Around 40 million people buy used cars in a given year. What used car buyers look for varies, but most buyers want vehicles that are reliable, affordable, and meet their situational needs. Unfortunately, not all used cars are made equal. Some used cars are definitely worse than others. Let’s take a look at the top three least reliable used cars.
Cadillac CTS
The Cadillac CTS is a sporty midsize luxury sedan that looks good on the road. Unfortunately, it has very poor reliability scores from JD Power with a score of only two out of five possible stars. The CTS has low reliability in general, but it’s also among the least reliable vehicles in its class.
The older you go with the CTS, the worse it gets. Engine problems are common between the 2004 and 2007 model years. The worst model for problems is the 2009 model, which had a slew of problems from engine issues to transmission and electrical issues.
If you must consider a used Cadillac CTS, it’s best to look at newer models between 2015 and 2018. A better example of a used car in the same class is the BMW 5 Series. It’s likely to be more expensive, but it’s a lot more reliable.
Tesla Model X
Even though Tesla remains a buzzy name, the Tesla Model X is not a good choice when it comes to used cars. Consumer Reports listed it as one of the least reliable used cars based on owner satisfaction reports. Many issues have cropped with the Tesla Model X, including body hardware problems, paint problems, electronics, and leaks.
It’s generally accepted that the Model X was rushed into production, which means earlier models are not a good idea on the used market. In general, it’s best not to consider used Tesla models as they often cost as much or even more than a new model.
A better choice, if you’re looking for an EV or hybrid, would be the Toyota Prius. The Prius is well-known for being reliable, and it’s a lot more affordable than a used Tesla. You can often find a used Prius for as low as $10,000.
Jaguar F-Pace
Even though the F-Pace is one of Jaguar’s best-selling vehicles, it’s not a reliable choice for a used car. Most of the problems with the F-Pace are related to noises, leaks, and infotainment software. However, there are also reports of mechanical problems like the engine overheating.
In general, Jaguar has never been a reliable brand in the used market. It’s best to avoid most Jaguar used cars. A better choice for a luxury crossover is the Lexus GX. Boasting legendary Toyota reliability, the GX has a 4.5 out of 5 reliability score. The GX is a full-size, three-row SUV, so you may want something smaller, but if you’re looking for a lot of room, plus luxury and reliability, the Lexus GX is hard to beat on the used market.
The used car market is still hot, so you may be paying more for a used car than you might expect. That’s why it’s even more important to do your research and look for a reliable model and avoid models with a sketchy history like the ones mentioned here.
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