8 Cars Mechanics Would Never Buy for Themselves and Why
As a former mechanic, I’ve seen a lot of things go wrong with a lot of cars. However, there are some vehicles that you see on the back of a tow truck more than others. These cars are prone to breakdowns and expensive repairs. For that reason, most mechanics would never buy certain cars for themselves. Why? Well, let’s dive into eight cars that I (and most mechanics) would never recommend.
1. Fiat 500
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen a Fiat 500 in the shop. It’s a “cute” car, but it will wind up being a real pain if you buy one. The Fiat 500 is notorious for its frequent electrical problems, which can be both frustrating and costly to fix. Parts availability is another issue, as sourcing specific components often leads to delays and higher expenses. Additionally, the build quality doesn’t hold up well over time, leading to premature wear and tear. Mechanics also point out that the Fiat 500 lacks durability, especially in harsher climates. For a car in this price range, its long-term reliability leaves much to be desired.
2. Tesla
Although I haven’t personally worked on a Tesla, I know that most mechanics are hesitant to recommend them. There is limited access to replacement parts and repair information isn’t widely available because Tesla wants you to bring the car back to the dealership to be worked on. Independent mechanics often struggle to service these vehicles, forcing owners to rely on Tesla’s service centers, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Battery replacement costs are another major red flag, running into the tens of thousands if something goes wrong. Additionally, Teslas have been criticized for inconsistent build quality, including issues with paint, trim, and panel alignment.
3. Any New Truck
Modern trucks are more luxurious than ever, but that comes at a price. When it’s all said and done, you can buy an older truck for less money and it’ll do everything you need it to. Year to year, there aren’t really that many upgrades that go into the latest model of any pickup. So, you’re doing yourself a disservice by buying the latest. On top of that, new trucks tend to have overly complex systems, such as electronic tailgates and turbocharged engines, which add unnecessary repair risks. Diesel models, in particular, come with expensive maintenance and emissions-related problems.
4. Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta might seem like a reliable and affordable choice, but mechanics often avoid it due to its infamous transmission issues. The PowerShift dual-clutch system used in many models has been plagued with jerky shifts, clutch failures, and lawsuits. These problems are expensive to fix, and even repaired units often encounter recurring issues. The Fiesta’s interior build quality also leaves much to be desired, with flimsy materials that wear out quickly. On top of that, its resale value is low, meaning owners lose out when it’s time to upgrade.
5. Jeep Grand Cherokee (Any Jeep Really)
I personally wouldn’t recommend any Jeep, but the Grand Cherokee takes the cake for the worst of the worst. It is known to have electrical issues, particularly with its infotainment system and wiring. Engine and transmission problems also come up fairly often, leading to costly repairs. When you compare it to competitors, it just isn’t reliable. Not to mention, it is known to have high maintenance costs and poor fuel efficiency.
6. Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo is known for its sleek design and thrilling performance, but reliability isn’t its strong suit. Mechanics frequently encounter issues with its electrical systems, engines, and transmissions. Parts availability is another drawback, as repairs often require importing components, leading to delays and high costs. Even routine maintenance can be pricey due to its European pedigree. Additionally, Alfa Romeo vehicles depreciate rapidly, making them a questionable investment.
7. Dodge Charger
The Dodge Charger is a favorite among muscle car fans, but mechanics often see it in their shops for preventable issues. The biggest complaint is its poor fuel economy, which adds up quickly for daily drivers. Transmission problems and suspension issues are also common, especially in older models. While the Charger offers impressive performance, it’s not built for longevity, with many owners reporting major repairs within the first few years. Additionally, its large size can make it less practical for city driving.
8. Land Rover
Land Rovers are something I’ve worked on a lot. They might be considered luxury SUVs, but they’ll only cause you problems. The laundry list of problems they are known for is probably as long as my arm. However, Land Rovers are most notorious for electrical issues, air suspension failures, and oil leaks. You probably won’t get to drive it all that often because it’ll be in the shop more than it’s in your garage. And those repairs will be expensive. Even simple fixes can require specialized tools and knowledge, making them inaccessible to independent mechanics. Despite their off-road capabilities and prestige, Land Rovers are best avoided by those who value reliability.
Avoid These Cars if You Want Peace of Mind
Some cars are just more trouble than they’re worth. If I were in the market for a new car, I’d steer clear of all of these vehicles. In fact, I’d never consider any of these brands/cars to begin with. Most of them have proven to be unreliable or just not worth the money. Oftentimes, these hidden drawbacks frustrate customers and that is taken out on your mechanic. So, do everyone a favor and avoid these headaches if possible.
What other cars would you add to this list?
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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.