As vehicle prices continue to rise, no one wants to invest in a car that leads to ongoing repairs and unexpected costs. Unfortunately, recent data highlights growing concerns about vehicle dependability. According to the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, “vehicle owners are experiencing lower levels of vehicle dependability after three years of ownership,” with the industry average rising to 190 problems per 100 vehicles.
This trend is evident in certain models, such as the 2018 Volvo S90 and the 2016 Nissan Altima, which have gained reputations for being particularly troublesome. From engine issues to transmission failures, these vehicles can turn what should be an exciting purchase into a frustrating ordeal. We’ve consulted reports from both experts and the average consumer (referencing places like Car Complaints, CarEdge, and True Delta) to put together a list of ten sedans you should think twice about buying.
10. 2018 Volvo S90: A Luxury Ride with Hidden Costs – Exterior
Picture this: you’re cruising down the highway in your sleek Volvo S90, enjoying the premium sound system and admiring the 12-inch screen. Suddenly, you feel an odd vibration, and the engine starts making strange noises. This scenario has been all too real for many S90 owners.
2018 Volvo S90: A Luxury Ride with Hidden Costs – Interior
Despite its luxurious appearance, this model has left many drivers disappointed with its reliability. From engine troubles to brake issues, it seems like this car might spend more time at the mechanic than on the road. If you’re eyeing a used S90, you might want to think twice, especially if it’s out of warranty.
9. 2016 Nissan Altima: Comfortable a Costly Secret – Exterior
The Nissan Altima has long been a popular choice for families and commuters alike. It’s comfortable and spacious, perfect for long drives or running errands around town. But beneath its appealing exterior lurks a potential nightmare: transmission problems. Imagine being stuck in traffic when your car suddenly stalls or slips out of gear.
2016 Nissan Altima: Comfortable a Costly Secret – Interior
That’s the reality for many Altima owners, and fixing the issue can cost a small fortune. If you’re considering an Altima, make sure to do your homework and check its history thoroughly.
8. 2018 Hyundai Sonata: Spacious but Troublesome – Exterior
The Hyundai Sonata seems like a great family car at first glance. It’s roomy, comfortable, and looks good on the road. But for many owners, the dream of trouble-free driving quickly turned into a nightmare of electrical failures and engine problems.
2018 Hyundai Sonata: Spacious but Troublesome – Interior
Some drivers have found themselves stranded due to sudden stalling or misfires. If you’re looking for a car that won’t leave you calling for a tow truck, you might want to look elsewhere.
7. 2019 Audi A6: Luxury Doesn’t Always Mean Reliability – Exterior
Driving an Audi A6 can make you feel like you’ve made it in life. The sleek design and high-end features are certainly impressive. But imagine cruising down the highway, feeling on top of the world, when suddenly your power steering fails.
2019 Audi A6: Luxury Doesn’t Always Mean Reliability – Interior
That’s exactly what happened to one unfortunate A6 owner. Despite its luxury status, this model has left many drivers feeling let down and facing hefty repair bills.
6. 2017 Lincoln Continental: Bumpy Consequences – Exterior
The Lincoln Continental promises a smooth, luxurious ride, and it certainly delivers on that front. But for many owners, the joy of driving this car has been overshadowed by frequent trips to the mechanic.
2017 Lincoln Continental: Bumpy Consequences – Interior
From transmission troubles to AC failures, the Continental seems to have more than its fair share of issues. If you’re dreaming of cruising in style, you might want to consider a more reliable alternative.
5. Chevy Cruze (Multiple Years, Now Discontinued) – Exterior
The Chevy Cruze was once a popular choice for budget-conscious drivers. But years of problems led to its discontinuation in 2019.
Chevy Cruze (Multiple Years, Now Discontinued) – Interior
Owners have reported everything from engine issues to electrical failures. If you’re considering a used Cruze, be prepared for potential headaches down the road.
4. 2019 Kia Forte: A Risky Choice – Exterior
The Kia Forte looks great on paper, but in reality, it’s been a source of frustration for many owners. Imagine driving your new car off the lot, only to have the transmission fail after a few thousand miles.
2019 Kia Forte: A Risky Choice – Interior
That’s been the unfortunate reality for some Forte drivers. While newer models might come with warranties, the potential for long-term issues makes this sedan a gamble.
3. Volkswagen Jetta (Multiple Years) – Exterior
The Volkswagen Jetta has been a favorite among car buyers for years, but its reliability record is far from stellar.
Volkswagen Jetta (Multiple Years) – Interior
From brake issues to electrical problems, the Jetta seems to keep mechanics busy. If you’re considering a used Jetta, you might want to brace yourself for potential repairs.
2. 2021 Nissan Sentra: New Doesn’t Always Mean Problem-Free – Exterior
The 2021 Nissan Sentra might be tempting with its low price tag, but be warned: it’s been rated less reliable than the average new car. Owners have reported various issues, particularly with the transmission.
2021 Nissan Sentra: New Doesn’t Always Mean Problem-Free – Interior
While it might seem like a bargain now, the potential for future problems could make it a costly choice in the long run.
1. Ford Focus (Multiple Years) – Exterior
The Ford Focus has been a go-to choice for many drivers over the years. It’s affordable, compact, and generally pleasant to drive. However, its history of transmission problems has left many owners feeling frustrated and out of pocket.
Ford Focus (Multiple Years) – Interior
Some issues have been so severe that they led to a class-action lawsuit. If you’re considering a used Focus, make sure you’re prepared for potential repairs.
