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10 Cars That Are Likely To Fail You Once They Hit 100K Miles

Some popular vehicle brands might be costly choices over the long run.

gray lincoln mkz car
Updated Jan. 21, 2025
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If you’re going to spend thousands of dollars for a vehicle, you probably want to make sure it’s going to be safe and last for years to come.

Looking for a vehicle with a reputation for reliability is just one of the smart car owner moves. Unfortunately, some vehicles come up short in the area of longevity.

Here are 10 cars that may fail you once you hit 100,000 miles.

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Range Rover

alma_sacra/Adobe luxury british suv

Range Rovers have some good qualities, but being reliable may not be among them.

Range Rovers in the model years from 2012 to 2021 are reported to have issues with things such as their engines and air suspension systems.

BMW 3 Series

PedroHenrique/Adobe luxury sedan in movement

The BMW 3 Series is a luxury compact car known for sporty driving dynamics, a nice interior, and innovative technology.

But these cars also have a reputation for high maintenance costs. In fact, they may require engine or electrical repairs right around the time they reach 100,000 miles, according to some car experts.

Chevrolet Cruze

jozzeppe777/Adobe chevrolet cruze

You can probably find solid vehicles from Chevrolet that will last you over 100,000 miles, but the Chevrolet Cruze might not be among them.

This car seems like a good option for those who want an affordable ride with good fuel economy. However, model years 2011-2014 have been known to have transmission failures, intake manifold problems, and overheating issues.

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Jeep Wrangler

Courtesy of Jeep Jeep Wrangler

A lot of drivers love the Jeep Wrangler. After all, it’s a rugged and sporty off-road SUV that handles well in rough terrains.

However, the Wrangler is known for rust and steering or suspension problems.

Kia Soul

Courtesy of Kia kia soul

The Kia Soul has a fun design with good outward visibility, but some model years may hold up better than others.

The 2012-2016 model years may be ones to avoid, as “red flags” ranging from body integrity issues to engine problems have been reported.

Mini Cooper

Courtesy of Car and Driver car and driver-chevrolet cruze

The Mini Cooper is a vehicle that will help you stand out from the crowd, thanks to its distinctive design.

Unfortunately, the vehicle also comes with some potential maintenance issues, including oil leaks, turbo failures, electrical problems, and suspension concerns.

Dodge Journey

Best Auto Photo/Adobe grey dodge journey crossroad at the city street

If you want a Dodge Journey, you might want to avoid a few specific model years.

Vehicles from 2009, 2010, and 2012 have been noted as having issues with the brakes, electrical system, drivetrain, and interior accessories.

Tesla Model S

Courtesy of Tesla Tesla Model S Performance

The Tesla Model S is one of the more expensive cars to make the list. It is known for great acceleration and cutting-edge technology.

However, although this car might not fail at 100,000 miles, it might require a hefty investment to replace the battery pack.

Lincoln MKZ

Zoran Karapancev/Adobe the all new 2015 lincoln mkz

There have been reports of brake failures in the Lincoln MKZ. Some of these vehicles also have been known for issues with automatic transmission shifting, power steering fluid, and acceleration.

It may be best to avoid the 2014 and 2015 model years.

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Hyundai Veloster

Courtesy of Car and Driver car and driver-Hyundai Veloster

Engine and interior accessory problems affect some vehicles after they hit the 100,000-mile mark, and some model years of the Hyundai Veloster appear to be susceptible to such issues.

It might be best to steer clear of the 2012 to 2017 versions of the Veloster and instead look for newer versions of this compact car. A Veloster from more recent years may be a good choice if you want a compact car with style.

Bottom line

bilanol/Adobe long row of different shiny cars

Some popular car brands may be best to avoid if you’re hoping to make it past 100,000 miles without major issues.

If you’re looking for a new ride in 2025, research alternatives to these vehicles. And always look for other ways to cut your car ownership costs, such as comparing quotes so you save money on car insurance.

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