5 Used Cars You Should Absolutely Avoid in 2025 (And What to Buy Instead)
Buying a used car can be a smart way to save money—unless you choose a model known for costly repairs, poor reliability, or rapid depreciation. In 2025, some vehicles are best left off your shopping list, no matter how tempting the price may be. Certain used cars come with red flags like transmission failures, electrical issues, or sky-high maintenance costs. With smarter research, you can steer clear of the lemons and drive away with peace of mind. Here are five used cars you should avoid in 2025—and what to buy instead.
1. 2014–2017 Ford Focus
The Ford Focus might seem like a budget-friendly compact car, but models from 2014 to 2017—especially with the PowerShift dual-clutch transmission—have a troubled history. Drivers report jerky acceleration, rough shifting, and costly transmission failures, sometimes just outside the warranty period. Despite multiple class-action lawsuits, the problems persisted for several model years. Repairs are expensive and don’t always resolve the issue long-term. This car can turn a good deal into a financial headache fast.
What to buy instead: Consider a Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic from the same years—both are known for reliability, low maintenance costs, and high resale value.
2. 2011–2014 BMW 5 Series
Luxury looks and power aside, the 5 Series from this era is a maintenance minefield. The 535i’s turbocharged engine is notorious for fuel system and oil leak problems. High-tech features like electronic steering and infotainment often fail and are expensive to fix. Even basic maintenance like brake jobs or coolant flushes can cost double what you’d pay for a mainstream car. Owners report reliability issues starting around 70,000 miles.
What to buy instead: For luxury on a budget, go for a Lexus ES—you’ll get upscale comfort and Toyota-level dependability.
3. 2012–2016 Jeep Cherokee
The 2012–2016 Jeep Cherokee, particularly those with the 9-speed automatic transmission, has been a reliability letdown. Many owners have experienced harsh shifting, stalling, or transmission replacements. Software updates helped, but didn’t fully solve the issues in many cases. The ride is also less refined compared to competitors in the compact SUV segment. While it looks rugged, its long-term durability doesn’t hold up.
What to buy instead: Choose a Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5—both offer better reliability, comfort, and resale value.
4. 2013–2015 Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima from this period suffers from one big problem: a poorly performing CVT (continuously variable transmission). Drivers often report sudden acceleration issues, slipping gears, or early transmission failure—sometimes before 100,000 miles. Repairing or replacing the CVT can cost thousands, wiping out any savings from buying used. The suspension and cabin materials also show excessive wear over time. While it’s roomy and fuel-efficient, the long-term cost isn’t worth it.
What to buy instead: A Hyundai Sonata or Toyota Camry offers better build quality and more dependable transmissions.
5. 2010–2013 Chevrolet Equinox
These Equinox models come equipped with a 2.4L four-cylinder engine that’s prone to excessive oil consumption and engine failure. Many owners report adding quarts of oil between changes, or worse—experiencing total engine shutdowns. GM did little to fully resolve the issue, and the cost of engine replacement is steep. Transmission problems also crop up with age, adding to the repair bill. Even with lower mileage, these vehicles often don’t deliver long-term value.
What to buy instead: Look for a Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester—both are dependable and hold value better.
Don’t Let a “Deal” Cost You More
Used cars can offer serious savings, but only if you avoid models with a history of expensive repairs and reliability issues. The five vehicles on this list may be cheap upfront, but they’re likely to cost more in the long run. Instead, focus on makes and models known for dependability, affordable parts, and strong owner satisfaction. A little research now can save you thousands later. Trust the data—not just the sticker price. In 2025, the smartest car buyers are the ones who look beyond the deal and buy with confidence.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.