Used Cars to Avoid Due to Engine Problems

Additional Coverage:

12 Used Cars Notorious for Engine Problems (financebuzz.com)

Dodgy Engines: 12 Vehicles to Avoid If You Don’t Want to Break the Bank on Repairs

Owning a car with a lemon of an engine can feel like a financial black hole, constantly sucking up your hard-earned cash in maintenance costs. J.D.

Power estimates that a typical engine replacement can set you back a hefty $2,000 to $10,000. So, it’s a no-brainer: choosing a vehicle with a reliable engine is one of the smartest financial moves a car owner can make.

To help you avoid future headaches (and empty wallets), we’ve compiled a list of 12 vehicles notorious for their unreliable engines. Consider these a hard pass when you’re on the hunt for your next ride. (Editor’s note: Average prices are based on Kelley Blue Book data.)

1. 2015 Jeep Cherokee

Average price: Up to $11,000

Thinking of a sturdy SUV? You might want to steer clear of the 2015 Jeep Cherokee. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has logged a staggering 190 complaints concerning this vehicle’s engine, covering everything from powertrain and propulsion system glitches to electrical system woes.

2. 2013 Ford Fiesta

Average price: Up to $4,375

Don’t let its small size fool you – the 2013 Ford Fiesta comes with big engine problems. NHTSA records show 112 complaints specifically about this compact sedan’s engine, with an additional four related to engine cooling. Many owners report the powertrain and transmission giving up the ghost around the 60,000-mile mark.

3. 2013 Volkswagen Passat

Average price: Up to $7,165

The 2013 Volkswagen Passat has 20 engine-related complaints filed with the NHTSA, including issues with its propulsion system and vehicle speed control. Most concerning was a recall, impacting nearly 281,000 vehicles, for a fuel pump failure that could cause the engine to stall unexpectedly.

4. 2012 Chrysler 200

Average price: Up to $4,240

Engine reliability and cooling problems plagued the 2012 Chrysler 200, leading to numerous complaints to the NHTSA. Among the multiple recalls was one for a rod-bearing failure that could cause the engine to seize, leaving drivers stranded or worse.

5. 2010 Dodge Journey

Average price: Up to $3,075

The 2010 Dodge Journey has proven to be a highly unreliable choice, with a jaw-dropping 180 engine complaints filed with the NHTSA. Consumers have reported terrifying incidents, including the engine shutting off, parts burning, melting, and even catching fire while driving.

6. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

Average price: Up to $7,150

If you’re looking for an example of poor engine quality, the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is a prime candidate. The NHTSA has received a whopping 220 complaints about this sedan’s engine, covering everything from electrical system and powertrain issues to vehicle speed control problems.

7. 2009 Audi A4

Average price: Up to $4,625

The 2009 Audi A4 has 48 engine complaints on file with the NHTSA. One owner reported their vehicle guzzling oil due to a faulty vacuum pump, a fix that cost them over $6,000. Ouch!

8. 2011 Hyundai Sonata

Average price: Up to $5,600

Sedan shoppers beware: the 2011 Hyundai Sonata is a minefield of engine issues. An astonishing 956 complaints have been filed with the NHTSA against this vehicle’s engine, not even counting other related problems like engine cooling or powertrain. Two major recalls stand out: a fuel leak that could cause a fire (affecting over 150,000 vehicles) and a connecting rod issue that could stall the engine, potentially leading to crashes (affecting up to 470,000 vehicles).

9. 2013 Kia Optima

Average price: Up to $7,625

The NHTSA has received 562 consumer complaints about the 2013 Kia Optima’s unreliable engine. Electrical system, fuel system, propulsion system – if it’s an engine problem, chances are the 2013 Optima has experienced it. An alarming recall was also issued for a fuel leak that could cause an engine fire, potentially affecting over 71,000 vehicles.

10. 2013 Subaru Impreza

Average price: Up to $8,125

The 2013 Subaru Impreza has 76 engine complaints filed with the NHTSA. Owners have reported engines stalling without warning on the freeway and even having to sell their cars back to dealerships at a loss due to complete engine failure. A recall for a valve spring failure, which could stall the engine, affected over 165,000 vehicles.

11. 2011 BMW 328i

Average price: Up to $5,005

Luxury doesn’t always mean reliability. The 2011 BMW 328i has 216 engine complaints filed with the NHTSA. The federal agency has also issued multiple recalls concerning this vehicle’s powertrain, engine, and engine cooling system.

12. 2012 Toyota Prius

Average price: Up to $8,550

Toyota’s hybrid vehicles are usually synonymous with reliability, but the 2012 Prius missed the mark. In addition to 32 engine complaints filed with the NHTSA, the agency has issued multiple recalls due to the hybrid propulsion system stalling out.

The Bottom Line

Engine issues can be among the most financially draining problems for car owners, potentially wiping out 20% or more of a vehicle’s value. Just as you’d shop around for the best car insurance rates, it’s crucial to research consumer complaints and recalls to assess a vehicle’s engine reliability before you buy. A little homework now can save you a lot of money and stress down the road.