11 Car Brands Mechanics Warn Buyers to Stay Away From

Before buying your next car, it’s worth knowing which brands mechanics consistently warn people about. These 11 car brands have a history of expensive repairs, poor long-term reliability, and parts issues that can turn ownership into a headache. Based on expert opinions and real workshop data, this list highlights the models and brands you should approach with caution in 2025 so you can make a smarter, safer, and more cost-effective buying decision.

Fiat

Okay, Fiat. So this one is like the tiny Italian car that tries really hard to be cute and charming, but mechanics? They kind of roll their eyes when one of these comes in. The electrical issues alone apparently are a nightmare, like you fix one thing and another pops up like a bad sequel in a movie. Prices for these in the U.S. hover around $20,000 to $25,000 for newer models, but honestly, you might spend half that again in repairs. They’re fun for city cruising but, man, can they be a headache.

Land Rover

Land Rover, the ultimate paradox. Looks fancy, feels posh, but then it acts like it’s been through a war zone after a couple of years. Mechanics say these things are money pits with all sorts of suspension and electrical headaches. And not cheap fixes either; these SUVs can easily cross $90,000 for a new one, and when they break down, your wallet feels the ouch. So yeah, beautiful but high-maintenance, kinda like dating someone super hot but… expensive dinners every night.

Jeep

Jeep’s got that rugged charm, no doubt, but mechanics always mention how the build quality can be a bit all over the place. Especially the older models, where you’re basically signing up for frequent visits to the garage. Prices vary wildly, from like $30,000 for a basic Wrangler to over $50,000 fully loaded, but that off-road capability? Sweet, if the parts hold up long enough without turning your hobby into a side job.

Mini Cooper

Mini Coopers are adorbs, right? Tiny, sporty, stylish. But mechanics say, “yeah, cute but don’t expect smooth sailing.” They’re notorious for transmission issues and electrical gremlins. And repairs? Can get pricey around $25,000 to $40,000 street prices, but when you throw in parts and service, you’re basically buying a luxury car that needs a ton of babysitting.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen oh boy, where to start. Solid German engineering, but some models, especially in the U.S., suffer from chronic electrical and DSG transmission problems. Mechanics say these can come in more than you’d expect for repairs, especially for the $25,000 to $35,000 price tag typical of mid-range models. It’s like, yes, they’re great cars, but be ready for surprise expenses.

Cadillac

Cadillac has that American luxury vibe, no doubt, but mechanics often see complaints about complex electronics and air suspension failures. New models hover around the $50,000 mark, but repairing those fancy gadgets and tech sometimes feels like you’re funding a small spaceship rather than a car. So, it’s posh and cool but expect frequent tech tantrums under the hood.

Chrysler

Chrysler, kind of the underdog with a rep for quirky issues. Mechanical folks say problems with transmissions and infotainment systems show up too often, especially in their minivans and sedans. The prices are reasonable, mostly from $25,000 to $35,000, but watch out—cheap sticker price doesn’t always mean cheap repairs. It’s a gamble, really.

Tesla

Yeah, Tesla. Love it or hate it, mechanics have mixed feelings here. Electric powertrain is cool and all, but repair costs can be whack if you don’t have the official shop nearby. Plus, some models have reported build quality issues and software bugs. Prices start around $40,000 but zoom up towards $100,000 for the fancier versions. So, cool tech, big price tags, and maybe pick your battles on service.

Subaru

Subaru is generally loved, but mechanics sometimes grumble about head gasket issues in older models and CVT transmissions that are a bit divisive. New cars come in around $25,000 to $35,000, and while they’re great for outdoorsy types, that maintenance can squeeze your budget unexpectedly, especially if you don’t keep up with it religiously.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes is all class and prestige, no doubt, but mechanics say those luxury cars come with a luxury price for repairs, plus tech that’s sometimes overly complicated. A touch of elegance costs you, especially when repairs on even a $60,000 model can reach thousands for what seems like small stuff. So yeah, driving one is a flex, fixing one is kinda like paying for a therapy session.

Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo Italian flair but with Italian “oh no” moments. Mechanics often throw up their hands at frequent electrical and engine troubles. Prices are generally $40,000 to $60,000, but reliability isn’t its strong suit, so it could be more expensive in the long run. It’s like dating a passionate artist who’s amazing but a bit unpredictable.