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Don’t Get Stalled: 12 Vehicles to Avoid Due to Notorious Engine Problems
**Local drivers, listen up! ** Before you sign on the dotted line for your next set of wheels, you might want to take a closer look under the hood – specifically at the engine.
An unreliable engine isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a massive drain on your wallet, potentially costing thousands in repairs. According to industry experts like J.D.
Power, a single engine replacement can set you back anywhere from $2,000 to a jaw-dropping $10,000! That’s why making an informed decision about engine reliability is a smart move for any car owner.
To help you navigate the used car market and avoid a costly headache, we’ve compiled a list of 12 vehicles that have unfortunately earned a reputation for notoriously unreliable engines. If you spot these on a dealership lot or a private sale, you might want to give them a hard pass.
1. 2015 Jeep Cherokee
Average Price: $11,340
Thinking about a sturdy SUV? You might want to steer clear of the 2015 Jeep Cherokee.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a hefty 180 complaints on file regarding this vehicle’s engine. These aren’t minor hiccups; we’re talking about issues spanning from the powertrain and propulsion system to the electrical system.
2. 2013 Ford Fiesta
Average Price: $6,279
Don’t let its small stature fool you – the 2013 Ford Fiesta can come with big problems, particularly concerning its engine. NHTSA records show a whopping 109 complaints about this compact sedan’s engine, with an additional four specifically about engine cooling. Multiple drivers have reported unreliable powertrains and transmissions calling it quits around the 60,000-mile mark.
3. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
Average Price: $8,049
The 2013 Volkswagen Passat has also seen its share of engine woes, with 102 reported issues to the NHTSA. These include problems with the propulsion system and vehicle speed control.
Even more concerning, this model was subject to a recall affecting over 84,000 vehicles due to a grease leak that could lead to a fire. Talk about a hot mess!
4. 2012 Chrysler 200
Average Price: $6,721
The 2012 Chrysler 200 has racked up an eye-watering 145 consumer complaints with the NHTSA due to its unreliable engine, plus another 16 for engine cooling alone. Among the multiple recalls issued for this sedan was a serious one for a rod bearing failure that could cause the engine to seize, potentially leaving drivers stranded or worse.
5. 2010 Dodge Journey
Average Price: $5,223
The 2010 Dodge Journey has proven to be a highly unreliable vehicle, with a staggering 176 engine complaints filed with the NHTSA. Consumers have reported terrifying issues like the engine shutting off, parts burning or melting, and even catching fire while driving.
6. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
Average Price: $7,821
If you’re looking for a paragon of poor engine quality, the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu might fit the bill. A whopping 211 complaints have been filed against its engine with the NHTSA. Problems range from electrical system and powertrain issues to vehicle speed control glitches.
7. 2009 Audi A4
Average Price: $6,949
Even luxury vehicles aren’t immune to engine troubles. The 2009 Audi A4 has received 45 engine complaints with the NHTSA.
One consumer reported their A4 guzzling oil due to a faulty vacuum pump, a repair that cost them over $6,000. Ouch!
8. 2011 Hyundai Sonata
Average Price: $6,760
Sedan shoppers should proceed with extreme caution when considering the 2011 Hyundai Sonata. A mind-boggling 925 complaints have been registered against this vehicle’s engine with the NHTSA, not even counting other related issues like engine cooling or powertrain. Most alarming are two major recalls: one for a fuel leak that could cause a fire, potentially affecting 150,000 vehicles, and another for a connecting rod issue that could stall the engine and lead to a crash, impacting as many as 470,000 vehicles.
9. 2013 Kia Optima
Average Price: $8,357
The NHTSA has received 562 consumer complaints against the 2013 Kia Optima solely due to its unreliable engine. From electrical system and fuel system issues to propulsion problems, if it’s an engine headache, the 2013 Kia Optima likely has it. This model also faced an alarming recall for a fuel leak that could cause an engine fire, affecting over 71,000 vehicles.
10. 2013 Subaru Impreza
Average Price: $8,993
The 2013 Subaru Impreza has accumulated 72 engine complaints with the NHTSA. Drivers have reported the engine stalling without warning on the freeway and even complete engine failures, leading to owners having to sell the car back at a loss. A recall for a valve spring failure that could stall the engine affected over 165,000 vehicles.
11. 2011 BMW 328i
Average Price: $9,051
Luxury doesn’t always guarantee reliability. The 2011 BMW 328i has garnered 212 engine complaints with the NHTSA. The federal agency has also issued several recalls concerning this vehicle’s powertrain, engine, and engine cooling system.
12. 2012 Toyota Prius
Average Price: $9,175
While Toyota’s hybrids are often synonymous with efficiency and reliability, the 2012 Toyota Prius missed the mark. In addition to 69 engine complaints filed with the NHTSA, the federal agency has issued multiple recalls for this hybrid’s propulsion system stalling out. The most recent recall for this issue potentially affected a staggering 807,329 vehicles.
The Bottom Line: Your Wallet Will Thank You
Engine issues are among the most expensive problems a car owner can face. Just one major engine problem can wipe out 20% or more of a vehicle’s overall value.
So, just as you’d shop around for the best car insurance rates, it’s crucial to do your homework when buying a car. Research consumer complaints, check for recalls, and prioritize engine reliability to avoid a costly purchase.
Your bank account will thank you later!