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.

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, with owners reporting issues with the transmission, excessive vibration and noise, and worse-than-expected fuel efficiency. 

 Additionally, there are currently 8 recalls on this vehicle, including ones for rear brake wear and engine oil leaks, highlighting potential reliability concerns, making it a miss if you’re shopping the used car market.

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. 

Owners of this model report its outdated technology and lack of modern features. The 5.7L V8 engine, while powerful, delivers poor fuel efficiency, making it costly to drive. Ride quality can feel stiff and truck-like, especially over uneven roads, and the large size makes it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. 

Additionally, the interior design and materials feel dated compared to rivals, which may not justify its higher price tag.

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

The 2015 Audi Q7 offers a luxurious interior and strong performance but has notable reliability concerns. Common issues include expensive engine and transmission repairs, with some owners experiencing oil leaks and timing chain failures. The air suspension system is prone to failure, leading to costly repairs, and electrical problems, such as malfunctioning infotainment systems and sensors, are frequent. 

Additionally, maintenance and repair costs are high, and the Q7’s fuel efficiency is below average for its class, making it less economical to own long-term. A smart car owner move may be to consider ditching the 2015 model from your list of potential used car options.

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.

Owners also report electrical glitches, such as malfunctioning infotainment systems and warning lights. Additionally, the Compass suffers from lackluster acceleration with its 2.4L engine and below-average build quality, leading to interior rattles and early wear. Combined with limited rear-seat space and poor fuel efficiency, it falls short compared to competitors.

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

However, interior suffers from low-quality materials, while road and wind noise can be excessive at highway speeds. 

Additionally, the Outlander Sport has below-average ride comfort due to a stiff suspension and limited cabin space compared to rivals. 

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 most common complaint involves its transmission, which can suffer from shuddering, jerking, and premature failure, leading to costly repairs. Owners also report engine problems, such as stalling or rough idling, along with electrical glitches affecting the infotainment system and sensors. 

 The model also has brake problems, with 2 recalls covering leaking brake fluid that could cause fires.

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 air suspension failures, leading to expensive repairs, and electrical glitches, such as malfunctioning infotainment systems and dashboard warnings. 

Owners also report engine and transmission issues, including oil leaks and rough shifting. Additionally, the Discovery's complex electronics can be prone to failure, and its maintenance costs are notably high.

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.

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

It suffers from an outdated 4-speed automatic transmission, resulting in sluggish acceleration and poor fuel efficiency. The engine performance is underwhelming, and the ride quality feels unrefined over rough roads. 

Owners also report interior quality issues, such as cheap materials and premature wear. Additionally, this model of the Journey 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.

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. Common problems include engine troubles, such as oil leaks and overheating, as well as electrical issues affecting the dashboard and power accessories.

The automatic transmission can be prone to rough shifting or failure, and the ride quality is harsh on paved roads due to its off-road-focused suspension. Additionally, the interior lacks comfort and refinement, with excessive wind and road noise at highway speeds. While great for off-roading, its reliability concerns make it less ideal for daily driving.

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

Its 2.0L engine delivers sluggish acceleration, especially when merging or passing, and the CVT transmission can feel unresponsive. The C-HR also suffers from a cramped rear seat and limited cargo space, making it less practical than rivals. Additionally, road noise is noticeable at highway speeds, and the absence of available all-wheel drive limits its versatility.

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.

The 2012 Kia Sorento has issues that include engine problems, such as excessive oil consumption and engine knocking, which can lead to costly repairs or failures. Owners also report transmission issues, including rough shifting and hesitation. The steering system is another trouble spot, with complaints of a loose or unresponsive feel. The ride quality can be harsh over uneven roads, and interior materials show premature wear. 

While affordable, these reliability concerns make the 2014 Sorento a risky choice for long-term ownership.

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.