Criteria for identifying a bad used car
When it comes to choosing a used car, it's crucial to know the criteria that may indicate a vehicle to avoid. Here are the most important things to look out for, so you don't come across one of the 10 used cars to avoid:
1. Vehicle history
The car's history is essential. Use services such as Histovec or Carvertical for detailed reports. Look for accidents, salvage titles, and unresolved recalls.
2. High mileage with no history
Cars with high mileage and few invoices may have more mechanical problems. Generally speaking, any vehicle with more than 150,000 kilometers may require costly repairs.
3. Irregular maintenance
Check maintenance records. Lack of regular maintenance can lead to major problems. Make sure that oil changes, filter changes and other regular services have been carried out.
4. Excessive wear
Inspect tires, brakes and suspension. Excessive wear may indicate neglect or heavy use. Unevenly worn tires may indicate suspension or alignment problems.
5. Fluid leaks
Oil, coolant, brake fluid or transmission leaks can be expensive to repair. A visual inspection under the hood and under the car can reveal these leaks.
6. Bodywork and paintwork
Dents, scratches and signs of rust may indicate previous poor-quality repairs or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Uneven paintwork may suggest repairs following an accident..
10 Used cars to avoid - low budget (years 2000-2010)
When buying a used car, especially on a limited budget, it's crucial to avoid certain models known for their reliability problems and high repair costs.
Our top 10 used cars from the years 2000-2010 to avoid:
1. Renault Laguna II (2001-2007)
The Renault Laguna II is often criticized for its recurring electronic problems, particularly with the starter card system. In addition, 1.9 dCi diesel engines are notorious for turbo and injector problems, resulting in high repair costs.
2. Peugeot 307 (2001-2008)
Ce modèle présente des problèmes fréquents avec le système électrique, y compris des pannes de l’affichage multifonction et des dysfonctionnements des vitres électriques. Les moteurs diesel HDi ont également été signalés pour des problèmes de turbo et de FAP (filtre à particules).
3. Fiat Stilo (2001-2007)
The Fiat Stilo suffers from electronic problems, including dashboard failures and engine management issues. The 1.9 JTD diesel versions also have turbo and injector problems.
4. Volkswagen Passat B5.5 (2001-2005)
Although renowned for its build quality, the Passat B5.5 has problems with the comfort modules and the 2.0 TDI engines have oil pump and turbo problems, resulting in costly repairs.
5. Opel Vectra C (2002-2008)
The Vectra C is notorious for front suspension problems and electronic malfunctions, including problems with door centralization and engine sensors.
6. Alfa Romeo 147 (2000-2010)
Alfa Romeo 147s often suffer from electrical problems, including headlight and blinker failure, and front suspension problems.
7. Audi A4 B6 (2000-2006)
Despite its popularity, the Audi A4 B6 suffers from reliability problems, particularly with the 2.0 TDI engines, which suffer from oil pump and turbo problems. Air conditioning and suspension systems can also require costly repairs.
8. BMW 3 Series E46 (1998-2006)
BMW 3 Series E46s, especially diesel-powered models, are notorious for turbo and water pump problems. In addition, electronic systems can be temperamental.
9. Citroën C5 (2001-2008)
The Citroën C5, although comfortable, is often reported for hydraulic suspension problems and electronic faults, particularly with the parking sensors.
10. Ford Mondeo Mk3 (2000-2007)
The Ford Mondeo Mk3 is notorious for front suspension problems and electronic malfunctions, including problems with the power windows and air conditioning systems.
10 Used cars to avoid - low budget (years 2010-2020)
Even newer models can have reliability problems.
Here are 10 European cars from the years 2010-2020 to avoid:
1. Renault Captur (2013-2019)
Early versions of the Renault Captur suffered from electronic problems and navigation system malfunctions. Diesel models also have problems with the DPFS.
2. Peugeot 208 (2012-2019)
The Peugeot 208 is often reported for 1.2 PureTech engine issues, including timing chain concerns and electronic malfunctions, such as multimedia system failures.
3. Fiat 500L (2012-2019)
The Fiat 500L has some build quality issues, including concerns with the electronics and problems with the automatic gearbox.
4. Volkswagen Golf VII (2012-2020)
Although popular, the Golf VII has recurring DSG gearbox issues and electronic worries, including screen and sensor failures.
5. Opel Mokka (2012-2019)
The Opel Mokka is notorious for automatic transmission problems and electronic malfunctions, particularly with the display systems.
6. Alfa Romeo Giulietta (2010-2020)
The Giulietta suffers from diesel engine problems, including turbo and injector issues, as well as electronic problems with the dashboard.
7. Audi A3 (2012-2020)
The Audi A3, although renowned for its quality, has recurring DSG gearbox problems and TFSI engine worries, including oil leaks and turbo failures.
8. BMW 1 Series F20 (2011-2019)
The BMW 1 Series F20 has engine problems, including timing chain issues on N47 diesel engines. Electronic systems can also be problematic.
9. Citroën C4 Cactus (2014-2020)
The Citroën C4 Cactus has some build quality issues, including electronic malfunctions and problems with the PureTech engines.
10. Ford Focus (2011-2018)
The Ford Focus suffers from PowerShift transmission problems and concerns with electronic systems, including navigation and sensor failures.
A thorough inspection and vehicle history report can also help you avoid costly and disappointing purchases.
10 Used cars to avoid - medium & high budget (years 2000-2010)
We have prepared a ranking of the 10 used cars to avoid from 2000 to 2010:
1. BMW 7 Series (E65/E66, 2001-2008)
The BMW 7 Series of this generation is known for its complex electronic problems, especially with the l'iDriveand frequent failures of the air suspension. The cost of repairs can quickly become exorbitant.
2. Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220, 1999-2005)
Although ultra-luxurious, the S-Class W220 suffers from problems with the Airmatic suspension and electronic systems, including the COMAND. Repairs to these sophisticated systems are costly.
3. Audi A8 (D3, 2002-2009)
The Audi A8 of this generation has problems with its air suspension, multitronic gearbox and complex electronics.
4. Jaguar XJ (X350, 2003-2009)
The Jaguar XJ has recurring air suspension and gearbox problems. The 2.7L turbodiesel engines are also prone to turbo problems.
5. Porsche Cayenne (2003-2010)
The Cayenne, although a top performer, has transmission problems, frequent oil leaks and electronic failures.
6. Land Rover Range Rover (L322, 2002-2012)
Known for its off-road capabilities, the Range Rover L322 suffers from air suspension and transmission problems, as well as numerous electronic faults. Maintenance costs are high.
7. Maserati Quattroporte (2003-2012)
The Quattroporte is famous for its performance and luxury, but it has reliability issues, notably with the DuoSelect gearbox and frequent electronic failures.
8. Volvo XC90 (2002-2014)
The Volvo XC90 of this generation has automatic transmission and electronic system problems, including dashboard failures. Repair costs can be high.
9. Saab 9-5 (1997-2010)
Although less common, the Saab 9-5 has engine and transmission problems, especially the Aero versions. Replacementparts can be hard to find and expensive due to Saab's bankruptcy.
10. Volkswagen Phaeton (2002-2016)
The Phaeton, although luxurious, has recurring problems with its air suspension, transmission and electronic systems. Repair and maintenance costs can be very high.
10 Used cars to avoid - medium & high budget (years 2010-2020)
Even recent and mid-range/high-end models can cause problems.
Here are the 10 European cars of the years 2010-2020 to avoid:
1. BMW 5 Series (F10/F11, 2010-2017)
The BMW 5 Series of this generation has problems with N47 diesel engines, including timing chain issues. Complex electronic systems can also be problematic.
2. Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W212, 2009-2016)
The E-Class W212 is notorious for its air suspension and gearbox problems. Diesel models suffer from DPF and turbo problems.
3. Audi Q7 (2010-2015)
The Audi Q7 has air suspension and steering system problems. TDI engines have turbo and DPF issues, resulting in high repair costs.
4. Range Rover Evoque (2011-2018)
The Range Rover Evoque has problems with its automatic transmission and electronic systems, including screen failures and parking sensors.
5. Jaguar XF (2010-2015)
The Jaguar XF suffers from engine problems, including turbo problems on diesel engines, as well as electronic faults and gearbox problems.
6. Volvo S60/V60 (2010-2018)
Volvo S60s and V60s of this generation have automatic transmission and electronic system problems, including dashboard and navigation system failures .
7. Porsche Panamera (2010-2016)
The Panamera, although a good performer, has problems with its air suspension and PDK gearbox. Repairs to these systems are costly.
8. Maserati Ghibli (2013-2020)
The Ghibli suffers from automatic transmission problems and electronic failures. Maintenance and repair costs are high.
9. Peugeot 508 (2011-2018)
The Peugeot 508, although popular, has recurring suspension and gearbox problems. Diesel models are also subject to DPFS and injector problems.
10. Land Rover Discovery (2010-2016)
The Discovery of this generation has air suspension problems, diesel engine problems(overheating and turbo problems) and numerous electronic problems.
Reliable alternatives to used cars to avoid
Now that you know which used vehicles to avoid, you can consult our article on reliable vehicles (for young drivers, for example) to find your future vehicle!
Some virtually unbreakable second-hand models
Toyota Yaris (1999-2005)
Engine: Toyota 1.0 VVT-i
Honda Civic (1996-2000)
Engine: Honda D-Series (D15B7, D16Y7)
Volkswagen Golf IV (1997-2003)
Engine: Volkswagen 1.9 TDI (diesel engine)
Ford Fiesta (2002-2008)
Engine: Ford Duratec 1.25
Peugeot 206 (1998-2009)
Engine: Peugeot TU5JP4
Opel Corsa C (2000-2006)
Engine: Opel Z10XE, Z12XE
These models are renowned for their sturdiness and longevity, so go for it!
FAQ on used cars to avoid
What are the main problems to watch out for when buying a used car?
The main problems to watch out for are often related to wear and tear and vehicle maintenance. These include signs of structural damage, hidden mechanical problems, serious accident history, known manufacturing defects and undocumented repairs.
How can I avoid buying a problematic used car?
Thoroughly research the specific model you're considering buying, consulting reliable sources such as consumer reliability reports, automotive forums and owner reviews. In addition, carry out a full technical inspection of the vehicle and consider having the car inspected by a trusted mechanic before closing the deal.
Are there any telltale signs I should look for when inspecting a used car?
Yes, there are signs that may indicate potential problems. These include unusual noises, fluid leaks, strange odors, abnormal tire wear, excessive vibration, dashboard warning lights on, and sudden changes in vehicle performance or behavior.
Are German brands reliable?
German brands such as Volkswagen, BMW and Audi are renowned for their reliability and build quality, but you should be aware that maintenance is expensive, generally for vehicles that have passed the 150,000 km mark.
What documents and information should I ask the seller before buying a used car?
Before buying a used car, ask to see the vehicle's certificat de non-gage and carte grise to check that it is clear of any liens or legal issues. Also examine the full maintenance history, including various technical inspections, accident reports and any other relevant documents to get a complete picture of the vehicle's history.
