If you’re going through a rough financial time, then there is usually the temptation to compromise on the purchases that you are going to make. While we would all want to drive the latest new vehicles on the market, we wouldn’t mind saving a few bucks, and it’s pretty obvious a ’97 Toyota is quite tempting if it’s going for only 500,000ksh. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to hunt for a bargain, but when it comes to getting a used vehicle, there are a few things, or rather cars, that you might have to avoid. If you are planning on keeping your “new” used vehicle for a long time, then its reliability will mean everything when you are shopping on the used market.
According to car experts, it’s important that you look for a vehicle that people have rated highly for initial quality and are dependable once they have had a few miles on them. If you are wondering what 10 of the worst used cars on the second-hand market are, then we have the right list for you. These vehicles should be avoided at all costs.
Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 was a hit when it first hit the market. The compact SUV was loaded with luxury features and had a fantastic interior. The suspension and steering were well built, offering exceptional handling and comfort. The engine was a powerful V-6 that gave owners plenty of pep to zoom down the road. Overall, it didn’t seem like the Q5 was flawed at all. Sadly, the Q5 has a number of reliability issues. Consumer Reports gave the Audi Q5 its worst rating for overall reliability. According to various forums there are numerous complaints about the climate control, navigation system, keyless entry, and the stereo system. This wasn’t just for the first few model years either, these complaints haunt to Q5 throughout all model years. Best to steer clear of this vehicle all together.
BMW X5
The BMW X5 first hit the scene in 2000. The luxury SUV was praised for it’s performance and high end interior. The suspension was given praise for offering a smooth, comfortable ride as well as reducing body roll. As a used vehicle, the X5 can be very pricey, mainly due to the BMW name. Owners on forums have a number of complaints about the X5 though. Reliability issues are a significant problem with many owners. The all-wheel drive system, electrical system, and drive shaft are all areas of concern for the X5, and the problems seem to affect all model years. For such an expensive used car, you are better off looking elsewhere. No reason to spend that much on a vehicle with so many user complaints.
Chevrolet Aveo
The Aveo was replaced by the Chevrolet Sonic in 2012, and it couldn’t have come soon enough. The Aveo was a subcompact car with few redeeming qualities. Outside of a low price and high gas mileage, the Aveo didn’t bring much to the table. A tiny 103 horsepower engine made driving feel like a chore, especially when climbing steep hills. The interior was covered in cheap plastic, reminding you of how low end the vehicle is every time you got climbed into it. On top of the poor qualities of the vehicle when new, the Aevo is known for having problems with the fuel system, brakes, and audio system. The Aveo wasn’t a car that you should have bought new, and it didn’t get any better with age.
How about a used Toyota rush?