12 Unreliable Used SUVs You Shouldn’t Buy In 2024

A used SUV can be a good option, but it can depend on your budget and what type of features you want.

In some cases, it can also prevent you from getting ahead financially if you don’t pick the right car or choose a model with issues.

If you’re in the market for a used SUV, you may want to steer clear of these models to protect your finances.

1. 2022 Ford Bronco Sport

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Ford reintroduced the Ford Bronco name into its lineup with its 2021 model and then added the Bronco Sport to give a different, sportier package.

But the vehicle also gave drivers major maintenance issues, such as problems with the engine and transmission, making it a miss if you’re shopping the used car market.

2. 2020 Toyota Sequoia

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The Toyota Sequoia isn’t as popular as some other Toyota models, and it didn’t even make the top 25 best-selling vehicles in 2023 like other Toyota SUVs such as the RAV4 and Highlander.

Perhaps it just can’t stand up against the other SUVs in Toyota’s lineup, with the Sequoia looking cheap on the inside and missing the towing capacity you may need.

3. 2015 Audi Q7

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Audi may be known for its engineering, but it may have missed the mark with some of its Q7 models.

A smart car owner move may be to consider ditching the 2015 model from your list of potential used car options if you don’t want to deal with issues with your suspension and brakes, as well as electrical glitches.

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4. 2019 Jeep Compass

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The second-generation Jeep Compass hit the roads in 2017, but it could have had some issues still showing up in its models two years later.

The 2019 Compass did not score well for reliability with Consumer Reports, and issues were noted by Top Speed for the transmission, powertrain, suspension, and steering.

5. 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

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The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has some good things to offer if you buy the 2020 model, including the infotainment system and good cargo space.

But you won’t have much power under the hood, making it hard to pass drivers at highway speed and hearing loud engine noises as you go faster.

6. 2017 Nissan Pathfinder

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The fifth generation of the Nissan Pathfinder made its way to the market in 2022, but older models may not be as reliable as the most recent vehicles.

The 2017 Pathfinder, for example, had issues with its engine, transmission, and climate control. The model also had brake problems, with recalls covering leaking brake fluid that could cause fires.

7. 2017 Land Rover Discovery

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Land Rover may be well-known for its SUVs, but some may be better than others when it comes to used models.

The 2017 Land Rover Discovery, for example, has issues with plenty of different bugs under the hood, including problems with the engine, suspension, battery, brakes, and more.

8. 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE

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Mercedes-Benz may be known for its luxury offerings, but it would be hard to find something luxurious about waiting for your 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE to be fixed after the company’s numerous recalls.

The 2020 model of the GLE had recalls issued for electrical system software, headlights, wiring, window trim, seat belts, and other issues.

If you still want to buy this model year of the GLE, it’s important to make sure all recalls have been handled before purchasing the vehicle .

9. 2020 Dodge Journey

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You may want to steer clear of the 2020 Dodge Journey if you want extra safety features on a used SUV.

The model is missing key driver-assist features that could help you keep your family safe. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also knocked the model for its lack of crash protection for drivers and dim headlights.

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10. 2012 Jeep Wrangler

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The Jeep Wrangler is a unique SUV with design features and off-roading capabilities that set it apart from other SUVs.

But some model years are better than others, with the 2012 version standing out for the wrong reasons. The Wranglers for that model year had issues with the engine, paint and bodywork, and electrical problems.

11. 2019 Toyota CH-R

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Another Toyota that didn’t do well was the Toyota CH-R, which was discontinued by the automaker in 2022.

The CH-R doesn’t have the power you might expect from an SUV, with the engine making loud noises when you try to get it up to speed on highways.

12. 2014 Kia Sorento

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The Kia Sorento has been around for more than 20 years, with its first model going back to 2002, so some models may inevitably be better than others.

Take the 2012 Kia Sorento, for example, which had problems with its brakes, paint and trim, engine, and air conditioning, among other issues.

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Bottom line

A used SUV may be a smart option and can help you save money on things like insurance if you know which models to avoid.

It’s also important to factor other costs into your estimated car budget in addition to the cost of the vehicle. Remember to take into account costs such as repair, maintenance, and gas.

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).