In the world of used car shopping, your best bet comes from the lips of experienced mechanics, not pretty ad campaigns or the lure of low prices. These car experts can tell you which rides keep coming back with hefty bills. They know which ones are a good buy and which ones aren’t. Shopping for a used car doesn’t need to be hit-and-miss.

Your first step is just avoiding cars known for having problems. That’s exactly what veteran mechanic Greg Damon, host of the radio show “At Your Service” on St. Louis’s KMOX, advises. He says he sees certain models, year after year, that consistently deliver huge repair bills to their owners, Damon encourages shoppers to bypass the car badge and thoroughly vet any vehicle they consider. In keeping with that idea, here are five cars mechanics generally urge shoppers to skip when considering a pre-owned vehicle:

1. BMW 3 Series (2006-2013, E90 Generation)

While the BMW 3 Series (especially the E90 generation) is considered to be a desirable entry-level luxury sedan thanks to its rewarding driving dynamics, many independent mechanics would tell prospective owners to steering clear of high-mileage cars. This is because they can quickly turn into ownership nightmares due to problematic and expensive issues that don’t seem to end. Yes, BMW 3 Series are some of the most satisfying cars to drive with premium looks, but their maintenance history could be quite a hassle. The allure of the brand and the performance often blind new buyers from the actual cost of maintaining such a vehicle.

Why Mechanics Stay Cautious Here:

• High mileage reliability issues
• Expensive recurring engine repairs
• Frequent gasket leak problems
• Electrical gremlins common
• Ownership costs escalate quickly

However, the main concerns happen under the skin. If you choose models fitted with the N52 engine or one of the turbos charged N54 and N55 you could also face issues with water pump failures, leaking valve cover gaskets, failed VANOS solenoid valves. Models fitted with turbos have an even longer list that includes carbon build up and high-pressure fuel pump failures and most of these are likely to occur well before the eighty-thousand-mile mark, giving rise to a well-built, well to drive car that just has too many long-term ownership headaches.

2. Mini Cooper (2007-2015)

The second-generation Mini Cooper caters to shoppers wanting a premium compact with that retro look and fun go kart style driving dynamics. However, according to most mechanic friends of mine these cars are the best description that comes to my mind of charming on the outside and terrible in actual real world ownership. They do get looks and drive good, but that comes with lots of expensive issues not the car. This car really is only good if someone doesn’t care how many problems this car gives them and they think this little car is cute enough to put up with it.

Hidden Troubles Behind The Charm:

• Timing chain failures common
• Turbo engine carbon buildup
• Expensive repair costs frequent
• Water pump leak issues
• Transmission reliability concerns

Some the most irritating and costly issues concern the 1.6-liter turbo engine found in most Cooper S model years. The issues include coking of carbon on the intake valves, a tensioner failure on the timing chain, and a water pump that frequently leaks. The worst of these issues will likely surface before the vehicle reaches 80,000 miles and will easily cost enough in repairs that it will be more than the cost of the car. Issues also tend to surface with early transmissions in the automatic (CVT) version, and the very cramped engine bay of these cars also makes even the simpler repairs costly due to labor time. This is why many mechanic friends recommend that potential buyers should really consider steering clear of purchasing these cars.

3. Dodge Avenger (2008-2014)

The Dodge Avenger is a sporty looking sedan that people will snap up on the used market at a good price, particularly those wanting something stylish without a high purchase price. For years though, expert mechanics and technicians have been advising people to stay away from this car on grounds of poor reliability. It looks aggressive, yes, and is inexpensive to purchase, but there are several persistent mechanical issues that affect its longevity in ways that the initial low price masks perfectly. The vehicle is simply less robust than owners come to realize it is going to be over time.

Major Weaknesses You Should Know:

• Engine oil consumption issues
• Sludge buildup engine damage
• Frequent transmission failures
• Weak suspension durability
• Poor interior build quality

Not only is the base 2.4-liter engine notorious for oil consumption and overheating issues, the optional 2.7-liter V6 engine can be completely ruined by sludge by the time it reaches 100k miles. Transmission failure and rough shifting are incredibly common in the Dodge Avenger. Mechanics generally label it as the type of car that you shouldn’t expect to have a long lifespan in the long run. Along with a subpar suspension system, it doesn’t have much of an interior to speak of in the first place which really doesn’t do the vehicle much good either.

4. Fiat 500 (2012-2017)

The Italian styling of the Fiat 500, as well as its compact, city-ready size was its opening attraction. What wasn’t quite as compelling, however, were the mechanical elements of the Fiat 500. Many mechanics say it’s a model you can simply try to ignore, largely due to the issues that come up repeatedly, and how badly put together this thing is. While you’re likely lured in by the quirky looks and size, once you own this car, you may find yourself frequenting garages all too much.

Charming Looks but Costly Reality:

• Engine oil leak problems
• Transmission failure issues common
• Electrical glitches frequent
• Interior trim wears quickly
• Parts difficult to source

The oil leaks and persistent check engine light problems associated with its 1.4-liter MultiAir engine and the auto’s hard shifting and premature demise make the model a perennial low performer in reliability surveys. It comes with shoddy interior materials that can quickly show wear, unpredictable electrical issues and a tendency to be pricey to repair because of scarce parts and their labor-intensive replacement.

5. Chevrolet Cruze (2011-2016)

The Chevrolet Cruze was designed to take on competitors worldwide in the compact sedan class, and with its contemporary styling and fuel efficiency, the car initially promised a great deal. Unfortunately, the first few iterations gained a reputation amongst mechanics as having a number of problems and the buy now mentality of most customers buying the Cruze for the first time rarely factors in the cost of numerous repairs. These machines tend to fail prematurely and are a recipe for frequent and expensive mechanic visits over the life of the car, making this an inexpensive buy that could actually cost you a great deal in the long run.

Common Problems That Add Up:

• Cooling system failure issues
• Frequent coolant leaks reported
• Engine overheating risks high
• Transmission problems recurring
• Poor long term durability

Most commonly you’ll find 1.4L turbo models suffer cooling system failures ranging from coolants leaks, and water pumps occurring around 60k. The six speed auto trans will be very troublesome. These often together will mean repeat trips for repairs. The build of the car is also to blame, leading to the need for more shop time. The result is higher operating costs over the long run.

6. BMW X5

BMW X5 is the Best Luxury SUV In Class 4 BMW X5 BMW X5 is popular for luxury attributes, excellent handling and commanding stance, hence it attracts a lot of buyers willing to pay the price. While the driving is great and the luxury level is off the roof, mechanics suggest that ownership of X5 may not only be expensive, but a tedious one. After it’s gone out of warranty the car turns out to be an expense rather than enjoyment, due to its complicated mechanics and high component prices.

Luxury Comes With Heavy Costs:

• Persistent oil leak issues
• Air suspension failure common
• Electrical problems frequent
• Expensive repair requirements
• Complex system maintenance

Specialists note that European vehicles such as the X5 are quite expensive to maintain once they are outside of warranty, primarily because the very complex systems that contribute to driving enjoyment and performance also tend to make repairs very complicated, expensive, and, sometimes, even require sourcing special tools, and technicians who understand their intricacies. Small problems will rapidly become enormous if they aren’t immediately diagnosed, the X5 proving to be very difficult vehicles for anyone to own long-term without deep pockets.

7. Nissan Altima (2013-2015)

Fuel efficiency and comfort are two major reasons why the Nissan Altima is often chosen by drivers shopping in the midsize sedan segment. Nevertheless, particular Altima years between 2013 and 2015 have garnered a very unfortunate rep with mechanics across the nation. It has become extremely common for them to encounter catastrophic reliability issues with these model years especially with the transmission! It may seem like a logical and economical car at first, but it really does hide its deeper mechanical defects until after the initial purchase.

Serious Issues Beneath The Surface:

• CVT transmission failure risks
• Expensive repair costs involved
• Engine issues frequently reported
• Steering problems potential safety
• Reliability concerns significant

These vehicle’s transmissions seem to have a problem with wearing out before one hundred thousand miles and this job isn’t simple to repair, it’s expensive as well. Also consider other issues with their transmissions, engines and even steering components. All of these combined can lead to some safety concerns and a need for some hefty repair bills. Most mechanics warn their customers against purchasing models from these years.

8. Land Rover Range Rover

With luxury styling and impressive off-road capability, the Range Rover appeals to many buyers. The reliability issue alone, though, makes the vehicle suspect. Mechanics often note a propensity for repeated system failure with the vehicle. Though it delivers in comfort and power, a Range Rover can become quite expensive to repair and maintain over the vehicle’s lifespan. The image and the power are what may lure a buyer to purchase this car, without awareness of the high costs that will accrue for the car’s many repair needs.

Prestige With Serious Drawbacks:

• Suspension failure very common
• Engine issues costly repairs
• Electrical system failures frequent
• High parts cost involved
• Rapid depreciation concerns

Perhaps the most significant and costly concern is air suspension which is often a troublesome system and difficult and expensive to fix, together with issues in the electrical and mechanical realms, this will all come with a huge repair bill which would in most cases only a highly skilled and trained specialist working in this market and supplying often expensive and specialised components could deal with. Every little part has the potential of being costly. With a fast depreciating purchase price, the Range Rover really does represent a gamble for a purchase. Many owners trade in to save continuing ongoing maintenance and repair costs which can prove extremely debilitating.

9. Hyundai Kona (2018, 2021)

If you are looking for a stylish compact SUV to meet your driving needs, the Hyundai Kona should certainly be on your shortlist. That being said, a handful of model years, most notably the 2018 and 2021 models, come with considerable reliability concerns, often relating to the powertrain and the vehicle’s electrical systems. Many shoppers consider this vehicle to be a solid bet simply because it’s a newer car, but the underlying issues that this car can have can make it a costly and even hazardous prospect for drivers.

Warning Signs Buyers Should Note:

• Engine knocking noise issues
• Sudden stalling risk present
• Complete engine failure cases
• Electrical bugs frequently reported
• High repair cost potential

Inadequate piston rings are another problem that can lead to engine malfunction, including knocking and stalling, and, in the worst case, a complete engine breakdown and costly repairs. Problems with the electrical system can also occur and impact its performance and reliability. Mechanics are also alerting customers to potentially large repair bills when the vehicle’s warranty expires, and this is one reason why buyers looking for reliability and security for years to come might not find the Kona so appealing despite its technology.

10. Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011-2013)

Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011-2013) Jeep SUVs are a fan favorite among those seeking a tough ride and off-road capability. Unfortunately, vehicles from 2011-2013 Jeep Grand Cherokees are some of the most unreliable on the market today, with plenty of mechanical and electrical issues that may add up in the repair budget. These vehicles impress potential owners with their flexibility and capability but often deliver less than an exceptional driving experience for the duration. Regular mechanical failures can lower dependability and reliability overall.

Problems That Impact Ownership Experience:

• Transmission failure issues common
• Electrical system faults frequent
• Sensor malfunction problems reported
• Infotainment system glitches occur
• High maintenance cost burden

A transmission can fail catastrophically and the replacement can be incredibly costly. Electrical issues are a dime a dozen, everything from bad sensors to completely busted up infotainment systems to the worst transmission. Those are tough to fix in only one visit. Mechanics see the jeeps coming back in again and again with another issue. Not a reliable buy in the long term despite the Grand Cherokees off road capability.