9 Major Red Flags That Mean You Should Walk Away

Some used cars may look perfect at first glance, but hidden issues can turn them into money traps. From shady history to mechanical problems, these 9 red flags are clear signs that you should walk away before committing to a bad deal. Spotting them early can save you from expensive repairs and long-term regret.

Honda Civic

So, you know how everyone says you can’t go wrong with a Civic? And honestly, for the most part, yeah, it’s true the thing is a cockroach. But, like, dude, some of these old Civics, especially the ones from, uh, like 2006 to maybe 2011, tend to have weird issues with the paint. Ever seen a Civic with clearcoat peeling off like sunburned skin? Not cute. And the automatic transmissions on some of the older ones can get kinda crunchy. Still though, for about $6,000 to $10,000, they’re super reliable. You just gotta watch out if the previous owner… like, clearly didn’t care. If it smells weird inside or the service records are MIA? No thanks, man, not trying to inherit someone else’s mess.

Ford Focus

Okay, Ford Focus, right? They’re, uh, not as loved as Civics, but they’re everywhere. The hatchbacks always look a bit like they’re winking, I dunno. So here’s the thing looks solid on paper, but you hit 2012 to 2016, that’s when the infamous “Powershift” transmission showed up, and, not gonna lie, nightmares for some people. I had a buddy who, like, had this shudder thing going on and the dealer just shrugged. For $5,000ish, yeah, it’s cheap, but is it worth random jerks and awkward shifting? Maybe not. I mean, unless you get a manual, then it’s pretty fun actually.

BMW 3 Series

Oh, man. BMW 3 Series is like that friend who’s super charming at parties but is hiding drama, you know? Like, it’ll impress anyone and the drive is sweet, but, uhm… those used ones around $8,000 to $15,000? Most are owned by people who really wanted a BMW but, like, not the maintenance. So you often find them neglected and, honestly, when something breaks and something will it’s wallet pain. Also, the previous owners either babied it or just floored it on every corner. Gotta check if the cooling system’s leaking or if there’s, like, mystery warning lights. Still, the thrill of driving is unmatched, but my back account starts sweating just thinking about it.

Toyota Camry

You ever meet a car that’s almost too normal? That’s the Camry, dude. It’s just reliable… like, weirdly indestructible sometimes. You’ll see guys driving these old Camrys from the ‘90s and the thing sounds like a sewing machine but it’ll never die. Still, if you’re looking at one for, let’s say, around $7,000 to $12,000 right now, watch out for rust, water leaks in the trunk (not fun, trust me), and if it’s burning oil. The v6s are sneaky fast though. Oh—and if everything’s worked on by “my cousin” and nobody has receipts? Run away.

Hyundai Elantra

Right, so, Hyundai Elantras especially these newer-ish models from, like, 2015 or so—way nicer inside than they used to be. You get in and just think, “Hey, this isn’t bad,” right? But don’t be fooled; engines, especially if nobody changed the oil, can go kaboom without warning. My aunt had one and it ticked like a clock. Like, not a good clock, either. For $8,000, it’s a steal. If you want to avoid getting ripped off, poke around for recalls or weird noises from the engine bay. Nobody needs surprise repairs, you know?

Chevrolet Cruze

So, the Cruze… not gonna lie, the name tries to sound chill, but… these had that whole coolant leak thing going on. My coworker had one, and it was always, like, “Hey, I gotta top up the coolant again.” It’s the kinda car where, if the price is $7,000 or less, it almost seems too good. Fuel economy is solid and the seats are super plush, but you gotta check if it’s been in some fender-bender masked by a cheap paint job. Oh and—if it smells like wet dog even after a test drive? Something’s hiding in those carpets, man.

Volkswagen Jetta

Jettas are funny, because, like, they look really tidy and slick, especially in black. But then, things start breaking and you’re like, “Maybe the Germans didn’t engineer the glovebox for life?” For $7,500 to $13,000 for the turbo ones, you’re getting a zippy little car, but beware of electrical gremlins flickering lights, weird locks, mysterious “check engine” lights that come and go like bad Wi-Fi. Fun to drive though, when it runs. Maintenance costs, ugh, not so fun.

Nissan Altima

You know what? Altima is, uh, like the car version of an average Tuesday. Gets you places, doesn’t scream for attention. But then, those CVT transmissions, not joking, they’re either perfect for 100k miles or they, like, explode outta nowhere. I had a Lyft driver who swore his never failed, but the next week it was in the shop. You’re looking at $8,000 or so, and sure, it’s comfy…but if there’s any low humming or strange slips in the transmission, just walk away. No drama needed.

Subaru Outback

Last one, Subaru Outback. I mean, who doesn’t want to look outdoorsy, even if the wildest you get is Trader Joe’s, right? Super cozy, throw your dog in the back, lots of space, all that. They’re, like, between $9,000 and $16,000 typically. But, uh, head gaskets. That’s the phrase you hear and suddenly everyone looks nervous. Not to mention, some of these burn oil like they think they’re two-stroke engines. Great if you find one with solid service records and no leaks, but if not, it’s like buying a surprise fixer-upper.