Auto Experts Warn: Stop Buying These 10 Popular Models in 2025

Not every popular car is a smart buy. According to auto experts, these 10 models have issues ranging from poor reliability to high repair bills and disappointing performance. If you’re planning to buy a new car in 2025, these are the models you should think twice about.

Ford Escape (2020–2023)

Okay, the Escape looks nice, like a sporty little SUV, right? But honestly, the transmission issues, particularly in the 2020-2023 models, have been a headache for owners. Shifting problems, hesitation, and even full-on breakdowns show up way too often, and that’s not something you wanna deal with when you just want a reliable crossover. Plus, those infotainment glitches can be really annoying. And, oh, prices? Around $20k to $30k used, which feels steep for something with known gremlins. So yeah, maybe pass unless you love surprises, and not the fun kind.

Jeep Grand Cherokee (2019–2022)

I mean, Jeep’s got the rugged reputation, but this newer Grand Cherokee generation? Car experts warn about expensive repairs popping up early, especially with the air suspension system and electrical headaches. It’s like, you buy it for off-roading glam, but then the bills off-roading your wallet are… yeah. At $35k-$45k used, it’s a luxury-ish price for something with reliability worries. So, if you want ruggedness, fine, but watch your wallet, seriously.

Chevrolet Equinox (2018–2021)

The Equinox looks like a solid family SUV, but the earlier LT models didn’t get love for engine and transmission reliability. Owners report random stalling, crashes of the infotainment system and not the “ha, funny glitch” kind, more like “why is this happening when I’m on the highway?” The price is reasonable, $15k-$25k used, but the headaches? Not worth it, if you ask me.

Nissan Altima (2019–2021)

The Altima’s sporty look hides a ton of CVT transmission problems in these years. Like serious complaints about slipping, rough shifts, and sometimes hard failure. And honestly, Nissan seems to have struggled fixing this issue across many models. If you’re thinking mid-20k price range, I’d just say: there are better midsize sedans to spend your money on.

Hyundai Sonata (2018–2020)

The Sonata feels cool, kinda techy, but owners complain about engine knocking noises and fuel system issues like, not things you want right after buying a car. Plus, some electrical quirks with sensors and infotainment are common. It’s affordable-ish, $15k-$22k used, but trust me, spending less to face more troubles? Nah, better skip if you want reliability.

Cadillac XT5 (2017–2020)

Luxury vibes, but the XT5 throws in reliability dice rolls including turbo engine issues and poorly integrated tech glitches. Owners mention unexpected warning lights and some costly repairs creeping in earlier than expected. For $28k-$40k used, that’s a lot of cash to gamble with, especially when other luxury SUVs are way more solid.

Tesla Model 3 (2020–2022)

Tesla fans, don’t hate me, but yeah, the Model 3’s early 2020s versions saw some build quality issues and software bugs that can drive you nuts. Battery and motor are generally good, but paint quality, panel gaps, and infotainment freezes are common complaints. Plus, repairs can feel like trying to crack a code. Prices hover $35k–$45k, but if you don’t want a daily puzzle, maybe not your best bet.

Volkswagen Tiguan (2018–2021)

The Tiguan is all fancy German looks and fun drive, but it comes with turbocharged engine overheating problems and transmission glitches that really mess with reliability. Maintenance costs can shoot up fast, and that’s a bummer because the interior is kinda nice. Around $18k-$28k used, but experts say better check your wallet before jumping on it.

Dodge Charger (2015–2019)

Yeah, the Charger is a beast with that muscle car vibe, but these years? Some engine problems and old transmissions haunt the line-up. Plus, fuel economy is thirsty, and that’s like pouring money down the tank in pre‑owned life. If you’re looking for fun, sure, but for daily driver peace, maybe think twice. Prices range roughly $20k to $30k depending on the year, but you might pay more in repairs than gasouch.

Toyota Prius (2010–2014)

Now, I know what you’re thinking, “The Prius is reliable!” But wait these earlier Prius models have battery pack replacements creeping up after 150k miles, and those replacements are not cheap. Plus, some hybrid system glitches make repairs confusing and expensive. Used prices are usually $10k–$15k, which sounds good, but watch out for those hidden hybrid system costs that sneak up later.