This search for affordable and reliable used vehicles can be a rewarding trip for drivers who want transportation without the premium of a new car. Since new car prices continue to escalate, used cars can fit lifestyles and budgets of varied demands. Buying true value, however, isn’t as simple as a tempting price and recognized mark; adequate research can distinguish a satisfying buy from years of surprises.

Many used cars perform well and serve you faithfully, but some years of cars have gained a bad reputation over their tendency to run poorly or unexpectedly expensive repair needs, their abysmal fuel efficiency or their practical failings. Knowing these drawbacks can afford the potential buyer a greater chance of averting a financial shock after the transaction is complete. Examining reliability ratings, gas mileage and average repair costs as well as daily utility can go a great deal toward affording a greater degree of buyer confidence.

Below are ten utility vehicles which highlight the importance of researching a particular model year. They all have problems with fuel consumption, as some models were infamous for gulping down fuel, or specific problems reported relating to the engine, transmission, comfort or reliability issues; the 10 vehicles also offer an alternative to buy so a clear indication on what might well be a good idea for used car buyers.

1. 2020 Nissan Armada

When it comes to full-size utility vehicles, few possess a level of spaciousness and sheer brute force found in the Nissan Armada. While its sheer size and potency are undeniable positive traits, fuel efficiency for a budget-conscious driver is a serious deterrent to the Armada’s consideration. Automotive journalists are accustomed to highlighting its deficiency in the fuel economy category, especially at daily-use situations.

Fuel Economy Concerns That Raise Ownership Costs:

• Poor fuel economy increases ownership expenses
• Large size demands substantial fuel
• City mileage reaches only 13 mpg
• Highway mileage reaches just 18 mpg
• Combined efficiency stands at 15 mpg

According to fuel economy tests, urban driving returns only 13 mpg and highway driving returns only 18 mpg. This results in a combined fuel economy rating for the Armada of only 15 mpg. For the car buyer expecting to spend substantial time commuting or traveling around the city, low fuel economies can quickly pose problems. Driving the less efficient Armada can cumulatively contribute to a considerably higher fuel bill than other vehicles.

For drivers that want something with utility but don’t want to be sipping gas with 21 miles per gallon city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway we may recommend looking elsewhere. Drivers looking for utility can purchase a 2020 Toyota RAV4 on the used car market to save in efficiency, earning a 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, with combined fuel economy of 30 mpg. This translates into a notable efficiency improvement in driving where over time in the long run it can equate to saved fuel money and usability of the car as a daily.

2. 2020 Dodge Journey

The 2020 Dodge Journey has earned knocks for aspects of the crossover where a regular family buyer may be particularly interested. Car writers have brought out that the engine is a low-motivation performer while the handling was unimpressive at the very lowest, giving very ordinary trips a less joyful feel. While the Dodge Journey delivers on all the basic midsize utility one would expect it could offer; it may ultimately disappoint when it comes to the driving enjoyment.

Performance and Cabin Quality Trade-Offs:

• Engine performance feels noticeably lackluster
• Handling disappoints during everyday driving
• Cabin materials feel inexpensive and basic
• Towing capacity remains relatively limited
• Technology offers useful everyday functionality

Interior quality is another fault that reviewers often criticize. The cabin’s extensive use of cheap plastics is a concern and makes the Journey’s cabin feel somewhat pedestrian compared with others. Towing is also fairly poor at a maximum of 1000 lbs for a correctly equipped Journey, which somewhat limits its utility for someone who often requires more hauling space. With a better cabin and better hauling, the Journey would be an attractive package.

If you are a midsize utility vehicle shopper looking for some sparkle, the 2018 Kia Sorento might be a more attractive purchase. Auto critics laud the Sorento on its lengthy warranty, upscale interior design for the price, and its abundant technological features. The touchscreen interface only enhances this vehicles’ appeal to shoppers looking for practicality and a more pampered experience.

3. 2023 Jeep Compass

Reliability should also be on your mind when considering the 2023 Jeep Compass. The 2023 version is questionable in this department. Consumer Reports gave it an extremely poor reliability rating of two out of five, so before putting any cash down you will want to do your own research into the dependability. A vehicle does not always mean less worries, the Compass is a great reason to pay attention to model-years.

Reliability Ratings and Long-Term Costs:

• Reliability receives a low two-five score
• Maintenance costs can become substantial
• Long-term ownership deserves careful evaluation
• Competing crossovers may offer greater dependability
• Repair history should receive close attention

Finally, long-term ownership cost would be something the buyers think twice. Based on the information on CarEdge, the maintenance expense for an owner during the first ten-year period will be $10,031. It would be dependent on how you drive and on the condition of the car, yet the costs will take up a substantial portion that needs some consideration. However, comparing with other rival brands and models from the same category of compact SUV, these expenses may give us another perspective while regarding their ownership costs and may become something for cost sensitive buyers to note.

Other customers looking for a used utility vehicle and prioritizing reliability may want to check out the 2018 Toyota Highlander. Experts found that it excels in its number of standard safety features, comfort, and powerful V6 engine, and is given a rating of four out of five stars for reliability by RepairPal, which may give owners some more reasons to choose the Highlander and have a reliable car. The Highlander could give any potential driver a great ownership experience overall.

4. 2022 Toyota C-HR

The practical disadvantages of the 2022 Toyota C-HR may become evident with everyday ownership. It’s true that much praise has been met for its unhelpful backseats which, in practice, provide an uncomfortable ride for the passengers. Cargo capacity has also proven to be a downfall-especially when drivers make regular use of the transport of luggage, shopping, kit, etc.

Everyday Practicality and Performance Shortcomings:

• Rear seating can feel uncomfortable
• Cargo capacity limits everyday practicality
• Engine performance feels noticeably weak
• Acceleration can be painfully slow
• Cabin noise reduces driving refinement

Also performance, the C-HR does not manage to score points. Automotive professionals define its engine as underpowered, while the acceleration sometimes requires almost an unacceptable amount of time in urgent situations; what’s even worse the engine, at work, proves to be surprisingly loud in the cabin.

If the driver is after a bit more power without compromising the unique style then maybe the look for a 2021 BMW X2 would do the trick? The X2 is described in reviews as having a peppy engine mated to a crisp transmission. The 0 to 60 MPH time in just about 6.4 seconds adds considerably more liveliness in such a case if performance is what is desired by shoppers.

5. 2021 Infiniti QX80

This Infiniti does deliver the bulk and stature you would hope for in a luxury full-size ute; however; its fuel consumption is one of its larger drawbacks. Its poor mpg has drawn heat from critics of the vehicle, due to its large proportions and robust engine and weight that gobble fuel. Careful consideration for those minding the cost of ownership long term will want to take into account its heavy thirst for fuel.

Luxury Size Comes With Heavy Fuel Demand:

• Large engine contributes to heavy consumption
• City mileage reaches only 13 mpg
• Highway mileage reaches just 19 mpg
• Combined efficiency remains only 15 mpg
• Fuel expenses can quickly become significant

The QX80 delivers 13 miles per gallon for city and 19 miles per gallon on the highway. This gives a combined total of 15 miles per gallon-making it one of the less frugal luxury utility vehicles available. These numbers can be particularly costly to owners who spend a lot of time driving on long journeys.The combined city mileage number of 13 miles per gallon might be particularly burdensome to buyers who live in or commute to big-city areas with a lot of slow-moving traffic.Overall, over many miles of ownership the QX80’s economy figures may contribute significantly to the long term costs of ownership.

More down to earth if those driving luxury cars are looking to keep tighter tabs on how much style is being traded for fuel economy, the NX gives owners 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway and a 25 mpg average, numbers a breath of fresh air from the QX80. A less daunting car for owners suffering under the QX80’s fuel economy numbers.

6. 2015 Honda CR-V

As Honda is widely known for its good reliability, the used vehicles it brings in can be surprisingly concerning for a buyer of the 2015 Honda CR-V. CR-V, as a line, has come to epitomize the trusted transport, but this edition presents a number of recognized issues for a concerned buyer. “Reliable name” should never override researching thoroughly the year you’re shopping for.

Reported Issues Behind the Reliable Reputation:

• Starting difficulties have been reported
• Front-end vibrations can affect driving
• Sunroof shattering creates additional concerns
• Stalling may occur while reversing
• Maintenance history deserves thorough investigation

Several very worrisome issues with this small utility vehicle have been pointed out by owners and by reviewers. While hard starting problems have been reported it’s the evident vibrations coming from the front of the car that will make driving annoying to most, and even more worrisome is another owner report concerning a spontaneously shattering sunroof.

There is also a specific complaint which tends to be a problem and the engine dies (or stalls) the instant the vehicle is put into reverse. It will clearly create a real problem in the everyday use of your vehicle if they have issues like this. You really have to do some research into what is common knowledge in terms of issues that arise on this particular model before believing that Honda are by default trouble free in ownership.

7. 2005 Chevrolet Equinox

If you’re a bargain-hunter dealing with extremely thin finances, the 2005 Chevrolet Equinox may initially glance like an attractive option for you. The first generation Equinox is a compact SUV that at times can be found for around $3,500 on the pre-owned market. That initial, ultra-low buying price may look good to you, as a consumer that doesn’t need much from a vehicle other than its ability to transport you economically, but there’s a big reason why you should shy away from the mechanical reality of the vehicle:

Low Prices Can Hide Expensive Repairs:

• Low purchase price attracts budget shoppers
• Head gasket failures create serious concerns
• Major repairs can erase initial savings
• Engine problems may become financially burdensome
• Ownership costs deserve careful consideration

One issue that is very critical is having the gasket blows in an engine. When an engine’s gasket blows, this condition can have severe effects on an engine if not addressed very promptly. By continuing to drive with a blown gasket, more components in the engine can be further damaged.With an average estimated repair cost at about $2,280, that can get to be extremely pricey fast.In fact, that may very easily wipe up the entire savings made from buying a cheap vehicle like that one.

Therefore, the low purchase price alone should not seal the deal for this model. A “deal” price can quickly transform into a costly one through significant mechanical work. Better would be to thoroughly compare the Equinox to vehicles known to be more reliable, and to estimate the total cost of ownership rather than focus on the sticker price.

8. 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan

For anyone considering a used European crossover from this era, the 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan is definitely worth taking a closer look. According to the reviews I consulted, total engine failure seems to be among the highest reported issues with this particular sport utility vehicle. Of course a total engine failure poses quite a risk to an interested buyer, especially one who is on the hook for a potential repair of a couple thousand dollars.

Major Engine Problems Demand Extra Scrutiny:

• Engine failure represents a major concern
• Repairs can approach several thousand dollars
• Timing chain problems may develop
• Main oil seal leaks are reported
• Higher mileage requires additional caution

The average repair cost for these engine failures runs nearly $3,900. From all reports, these failures tend to manifest themselves closer to the 100,000 mile mark, and can leave the buyer of a higher-mileage version with a lot of financial worry. Other problems reported include a skip in the timing chain which can lead to other engine issues, and persistent main oil seal leaks.

All of the above make the Tiguan one SUV deserving of an especially in-depth investigation before plunking down your cash. The low starting point in the bidding may not seem so appealing in light of costly potential future repairs. People shopping for a used German crossover should do homework and explore alternatives, service history, and the mechanical integrity of any potential purchase before labeling this particular Tiguan a good deal.

9. 2014 Jeep Cherokee

In the SUV world, the Jeep Cherokee has some significance as it defined what was appealing to drivers for many years. Despite its esteemed place in the SUV world, though, the legacy of the Cherokee badge should not overshadow issues with the 2014 model. What may have drawn buyers with its looks and badge to the Jeep Cherokee has led to mechanical issues with many vehicles year after year.

Oil, Exhaust, and Transmission Warning Signs:

• Engine oil leaks require careful attention
• Exhaust leaks create additional concerns
• Transmission shifting can become problematic
• Rough shifting may affect drivability
• Extensive recalls require careful verification

Consumer Reports has found common problems which involve engine oil leaks, as well as exhaust leaks and transmission issues like slipping and rough shifting. While not a factor while it’s running during a typical commute, such problems pose a costly threat. For those looking at a used Cherokee, it’s vital to investigate maintenance records prior to purchase.

That the model’s recall history is yet another yellow flag. Thirteen recalls involving the 2014 Jeep Cherokee (by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were initiated; prospective buyers will want to make sure that any recall work has actually been done before making an offer on the SUV. A shopper looking for a greater sense of security may want to shop for another pre-owned utility vehicle.

10. 2011 GMC Terrain

Another used utility vehicle you should be warned about is the 2011 GMC Terrain. According to some reports, it’s normal for owners of this vehicle to worry about major component failures approaching 150,000 miles. Long term, the engine and transmissions of the Terrain can prove to be very expensive, especially for someone looking for value.

High-Mileage Failures Can Become Costly:

• Major failures may emerge around 150,000 miles
• Excessive oil consumption remains concerning
• Engine failure can become catastrophic
• Engine replacement may exceed $5,000
• Transmission repairs can cost thousands

Excessive oil consumption is also an enormous drawback of this car; it’s one of those things that if it’s not addressed, it can lead to total engine failure. Re-powering could set a buyer back over 5000 dollars, and the same could even be said for major work done to the transmission, turning an affordable used suv into a truly money consuming asset. Additionally, recalls could be one more worry as the 2011 GMC has seen four safety recalls. In turn, prospective buyers need to look beyond the sticker price and analyze other potential problems if a bargain can actually be found at such a low cost.

A suitable used utility vehicle relies on more than just a lower sticker price. The actual cost can increase depending on gas mileage, lack of reliability, mechanical breakdowns, repair costs, or recall histories that the next owner will need to deal with. Researching the correct model year of the SUV and having previous service records and repair issues noted in addition to the scheduled maintenance should all be conducted along with an in-depth inspection prior to purchasing the vehicle. Moving past the flashy prices of the same few models should land consumers with less expense and ultimately a truck suitable for their specific uses and price ranges.