When it comes to buying a car, making the right choice can save you from years of headaches, unexpected expenses, and frustration. Unfortunately, not all American cars have lived up to their promises, with some models plagued by reliability issues, poor design, and high maintenance costs.
Whether it’s frequent mechanical problems, lackluster performance, or low resale value, these vehicles have earned their reputation for all the wrong reasons.
Before you make your next car purchase, check out this list of 13 American cars you should avoid to ensure you’re investing in a vehicle that will truly go the distance.
1. Chevrolet Aveo
The Chevrolet Aveo is notorious for its lackluster performance, poor build quality, and high maintenance costs. Introduced as a budget-friendly compact car, the Aveo fails to deliver in key areas such as reliability and fuel efficiency.
According to Consumer Reports, the Aveo has a history of engine and transmission problems, which often lead to costly repairs over time. The car’s cramped interior and subpar materials also make it less appealing compared to its rivals.
The Aveo’s poor safety ratings are another major drawback. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has reported subpar crash test results for the Aveo, which is concerning for anyone prioritizing safety in their vehicle choice.
2. Dodge Dart
The Dodge Dart was reintroduced in 2013 as a compact sedan but failed to live up to expectations, primarily due to its underwhelming performance and reliability issues. The Dart’s engine choices were underpowered, and its transmission was prone to jerky shifts, making for an uncomfortable driving experience.
According to J.D. Power, the Dodge Dart has consistently ranked low in reliability, with frequent issues related to the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
The Dart suffered from rapid depreciation and low resale value, which can make it a poor investment in the long term. Kelley Blue Book notes that the Dart’s value drops significantly faster than its competitors, reflecting its lack of consumer confidence and appeal.
3. Chrysler 200
The Chrysler 200 was intended to be a stylish mid-size sedan, but it quickly gained a reputation for reliability problems and design flaws. One of the biggest issues with the 200 is its troublesome nine-speed automatic transmission, which has been known to shift erratically and cause significant performance problems. RepairPal reports that transmission failure is a common complaint among Chrysler 200 owners, often leading to expensive repairs.
The Chrysler 200’s cramped interior, especially in the back seats, and poor visibility due to its sleek roofline make it less practical than competitors. Its reliability issues, along with its uninspired handling, earned it low marks from MotorTrend, which ranked it as one of the worst mid-size sedans in recent years. The Chrysler 200 was discontinued in 2017, and its flaws suggest that it’s a car to avoid purchasing, even used.
4. Ford Focus (2012-2018)
The Ford Focus models from 2012 to 2018 are plagued by serious transmission problems that have left many owners frustrated. The dual-clutch transmission, known as the “PowerShift,” is infamous for its jerky shifts, hesitation, and frequent mechanical failures.
According to CarComplaints, the transmission issues have led to multiple lawsuits and recalls, making these model years some of the least reliable in the compact car segment.
The Ford Focus has had numerous recalls related to its fuel system and door latches, further impacting its reliability and resale value. Edmunds reports that the cost of repairs and the frequency of issues make these Focus models particularly unattractive on the used car market.
5. Chevrolet Malibu (2016-2018)
While the Chevrolet Malibu has had some successful years, the 2016 to 2018 models stand out for their frequent mechanical problems and below-average reliability. These model years have been criticized for their problematic turbocharged engines, which are prone to sudden failure.
A report by U.S. News & World Report states that engine stalling and hesitation are common complaints among owners, leading to numerous trips to the mechanic.
The Malibu’s infotainment system is notorious for its glitches, including screen freezes and connectivity issues. Consumer Reports also ranks these models lower due to their mediocre interior quality and uncomfortable seats, which detract from the overall driving experience.
6. Jeep Compass (2007-2016)
The Jeep Compass models from 2007 to 2016 are infamous for their poor build quality and numerous reliability issues. The Compass has consistently received low scores from J.D. Power due to frequent engine problems, transmission failures, and suspension issues.
Owners have also reported issues with water leaks, electrical malfunctions, and faulty brakes, which significantly impact the vehicle’s overall dependability.
The Compass has a reputation for poor crash test ratings, especially in the earlier models. According to the IIHS, these Compass models have lower safety ratings compared to other vehicles in their class, making them less desirable for families or safety-conscious buyers.
7. Cadillac XTS
The Cadillac XTS, although positioned as a luxury sedan, has struggled with numerous reliability issues, particularly concerning its electrical and infotainment systems. The CUE (Cadillac User Experience) system, which controls many of the car’s functions, is known for frequent glitches and malfunctions.
Car and Driver reports that many XTS owners have had issues with touchscreen failures, audio problems, and connectivity issues, which can be frustrating in a premium vehicle.
The XTS has faced complaints about its ride quality, with many owners noting a harsh and uncomfortable experience, particularly over rough roads. Given its high maintenance costs and lack of reliability, the Cadillac XTS is not a recommended choice in the luxury sedan market.
8. Chevrolet HHR
The Chevrolet HHR, marketed as a retro-styled compact SUV, has numerous drawbacks that make it a poor choice. Its cramped interior, poor build quality, and lackluster performance have led to low satisfaction ratings among owners.
According to U.S. News & World Report, the HHR ranks low in comfort and reliability, with frequent complaints about its underpowered engine and lack of modern features.
The HHR also suffers from poor crash test ratings, particularly in side-impact protection, which raises concerns for safety-minded consumers. Kelley Blue Book notes that the vehicle’s design, combined with its numerous reliability issues, results in poor resale value, making it a car to avoid.
9. Buick Encore
The Buick Encore may look appealing due to its compact size and premium badge, but it suffers from several notable issues, particularly regarding performance and reliability. The Encore’s turbocharged engine is underpowered, leading to sluggish acceleration and a lackluster driving experience. According to RepairPal, the Encore has been prone to mechanical problems, especially with its transmission and fuel system.
The Encore’s cramped interior and limited cargo space make it less practical than other compact SUVs in its class. Car and Driver has criticized its high price point compared to what it offers in terms of features and comfort. Overall, the Buick Encore does not deliver on its promises of luxury and performance, making it a car to avoid.
10. Dodge Journey
The Dodge Journey is often considered one of the most underwhelming crossovers on the market. With outdated technology, poor fuel economy, and a lackluster driving experience, it’s easy to see why it has received low marks from automotive reviewers.
The Journey’s reliability has been a major concern, with frequent complaints about transmission failures, brake issues, and electrical problems. According to Consumer Reports, the Journey has consistently ranked low in reliability surveys and owner satisfaction.
The Journey’s outdated design, subpar interior materials, and poor crash test ratings from the IIHS make it a less desirable option for families or anyone looking for a dependable crossover vehicle.
11. Ford Fiesta (2011-2019)
The Ford Fiesta, particularly from the 2011 to 2019 model years, is known for its problematic transmission, much like its sibling, the Focus. The PowerShift dual-clutch transmission is notorious for shuddering, hesitating, and frequent mechanical failures.
According to CarComplaints, these transmission problems have led to numerous recalls and lawsuits, significantly impacting the Fiesta’s reputation.
In addition to transmission issues, the Fiesta has been criticized for its cramped interior, lack of cargo space, and uncomfortable seats. Edmunds has also reported on the Fiesta’s poor resale value, suggesting it may not be a good investment even on the used car market.
12. Lincoln MKX
The Lincoln MKX, positioned as a luxury crossover, falls short in several key areas. Owners have frequently reported issues with the vehicle’s MyLincoln Touch infotainment system, which has been known to be glitchy and difficult to use. MotorTrend has noted that the system is prone to freezing and crashing, which can be frustrating for drivers.
The MKX suffers from mechanical issues, particularly related to its transmission and electrical systems. RepairPal reports that the MKX has frequent problems with its powertrain, leading to expensive repairs and lower overall reliability.
13. Chevrolet Spark
The Chevrolet Spark is often marketed as an affordable, city-friendly car, but its numerous drawbacks make it a vehicle to avoid. The Spark’s small size results in limited cargo space and cramped seating, making it impractical for many drivers.
According to U.S. News & World Report, the Spark also lacks power, with a weak engine that struggles on highways and offers subpar fuel economy for its class.
The Spark has received poor safety ratings from the IIHS, particularly in crash tests, which raises concerns for those prioritizing safety in their vehicle choice.
