5 Cars to Avoid When Shopping Used

Ample Evidence That Will Send You Elsewhere

Buying a used vehicle can be a smart way to save money, but not every bargain is worth the risk. My family has two used vehicles that have had practically zero issues, and we just do oil changes, tire rotation, brakes, and other routinely necessary maintenance and replacement tasks. We also did our fair share of homework on brands and models that were reliable. This makes it worth buying used, letting the first owner take the hit.

But there are vehicles plagued with problems, making them ones to definitely avoid. Some models have developed reputations for poor reliability, expensive repairs, quality-control issues, or ownership headaches that can quickly erase any savings you thought you had made. While every vehicle can have good and bad examples, these five used models should be evaluated closely by potential buyers.

Chevrolet Tahoe

The Chevrolet Tahoe has long been one of America's most popular full-size SUVs. It's big, spacious, powerful, and attractive. On the other hand, there are certain used examples that can become financial burdens as mileage climbs. The current generation has been subject to a number of recalls. The most signficant one appled to the 2021-2024 model years, impacting more than 600,000 Tahoes.

These Tahoes with the optional 6.2-liter V8 were recalled due to defects involving internal engine components, including the connecting rods and the crankshaft. Some were known to incur engine damage, a loss of power, or even total engine failure. Some of the recalls resulted in a complete engine replacement. These are not issues you want to deal with on a vehicle this pricey and one of the brand's top-tier SUVs.

Jeep Renegade

The Jeep Renegade promised rugged styling and Jeep heritage in a compact package, but it struggled to live up to expectations even in the most basic of ways. It was plagued throughout its short 2015-2023 production run. Many owners have reported electrical glitches, infotainment system problems, engine issues, and transmission complaints. The Renegade's nine-speed automatic transmission has been a particular source of frustration, with reports of rough shifting, hesitation, and inconsistent behavior. The turbocharged version also has a reputation for excessive oil consumption. No bueno.

There were also numerous build quality issues resulting in rattles squeaks, rear hatch closure problems,e tc. Beyond reliability concerns, the Renegade's resale values often lag behind competitors, making it difficult to recover your investment. Buyers shopping for a small crossover will typically find more dependable alternatives from Honda, Toyota, and Mazda. The Renegade was a poor attempt at capturing buyer's attention in this segment, despite the fact that it looked like a tiny Wrangler. It wasn't enough to help it survive, and you should steer clear.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is the mid-tier SUV from the three-diamond brand. This compact SUV has remained largely unchanged for years, and that aging design has become one of its biggest drawbacks. Its base price new is cheap ($24,995), and it often feels outdated compared with newer competitors. The standard engines deliver modest performance, and the continuously variable transmission (CVT) has generated concerns among some owners regarding long-term durability. Interior materials, technology, and safety features also tend to lag behind competitors from the same model years.

Perhaps the biggest issue is value. Even when purchased at a discount, the Outlander Sport often offers fewer features, lower refinement, and weaker resale value than many competing compact SUVs. On top of that, the model is way overdue for a redesign, so even models a couple of years old already look and feel dated. Buyers can usually find a better overall ownership experience elsewhere.

Rivian R1T

The Rivian R1T is one of the most impressive electric trucks ever built, but early-production models carry risks that many used-car shoppers should consider carefully. As a startup automaker, Rivian experienced numerous growing pains during its first years of production. Early R1Ts were subject to multiple recalls and service campaigns addressing issues ranging from suspension components and steering systems to software-related concerns. Build quality was not a strong suit early on, and many buyers experienced issues with exterior panel alignment, creaks and rattles, and hardware or suspension problems.

Another challenge is service availability. Unlike established manufacturers with extensive dealer networks, Rivian relies on a more limited service infrastructure. Depending on where you live, repairs and maintenance may require longer wait times or significant travel. The truck itself remains highly capable, but buyers considering a 2022 or 2023 model should understand that early-adopter vehicles often come with greater uncertainty than more mature products. Rivian has since worked on improving the quality and reliability of its vehicles, but the brand still ranks low in these areas.

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offers excellent fuel economy and the ability to drive short distances on electricity alone, but reliability concerns have overshadowed its innovative design. In higher trims, like the Pinnacle, it's a truly opulent and impressive cabin experience. Owners have reported issues with the hybrid system, charging components, electrical systems, and transmission problems. Several recalls over the years have also raised concerns among used-car buyers. Most notably, the Pacifica Hybrid has been recalled for battery fire risk, unexpected power loss due to faulty wiring/software problems, and even brake failure.

Repairs can be particularly expensive because of the vehicle's complex plug-in hybrid powertrain. When something goes wrong outside of warranty coverage, repair bills can quickly climb into the thousands. For families seeking a dependable used minivan, the potential savings at the gas pump may not outweigh the risk of costly repairs and extended downtime.

Final Thoughts

Not every example of these vehicles will be problematic, and many owners have enjoyed years of trouble-free driving. However, the Chevrolet Tahoe, Jeep Renegade, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, 2022–2023 Rivian R1T, and Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid all carry concerns that should make buyers proceed with caution. The good news is that there are plenty of better options out there.

Before purchasing any used vehicle, invest in a thorough pre-purchase inspection, review the vehicle's maintenance history, and research common problems associated with the specific model year. If you're hell-bent on getting one of these models, make sure the recall work has been performed. A little extra homework today can save you from a very expensive mistake tomorrow.

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This story was originally published May 30, 2026 at 10:30 AM.