friendly option for those needing a cheaper car. That being said, the affordability comes with another kind of price. 

Nissan Versa2024 Nissan Versa, AutoWeb

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Nissan Versa

Unreliable transmission and uncomfortable ride quality have been common complaints of the Nissa Versa. So when buying, you’ve got to make a serious decision about how much you won’t enjoy driving it. 

Nissan Versa 2024 Nissan Versa, AutoWeb

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Chrysler 200

Chrysler’s brand name is strong, but truth be told, they have a problematic history with their various vehicles. The Chrysler 200 is a prime example of this, for anyone asking. 

File:Chrysler 200 C UF Billet Silver Metallic (12).jpgDamian B Oh, Wikimedia Commons

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Chrysler 200

Electrical problems, subpar transmission, as well as an uncomfortable interior have been among the complaints for this particular car. Anyone needing a long-term vehicle has been advised against it. 

File:Chrysler 200 C UF Billet Silver Metallic (26).jpgDamian B Oh, Wikimedia Commons

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Chevrolet Malibu

The Chevrolet Malibu has done well for itself in terms of sales, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any complaints about it. You can probably find yourself a better midsize sedan, to be honest. 

2016 Chevrolet Malibu 2LZ Premier sedanMediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images, Getty Images

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Chevrolet Malibu

The chief complaints for the Chevrolet were mechanical problems and a poor build. Again, the midsize sedan market is huge, so you’ve got more options than you think. 

2016 Chevrolet Malibu 2LZ Premier sedan MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images, Getty Images

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Hyundai Veloster

The exterior of the Hyundai Veloster is highly appealing, but as for what makes the actual car, that’s a whole other matter. Think hard before you pull the trigger on purchasing this vehicle.

File:0 Hyundai Veloster (JS) 1.jpgBenespit, Wikimedia Commons

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Hyundai Veloster

What are the problems with the Hyundai Veloster that people complain about? Well, it’s the transmission, electrical malfunctions, as well as long-term strength, that raise eyebrows. 

File:20 Hyundai Veloster N.jpgHJUdall, Wikimedia Commons

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Dodge Dart

Don’t be fooled by the solid price, handsome appearance, and catchy name, The Dodge Dart means trouble. Well, trouble for anyone who wants a car with long-term appeal.

File:Dodge Dart NAIAS 2012-45.jpgAndrew Duthie, Wikimedia Commons

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Dodge Dart

For those driving the car, expect stalling issues as well as erratic shifting. So, in short, you might not exactly be darting around in this vehicle. 

File:NAIAS Dodge Dart (2013).jpgAndrew Duthie, Wikimedia Commons

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Toyota Yaris

Toyota is generally a trusted brand, but even they have their vehicles that inspire regret. This is definitely the case with the Yaris car, which is not among their most popular.

Toyota YarisNew Stylish Exterior | All New Toyota Yaris, Toyota Pakistan Official

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Toyota Yaris

Amongst the faults of the Yaris are the faulty transmission and shifting, making it not a fun car to drive. However, some model years might produce better results, if you’re willing to do the research.

1749719639549New Stylish Exterior | All New Toyota Yaris, Toyota Pakistan Official

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Subaru Legacy

Generally speaking, the words “Subaru Legacy" inspire confidence in most consumers. That being said, do a bit of research and you’ll find some unhappy customers.

2020 Subaru Legacy is on display at the 111th Annual Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois on February 8, 2019. Raymond Boyd, Getty Images

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Subaru Legacy

The car is known for a bevy of engine issues, mostly tied to oil consumption and head gaskets. It’s the kind of car that may seem initially appealing, but won’t have much in the way of longevity. 

2020 Subaru Legacy is on display at the 111th Annual Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois on February 8, 2019.Raymond Boyd, Getty Images

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Kia Soul

Just saying “Kia Soul” out loud, you feel like you’re talking about something unique. That’s drawn consumers to the car, especially with its comfy interiors—but it’s certainly not without its flaws. 

Front view of used Kia Soul in yellow color after cleaning before sale in a summer dayAleksandr Kondratov, Getty Images

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Kia Soul

Stalling, the loss of power, and general engine-related issues have plagued the reputation of this car. Consider reliability as a chief factor if you’re going to purchase it used. 

File:Kia Soul EX.jpgDoulosBen, Wikimedia Commons

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Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 tries to position itself as a fun and sporty car, but get under the hood, and you might not have so much fun. Many problems that plague the other cars on this list have been tagged to it. 

2017 Mazda 3 Hatchback in front of a traditional windmill in Campo de Criptana, Spain.santirf, Getty Images

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Mazda 3

Malfunctioning air conditioning, electrical glitches, and overconsumption of oil have all been issues with the car. Though it does seem like they’re at least trying to address the issues with more recent models. 

Red Mazda 3 with the buildings of the Silesian Museum in the background. Katowice, Poland 22.05.2016ArturNyk, Getty Images

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Buick Verano

The Buick Verano has a good reputation for being on the more affordable end of luxury cars. That being said, it’s probably more affordable for a reason.

The all-new 2012 Buick Verano compact luxury sedan is introduced to the media at the 2011 North American International Auto Show being held at the Cobo Center January 10, 2011 in Detroit, Michigan. Approximately 4500 journalists from over 60 countries are attending the NAIAS, which features more than 30 worldwide debuts of vehicles by automotive manufacturers from around the world. Bill Pugliano, Getty Images

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Buick Verano

Electrical problems, wonky engines, and vibrations during acceleration are some of the criticisms the car receives. Maybe just think about a more practical car over a luxury one when purchasing. 

File:2012 Buick Verano -- 04-30-2012.JPGIFCAR, Wikimedia Commons

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2013 Smart Fortwo

The fuel-efficient 2013 Smart Fortwo is the kind of car you’d want to be a winner, but unfortunately, it’s been labelled a problematic vehicle. Those who have driven it have definitely made their opinion known on the matter.

A Smart ForTwo Electric Drive is pictured at the Smart car factory of Hambach, eastern France, on December 11, 2012. The third-generation Smart electric drive is scheduled to be launched in the U.S. and Europe by the second quarter of 2013 and Smart plans to mass produce the electric car with availability in 30 markets worldwide.AFP, Getty Images

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2013 Smart Fortwo

Speed is a big issue for the car, as well as its cramped space. You don’t want to feel claustrophobic while also worrying about being run over by an 18-wheeler truck on the highway. 

A Smart ForTwo Electric Drive car is pictured at the Smart factory of Hambach, eastern France, December 11, 2012. third-generation Smart electric drive is scheduled to be launched in the U.S. and Europe by the second quarter of 2013 and Smart plans to mass produce the electric car with availability in 30 markets worldwide.JEAN-CHRISTOPHE VERHAEGEN, Getty Images

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2019 Toyota C HR

We hate to see the usually reliable Toyota take another hit on this list, but sometimes it’s gotta happen. Be cautious before being willing to drop the average $14,357 this car goes for used. 

File:Toyota C-HR 01 China 2019-04-04.jpgNavigator84, Wikimedia Commons

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2019 Toyota C HR

The most common complaint for this car is about its volume, as it's loud and squeaky. It runs the risk of seriously cramping your style, which you gotta consider. 

File:Toyota C-HR 02 China 2019-04-04.jpgNavigator84, Wikimedia Commons

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2014 Land Rover Evoque

This model will be considered attractive to anyone looking to make long trips in their car, but consider price and age before making the final call. After all, you want it to last for multiple trips, don’t you?

File:2014 Range Rover Evoque (10818555946).jpgLand Rover MENA, Wikimedia Commons

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2014 Land Rover Evoque

For such a small car, the price of a used model is surprisingly high at $11,169. A slightly newer model might honestly be a better investment, considering the price and lacking durability

File:2014 Range Rover Evoque (10818673424).jpgLand Rover MENA, Wikimedia Commons

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2014 Ford Taurus

Generally speaking, you buy used when you don’t want to spend too much. In the case of the 2014 Ford Taurus, an average used model goes for about $8,158, so consider that in regard to your budget.

2014 Ford Taurus2014 Ford Taurus SEL Review, Kelowna Toyota

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2014 Ford Taurus

Yet before you make the call on a 2014 Ford Taurus, consider its reputation for constant overheating. That’s certainly a problem you don’t want to be running into over and over again. 

File:2014 Ford Taurus (12763002865).jpgqJake, Wikimedia Commons

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2015 Buick Encore

A common criticism of the 2015 Buick Encore is that its appearance is deceiving. It looks large on the outside, but is actually rather cramped when you step inside.

File:2015 Buick Encore Premium Group AWD in Satin Steel Grey Metallic, front left, 2025-04-25.jpgElise240SX, Wikimedia Commons

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2015 Buick Encore

Generally speaking, it’s a car better suited for short drives than epic journeys. So ask yourself if the $6,218 asking price for a used model is worth it. 

File:Buick Encore China 2015-04-06.jpgNavigator84, Wikimedia Commons

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2013 MINI Cooper

We all remember how cool the Mini Cooper seemed at the start of the new millennium. That being said, they never quite took off with consumers for a reason.

File:2013 Mini Cooper in Kite Blue Metallic, front right.jpgMr.choppers, Wikimedia Commons

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2013 MINI Cooper

Issues with the exhaust and open recalls have plagued the car over the years. While it’s still cool to look at, is it going to be the most reliable car long-term?

File:2013 Mini Cooper JCW.jpgCalreyn88, Wikimedia Commons

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2014 Dodge Avenger

For those in the know on the used car market, 2014 is considered somewhat of a cut-off point for buying. The 2014 Dodge Avenger is considered a good example of that. 

2014 Dodge Avenger2014 Dodge Avenger RT|P10293, Neighborhood Car Reviews

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2014 Dodge Avenger

Just look at the word of mouth, as websites are known to list this particular car amongst the worst to buy used. It gets that reputation for its poor reliability.

2014 Dodge Avenger 2014 Dodge Avenger RT|P10293, Neighborhood Car Reviews

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Volkswagen Jetta

If you get a newer edition of the Volkswagen Jetta, maybe you’ll be in luck. But in regard to older models, they might be avoided if you’re being smart. 

Volkswagen presents the new VW Jetta at the Detroit Auto Show 2018 in Detroit, US, 15 January 2018. The Jetta will be released in the US at an introductory price of just below USD 18.000.picture alliance, Getty Images

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Volkswagen Jetta

Engine issues and electrical malfunctions have been known to plague older models of the Volkswagen Jetta. The ultimate issue is that repair costs for the Jetta are known to be quite high, so consider the possibility of these problems emerging.

File:2022 Volkswagen Jetta VII 1X7A0183.jpgAlexander Migl, Wikimedia Commons

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You May Also Like: 

Before you buy a used car, you need to check for these issues. 

10 Red Flags to Watch For When Buying a Used Car

Classic Cars So Problematic You Will Regret Buying Them

Source: 1 2


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